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von Hofsten S, Fenton KA, Pedersen HL. Human and Murine Toll-like Receptor-Driven Disease in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:5351. [PMID: 38791389 PMCID: PMC11120885 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25105351] [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: 04/26/2024] [Revised: 05/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/12/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
The pathogenesis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is linked to the differential roles of toll-like receptors (TLRs), particularly TLR7, TLR8, and TLR9. TLR7 overexpression or gene duplication, as seen with the Y-linked autoimmune accelerator (Yaa) locus or TLR7 agonist imiquimod, correlates with increased SLE severity, and specific TLR7 polymorphisms and gain-of-function variants are associated with enhanced SLE susceptibility and severity. In addition, the X-chromosome location of TLR7 and its escape from X-chromosome inactivation provide a genetic basis for female predominance in SLE. The absence of TLR8 and TLR9 have been shown to exacerbate the detrimental effects of TLR7, leading to upregulated TLR7 activity and increased disease severity in mouse models of SLE. The regulatory functions of TLR8 and TLR9 have been proposed to involve competition for the endosomal trafficking chaperone UNC93B1. However, recent evidence implies more direct, regulatory functions of TLR9 on TLR7 activity. The association between age-associated B cells (ABCs) and autoantibody production positions these cells as potential targets for treatment in SLE, but the lack of specific markers necessitates further research for precise therapeutic intervention. Therapeutically, targeting TLRs is a promising strategy for SLE treatment, with drugs like hydroxychloroquine already in clinical use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susannah von Hofsten
- Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, 9019 Tromsø, Norway;
| | - Kristin Andreassen Fenton
- Centre of Clinical Research and Education, University Hospital of North Norway, Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, 9019 Tromsø, Norway;
| | - Hege Lynum Pedersen
- Centre of Clinical Research and Education, University Hospital of North Norway, Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, 9019 Tromsø, Norway;
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Zeng H, Zhuang Y, Yan X, He X, Qiu Q, Liu W, Zhang Y. Machine learning-based identification of novel hub genes associated with oxidative stress in lupus nephritis: implications for diagnosis and therapeutic targets. Lupus Sci Med 2024; 11:e001126. [PMID: 38637124 PMCID: PMC11029281 DOI: 10.1136/lupus-2023-001126] [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: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lupus nephritis (LN) is a complication of SLE characterised by immune dysfunction and oxidative stress (OS). Limited options exist for LN. We aimed to identify LN-related OS, highlighting the need for non-invasive diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. METHODS LN-differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were extracted from Gene Expression Omnibus datasets (GSE32591, GSE112943 and GSE104948) and Molecular Signatures Database for OS-associated DEGs (OSEGs). Functional enrichment analysis was performed for OSEGs related to LN. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis identified hub genes related to OS-LN. These hub OSEGs were refined as biomarker candidates via least absolute shrinkage and selection operator. The predictive value was validated using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves and nomogram for LN prognosis. We evaluated LN immune cell infiltration using single-sample gene set enrichment analysis and CIBERSORT. Additionally, gene set enrichment analysis explored the functional enrichment of hub OSEGs in LN. RESULTS The study identified four hub genes, namely STAT1, PRODH, TXN2 and SETX, associated with OS related to LN. These genes were validated for their diagnostic potential, and their involvement in LN pathogenesis was elucidated through ROC and nomogram. Additionally, alterations in immune cell composition in LN correlated with hub OSEG expression were observed. Immunohistochemical analysis reveals that the hub gene is most correlated with activated B cells and CD8 T cells. Finally, we uncovered that the enriched pathways of OSEGs were mainly involved in the PI3K-Akt pathway and the Janus kinase-signal transducer and activator of transcription pathway. CONCLUSION These findings contribute to advancing our understanding of the complex interplay between OS, immune dysregulation and molecular pathways in LN, laying a foundation for the identification of potential diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huiqiong Zeng
- Traditional Chinese Medicine Department of Immunology, Women & Children Health Institute Futian Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yu Zhuang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Huizhou Central People's Hospital, Huizhou, China
| | - Xiaodong Yan
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Yunnan University of Chinese Medicine, Kunming, China
| | - Xiaoyan He
- Department of Fu Xin Community Health Service Center, The Eighth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Qianwen Qiu
- Traditional Chinese Medicine Department of Immunology, Women & Children Health Institute Futian Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China
| | - Wei Liu
- Department of Rheumatology, First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, China
| | - Ye Zhang
- Traditional Chinese Medicine Department of Immunology, Women & Children Health Institute Futian Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China
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Xu R, Zhang Y, Cao Q, Liao S, Tang Y, Zhuang Q. Imbalance of programmed cell death patterns mediated by dendritic cell subsets in systemic lupus erythematosus and lupus nephritis. ZHONG NAN DA XUE XUE BAO. YI XUE BAN = JOURNAL OF CENTRAL SOUTH UNIVERSITY. MEDICAL SCIENCES 2024; 49:331-348. [PMID: 38970507 PMCID: PMC11208407 DOI: 10.11817/j.issn.1672-7347.2024.230508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Abnormal programmed cell death in immune cells is associated with autoimmune diseases, but the patterns of programmed cell death in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and especially lupus nephritis (LN) remain unclear. This study aims to explore the association between SLE, LN, and immune cell death patterns. METHODS Bulk RNA sequencing (bulk RNA-seq) and single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) data were downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Bioinformatic analysis was conducted to explore the expression levels of genes related to 3 cell death patterns in peripheral blood mononuclear cells of SLE patients. Key cell subsets involved in the imbalance of cell death patterns were identified through scRNA-seq. Immunofluorescence was used to detect the expression levels of receptor interacting serine/threonine kinase 3 (RIPK3), mixed-lineage kinase domain-like protein (MLKL), phosphorylated MLKL (pMLKL), caspase 1 (CASP1), CD1c molecule (CD1C), C-type lectin domain containing 9A (CLEC9A), and X-C motif chemokine receptor 1 (XCR1) in dendritic cells (DC). scRNA-seq was performed on kidney tissues collected from LN patients and healthy controls (HC) at the Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, followed by bioinformatic analysis to identify key cell subsets involved in the imbalance of cell death patterns. Pseudotime analysis and ligand-receptor analysis were used to explore the differentiation direction and cell communication of different DC subsets. Transient transfection was used to transfect RAW264.7 cells with empty plasmid, empty plasmid+dsDNA (HSV-DNA), empty plasmid+200 μmol/L tert-butyl hydroperoxide (TBHP), stimulator of interferon genes (STING) shRNA plasmid, STING shRNA plasmid+dsDNA (HSV-DNA), and STING shRNA plasmid+200 μmol/L TBHP. Annexin V-mCherry and SYTOX Green staining were used to detect cell death in each group. Western blotting was used to detect the activation of CASP1, gasdermin D (GSDMD), RIPK3, and MLKL in each group. RESULTS Bioinformatic analysis showed an imbalance in 3 cell death patterns in SLE and LN patients: Pro-inflammatory pyroptosis and necroptosis were activated, while anti-inflammatory apoptosis was inhibited. The key cell subsets involved were DC subsets, particularly focusing on CLEC9A+cDC1. Immunofluorescence results showed that the expression levels of RIPK3, MLKL, and CASP1 in DCs were higher in the SLE group compared to the HC group. pMLKL and CASP1 expression levels in renal cDC1 marked by CLEC9A and XCR1 were higher in the LN group than in the HC group. Pseudotime analysis and ligand-receptor analysis suggested that the CLEC9A+cDC1 subset in LN kidney tissues originated from peripheral circulation. Annexin V-mCherry and SYTOX Green staining results showed that the number of dead cells decreased in the STING shRNA transfection group compared to the empty plasmid group in RAW264.7 cells. Western blotting results showed that the activation of CASP1, GSDMD, RIPK3, and MLKL was decreased in the STING shRNA transfection group compared to the empty plasmid group. CONCLUSIONS This study provides novel insights into the role of CLEC9A+cDC1 in the imbalance of cell death patterns in SLE and LN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruoyao Xu
- Organ Transplantation Center, Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410013.
| | - Ying Zhang
- Organ Transplantation Center, Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410013.
| | - Qingtai Cao
- Organ Transplantation Center, Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410013
| | - Sheng Liao
- Organ Transplantation Center, Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410013
| | - Youzhou Tang
- Department of Nephropathy and Rheumatology, Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410013.
| | - Quan Zhuang
- Organ Transplantation Center, Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410013.
- Research Center of National Health Commission on Transplantation Medical Engineering Technology, Changsha 410013, China.
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Gluhovschi C, Gadalean F, Velciov S, Nistor M, Petrica L. Three Diseases Mediated by Different Immunopathologic Mechanisms-ANCA-Associated Vasculitis, Anti-Glomerular Basement Membrane Disease, and Immune Complex-Mediated Glomerulonephritis-A Common Clinical and Histopathologic Picture: Rapidly Progressive Crescentic Glomerulonephritis. Biomedicines 2023; 11:2978. [PMID: 38001978 PMCID: PMC10669599 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11112978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Revised: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/04/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Immune mechanisms play an important role in the pathogenesis of glomerulonephritis (GN), with autoimmunity being the main underlying pathogenetic process of both primary and secondary GN. We present three autoimmune diseases mediated by different autoimmune mechanisms: glomerulonephritis in vasculitis mediated by anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (ANCAs), glomerulonephritis mediated by anti-glomerular basement membrane antibodies (anti-GBM antibodies), and immune complex-mediated glomerulonephritis. Some of these diseases represent a common clinical and histopathologic scenario, namely rapidly progressive crescentic glomerulonephritis. This is a severe illness requiring complex therapy, with the main role being played by therapy aimed at targeting immune mechanisms. In the absence of immune therapy, the crescents, the characteristic histopathologic lesions of this common presentation, progress toward fibrosis, which is accompanied by end-stage renal disease (ESRD). The fact that three diseases mediated by different immunopathologic mechanisms have a common clinical and histopathologic picture reveals the complexity of the relationship between immunopathologic mechanisms and their clinical expression. Whereas most glomerular diseases progress by a slow process of sclerosis and fibrosis, the glomerular diseases accompanied by glomerular crescent formation can progress, if untreated, in a couple of months into whole-nephron glomerulosclerosis and fibrosis. The outcome of different immune processes in a common clinical and histopathologic phenotype reveals the complexity of the relationship of the kidney with the immune system. The aim of this review is to present different immune processes that lead to a common clinical and histopathologic phenotype, such as rapidly progressive crescentic glomerulonephritis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Gluhovschi
- Division of Nephrology, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timișoara, Romania; (F.G.); (L.P.)
- Centre for Molecular Research in Nephrology and Vascular Disease, Faculty of Medicine, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Sq. No. 2, 300041 Timișoara, Romania;
| | - Florica Gadalean
- Division of Nephrology, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timișoara, Romania; (F.G.); (L.P.)
- Centre for Molecular Research in Nephrology and Vascular Disease, Faculty of Medicine, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Sq. No. 2, 300041 Timișoara, Romania;
- Division of Nephrology, County Emergency Hospital Timisoara, 300041 Timișoara, Romania
| | - Silvia Velciov
- Centre for Molecular Research in Nephrology and Vascular Disease, Faculty of Medicine, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Sq. No. 2, 300041 Timișoara, Romania;
- Division of Nephrology, County Emergency Hospital Timisoara, 300041 Timișoara, Romania
| | - Mirabela Nistor
- Division of Nephrology, County Emergency Hospital Timisoara, 300041 Timișoara, Romania
| | - Ligia Petrica
- Division of Nephrology, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timișoara, Romania; (F.G.); (L.P.)
- Centre for Molecular Research in Nephrology and Vascular Disease, Faculty of Medicine, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Sq. No. 2, 300041 Timișoara, Romania;
- Division of Nephrology, County Emergency Hospital Timisoara, 300041 Timișoara, Romania
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Pennesi M, Benvenuto S. Lupus Nephritis in Children: Novel Perspectives. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2023; 59:1841. [PMID: 37893559 PMCID: PMC10607957 DOI: 10.3390/medicina59101841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2023] [Revised: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023]
Abstract
Childhood-onset systemic lupus erythematosus is an inflammatory and autoimmune condition characterized by heterogeneous multisystem involvement and a chronic course with unpredictable flares. Kidney involvement, commonly called lupus nephritis, mainly presents with immune complex-mediated glomerulonephritis and is more frequent and severe in adults. Despite a considerable improvement in long-term renal prognosis, children and adolescents with lupus nephritis still experience significant morbidity and mortality. Moreover, current literature often lacks pediatric-specific data, leading clinicians to rely exclusively on adult therapeutic approaches. This review aims to describe pediatric lupus nephritis and provide an overview of the novel perspectives on the pathogenetic mechanisms, histopathological classification, therapeutic approach, novel biomarkers, and follow-up targets in children and adolescents with lupus nephritis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Pennesi
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health IRCCS Burlo Garofolo, 34137 Trieste, Italy
| | - Simone Benvenuto
- Department of Medicine, Surgery, and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, 34127 Trieste, Italy
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Ishizaka ST, Hawkins L, Chen Q, Tago F, Yagi T, Sakaniwa K, Zhang Z, Shimizu T, Shirato M. A novel Toll-like receptor 7/8-specific antagonist E6742 ameliorates clinically relevant disease parameters in murine models of lupus. Eur J Pharmacol 2023; 957:175962. [PMID: 37544422 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2023.175962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Revised: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023]
Abstract
The sensing of self RNA by the endosomal Toll-like receptors (TLRs) 7 and 8 initiates pathogenic mechanisms underlying the autoimmune disease lupus. A blockade of the TLR7/8 signals may, therefore, be a novel therapeutic intervention for lupus. To test the hypothesis, a novel compound E6742 that blocks TLR7/8 activation was identified. The mode of action of E6742 was investigated by analysis of the tertiary structure of TLR7 and 8 in complex with E6742. The in vitro activities of the compound were examined in cellular systems and its therapeutic potential was evaluated in murine lupus models. Tertiary structures of the extracellular domain of TLR7 and 8 in complex with E6742 showed that E6742 binds specifically and non-covalently to the hydrophobic pocket located at the interface of TLR7 or TLR8 homodimers. E6742 potently and selectively inhibited several TLR7/8-mediated cytokine responses in human PBMC. In two mouse models of lupus, oral dosing of E6742 after the onset of disease suppressed increase in autoantibodies and blocked the advance of organ damage. Collectively, the data show that TLR7/8 activation contributes to disease progression and its blocking by E6742 has potential as a therapeutic intervention for lupus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sally T Ishizaka
- Eisai Inc., Eisai Center for Genetics Guided Dementia Discovery, MA, USA
| | - Lynn Hawkins
- Eisai Inc., Eisai Center for Genetics Guided Dementia Discovery, MA, USA
| | - Qian Chen
- Eisai Inc., Eisai Center for Genetics Guided Dementia Discovery, MA, USA
| | | | | | - Kentaro Sakaniwa
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Zhikuan Zhang
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Toshiyuki Shimizu
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Manabu Shirato
- Eisai Co., Ltd., Tsukuba Research Laboratories, Ibaraki, Japan.
