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Lian FP, Zhang F, Zhao CM, Wang XX, Bu YJ, Cen X, Zhao GF, Zhang SX, Chen JW. Gut microbiota regulation of T lymphocyte subsets during systemic lupus erythematosus. BMC Immunol 2024; 25:41. [PMID: 38972998 PMCID: PMC11229189 DOI: 10.1186/s12865-024-00632-0] [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: 02/26/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 07/09/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease characterized by disturbance of pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory lymphocytes. Growing evidence shown that gut microbiota participated in the occurrence and development of SLE by affecting the differentiation and function of intestinal immune cells. The purpose of this study was to investigate the changes of gut microbiota in SLE and judge its associations with peripheral T lymphocytes. METHODS A total of 19 SLE patients and 16 HCs were enrolled in this study. Flow cytometry was used to detect the number of peripheral T lymphocyte subsets, and 16 s rRNA was used to detect the relative abundance of gut microbiota. Analyzed the correlation between gut microbiota with SLEDAI, ESR, ds-DNA and complement. SPSS26.0 software was used to analyze the experimental data. Mann-Whitney U test was applied to compare T lymphocyte subsets. Spearman analysis was used for calculating correlation. RESULTS Compared with HCs, the proportions of Tregs (P = 0.001), Tfh cells (P = 0.018) and Naïve CD4 + T cells (P = 0.004) significantly decreased in SLE patients, and proportions of Th17 cells (P = 0.020) and γδT cells (P = 0.018) increased in SLE. The diversity of SLE patients were significantly decreased. Addition, there were 11 species of flora were discovered to be distinctly different in SLE group (P < 0.05). In the correlation analysis of SLE, Tregs were positively correlated with Ruminococcus2 (P = 0.042), Th17 cells were positively correlated with Megamonas (P = 0.009), γδT cells were positively correlated with Megamonas (P = 0.003) and Streptococcus (P = 0.004), Tfh cells were positively correlated with Bacteroides (P = 0.040), and Th1 cells were negatively correlated with Bifidobacterium (P = 0.005). As for clinical indicators, the level of Tregs was negatively correlated with ESR (P = 0.031), but not with C3 and C4, and the remaining cells were not significantly correlated