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Wang X, Richard ML, Caldwell TS, Sundararaj K, Sato S, Nowling TK, Zhang XK. Role of the transcription factor Fli-1 on the CXCL10/CXCR3 Axis. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1219279. [PMID: 37790939 PMCID: PMC10543418 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1219279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The transcription factor Fli-1, a member of the ETS family of transcription factors, is implicated in the pathogenesis of lupus disease. Reduced Fli-1 expression in lupus mice leads to decreased renal Cxcl10 mRNA levels and renal infiltrating CXCR3+ T cells that parallels reduced renal inflammatory cell infiltration and renal damage. Inflammatory chemokine CXCL10 is critical for attracting inflammatory cells expressing the chemokine receptor CXCR3. The CXCL10/CXCR3 axis plays a role in the pathogenesis of various inflammatory diseases including lupus. Our data here demonstrate that renal CXCL10 protein levels are significantly lower in Fli-1 heterozygous MRL/lpr mice compared to wild-type MRL/lpr mice. Knockdown of Fli-1 significantly reduced CXCL10 secretion in mouse and human endothelial cells, and human mesangial cells, upon LPS or TNFα stimulation. The Fli-1 inhibitor, Camptothecin, significantly reduced CXCL10 production in human monocyte cells upon interferon stimulation. Four putative Ets binding sites in the Cxcl10 promoter showed significant enrichment for FLI-1; however, FLI-1 did not directly drive transcription from the human or mouse promoters, suggesting FLI-1 may regulate CXCL10 expression indirectly. Our results also suggest that the DNA binding domain of FLI-1 is necessary for regulation of human hCXCR3 promotor activity in human T cells and interactions with co-activators. Together, these results support a role for FLI-1 in modulating the CXCL10-CXCR3 axis by directly or indirectly regulating the expression of both genes to impact lupus disease development. Signaling pathways or drugs that reduce FLI-1 expression may offer novel approaches to lupus treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuan Wang
- Department of General Practice, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Department of Medicine, Division of Rheumatology & Immunology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
| | - Mara Lennard Richard
- Department of Medicine, Division of Rheumatology & Immunology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
| | - Tomika S. Caldwell
- Department of Medicine, Division of Rheumatology & Immunology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
| | - Kamala Sundararaj
- Department of Medicine, Division of Rheumatology & Immunology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
| | - Shuzo Sato
- Department of Rheumatology, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima, Japan
| | - Tamara K. Nowling
- Department of Medicine, Division of Rheumatology & Immunology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
| | - Xian K. Zhang
- Department of Medicine, Division of Rheumatology & Immunology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
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Lyu MA, Tang X, Khoury JD, Raso MG, Huang M, Zeng K, Nishimoto M, Ma H, Sadeghi T, Flowers CR, Parmar S. Allogeneic cord blood regulatory T cells decrease dsDNA antibody and improve albuminuria in systemic lupus erythematosus. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1217121. [PMID: 37736101 PMCID: PMC10509479 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1217121] [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: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Lupus nephritis (LN) constitutes the most severe organ manifestations of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), where pathogenic T cells have been identified to play an essential role in 'helping' B cells to make autoantibodies and produce inflammatory cytokines that drive kidney injury in SLE. Regulatory T cells (Tregs), responsible for decreasing inflammation, are defective and decreased in SLE and have been associated with disease progression. We hypothesize that treatment with allogeneic, healthy Tregs derived from umbilical cord blood (UCB) may arrest such an inflammatory process and protect against kidney damage. Methods UCB-Tregs function was examined by their ability to suppress CellTrace Violet-labeled SLE peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) or healthy donor (HD) conventional T cells (Tcons); and by inhibiting secretion of inflammatory cytokines by SLE PBMCs. Humanized SLE model was established where female Rag2-/-γc-/- mice were transplanted with 3 × 106 human SLE-PBMCs by intravenous injection on day 0, followed by single or multiple injection of UCB-Tregs to understand their impact on disease development. Mice PB was assessed weekly by flow cytometry. Phenotypic analysis of isolated cells from mouse PB, lung, spleen, liver and kidney was performed by flow cytometry. Kidney damage was assessed by quantifying urinary albumin and creatinine secretion. Systemic disease was evaluated by anti-dsDNA IgG Ab analysis as well as immunohistochemistry analysis of organs. Systemic inflammation was determined by measuring cytokine levels. Results In vitro, UCB-Tregs are able to suppress HD Tcons and pathogenic SLE-PBMCs to a similar extent. UCB-Tregs decrease secretion of several inflammatory cytokines including IFN-γ, IP-10, TNF-α, IL-6, IL-17A, and sCD40L by SLE PBMCs in a time-dependent manner, with a corresponding increase in secretion of suppressor cytokine, IL-10. In vivo, single or multiple doses of UCB-Tregs led to a decrease in CD8+ T effector cells in different organs and a decrease in circulating inflammatory cytokines. Improvement in skin inflammation and loss of hair; and resolution of CD3+, CD8+, CD20+ and Ki67+ SLE-PBMC infiltration was observed in UCB-Treg recipients with a corresponding decrease in plasma anti-double stranded DNA IgG antibody levels and improved albuminuria. Conclusions UCB-Tregs can decrease inflammatory burden in SLE, reduce auto-antibody production and resolve end organ damage especially, improve kidney function. Adoptive therapy with UCB-Tregs should be explored for treatment of lupus nephritis in the clinical setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mi-Ae Lyu
- Department of Lymphoma/Myeloma, The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Ximing Tang
- Department of Translational Molecular Pathology, The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Joseph D. Khoury
- Department of Hematopathology, The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Maria Gabriela Raso
- Department of Translational Molecular Pathology, The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Meixian Huang
- Department of Lymphoma/Myeloma, The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Ke Zeng
- Department of Lymphoma/Myeloma, The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Mitsutaka Nishimoto
- Department of Lymphoma/Myeloma, The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Hongbing Ma
- Department of Lymphoma/Myeloma, The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | | | - Christopher R. Flowers
- Department of Lymphoma/Myeloma, The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Simrit Parmar
- Department of Lymphoma/Myeloma, The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
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9
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Keskinyan VS, Lattanza B, Reid-Adam J. Glomerulonephritis. Pediatr Rev 2023; 44:498-512. [PMID: 37653138 DOI: 10.1542/pir.2021-005259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
Abstract
Glomerulonephritis (GN) encompasses several disorders that cause glomerular inflammation and injury through an interplay of immune-mediated mechanisms, host characteristics, and environmental triggers, such as infections. GN can manifest solely in the kidney or in the setting of a systemic illness, and presentation can range from chronic and relatively asymptomatic hematuria to fulminant renal failure. Classic acute GN is characterized by hematuria, edema, and hypertension, the latter 2 of which are the consequence of sodium and water retention in the setting of renal impairment. Although presenting signs and symptoms and a compatible clinical history can suggest GN, serologic and urinary testing can further refine the differential diagnosis, and renal biopsy can be used for definitive diagnosis. Treatment of GN can include supportive care, renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system blockade, immunomodulatory therapy, and renal transplant. Prognosis is largely dependent on the underlying cause of GN and can vary from a self-limited course to chronic kidney disease. This review focuses on lupus nephritis, IgA nephropathy, IgA vasculitis, and postinfectious GN.
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Loftus SN, Liu J, Berthier CC, Gudjonsson JE, Gharaee-Kermani M, Tsoi LC, Kahlenberg JM. Loss of interleukin-1 beta is not protective in the lupus-prone NZM2328 mouse model. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1162799. [PMID: 37261358 PMCID: PMC10227599 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1162799] [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: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 04/21/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Aberrant activation of the innate immune system is a known driver of lupus pathogenesis. Inhibition of the inflammasome and its downstream signaling components in murine models of lupus has been shown to reduce the severity of disease. Interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β) is a proinflammatory cytokine released from cells following inflammasome activation. Here, we examine how loss of IL-1β affects disease severity in the lupus-prone NZM2328 mouse model. We observed a sex-biased increase in immune complex deposition in the kidneys of female mice in the absence of IL-1β that corresponds to worsened proteinuria. Loss of IL-1β did not result in changes in overall survival, anti-dsDNA autoantibody production, or renal immune cell infiltration. RNA-sequencing analysis identified upregulation of TNF and IL-17 signaling pathways specifically in females lacking IL-1β. Increases in these signaling pathways were also found in female patients with lupus nephritis, suggesting clinical relevance for upregulation of these pathways. Together, these data suggest that inhibition of the inflammasome or its downstream elements that block IL-1β signaling may need to be approached with caution in SLE, especially in patients with renal involvement to prevent potential disease exacerbation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shannon N. Loftus
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
- Graduate Program in Immunology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Jianhua Liu
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Celine C. Berthier
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | | | - Mehrnaz Gharaee-Kermani
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
- Department of Dermatology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Lam C. Tsoi
- Department of Dermatology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
- Department of Computational Medicine and Bioinformatics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - J. Michelle Kahlenberg
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
- Department of Dermatology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
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11
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Sato S, Zhang XK, Matsuoka N, Sumichika Y, Saito K, Yoshida S, Matsumoto H, Temmoku J, Fujita Y, Asano T, Migita K. Transcription factor Fli-1 impacts the expression of CXCL13 and regulates immune cell infiltration into the kidney in MRL/lpr mouse. Lupus Sci Med 2023; 10:10/1/e000870. [PMID: 37094946 PMCID: PMC10152041 DOI: 10.1136/lupus-2022-000870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/26/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Friend leukaemia virus integration 1 (Fli-1) regulates chemokine/cytokine expression and thus plays an important role in the development of lupus nephritis. Chemokine CXC ligand 13 (CXCL13) is a chemokine that promotes the formation of ectopic lymphoid structures and has been reported to be associated with the pathogenesis of lupus nephritis. The relationship between Fli-1 and CXCL13 is unknown. This study aims to elucidate whether Fli-1 impacts CXCL13 expression and contributes to the progression of lupus-like nephritis in adult MRL/lpr mouse. METHODS Serum CXCL13 levels were measured in adult wild-type (WT) MRL/lpr mice and Fli-1 heterozygote knockout (Fli-1+/-) MRL/lpr mice (4 months old or older) using ELISA. Renal mRNA expression (CXCL13 and related molecules) was measured using real-time PCR method. Kidneys were removed, stained and evaluated using a pathology scoring system. The grade of CXCL13 or CXC-chemokine receptor type 5 (CXCR5)-positive immune cell infiltration into the kidney was evaluated using immunostaining with anti-CXCL13 or anti-CXCR5 antibodies. We also used immunofluorescence staining with CXCL13- and CD11b-specific antibodies to detect the infiltration of CXCL13/CD11b double-positive immune cells. RESULTS Serum CXCL13 levels in Fli-1+/- MRL/lpr mice were significantly lower than that in WT MRL/lpr mice (545.5 and 960.5 pg/mL, p=0.02). Renal expression of CXCL13 mRNA and SRY-related HMG box4 (Sox4) (an important factor for B-cell development) levels were significantly lower in Fli-1+/- MRL/lpr mice. Renal histology scores in WT MRL/lpr mice revealed significantly increased glomerular inflammation. Despite similar interstitial immune cell infiltration into the kidney, the number of CXCL13- and CXCR5-positive cells was significantly lower in Fli-1+/- MRL/lpr mice than in WT mice. Furthermore, immunofluorescence staining revealed that Fli-1+/-MRL/lpr mice had significantly fewer CXCL13/CD11b double-positive immune cells. CONCLUSION Fli-1 regulates renal Sox4 mRNA expression and infiltration of CXCR5-positive cells as well as CXCL13/CD11b double-positive immune cells into the kidney, which affects CXCL13 expression and lupus-like nephritis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuzo Sato
- Department of Rheumatology, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima, Japan
| | - Xian K Zhang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Naoki Matsuoka
- Department of Rheumatology, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima, Japan
| | - Yuya Sumichika
- Department of Rheumatology, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima, Japan
| | - Kenji Saito
- Department of Rheumatology, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima, Japan
| | - Shuhei Yoshida
- Department of Rheumatology, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima, Japan
| | - Haruki Matsumoto
- Department of Rheumatology, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima, Japan
| | - Jumpei Temmoku
- Department of Rheumatology, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima, Japan
| | - Yuya Fujita
- Department of Rheumatology, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima, Japan
| | - Tomoyuki Asano
- Department of Rheumatology, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima, Japan
| | - Kiyoshi Migita
- Department of Rheumatology, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima, Japan
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12
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Hsu TC, Yang YH, Wang LC, Lee JH, Yu HH, Lin YT, Hu YC, Chiang BL. Risk factors for subsequent lupus nephritis in patients with juvenile-onset systemic lupus erythematosus: a retrospective cohort study. Pediatr Rheumatol Online J 2023; 21:28. [PMID: 36964531 PMCID: PMC10039593 DOI: 10.1186/s12969-023-00806-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2023] [Indexed: 03/26/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lupus nephritis (LN) is a crucial organ involvement in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Patients with LN have higher morbidity and mortality rates than those without. Among all patients with LN, 20-40% had delayed onset, but the data for patients with juvenile-onset SLE (jSLE), who have a higher percentage of LN than patients with adult-onset SLE (aSLE), were limited. This study aimed to determine the risk factors for subsequent LN in patients with jSLE. METHODS A retrospective cohort study was conducted between 2008 and 2018 in a single tertiary medical centre. Patients with diagnosed jSLE were reviewed. We investigated those without LN at diagnosis and whether they developed LN afterward. The primary outcome was the development of subsequent LN. Clinical manifestations at diagnosis, serial laboratory data, and treatments were reviewed during follow-up periods. RESULTS Among the 48 patients with jSLE without initial LN, 20 developed subsequent LN later (Group 1), whereas 28 remained free of LN (Group 2). There was no difference in the percentage of initial manifestations except for more discoid rashes in Group 2 patients. In the Cox regression model, elevated average anti-double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) antibody, low average serum complements, and high average erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) levels during follow-up were predictors of subsequent LN. After adjusting for these factors in multivariable analyses, only high average anti-dsDNA antibody and high average ESR levels remained predictive of subsequent LN. For every 100 IU/ml increase in anti-dsDNA antibody, the risk for subsequent LN in jSLE increases by 1.29 times (hazard ratio = 1.29, 95% confidence interval 1.055-1.573). CONCLUSION Persistently high anti-dsDNA antibody and ESR levels during the follow-up period were risk factors for subsequent LN in patients with jSLE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tzu-Chuan Hsu
- Department of Paediatrics, National Taiwan University Hospital, No. 8 Chung-Shan South Road, Taipei, 100, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Paediatrics, Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yao-Hsu Yang
- Department of Paediatrics, National Taiwan University Hospital, No. 8 Chung-Shan South Road, Taipei, 100, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Paediatrics, National Taiwan University Hospital Hsinchu Branch, Hsinchu, Taiwan
| | - Li-Chieh Wang
- Department of Paediatrics, National Taiwan University Hospital, No. 8 Chung-Shan South Road, Taipei, 100, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Jyh-Hong Lee
- Department of Paediatrics, National Taiwan University Hospital, No. 8 Chung-Shan South Road, Taipei, 100, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hsin-Hui Yu
- Department of Paediatrics, National Taiwan University Hospital, No. 8 Chung-Shan South Road, Taipei, 100, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Tsan Lin
- Department of Paediatrics, National Taiwan University Hospital, No. 8 Chung-Shan South Road, Taipei, 100, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ya-Chiao Hu
- Department of Paediatrics, National Taiwan University Hospital, No. 8 Chung-Shan South Road, Taipei, 100, Taipei, Taiwan.
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan.
| | - Bor-Luen Chiang
- Department of Paediatrics, National Taiwan University Hospital, No. 8 Chung-Shan South Road, Taipei, 100, Taipei, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
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13
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Abdelhamid L, Alajoleen R, Kingsmore KM, Cabana-Puig X, Lu R, Zhu J, Testerman JC, Li Y, Ross AC, Cecere TE, Reilly CM, Grammer AC, Lipsky PE, Luo XM. Hypovitaminosis A Drives the Progression of Tubulointerstitial Lupus Nephritis through Potentiating Predisease Cellular Autoreactivity. Immunohorizons 2023; 7:17-29. [PMID: 36637518 PMCID: PMC10563393 DOI: 10.4049/immunohorizons.2200015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Vitamin A (VA) deficiency (VAD) is observed in both humans and mice with lupus nephritis. However, whether VAD is a driving factor for accelerated progression of lupus nephritis is unclear. In this study, we investigated the effect of VAD on the progression of lupus nephritis in a lupus-prone mouse model, MRL/lpr. We initiated VAD either during gestation or after weaning to reveal a potential time-dependent effect. We found exacerbated lupus nephritis at ∼15 wk of age with both types of VAD that provoked tubulointerstitial nephritis leading to renal failure. This was concomitant with significantly higher mortality in all VAD mice. Importantly, restoration of VA levels after weaning reversed VAD-induced mortality. These results suggest VAD-driven acceleration of tubulointerstitial lupus nephritis. Mechanistically, at the earlier time point of 7 wk of age and before the onset of clinical lupus nephritis, continued VAD (from gestation until postweaning) enhanced plasma cell activation and augmented their autoantibody production, while also increasing the expansion of T lymphocytes that could promote plasma cell autoreactivity. Moreover, continued VAD increased the renal infiltration of plasmacytoid dendritic cells. VAD initiated after weaning, in contrast, showed modest effects on autoantibodies and renal plasmacytoid dendritic cells that were not statistically significant. Remarkably, analysis of gene expression in human kidney revealed that the retinoic acid pathway was decreased in the tubulointerstitial region of lupus nephritis, supporting our findings in MRL/lpr mice. Future studies will elucidate the underlying mechanisms of how VAD modulates cellular functions to exacerbate tubulointerstitial lupus nephritis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leila Abdelhamid
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA
- Department of Microbiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Razan Alajoleen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA
| | | | - Xavier Cabana-Puig
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA
| | - Ran Lu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA
| | - Jing Zhu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA
| | - James C. Testerman
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA
| | - Yaqi Li
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA; and
| | - A. Catharine Ross
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA; and
| | - Thomas E. Cecere
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA
| | - Christopher M. Reilly
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine, Blacksburg, VA
| | | | | | - Xin M. Luo
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA
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LAPTM5 mediates immature B cell apoptosis and B cell tolerance by regulating the WWP2-PTEN-AKT pathway. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2022; 119:e2205629119. [PMID: 36037365 PMCID: PMC9457450 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2205629119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Elimination of autoreactive developing B cells is an important mechanism to prevent autoantibody production. However, how B cell receptor (BCR) signaling triggers apoptosis of immature B cells remains poorly understood. We show that BCR stimulation up-regulates the expression of the lysosomal-associated transmembrane protein 5 (LAPTM5), which in turn triggers apoptosis of immature B cells through two pathways. LAPTM5 causes BCR internalization, resulting in decreased phosphorylation of SYK and ERK. In addition, LAPTM5 targets the E3 ubiquitin ligase WWP2 for lysosomal degradation, resulting in the accumulation of its substrate PTEN. Elevated PTEN levels suppress AKT phosphorylation, leading to increased FOXO1 expression and up-regulation of the cell cycle inhibitor p27Kip1 and the proapoptotic molecule BIM. In vivo, LAPTM5 is involved in the elimination of autoreactive B cells and its deficiency exacerbates autoantibody production. Our results reveal a previously unidentified mechanism that contributes to immature B cell apoptosis and B cell tolerance.
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15
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Zheng Z, Chang L, Li J, Wu Y, Chen G, Zou L. Insights Gained and Future Outlook From scRNAseq Studies in Autoimmune Rheumatic Diseases. Front Immunol 2022; 13:849050. [PMID: 35251048 PMCID: PMC8891165 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.849050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2022] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Autoimmune rheumatic diseases have a major impact on public health as one of the most common morbidities, and many of these disorders involve both local and systemic manifestations with severe consequences for patient health and quality of life. However, treatment options for many of these diseases remain inadequate for a substantial portion of patients, and progress in developing novel therapeutics has been slow. This lack of progress can be largely attributed to an insufficient understanding of the complex mechanisms driving pathogenesis. Recently, the emergence of single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNAseq) has offered a powerful new tool for interrogating rheumatic diseases, with the potential to assess biological heterogeneity and individual cell function in rheumatic diseases. In this review, we discuss the major insights gained from current scRNAseq interrogations of human rheumatic diseases. We highlight novel cell populations and key molecular signatures uncovered, and also raise a number of hypotheses for follow-up study that may be of interest to the field. We also provide an outlook into two emerging single-cell technologies (repertoire sequencing and spatial transcriptomics) that have yet to be utilized in the field of rheumatic diseases, but which offer immense potential in expanding our understanding of immune and stromal cell behavior. We hope that scRNAseq may serve as a wellspring for the generation and interrogation of novel hypotheses regarding autoreactive lymphocytes and tissue infiltration patterns, and help uncover novel avenues for therapeutic development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zihan Zheng
- Institute of Immunology, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China.,Department of Autoimmune Diseases, Chongqing International Institute for Immunology, Chongqing, China
| | - Ling Chang
- Institute of Immunology, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jingyi Li
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, First Affiliated Hospital (Southwest Hospital) of Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yuzhang Wu
- Institute of Immunology, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Guangxing Chen
- Center for Joint Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital (Southwest Hospital) of Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Liyun Zou
- Institute of Immunology, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
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16
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Lillehoj EP, Luzina IG, Atamas SP. Mammalian Neuraminidases in Immune-Mediated Diseases: Mucins and Beyond. Front Immunol 2022; 13:883079. [PMID: 35479093 PMCID: PMC9035539 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.883079] [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: 02/24/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Mammalian neuraminidases (NEUs), also known as sialidases, are enzymes that cleave off the terminal neuraminic, or sialic, acid resides from the carbohydrate moieties of glycolipids and glycoproteins. A rapidly growing body of literature indicates that in addition to their metabolic functions, NEUs also regulate the activity of their glycoprotein targets. The simple post-translational modification of NEU protein targets-removal of the highly electronegative sialic acid-affects protein folding, alters protein interactions with their ligands, and exposes or covers proteolytic sites. Through such effects, NEUs regulate the downstream processes in which their glycoprotein targets participate. A major target of desialylation by NEUs are mucins (MUCs), and such post-translational modification contributes to regulation of disease processes. In this review, we focus on the regulatory roles of NEU-modified MUCs as coordinators of disease pathogenesis in fibrotic, inflammatory, infectious, and autoimmune diseases. Special attention is placed on the most abundant and best studied NEU1, and its recently discovered important target, mucin-1 (MUC1). The role of the NEU1 - MUC1 axis in disease pathogenesis is discussed, along with regulatory contributions from other MUCs and other pathophysiologically important NEU targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erik P. Lillehoj
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Irina G. Luzina
- Department of Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
- Research Service, Baltimore Veterans Affairs (VA) Medical Center, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Sergei P. Atamas
- Department of Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
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17
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Lerkvaleekul B, Apiwattanakul N, Tangnararatchakit K, Jirapattananon N, Srisala S, Vilaiyuk S. Associations of lymphocyte subpopulations with clinical phenotypes and long-term outcomes in juvenile-onset systemic lupus erythematosus. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0263536. [PMID: 35130317 PMCID: PMC8820627 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0263536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2021] [Accepted: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Juvenile-onset systemic lupus erythematosus (JSLE) is a complex and heterogeneous immune-mediated disease. Cellular components have crucial roles in disease phenotypes and outcomes. We aimed to determine the associations of lymphocyte subsets with clinical manifestations and long-term outcomes in JSLE patients. METHODS A cohort of 60 JSLE patients provided blood samples during active disease, of whom 34 provided further samples during inactive disease. In a longitudinal study, blood samples were obtained from 49 of the JSLE patients at 0, 3, and 6 months. The healthy control (HC) group consisted of 42 age-matched children. Lymphocyte subsets were analyzed by flow cytometry. RESULTS The percentages of CD4+ T, γδ T, and NK cells were significantly decreased in JSLE patients compared with HC, while the percentages of CD8+ T, NKT, and CD19+ B cells were significantly increased. The percentage of regulatory T cells (Tregs) was significantly lower in JSLE patients with lupus nephritis (LN) than in non-LN JSLE patients and HC. The patients were stratified into high and low groups by the median frequency of each lymphocyte subset. The γδ T cells high group and NK cells high group were significantly related to mucosal ulcer. The CD4+ T cells high group was significantly associated with arthritis, and the NKT cells high group was substantially linked with autoimmune hemolytic anemia. The CD8+ T cells low group was mainly related to vasculitis, and the Tregs low group was significantly associated with LN. The percentage of Tregs was significantly increased at 6 months of follow-up, and the LN JSLE group had a lower Treg percentage than the non-LN JSLE group. Predictors of remission on therapy were high Tregs, high absolute lymphocyte count, direct Coombs test positivity, and LN absence at enrollment. CONCLUSION JSLE patients exhibited altered lymphocyte subsets, which were strongly associated with clinical phenotypes and long-term outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Butsabong Lerkvaleekul
- Faculty of Medicine Ramathibodi Hospital, Division of Rheumatology, Department of Pediatrics, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Nopporn Apiwattanakul
- Faculty of Medicine Ramathibodi Hospital, Division of Infectious Disease, Department of Pediatrics, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Kanchana Tangnararatchakit
- Faculty of Medicine Ramathibodi Hospital, Division of Nephrology, Department of Pediatrics, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Nisa Jirapattananon
- Faculty of Medicine Ramathibodi Hospital, Department of Pediatrics, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Supanart Srisala
- Faculty of Medicine Ramathibodi Hospital, Research Center, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Soamarat Vilaiyuk
- Faculty of Medicine Ramathibodi Hospital, Division of Rheumatology, Department of Pediatrics, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
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18
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Allawe QH, Abed MQ, Abdullah HN. The possible effect of expressive plasma level of miRNA-21-5P on the serum level of IL-23 in with and without lupus nephritis patients. GENE REPORTS 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.genrep.2021.101422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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19
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Ahmed RF, Shaker OG, Abdelghany HM, Helmy Abdallah N, Elsayed SH, Kamel BA. Role of micro-RNA132 and its long non coding SOX2 in diagnosis of lupus nephritis. Lupus 2022; 31:89-96. [PMID: 35019799 DOI: 10.1177/09612033211067166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The skin and the kidney are commonly affected in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) with similar molecular mechanisms. Although clinical indicators of renal injury in SLE are fairly uncontroversial, few biomarkers are reliable. The role of micro-RNAs (mi-RNAs) in lupus nephritis (LN) pathogenesis has been investigated to help in early diagnosis. PURPOSE The aim of work is to evaluate miRNA132 and SOX2 expressions in SLE Egyptian patients; with and without nephritis, and the relation between miRNA132 and its long non-coding gene SOX2 in both patients groups. RESEARCH DESIGN This is a case-control study involving 100 SLE patients with and without LN (LN and non-LN groups), and 50 age-and sex-matched healthy controls. The study was carried out to detect miRNA132 and SOX2 expression by quantitative Real-Time Polymerase chain reaction methods. The SLE disease activity index (SLEDAI) was assessed. RESULTS SLEDAI increased in LN compared to non-LN. Micro-RNA132 expression was significantly increased in patient groups compared to controls (p<0.01) and increased in LN more than non-LN group (p<0.001). SOX2 significantly decreased in patient groups compared to controls (p<0.001), and was more in LN compared to non-LN group (p<0.001). There was a negative correlation between miRNA132 and SOX2 expression in both patient groups (p<0.001). CONCLUSION miRNA132 and SOX2 may play a role in SLE activity and help in the early non-invasive diagnosis of LN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rasha F Ahmed
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, 68786Faculty of Medicine , Minia University, Egypt
| | | | - Hend M Abdelghany
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, 68786Faculty of Medicine , Minia University, Egypt
| | - Nilly Helmy Abdallah
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, 158406BeniSuef University, Egypt
| | - Samar Hisham Elsayed
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, 68786Faculty of Medicine , Minia University, Egypt
| | - Bothina Ahmed Kamel
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, 68786Faculty of Medicine , Minia University, Egypt
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Chamardani TM, Amiritavassoli S. Inhibition of NETosis for treatment purposes: friend or foe? Mol Cell Biochem 2022; 477:673-688. [PMID: 34993747 PMCID: PMC8736330 DOI: 10.1007/s11010-021-04315-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2021] [Accepted: 11/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Active neutrophils participate in innate and adaptive immune responses through various mechanisms, one of the most important of which is the formation and release of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs). The NETs are composed of network-like structures made of histone proteins, DNA and other released antibacterial proteins by activated neutrophils, and evidence suggests that in addition to the innate defense against infections, NETosis plays an important role in the pathogenesis of several other non-infectious pathological states, such as autoimmune diseases and even cancer. Therefore, targeting NET has become one of the important therapeutic approaches and has been considered by researchers. NET inhibitors or other molecules involved in the NET formation, such as the protein arginine deiminase 4 (PAD4) enzyme, an arginine-to-citrulline converter, participate in chromatin condensation and NET formation, is the basis of this therapeutic approach. The important point is whether complete inhibition of NETosis can be helpful because by inhibiting this mechanism, the activity of neutrophils is suppressed. In this review, the biology of NETosis and its role in the pathogenesis of some important diseases have been summarized, and the consequences of treatment based on inhibition of NET formation have been discussed.
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Kim DS, Park Y, Choi JW, Park SH, Cho ML, Kwok SK. Lactobacillus acidophilus Supplementation Exerts a Synergistic Effect on Tacrolimus Efficacy by Modulating Th17/Treg Balance in Lupus-Prone Mice via the SIGNR3 Pathway. Front Immunol 2021; 12:696074. [PMID: 34956169 PMCID: PMC8704231 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.696074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2021] [Accepted: 11/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
ObjectiveTacrolimus (Tac) is an immunosuppressant used in the treatment of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE); however, it induces T cell subset imbalances by reducing regulatory T (Treg) cells. Lactobacillus acidophilus (LA) is reported to have therapeutic efficacy in immune-mediated diseases via T cell regulation.MethodsThis study investigated whether a combination therapy of LA and Tac improves the therapeutic efficacy of Tac by modulating T cell subset populations in an animal model of SLE. Eight-week-old MRL/lpr mice were orally administered with 5 mg/kg of Tac and/or 50 mg/kg of LA daily for 8 weeks. Cecal microbiota compositions, serum autoantibodies levels, the degree of proteinuria, histological changes in the kidney, and populations of various T cell subsets in the spleen were analyzed.ResultsMice presented with significant gut dysbiosis, which were subsequently recovered by the combination treatment of Tac and LA. Double negative T cells in the peripheral blood and spleens of MRL/lpr mice were significantly decreased by the combination therapy. The combination treatment reduced serum levels of anti-dsDNA antibodies and Immunoglobulin G2a, and renal pathology scores were also markedly alleviated. The combination therapy induced Treg cells and decreased T helper 17 (Th17) cells both in vitro and in vivo. In vitro treatment with LA induced the production of indoleamine-2,3-dioxygenase, programmed death-ligand 1, and interleukin-10 via the specific intracellular adhesion molecule-3 grabbing non-integrin homolog-related 3 receptor signals.ConclusionThe present findings indicate that LA augments the therapeutic effect of Tac and modulates Th17/Treg balance in a murine model of SLE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Da Som Kim
- The Rheumatism Research Center, Catholic Research Institute of Medical Science, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, South Korea
- Laboratory of Translational ImmunoMedicine, Catholic Research Institute of Medical Science, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, South Korea
- Department of Biomedicine & Health Sciences, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Youngjae Park
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul St. Mary’s Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Jeong-Won Choi
- The Rheumatism Research Center, Catholic Research Institute of Medical Science, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, South Korea
- Laboratory of Translational ImmunoMedicine, Catholic Research Institute of Medical Science, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Sung-Hwan Park
- The Rheumatism Research Center, Catholic Research Institute of Medical Science, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, South Korea
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul St. Mary’s Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Mi-La Cho
- The Rheumatism Research Center, Catholic Research Institute of Medical Science, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, South Korea
- Laboratory of Translational ImmunoMedicine, Catholic Research Institute of Medical Science, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, South Korea
- Department of Medical Lifescience, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, South Korea
- *Correspondence: Mi-La Cho, ; Seung-Ki Kwok,
| | - Seung-Ki Kwok
- The Rheumatism Research Center, Catholic Research Institute of Medical Science, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, South Korea
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul St. Mary’s Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, South Korea
- *Correspondence: Mi-La Cho, ; Seung-Ki Kwok,
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22
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At the dawn: cell-free DNA fragmentomics and gene regulation. Br J Cancer 2021; 126:379-390. [PMID: 34815523 PMCID: PMC8810841 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-021-01635-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2021] [Revised: 11/03/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Epigenetic mechanisms play instrumental roles in gene regulation during embryonic development and disease progression. However, it is challenging to non-invasively monitor the dynamics of epigenomes and related gene regulation at inaccessible human tissues, such as tumours, fetuses and transplanted organs. Circulating cell-free DNA (cfDNA) in peripheral blood provides a promising opportunity to non-invasively monitor the genomes from these inaccessible tissues. The fragmentation patterns of plasma cfDNA are unevenly distributed in the genome and reflect the in vivo gene-regulation status across multiple molecular layers, such as nucleosome positioning and gene expression. In this review, we revisited the computational and experimental approaches that have been recently developed to measure the cfDNA fragmentomics across different resolutions comprehensively. Moreover, cfDNA in peripheral blood is released following cell death, after apoptosis or necrosis, mainly from haematopoietic cells in healthy people and diseased tissues in patients. Several cfDNA-fragmentomics approaches showed the potential to identify the tissues-of-origin in cfDNA from cancer patients and healthy individuals. Overall, these studies paved the road for cfDNA fragmentomics to non-invasively monitor the in vivo gene-regulatory dynamics in both peripheral immune cells and diseased tissues.
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23
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Kitanaga Y, Yamajuku D, Kubo S, Nakamura K, Maeda M, Seki M, Kaneko Y, Kinugasa F, Morokata T, Kondo Y, Yoshinari H, Nakayamada S, Sumida T, Tanaka Y. Discovery of a novel Igβ and FcγRIIB cross-linking antibody, ASP2713, and its potential application in the treatment of systemic lupus erythematosus. Int Immunopharmacol 2021; 101:108343. [PMID: 34781122 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2021.108343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2021] [Revised: 11/01/2021] [Accepted: 11/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
B cell-targeted therapies have evolved as established therapies for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE); however, existing approaches still do not thoroughly satisfy clinical requirements due to limited efficacy against memory B cells, autoantibody-producing plasmablasts and disease heterogeneity. To provide a new treatment option for SLE, we created a novel anti-Igβ antibody with enhanced affinity for Fc gamma receptor (FcγR) IIB called ASP2713. ASP2713 cross-reacted with both human and cynomolgus monkey Igβ and showed increased binding affinity for human and monkey FcγRIIB compared to native human IgG1. This binding property allows dominant B cell binding and induction of intrinsic negative feedback signals. In human B cells, ASP2713 significantly and concentration-dependently induced FcγRIIB ITIM phosphorylation, while suppressing proliferation under B cell receptor stimulation. This pharmacological effect was also confirmed in in vitro B cell proliferation and antibody production assays using peripheral B cells isolated from patients with SLE. In a cynomolgus monkey tetanus toxoid-induced antibody production model, ASP2713 almost completely inhibited the increase in antigen-specific antibodies with superior efficacy to rituximab. Additionally, ASP2713 significantly suppressed recall antibody production in response to secondary tetanus toxoid immunization, indicating the memory B cell- and plasmablast-targeting potential of ASP2713. Our results suggest that ASP2713 may have therapeutic potential as a treatment for SLE, where B cells play a pathogenic role.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yukihiro Kitanaga
- Drug Discovery Research, Astellas Pharma Inc., Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan; First Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Japan, Kitakyushu, Fukuoka, Japan.
| | - Daisuke Yamajuku
- Drug Discovery Research, Astellas Pharma Inc., Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Satoshi Kubo
- Drug Discovery Research, Astellas Pharma Inc., Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Koji Nakamura
- Drug Discovery Research, Astellas Pharma Inc., Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Masashi Maeda
- Drug Discovery Research, Astellas Pharma Inc., Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Mutsumi Seki
- Drug Discovery Research, Astellas Pharma Inc., Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Yoko Kaneko
- Drug Discovery Research, Astellas Pharma Inc., Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Fumitaka Kinugasa
- Drug Discovery Research, Astellas Pharma Inc., Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Tatsuaki Morokata
- Drug Discovery Research, Astellas Pharma Inc., Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Yuya Kondo
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Hiroko Yoshinari
- First Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Japan, Kitakyushu, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Shingo Nakayamada
- First Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Japan, Kitakyushu, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Takayuki Sumida
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Yoshiya Tanaka
- First Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Japan, Kitakyushu, Fukuoka, Japan
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24
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Aschman T, Schaffer S, Biniaris Georgallis SI, Triantafyllopoulou A, Staeheli P, Voll RE. Interferon Lambda Regulates Cellular and Humoral Immunity in Pristane-Induced Lupus. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222111747. [PMID: 34769174 PMCID: PMC8584021 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222111747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2021] [Revised: 10/21/2021] [Accepted: 10/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
A pivotal role of type I interferons in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is widely accepted. Type III interferons (IFN-λ) however, the most recently discovered cytokines grouped within the interferon family, have not been extensively studied in lupus disease models yet. Growing evidence suggests a role for IFN-λ in regulating both innate and adaptive immune responses, and increased serum concentrations have been described in multiple autoimmune diseases including SLE. Using the pristane-induced lupus model, we found that mice with defective IFN-λ receptors (Ifnlr1−/−) showed increased survival rates, decreased lipogranuloma formation and reduced anti-dsDNA autoantibody titers in the early phase of autoimmunity development compared to pristane-treated wild-type mice. Moreover, Ifnlr1−/− mice treated with pristane had reduced numbers of inflammatory mononuclear phagocytes and cNK cells in their kidneys, resembling untreated control mice. Systemically, circulating B cells and monocytes (CD115+Ly6C+) were reduced in pristane-treated Ifnlr1−/− mice. The present study supports a significant role for type III interferons in the pathogenesis of pristane-induced murine autoimmunity as well as in systemic and renal inflammation. Although the absence of type III interferon receptors does not completely prevent the development of autoantibodies, type III interferon signaling accelerates the development of autoimmunity and promotes a pro-inflammatory environment in autoimmune-prone hosts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tom Aschman
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Medical Center—University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79106 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany; (S.S.); (S.I.B.G.); (A.T.)
- Department of Neuropathology, Charité–Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin and Berlin Institute of Health, 10117 Berlin, Germany
- Innate Immunity in Rheumatic Diseases, Deutsches Rheuma-Forschungszentrum, 10117 Berlin, Germany
- Correspondence: (T.A.); (R.E.V.)
| | - Sandra Schaffer
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Medical Center—University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79106 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany; (S.S.); (S.I.B.G.); (A.T.)
| | - Stylianos Iason Biniaris Georgallis
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Medical Center—University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79106 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany; (S.S.); (S.I.B.G.); (A.T.)
- Innate Immunity in Rheumatic Diseases, Deutsches Rheuma-Forschungszentrum, 10117 Berlin, Germany
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Antigoni Triantafyllopoulou
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Medical Center—University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79106 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany; (S.S.); (S.I.B.G.); (A.T.)
- Innate Immunity in Rheumatic Diseases, Deutsches Rheuma-Forschungszentrum, 10117 Berlin, Germany
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Peter Staeheli
- Institute of Virology, Medical Center—University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany;
| | - Reinhard E. Voll
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Medical Center—University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79106 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany; (S.S.); (S.I.B.G.); (A.T.)
- Center for Chronic Immunodeficiency (CCI), Medical Center—University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79106 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
- Correspondence: (T.A.); (R.E.V.)
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25
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Shen Z, Huang W, Liu J, Tian J, Wang S, Rui K. Effects of Mesenchymal Stem Cell-Derived Exosomes on Autoimmune Diseases. Front Immunol 2021; 12:749192. [PMID: 34646275 PMCID: PMC8503317 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.749192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2021] [Accepted: 09/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent years, the immunosuppressive properties of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been demonstrated in preclinical studies and trials of inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. Emerging evidence indicates that the immunomodulatory effect of MSCs is primarily attributed to the paracrine pathway. As one of the key paracrine effectors, mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes (MSC-EXOs) are small vesicles 30-200 nm in diameter that play an important role in cell-to-cell communication by carrying bioactive substances from parental cells. Recent studies support the finding that MSC-EXOs have an obvious inhibitory effect toward different effector cells involved in the innate and adaptive immune response. Moreover, substantial progress has been made in the treatment of autoimmune diseases, including multiple sclerosis (MS), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), type-1 diabetes (T1DM), uveitis, rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). MSC-EXOs are capable of reproducing MSC function and overcoming the limitations of traditional cell therapy. Therefore, using MSC-EXOs instead of MSCs to treat autoimmune diseases appears to be a promising cell-free treatment strategy. In this review, we review the current understanding of MSC-EXOs and discuss the regulatory role of MSC-EXOs on immune cells and its potential application in autoimmune diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziwei Shen
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China.,Department of Immunology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Wei Huang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China.,Department of Immunology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Jun Liu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China.,Department of Immunology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Jie Tian
- Department of Immunology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Shengjun Wang
- Department of Immunology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Ke Rui
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China.,Department of Immunology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
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26
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Wang X, Oates JC, Helke KL, Gilkeson GS, Zhang XK. Camptothecin and Topotecan, Inhibitors of Transcription Factor Fli-1 and Topoisomerase, Markedly Ameliorate Lupus Nephritis in (NZB × NZW)F1 Mice and Reduce the Production of Inflammatory Mediators in Human Renal Cells. Arthritis Rheumatol 2021; 73:1478-1488. [PMID: 33559345 PMCID: PMC9853877 DOI: 10.1002/art.41685] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2020] [Accepted: 02/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine the therapeutic effects of camptothecin (CPT) and topotecan (TPT), inhibitors of transcription factor Fli-1 and topoisomerase, on lupus nephritis in (NZB × NZW)F1 (NZBWF1) mice, and to examine the effects of CPT and TPT on inflammatory mediators in human renal cells. METHODS Female NZBWF1 mice were treated with vehicle, cyclophosphamide (CYC), CPT (1 mg/kg or 2 mg/kg), or TPT (0.03 mg/kg, 0.1 mg/kg, or 0. 3 mg/kg) by intraperitoneal injection twice a week, beginning at the age of 25 weeks (n = 8-10 mice per group). Blood and urine were collected for monitoring autoantibodies and proteinuria. Mice were euthanized at 40 weeks, and renal pathology scores were assessed. Human renal endothelial and mesangial cells were treated with CPT or TPT, and cytokine expression was measured. RESULTS None of the NZBWF1 mice treated with 1 mg/kg or 2 mg/kg of CPT or 0.3 mg/kg of TPT had proteinuria >100 mg/dl at the age of 40 weeks. One of 8 mice treated with 0.1 mg/kg of TPT and 1 of 10 mice treated with CYC had proteinuria >300 mg/dl, whereas 90% of the mice treated with vehicle had proteinuria >300 mg/dl. Compared to vehicle control, mice treated with 1 mg/kg or 2 mg/kg of CPT, 0.1 mg/kg or 0.3 mg/kg of TPT, or CYC had significantly prolonged survival, attenuated renal injury, diminished splenomegaly, reduced anti-double-stranded DNA autoantibody levels, and reduced IgG and C3 deposits in the glomeruli (all P < 0.05). Human renal cells treated with CPT or TPT had reduced expression of Fli-1 and decreased monocyte chemotactic protein 1 production following stimulation with interferon-α (IFNα) or IFNγ. CONCLUSION Our findings indicate that low-dose CPT and TPT could be repurposed to treat lupus nephritis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuan Wang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410008 China,Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, Department of Medicine. Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA
| | - Jim C. Oates
- Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, Department of Medicine. Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA,Medical Service, Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center, Charleston, SC 29403
| | - Kristi L. Helke
- Department of Comparative Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston SC, 29425, USA
| | - Gary S. Gilkeson
- Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, Department of Medicine. Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA,Medical Service, Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center, Charleston, SC 29403
| | - Xian K. Zhang
- Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, Department of Medicine. Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA
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27
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Association Between Hypoalbuminemia, Degree of Proteinuria, and Lupus Nephritis Class: A Single-Center Cross-sectional Biopsy Study. Nephrourol Mon 2021. [DOI: 10.5812/numonthly.112883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The current study intended to determine whether serum albumin level and urine protein/creatinine rate (uPCR) are appropriate predictors of severe lupus nephritis in childhood-onset SLE. Objectives: Following a cross-sectional single-center design, 85 LN children referred to the National Children Hospital, Ha Noi, Viet Nam, from 6/2019 to 6/2020 were recruited. Renal biopsy was performed for all participants. Methods: Following a cross-sectional single-center design, 85 LN children referred to the National Children Hospital, Ha Noi, Viet Nam, from 6/2019 to 6/2020 were recruited. Renal biopsy was performed for all participants. Results: The mean SLEDAI score of all patients was 14.69. The proportion of patients with high and very high SLEDAI was 61.2 and 17.6%, respectively. The mean concentration of serum albumin was 28.55 g/L, and the proportion of decreased albumin concentration was 55.3%. The median uPCR was 446.6 mg/mmol in which 76.5% of values were ≥ 200 mg/mmol. Pathological morphology of LN class from I to VI was observed in 0%, 17.6%, 37.6 %, 37.6%, 7.1%, and 0%, respectively. Serum albumin level and uPCR presented the predictive value for severe and active LN (class IV and V); (AUC: 0.725 P < 0.001 for both). Conclusions: Serum albumin and uPCR were appropriate predictors for severe and active LN in Vietnamese children.
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28
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Portilla D, Xavier S. Role of intracellular complement activation in kidney fibrosis. Br J Pharmacol 2021; 178:2880-2891. [PMID: 33555070 DOI: 10.1111/bph.15408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2020] [Revised: 01/22/2021] [Accepted: 02/02/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Increased expression of complement C1r, C1s and C3 in kidney cells plays an important role in the pathogenesis of kidney fibrosis. Our studies suggest that activation of complement in kidney cells with increased generation of C3 and its fragments occurs by activation of classical and alternative pathways. Single nuclei RNA sequencing studies in kidney tissue from unilateral ureteral obstruction mice show that increased synthesis of complement C3 and C5 occurs primarily in renal tubular epithelial cells (proximal and distal), while increased expression of complement receptors C3ar1 and C5ar1 occurs in interstitial cells including immune cells like monocytes/macrophages suggesting compartmentalization of complement components during kidney injury. Although global deletion of C3 and macrophage ablation prevent inflammation and reduced kidney tissue scarring, the development of mice with cell-specific deletion of complement components and their regulators could bring further insights into the mechanisms by which intracellular complement activation leads to fibrosis and progressive kidney disease. LINKED ARTICLES: This article is part of a themed issue on Canonical and non-canonical functions of the complement system in health and disease. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v178.14/issuetoc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Didier Portilla
- Department of Medicine and Center for Immunity and Regenerative Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Sandhya Xavier
- Department of Medicine and Center for Immunity and Regenerative Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
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29
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Immune-Related Urine Biomarkers for the Diagnosis of Lupus Nephritis. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22137143. [PMID: 34281193 PMCID: PMC8267641 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22137143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2021] [Revised: 06/25/2021] [Accepted: 06/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The kidney is one of the main organs affected by the autoimmune disease systemic lupus erythematosus. Lupus nephritis (LN) concerns 30-60% of adult SLE patients and it is significantly associated with an increase in the morbidity and mortality. The definitive diagnosis of LN can only be achieved by histological analysis of renal biopsies, but the invasiveness of this technique is an obstacle for early diagnosis of renal involvement and a proper follow-up of LN patients under treatment. The use of urine for the discovery of non-invasive biomarkers for renal disease in SLE patients is an attractive alternative to repeated renal biopsies, as several studies have described surrogate urinary cells or analytes reflecting the inflammatory state of the kidney, and/or the severity of the disease. Herein, we review the main findings in the field of urine immune-related biomarkers for LN patients, and discuss their prognostic and diagnostic value. This manuscript is focused on the complement system, antibodies and autoantibodies, chemokines, cytokines, and leukocytes, as they are the main effectors of LN pathogenesis.
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30
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Amo L, Kole HK, Scott B, Qi CF, Wu J, Bolland S. CCL17-producing cDC2s are essential in end-stage lupus nephritis and averted by a parasitic infection. J Clin Invest 2021; 131:148000. [PMID: 34060489 PMCID: PMC8159687 DOI: 10.1172/jci148000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2021] [Accepted: 04/21/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Lupus nephritis is a severe organ manifestation in systemic lupus erythematosus leading to kidney failure in a subset of patients. In lupus-prone mice, controlled infection with Plasmodium parasites protects against the progression of autoimmune pathology including lethal glomerulonephritis. Here, we demonstrate that parasite-induced protection was not due to a systemic effect of infection on autoimmunity as previously assumed, but rather to specific alterations in immune cell infiltrates into kidneys and renal draining lymph nodes. Infection of lupus-prone mice with a Plasmodium parasite did not reduce the levels or specificities of autoreactive antibodies, vasculitis, immune complex-induced innate activation, or hypoxia. Instead, infection uniquely reduced kidney-infiltrating CCL17-producing bone marrow-derived type 2 inflammatory dendritic cells (iDC2s). Bone marrow reconstitution experiments revealed that infection with Plasmodium caused alterations in bone marrow cells that hindered the ability of DC2s to infiltrate the kidneys. The essential role for CCL17 in lupus nephritis was confirmed by in vivo depletion with a blocking antibody, which reduced kidney pathology and immune infiltrates, while bypassing the need for parasitic infection. Therefore, infiltration into the kidneys of iDC2s, with the potential to prime local adaptive responses, is an essential regulated event in the transition from manageable glomerulonephritis to lethal tubular injury.
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31
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Bertelli R, Schena F, Antonini F, Reverberi D, Signa S, Pedemonte N, Consolaro A, Gattorno M, Negrini S, Pupo F, Volpi S, Ghiggeri GM. Neutrophil Extracellular Traps in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Stimulate IgG2 Production From B Lymphocytes. Front Med (Lausanne) 2021; 8:635436. [PMID: 33912575 PMCID: PMC8072216 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2021.635436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 03/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Circulating autoantibodies of IgG2 isotype predominate in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) and concur to the development of the renal lesions characteristic of Lupus Nephritis (LN). Anti-dsDNA and anti-histones IgG2, together with anti-podocyte proteins (i.e., α-enolase) are the major autoantibodies in serum and renal glomeruli of LN patients. The mechanisms underlying autoantibody formation and isotype switching in SLE and LN are unknown. A major issue is how DNA/histones are externalized from cell nucleus, driving the autoimmune response. Neutrophil Extracellular Traps (NETs) have been recently identified as crucial players in this context, representing the main source of DNA and nucleosome proteins. A second key point is what regulates IgG2 isotype switching: in mouse models, T-bet transcription factor has been described as essential for IgG2a class switch. We hypothesized that, in SLE, NET formation is the key mechanism responsible for externalization of autoantigens (i.e., dsDNA, histones 2,3, and α-enolase) and that T-bet is upregulated by NETs, driving, in this way, immunoglobulin class switch recombination (CSR), with production of IgG2 autoantibodies. The data here presented show that NETs, purified from SLE patients, stimulate ex vivo IgG2 isotype class switch possibly through the induction of T-bet. Of note, we observed a prominent effect of NETs on the release of soluble IgG2 in SLE patients', but not in healthy donors' B cells. Our results add important knowledge on the mechanisms of IgG2 class switch in SLE and contribute to further elucidate the role of NETs in LN pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Bertelli
- Laboratory of Molecular Nephrology, Division of Nephrology and Transplantation, Scientific Institute for Research, Hospitalization and Health Care (IRCCS) Giannina Gaslini Institute, Genoa, Italy.,Laboratory of Human Genetics, Scientific Institute for Research, Hospitalization and Health Care (IRCCS) Giannina Gaslini Institute, Genoa, Italy
| | - Francesca Schena
- Centre for Autoinflammatory Diseases and Immunodeficiencies, Scientific Institute for Research, Hospitalization and Health Care (IRCCS) Giannina Gaslini Institute, Genoa, Italy
| | - Francesca Antonini
- Core Facilities Flow Cytometry and Cell Imaging Lab, Scientific Institute for Research, Hospitalization and Health Care (IRCCS) Giannina Gaslini Institute, Genoa, Italy
| | - Daniele Reverberi
- Molecular Pathology Unit, Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Sara Signa
- Centre for Autoinflammatory Diseases and Immunodeficiencies, Scientific Institute for Research, Hospitalization and Health Care (IRCCS) Giannina Gaslini Institute, Genoa, Italy.,Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophtalmology, Genetics and Maternal and Children's Sciences (DINOGMI), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Nicoletta Pedemonte
- Complex Operative Unit (UOC) of Medical Genetics, Scientific Institute for Research, Hospitalization and Health Care (IRCCS) Giannina Gaslini Institute, Genoa, Italy
| | - Alessandro Consolaro
- Pediatric Rheumatology Clinic, Scientific Institute for Research, Hospitalization and Health Care (IRCCS) Giannina Gaslini Institute, Genoa, Italy
| | - Marco Gattorno
- Centre for Autoinflammatory Diseases and Immunodeficiencies, Scientific Institute for Research, Hospitalization and Health Care (IRCCS) Giannina Gaslini Institute, Genoa, Italy
| | - Simone Negrini
- Department of Internal Medicine, Clinical Immunology and Translational Medicine Unit, Policlinico San Martino, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Francesca Pupo
- Department of Internal Medicine, Clinical Immunology and Translational Medicine Unit, Policlinico San Martino, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Stefano Volpi
- Centre for Autoinflammatory Diseases and Immunodeficiencies, Scientific Institute for Research, Hospitalization and Health Care (IRCCS) Giannina Gaslini Institute, Genoa, Italy.,Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophtalmology, Genetics and Maternal and Children's Sciences (DINOGMI), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Gian Marco Ghiggeri
- Laboratory of Molecular Nephrology, Division of Nephrology and Transplantation, Scientific Institute for Research, Hospitalization and Health Care (IRCCS) Giannina Gaslini Institute, Genoa, Italy.,Division of Nephrology, Dialysis, Transplantation, Scientific Institute for Research, Hospitalization and Health Care (IRCCS) Giannina Gaslini Institute, Genoa, Italy
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32
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Eswarappa M, Cantarelli C, Cravedi P. Erythropoietin in Lupus: Unanticipated Immune Modulating Effects of a Kidney Hormone. Front Immunol 2021; 12:639370. [PMID: 33796104 PMCID: PMC8007959 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.639370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2021] [Accepted: 02/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a multiorgan autoimmune disease with variable clinical presentation, typically characterized by a relapsing-remitting course. SLE has a multifactorial pathogenesis including genetic, environmental, and hormonal factors that lead to loss of tolerance against self-antigens and autoantibody production. Mortality in SLE patients remains significantly higher than in the general population, in part because of the limited efficacy of available treatments and the associated toxicities. Therefore, novel targeted therapies are urgently needed to improve the outcomes of affected individuals. Erythropoietin (EPO), a kidney-produced hormone that promotes red blood cell production in response to hypoxia, has lately been shown to also possess non-erythropoietic properties, including immunomodulatory effects. In various models of autoimmune diseases, EPO limits cell apoptosis and favors cell clearance, while reducing proinflammatory cytokines and promoting the induction of regulatory T cells. Notably, EPO has been shown to reduce autoimmune response and decrease disease severity in mouse models of SLE. Herein, we review EPO's non-erythropoietic effects, with a special focus on immune modulating effects in SLE and its potential clinical utility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meghana Eswarappa
- Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States
| | - Chiara Cantarelli
- UO Nefrologia, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Paolo Cravedi
- Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States
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He YS, Yang XK, Hu YQ, Xiang K, Pan HF. Emerging role of Fli1 in autoimmune diseases. Int Immunopharmacol 2020; 90:107127. [PMID: 33234418 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2020.107127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2020] [Revised: 09/21/2020] [Accepted: 10/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
The Ets transcription factor family exerts crucial role in cell proliferation, apoptosis, differentiation and migration. Friend leukemia integration 1 (Fli1), a member of the Ets family, is expressed in fibroblasts, endothelial cells and immune cells. Fli1 gene is participated in the development, proliferation, activation, migration and other processes of immune cells. Fli1 can also affect the function of immune cells by regulating cytokines and chemokines. Emerging evidence has shown that Fli1 is implicated in the etiology of several autoimmune diseases, including systemic sclerosis (SSc) and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). In this review, we mainly discuss the current evidence for the role of Fli1 in these diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Sheng He
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, Anhui, China; Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Xiao-Ke Yang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, 218 Jixi Road, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Yu-Qian Hu
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, Anhui, China; Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Kun Xiang
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, Anhui, China; Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Hai-Feng Pan
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, Anhui, China; Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, Anhui, China.
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Zhao Z, Jia Z, Foster KW, Wei X, Qiao F, Jiang H, Jin Y, Li G, Chen N, Zhao G, Thiele GM, Medlin JL, O'Dell JR, Wang D. Dexamethasone prodrug nanomedicine (ZSJ-0228) treatment significantly reduces lupus nephritis in mice without measurable side effects - A 5-month study. NANOMEDICINE-NANOTECHNOLOGY BIOLOGY AND MEDICINE 2020; 31:102302. [PMID: 32980548 DOI: 10.1016/j.nano.2020.102302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2020] [Revised: 09/09/2020] [Accepted: 09/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Lupus nephritis (LN) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality among systemic lupus erythematosus patients. Glucocorticoids (GCs) are uniformly used in clinical LN management. Their notorious toxicities, however, have hampered the long-term clinical application. To circumvent GC side effects while maintaining their potent therapeutic efficacy, we have developed a macromolecular prodrug nanomedicine based on dexamethasone (ZSJ-0228). The focus of this study was to investigate its long-term efficacy and, most importantly, safety in the lupus-prone NZB/W F1 mouse. Monthly ZSJ-0228 treatment for five months significantly reduced the incidence of nephritis in NZB/W F1 mice with an improved survival rate. In contrast to treatment with dose equivalent daily free dexamethasone, long-term monthly ZSJ-0228 did not result in any measurable GC-associated side effects. With its outstanding efficacy and exceptional safety, it is anticipated that ZSJ-0228 may be a novel therapy for long-term clinical management of LN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhifeng Zhao
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE
| | - Zhenshan Jia
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE
| | - Kirk W Foster
- Department of Pathology and Microbiology, College of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE
| | - Xin Wei
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE
| | - Fangfang Qiao
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE
| | - Haochen Jiang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE
| | - Yan Jin
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE
| | - Guojuan Li
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE
| | - Ningrong Chen
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE
| | - Gang Zhao
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE
| | - Geoffrey M Thiele
- Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE; Veterans Affairs Nebraska-Western Iowa Health Care System, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Jennifer L Medlin
- Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE
| | - James R O'Dell
- Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE; Veterans Affairs Nebraska-Western Iowa Health Care System, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Dong Wang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE.
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Ramanujam M, Steffgen J, Visvanathan S, Mohan C, Fine JS, Putterman C. Phoenix from the flames: Rediscovering the role of the CD40-CD40L pathway in systemic lupus erythematosus and lupus nephritis. Autoimmun Rev 2020; 19:102668. [PMID: 32942031 DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2020.102668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2020] [Accepted: 05/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Lupus nephritis (LN) is a significant complication of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), increasing its morbidity and mortality. Although the current standard of care helps suppress disease activity, it is associated with toxicity and ultimately does not cure SLE. At present, there are no therapies specifically indicated for the treatment of LN and there is an unmet need in this disease where treatment remains a challenge. The CD40-CD40L pathway is central to SLE pathogenesis and the generation of autoantibodies and their deposition in the kidneys, resulting in renal injury in patients with LN. CD40 is expressed on immune cells (including B cells, monocytes and dendritic cells) and also non-haematopoietic cells. Interactions between CD40L on T cells and CD40 on B cells in the renal interstitium are critical for the local expansion of naive B cells and autoantibody-producing B cells in LN. CD40L-mediated activation of myeloid cells and resident kidney cells, including endothelial cells, proximal tubular epithelial cells, podocytes and mesangial cells, further amplifies the inflammatory milieu in the interstitium and the glomeruli. Several studies have highlighted the upregulated expression of CD40 in LN kidney biopsies, and preclinical data have demonstrated the importance of the CD40-CD40L pathway in murine SLE and LN. Blocking this pathway is expected to ameliorate inflammation driven by infiltrating immune cells and resident kidney cells. Initial experimental therapeutic interventions targeting the CD40-CD40L pathway, based on CD40L antibodies, were associated with an increased incidence of thrombosis. However, this safety issue has not been observed with second-generation CD40/CD40L antibodies that have been engineered to prevent platelet activation. With these advancements, together with recent preclinical and clinical findings, it is anticipated that selective blockade of the CD40-CD40L pathway may address the unmet treatment needs in SLE, LN and other autoimmune diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meera Ramanujam
- Immunology & Respiratory Diseases Research, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals Inc., Ridgefield, CT, USA; Institute of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, University of Glasgow, UK.
| | - Jürgen Steffgen
- TA Inflammation Medicine, Boehringer Ingelheim, International GmbH, Biberach, Germany; Department of Nephrology and Rheumatology, Georg-August University of Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Sudha Visvanathan
- Translational Medicine and Clinical Pharmacology, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals Inc., Ridgefield, CT, USA
| | - Chandra Mohan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Jay S Fine
- Immunology & Respiratory Diseases Research, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals Inc., Ridgefield, CT, USA
| | - Chaim Putterman
- Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA; Azrieli School of Medicine, Bar-Ilan Universtiy, Zefat, Israel; Research Institute, Galilee Medical Center, Nahariya, Israel.
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Pisetsky DS, Lipsky PE. New insights into the role of antinuclear antibodies in systemic lupus erythematosus. Nat Rev Rheumatol 2020; 16:565-579. [PMID: 32884126 DOI: 10.1038/s41584-020-0480-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 132] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/16/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a prototypic autoimmune disease characterized by antinuclear antibodies (ANAs) that form immune complexes that mediate pathogenesis by tissue deposition or cytokine induction. Some ANAs bind DNA or associated nucleosome proteins, whereas other ANAs bind protein components of complexes of RNA and RNA-binding proteins (RBPs). Levels of anti-DNA antibodies can fluctuate widely, unlike those of anti-RBP antibodies, which tend to be stable. Because anti-DNA antibody levels can reflect disease activity, repeat testing is common; by contrast, a single anti-RBP antibody determination is thought to suffice for clinical purposes. Experience from clinical trials of novel therapies has provided a new perspective on ANA expression during disease, as many patients with SLE are ANA negative at screening despite previously testing positive. Because trial results suggest that patients who are ANA negative might not respond to certain agents, screening strategies now involve ANA and anti-DNA antibody testing to identify patients with so-called 'active, autoantibody-positive SLE'. Evidence suggests that ANA responses can decrease over time because of the natural history of disease or the effects of therapy. Together, these findings suggest that, during established disease, more regular serological testing could illuminate changes relevant to pathogenesis and disease status.
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Affiliation(s)
- David S Pisetsky
- Departments of Medicine and Immunology, Duke University Medical Center and Medical Research Service, Veterans Administration Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA.
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Goulart MFG, Alves AGF, Farhat J, Braga ALF, Pereira LAA, de Faria Coimbra Lichtenfels AJ, de Arruda Campos LM, Silva CAAD, Elias AM, Farhat SCL. Influence of air pollution on renal activity in patients with childhood-onset systemic lupus erythematosus. Pediatr Nephrol 2020; 35:1247-1255. [PMID: 32346765 DOI: 10.1007/s00467-020-04517-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2019] [Revised: 02/17/2020] [Accepted: 02/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Childhood-onset systemic lupus erythematosus (cSLE) is an autoimmune and multifactorial disease that can affect the renal system. Exposure to air pollution can trigger systemic inflammation in cSLE patients and increase risk of disease activity. We evaluated effects of individual real-time exposure to air pollutants on renal activity in cSLE patients using the Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Index 2000. METHODS Longitudinal panel study of 108 repetitive measures from 9 pediatric lupus patients. Over three consecutive weeks, daily individual levels of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2) were measured, as well as weekly clinical evaluation and laboratory tests. This was repeated every 10 weeks over a 1-year period. Specific generalized estimating equation models were used to evaluate the impact of these pollutants on risk of nephritis and anti-dsDNA > 20 UI/mL and on 24-h urine protein and serum complement (C3) levels. RESULTS An interquartile range (IQR) increase of 18.12 μg/m3 in PM2.5 daily concentration was associated with increased risk of nephritis and positive results for anti-dsDNA. Moreover, increase in 24-h urine protein and decrease in C3 serum levels also associated with exposure to pollutants. An IQR increase in PM2.57-day moving average was associated with increased risks of leukocyturia (3.4; 95% CI 2.6:4.3), positive anti-dsDNA (3.1; 95% CI 2.1:4.0), and 36.3-mg increase (95% IC 20.2:52.3) in 24-h urine protein. An IQR increase (63.1 μg/m3) in 7-day cumulative NO2 levels was associated with decreased serum C3 levels. CONCLUSIONS This prospective study suggests exposure to air pollution can trigger renal activity in cSLE patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Fernanda Giacomin Goulart
- Pediatric Rheumatology Unit, Children's Institute, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Sao Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.,Pediatric Department, Hospital das Clınicas, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Sao Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Andressa Guariento Ferreira Alves
- Pediatric Rheumatology Unit, Children's Institute, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Sao Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.,Pediatric Department, Hospital das Clınicas, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Sao Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Juliana Farhat
- Environmental Epidemiology Study Group, Laboratory of Experimental Air Pollution, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Alfésio Luis Ferreira Braga
- Laboratory of Experimental Air Pollution, LIM05, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Sao Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.,Environmental Exposure and Risk Assessment Group, Graduate Program in Collective Health, Universidade Catolica de Santos, Santos, Brazil.,Environmental Epidemiology Study Group, Laboratory of Experimental Air Pollution, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Luiz Alberto Amador Pereira
- Laboratory of Experimental Air Pollution, LIM05, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Sao Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.,Environmental Exposure and Risk Assessment Group, Graduate Program in Collective Health, Universidade Catolica de Santos, Santos, Brazil.,Environmental Epidemiology Study Group, Laboratory of Experimental Air Pollution, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ana Julia de Faria Coimbra Lichtenfels
- Laboratory of Experimental Air Pollution, LIM05, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Sao Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.,Experimental Therapeutics Laboratory, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Sao Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Lúcia Maria de Arruda Campos
- Pediatric Rheumatology Unit, Children's Institute, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Sao Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.,Pediatric Department, Hospital das Clınicas, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Sao Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Clóvis Artur Almeida da Silva
- Pediatric Rheumatology Unit, Children's Institute, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Sao Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.,Pediatric Department, Hospital das Clınicas, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Sao Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.,Rheumatology Department, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Sao Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Adriana Maluf Elias
- Pediatric Rheumatology Unit, Children's Institute, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Sao Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.,Pediatric Department, Hospital das Clınicas, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Sao Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Sylvia Costa Lima Farhat
- Pediatric Department, Hospital das Clınicas, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Sao Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil. .,Laboratory of Experimental Air Pollution, LIM05, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Sao Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil. .,Environmental Epidemiology Study Group, Laboratory of Experimental Air Pollution, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.
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Dos Santos M, Veronese FV, Moresco RN. Uric acid and kidney damage in systemic lupus erythematosus. Clin Chim Acta 2020; 508:197-205. [PMID: 32428504 DOI: 10.1016/j.cca.2020.05.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2019] [Revised: 05/15/2020] [Accepted: 05/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease that affects multiple organs; lupus nephritis (LN) is one of the most severe complications of SLE. In the kidneys, an intense inflammatory reaction affects the glomeruli and tubular interstitium. Uric acid has been considered a key molecule in the pathogenesis of some conditions such as metabolic syndrome, hypertension, and kidney disease as it is produced by injured cells and promotes immune-inflammatory responses. In this regard, high serum uric acid concentrations may be involved in the activation of some inflammatory pathways, associated with kidney damage in SLE. Therefore, the purpose of this article was to review the main physiological mechanisms and clinical data on the association between serum uric acid and kidney damage in SLE. Scientific evidence indicates that hyperuricemia has the potential to be an adjuvant in the development and progression of kidney manifestations in SLE. Uric acid may promote the activation of inflammatory pathways and the formation and deposition of autoantibodies in kidneys, leading to a reduction of glomerular filtration rate. Other potential mechanisms of this association include the presence of polymorphisms in the urate transporters, metabolic syndrome, use of some medications, and other situations associated with a reduced renal excretion of uric acid.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariane Dos Santos
- Laboratory of Clinical Biochemistry, Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analysis, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, Santa Maria, RS, Brazil; Graduate Program in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, Santa Maria, RS, Brazil
| | | | - Rafael Noal Moresco
- Laboratory of Clinical Biochemistry, Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analysis, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, Santa Maria, RS, Brazil; Graduate Program in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, Santa Maria, RS, Brazil.
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Skopelja-Gardner S, Colonna L, Hermanson P, Sun X, Tanaka L, Tai J, Nguyen Y, Snyder JM, Alpers CE, Hudkins KL, Salant DJ, Peng Y, Elkon KB. Complement Deficiencies Result in Surrogate Pathways of Complement Activation in Novel Polygenic Lupus-like Models of Kidney Injury. JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY (BALTIMORE, MD. : 1950) 2020; 204:2627-2640. [PMID: 32238460 PMCID: PMC7365257 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.1901473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2019] [Accepted: 03/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Lupus nephritis (LN) is a major contributor to morbidity and mortality in lupus patients, but the mechanisms of kidney damage remain unclear. In this study, we introduce, to our knowledge, novel models of LN designed to resemble the polygenic nature of human lupus by embodying three key genetic alterations: the Sle1 interval leading to anti-chromatin autoantibodies; Mfge8-/- , leading to defective clearance of apoptotic cells; and either C1q-/- or C3-/- , leading to low complement levels. We report that proliferative glomerulonephritis arose only in the presence of all three abnormalities (i.e., in Sle1.Mfge8 -/- C1q -/- and Sle1.Mfge8 -/- C3 -/- triple-mutant [TM] strains [C1q -/-TM and C3-/- TM, respectively]), with structural kidney changes resembling those in LN patients. Unexpectedly, both TM strains had significant increases in autoantibody titers, Ag spread, and IgG deposition in the kidneys. Despite the early complement component deficiencies, we observed assembly of the pathogenic terminal complement membrane attack complex in both TM strains. In C1q-/- TM mice, colocalization of MASP-2 and C3 in both the glomeruli and tubules indicated that the lectin pathway likely contributed to complement activation and tissue injury in this strain. Interestingly, enhanced thrombin activation in C3-/- TM mice and reduction of kidney injury following attenuation of thrombin generation by argatroban in a serum-transfer nephrotoxic model identified thrombin as a surrogate pathway for complement activation in C3-deficient mice. These novel mouse models of human lupus inform the requirements for nephritis and provide targets for intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lucrezia Colonna
- Division of Rheumatology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98109
| | - Payton Hermanson
- Division of Rheumatology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98109
| | - Xizhang Sun
- Division of Rheumatology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98109
| | - Lena Tanaka
- Division of Rheumatology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98109
| | - Joyce Tai
- Division of Rheumatology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98109
| | - Yenly Nguyen
- Division of Rheumatology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98109
| | - Jessica M Snyder
- Department of Comparative Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98109
| | - Charles E Alpers
- Department of Nephrology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98109
| | - Kelly L Hudkins
- Department of Nephrology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98109
| | - David J Salant
- Division of Nephrology, Boston University, Boston, MA 02215; and
| | - YuFeng Peng
- Division of Rheumatology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98109;
| | - Keith B Elkon
- Division of Rheumatology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98109;
- Department of Immunology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98109
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Abdel-Rehim AS, Mohamed NA, Shakweer MM. Interleukin-34 as a marker for subclinical proliferative lupus nephritis. Lupus 2020; 29:607-616. [PMID: 32237962 DOI: 10.1177/0961203320914976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Background Lupus nephritis (LN) is an ominous manifestation of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Clinical renal affection is present in about 70% of lupus patients, and more patients have histological evidence of renal involvement without clinical manifestations. This study aimed to investigate the potential role of serum interleukin-34 (IL-34) as an early marker for the detection of silent LN. Methods Thirty-three lupus patients with silent LN (group I), 37 patients with clinical LN (group II) and 20 controls were included. The SLE Disease Activity Index (SLEDAI), IL-34, anti-dsDNA antibodies and renal biopsy were assessed in all patients. Results Serum IL-34 levels were significantly higher in all lupus patients compared to healthy controls ( p < 0.001) and showed a significant positive correlation with SLEDAI score. SLE patients with positive anti-dsDNA antibodies had more active disease according to SLEDAI and higher levels of IL-34 than those with negative anti-dsDNA antibodies. In both studied groups, serum IL-34 levels were significantly higher in patients with proliferative LN (class III and class IV) than those with non-proliferative lupus (class II and class V) and controls. Yet, in both groups, IL-34 was not useful in differentiating active from chronic renal affection. Conclusion In lupus patients with insignificant proteinuria, serum levels of IL-34 distinguished the different histological classes of subclinical LN. Serum IL-34 may be used as a surrogate marker for early renal affection in silent LN, especially the proliferative type.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asmaa Sm Abdel-Rehim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Nesrine A Mohamed
- Department of Clinical Pathology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Marwa M Shakweer
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
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Elessawi DF, Nashwa RK, El-Barbary RAH. Evaluation of Micro-RNA199 in systemic lupus erythematosus patients with and without lupus nephritis. JOURNAL OF RADIATION RESEARCH AND APPLIED SCIENCES 2020. [DOI: 10.1080/16878507.2019.1693734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Dina F Elessawi
- Department of Health Radiation Research, National Center for Radiation Research and Technology (NCRRT), Egyptian Atomic Energy Authority (EAEA), Cairo, Egypt
| | - Radwan K Nashwa
- Department of Health Radiation Research, National Center for Radiation Research and Technology (NCRRT), Egyptian Atomic Energy Authority (EAEA), Cairo, Egypt
| | - Rasha AH El-Barbary
- Dermatology and Venereology Department, Faculty of Medicine for Girls, Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
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Rao DA, Arazi A, Wofsy D, Diamond B. Design and application of single-cell RNA sequencing to study kidney immune cells in lupus nephritis. Nat Rev Nephrol 2019; 16:238-250. [PMID: 31853010 DOI: 10.1038/s41581-019-0232-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/13/2019] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
The immune mechanisms that cause tissue injury in lupus nephritis have been challenging to define. The advent of high-dimensional cellular analyses, such as single-cell RNA sequencing, has enabled detailed characterization of the cell populations present in small biopsy samples of kidney tissue. In parallel, the development of methods that cryopreserve kidney biopsy specimens in a manner that preserves intact, viable cells, has enabled the uniform analysis of tissue samples collected at multiple sites and across many geographic areas and demographic cohorts with high-dimensional platforms. The application of these methods to kidney biopsy samples from patients with lupus nephritis has begun to define the phenotypes of both infiltrating and resident immune cells, as well as parenchymal cells, present in nephritic kidneys. The detection of similar immune cell populations in urine suggests that it might be possible to non-invasively monitor immune activation in kidneys. Once applied to large patient cohorts, these high-dimensional studies might enable patient stratification according to patterns of immune cell activation in the kidney or identify disease features that can be used as surrogate measures of efficacy in clinical trials. Applied broadly across multiple inflammatory kidney diseases, these studies promise to enormously expand our understanding of renal inflammation in the next decade.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deepak A Rao
- Division of Rheumatology, Inflammation, and Immunity, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Arnon Arazi
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - David Wofsy
- Rheumatology Division and Russell/Engleman Research Center, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Betty Diamond
- Center for Autoimmune, Musculoskeletal and Hematopoietic Diseases, The Feinstein Institute for Medical Research, Northwell Health, Manhasset, NY, USA.
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Falasinnu T, O'Shaughnessy MM, Troxell ML, Charu V, Weisman MH, Simard JF. A review of non-immune mediated kidney disease in systemic lupus erythematosus: A hypothetical model of putative risk factors. Semin Arthritis Rheum 2019; 50:463-472. [PMID: 31866044 DOI: 10.1016/j.semarthrit.2019.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2019] [Revised: 10/08/2019] [Accepted: 10/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
About half of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) are diagnosed with lupus nephritis (LN). Patients with SLE are also at increased risk for diabetes, hypertension and obesity, which together account for >70% of end-stage renal disease in the general population. The frequencies of non-LN related causes of kidney disease, and their contribution to kidney disease development and progression among patients with SLE have been inadequately studied. We hypothesize that a substantial, and increasing proportion of kidney pathology in patients with SLE might not directly relate to LN but instead might be explained by non-immune mediated factors such as diabetes, hypertension, and obesity. The goal of the manuscript is to draw attention to hypertension, diabetes and obesity as potential alternative causes of kidney damage in patients with SLE. Further, we suggest that misclassification of kidney disease etiology in patients with SLE might have important ramifications for clinical trial recruitment, epidemiologic investigation, and clinical care. Future studies aiming to elucidate and distinguish discrete causes of kidney disease - both clinically and histologically - among patients with SLE are desperately needed as improved understanding of disease mechanisms is paramount to advancing therapeutic discovery. Collaboration among rheumatologists, pathologists, nephrologists, and endocrinologists, and the availability of dedicated research funding, will be critical to the success of such efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Titilola Falasinnu
- Department of Health Research and Policy, Stanford University School of Medicine, 150 Governor's Lane Stanford, Palo Alto, CA 94305, United States
| | | | - Megan L Troxell
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University Medical Center, Palo Alto, CA. United States
| | - Vivek Charu
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University Medical Center, Palo Alto, CA. United States
| | - Michael H Weisman
- Division of Rheumatology, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA, United States
| | - Julia F Simard
- Department of Health Research and Policy, Stanford University School of Medicine, 150 Governor's Lane Stanford, Palo Alto, CA 94305, United States; Division of Immunology and Rheumatology, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA, United States.
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Wright RD, Dimou P, Northey SJ, Beresford MW. Mesangial cells are key contributors to the fibrotic damage seen in the lupus nephritis glomerulus. JOURNAL OF INFLAMMATION-LONDON 2019; 16:22. [PMID: 31807119 PMCID: PMC6857320 DOI: 10.1186/s12950-019-0227-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2019] [Accepted: 11/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Background Lupus nephritis (LN) affects up to 80% of juvenile-onset systemic lupus erythematosus patients. Mesangial cells (MCs) comprise a third of the glomerular cells and are key contributors to fibrotic changes within the kidney. This project aims to identify the roles of MCs in an in vitro model of LN. Methods Conditionally immortalised MCs were treated with pro-inflammatory cytokines or with patient sera in an in vitro model of LN and assessed for their roles in inflammation and fibrosis. Results MCs were shown to produce pro-inflammatory cytokines in response to a model of the inflammatory environment in LN. Further the cells expressed increased levels of mRNA for extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins (COL1A1, COL1A2, COL4A1 and LAMB1), matrix metalloproteinase enzymes (MMP9) and tissue inhibitors of matrix metalloproteinases (TIMP1). Treatment of MCs with serum from patients with active LN was able to induce a similar, albeit milder phenotype. Treatment of MCs with cytokines or patient sera was able to induce secretion of TGF-β1, a known inducer of fibrotic changes. Inhibition of TGF-β1 actions through SB-431542 (an activin A receptor type II-like kinase (ALK5) inhibitor) was able to reduce these responses suggesting that the release of TGF-β1 plays a role in these changes. Conclusions MCs contribute to the inflammatory environment in LN by producing cytokines involved in leukocyte recruitment, activation and maturation. Further the cells remodel the ECM via protein deposition and enzymatic degradation. This occurs through the actions of TGF-β1 on its receptor, ALK5. This may represent a potential therapeutic target for treatment of LN-associated fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachael D Wright
- 1Department of Women's and Children's Health, Institute of Translational Medicine, University of Liverpool, member of Liverpool Health Partners, Liverpool, UK.,2Department of Women and Children's Health, Institute in the Park, Alder Hey Children's NHS Foundation Trust, Eaton Road, Liverpool, L12 2AP UK
| | - Paraskevi Dimou
- 1Department of Women's and Children's Health, Institute of Translational Medicine, University of Liverpool, member of Liverpool Health Partners, Liverpool, UK
| | - Sarah J Northey
- 1Department of Women's and Children's Health, Institute of Translational Medicine, University of Liverpool, member of Liverpool Health Partners, Liverpool, UK
| | - Michael W Beresford
- 1Department of Women's and Children's Health, Institute of Translational Medicine, University of Liverpool, member of Liverpool Health Partners, Liverpool, UK.,3Department of Paediatric Rheumatology, Alder Hey Children's NHS Foundation Trust, member of Liverpool Health Partners, Liverpool, UK
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Benhuri B, ELJack A, Kahaleh B, Chakravarti R. Mechanism and biomarkers in aortitis--a review. J Mol Med (Berl) 2019; 98:11-23. [PMID: 31664480 DOI: 10.1007/s00109-019-01838-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2019] [Revised: 09/11/2019] [Accepted: 09/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Aortitis can be the manifestation of an underlying infectious or noninfectious disease process. An autoimmune cause is suggested in a large proportion of noninfectious causes. Similar to other autoimmune diseases, the pathophysiology of aortitis has been investigated in detail, but the etiology remains unknown. Most cases of aortitis often go undetected for a long time and are often identified at late stages of the disease. Recent advances in imaging techniques have significantly improved the diagnosis of aortitis. However, significant challenges associated with the imaging techniques limit their use. Several routine inflammation-based markers, such as erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), C-reactive protein (CRP), and inflammatory cytokines, are nonspecific and, therefore, have limited use in the diagnosis of aortitis. The search for more specific serum biomarkers, which can facilitate detection and progression is under progress. Several autoantibodies have been identified, but assigning their role in the pathogenesis as well as their specificity remains a challenge. The current review addresses some of these issues in detail. KEY MESSAGES: • Noninfectious aortitis is an autoimmune disease. • Several biomarkers, including cytokines and autoantibodies, are increased in aortitis. • Imaging techniques, commonly used to detect aortitis, are associated with the high cost and technical challenges. • There is a need to develop low-cost biomarker-based detection tools. • The knowledge of biomarkers in aortitis detection is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Benhuri
- Department of Physiology & Pharmacology, College of Medical & Life Sciences, University of Toledo College of Medicine, 3000 Arlington Ave, Toledo, OH, 43614, USA.,Department of Internal Medicine, Mount Sinai Beth Israel, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Ammar ELJack
- Department of Physiology & Pharmacology, College of Medical & Life Sciences, University of Toledo College of Medicine, 3000 Arlington Ave, Toledo, OH, 43614, USA.,Depatment of Intenal Medicine, Beaumont Hospital, Dearborn, MI, 48124, USA
| | - Bashar Kahaleh
- Division of Rheumatology, University of Toledo College of Medicine, 3000 Arlington Ave, Toledo, OH, 43614, USA
| | - Ritu Chakravarti
- Department of Physiology & Pharmacology, College of Medical & Life Sciences, University of Toledo College of Medicine, 3000 Arlington Ave, Toledo, OH, 43614, USA.
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Wang L, Law HKW. Immune Complexes Impaired Glomerular Endothelial Cell Functions in Lupus Nephritis. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20215281. [PMID: 31652980 PMCID: PMC6862593 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20215281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2019] [Revised: 10/05/2019] [Accepted: 10/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Lupus nephritis (LN) is one of the most common and severe complications of lupus. However, the mechanisms for renal damage have not been well elucidated. There are evidences show that glomerular endothelial cells (GECs) are damaged in LN. Immune complexes can deposit in subendothelial area and could affect GEC functions. In the present study, we used heat-aggregated gamma globulin (HAGG) to simulate immune complexes and investigated their effects on GEC functions. Our results revealed that HAGG impaired different aspect of the GEC functions. HAGG changed cell morphology, upregulated the expression of active caspase-3, inhibited angiogenesis, and increased NO production in GECs. These results provide new clues for the mechanisms of renal damage and the pathology of LN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linlin Wang
- Department of Health Technology and Informatics, Faculty of Health and Social Science, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Hong Kong, China.
| | - Helen Ka Wai Law
- Department of Health Technology and Informatics, Faculty of Health and Social Science, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Hong Kong, China.
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Hobeika L, Ng L, Lee IJ. Moving Forward With Biologics in Lupus Nephritis. Adv Chronic Kidney Dis 2019; 26:338-350. [PMID: 31733718 DOI: 10.1053/j.ackd.2019.08.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2019] [Revised: 07/17/2019] [Accepted: 08/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The majority of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus develop lupus nephritis (LN) which significantly contributes to increased risks of hospitalizations, ESRD, and death. Unfortunately, treatments for LN have not changed over the past 15 years. Despite continued efforts to elucidate the pathogenesis of LN, no new drugs have yet replaced the standard-of-care regimens of cyclophosphamide or mycophenolate mofetil plus high-dose corticosteroids. The significant limitations of standard-of-care are low complete response rates, risk of flares, and ongoing inflammation in the kidney leading to progressive renal dysfunction. Repeat and prolonged treatments are often needed to control disease, leading to a high level of severe side effects. The development of targeted drugs with better efficacy and safety are desperately needed. The rationale for targeting key immunologic pathways in LN continues to be strongly supported by basic and translational research and has generated the hope and excitement of testing these therapies in human LN. This review provides an overview of biologics studied to date in clinical trials of LN, discusses the potential reasons for their failure, and addresses the challenges moving forward.
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48
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Nakazawa D, Marschner JA, Platen L, Anders HJ. Extracellular traps in kidney disease. Kidney Int 2019; 94:1087-1098. [PMID: 30466565 DOI: 10.1016/j.kint.2018.08.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2018] [Revised: 08/01/2018] [Accepted: 08/30/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
During the past decade the formation of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) has been recognized as a unique modality of pathogen fixation (sticky extracellular chromatin) and pathogen killing (cytotoxic histones and proteases) during host defense, as well as collateral tissue damage. Numerous other triggers induce NET formation in multiple forms of sterile inflammation, including thrombosis, gout, obstruction of draining ducts, and trauma. Whether neutrophils always die along with NET release, and if they do die, how, remains under study and is most likely context dependent. In certain settings, neutrophils release NETs while undergoing regulated necrosis-for example, necroptosis. NETs and extracellular traps (ETs) released by macrophages also have been well documented in kidney diseases-for example, in various forms of acute kidney injury. Histones released from ETs and other sources are cytotoxic and elicit inflammation, contributing to necroinflammation of the early-injury phase of acute tubular necrosis in antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-related renal vasculitis, anti-glomerular basement membrane disease, lupus nephritis, and thrombotic microangiopathies. Finally, acute kidney injury-related releases of dying renal cells or ETs promote remote organ injuries-for example, acute respiratory distress syndrome. In this review, we summarize what is known about the release of ETs from neutrophils and macrophages in the kidney, the available experimental evidence, and ongoing discussions in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daigo Nakazawa
- Division of Rheumatology, Endocrinology and Nephrology, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Julian A Marschner
- Division of Nephrology, Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, Klinikum der Universität München, LMU München, Germany
| | - Louise Platen
- Division of Nephrology, Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, Klinikum der Universität München, LMU München, Germany
| | - Hans-Joachim Anders
- Division of Nephrology, Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, Klinikum der Universität München, LMU München, Germany.
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Kitagawa A, Tsuboi N, Yokoe Y, Katsuno T, Ikeuchi H, Kajiyama H, Endo N, Sawa Y, Suwa J, Sugiyama Y, Hachiya A, Mimura T, Hiromura K, Maruyama S. Urinary levels of the leukocyte surface molecule CD11b associate with glomerular inflammation in lupus nephritis. Kidney Int 2019; 95:680-692. [PMID: 30712924 DOI: 10.1016/j.kint.2018.10.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2018] [Revised: 10/01/2018] [Accepted: 10/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Noninvasive biomarkers of disease activity are needed to monitor response to therapy and predict disease recurrence in patients with glomerulonephritis. The leukocyte surface markers integrin Mac-1 and CD16b have been implicated in the pathogenesis of lupus nephritis (LN). Mac-1 comprises a unique α subunit (CD11b) complexed with a common β2 subunit, which are released along with CD16b from specific leukocyte subsets under inflammatory conditions including glomerulonephritis. We investigated the association of urinary CD11b and CD16b with histopathological activity in 272 patients with biopsy-proven glomerular diseases, including 118 with LN. Urine CD11b and CD16b were measured via enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Urinary levels of both markers were increased in LN, but only urinary CD11b was correlated with the number of glomerular leukocytes and with overall histopathological activity. In a subset of patients with samples available from the time of biopsy and subsequent clinical remission of LN, urinary levels of CD11b decreased with successful glucocorticoid treatment. Receiver-operating characteristic curve analysis demonstrated that urinary CD11b was superior to CD16b, the scavenger receptor CD163, and monocyte chemotactic protein-1 for the prediction of proliferative LN. In anti-mouse nephrotoxic serum glomerulonephritis, urinary CD11b correlated with histologic damage and decreased with corticosteroid treatment. In vitro, CD11b levels were decreased on activated mouse neutrophils displaying Fcγ receptor clustering and transendothelial migration, suggesting that leukocyte activation and transmigration are required for CD11b shedding in urine. Together, our results suggest that urinary CD11b may be a useful biomarker to estimate histopathological activity, particularly glomerular leukocyte accumulation, in LN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akimitsu Kitagawa
- Department of Nephrology, Internal Medicine, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Aichi, Japan
| | - Naotake Tsuboi
- Department of Nephrology, Internal Medicine, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Aichi, Japan; Department of Nephrology, School of Medicine, Fujita Health University, Toyoake, Aichi, Japan.
| | - Yuki Yokoe
- Department of Nephrology, Internal Medicine, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Aichi, Japan
| | - Takayuki Katsuno
- Department of Nephrology and Rheumatology, Aichi Medical University, Nagakute, Aichi, Japan
| | - Hidekazu Ikeuchi
- Department of Nephrology and Rheumatology, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Maebashi, Gunma, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Kajiyama
- Department of Rheumatology and Applied Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Saitama Medical University, Iruma, Saitama, Japan
| | - Nobuhide Endo
- Department of Nephrology, Internal Medicine, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Aichi, Japan
| | - Yuriko Sawa
- Department of Nephrology, Internal Medicine, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Aichi, Japan
| | - Junya Suwa
- Department of Nephrology and Rheumatology, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Maebashi, Gunma, Japan
| | - Yutaka Sugiyama
- Department of Nephrology, Internal Medicine, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Aichi, Japan
| | - Asaka Hachiya
- Department of Nephrology, Internal Medicine, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Aichi, Japan
| | - Toshihide Mimura
- Department of Rheumatology and Applied Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Saitama Medical University, Iruma, Saitama, Japan
| | - Keiju Hiromura
- Department of Nephrology and Rheumatology, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Maebashi, Gunma, Japan
| | - Shoichi Maruyama
- Department of Nephrology, Internal Medicine, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Aichi, Japan
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50
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Zhang Z, Liu D, Zhang X, Wang X. Erythropoietin Treatment Ameliorates Lupus Nephritis of MRL/lpr Mice. Inflammation 2019; 41:1888-1899. [PMID: 29951872 DOI: 10.1007/s10753-018-0832-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
An increasing body of data has shown that erythropoietin (EPO) plays multiple roles in inflammation control and immunoregulation. However, less attention has been given to its effects on lupus nephritis (LN). In this study, we investigated the therapeutic effects of EPO on LN in MRL/lpr mice, a well-studied animal model for lupus. MRL/lpr mice were randomly divided into an EPO and control group. Mice in the EPO group were treated with EPO; saline was given to the control group. Both groups were treated for 10 weeks. We analyzed the differences of general disease condition, histopathologic changes, Th lymphocytes subsets, and the expression of inflammatory factors of mice between the groups. Compared to the control group, mice in the EPO group showed less spleen hyperplasia, less urinary protein, and lower serum anti-dsDNA antibody; they also had lower renal histopathologic scores and less deposition of IgG/C3 within glomeruli. Moreover, Th1 and Th17 levels were decreased, while Th2 and Treg levels were increased in the spleen, and the expression of inflammatory cytokines decreased in both the spleen and kidneys. EPO increased Th2 and Treg lymphocytes, decreased Th1, Th17 lymphocytes in the spleen, and inhibited the inflammatory reactions in both the spleen and kidneys, thus ameliorating LN of MRL/lpr mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeming Zhang
- Department of Rheumatology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, No. 36 Sanhao Street, Heping District, Shenyang, 110004, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Dongmei Liu
- Department of Rheumatology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, No. 36 Sanhao Street, Heping District, Shenyang, 110004, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Xiaoli Zhang
- Department of Rheumatology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, No. 36 Sanhao Street, Heping District, Shenyang, 110004, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Xiaofei Wang
- Department of Rheumatology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, No. 36 Sanhao Street, Heping District, Shenyang, 110004, Liaoning Province, China.
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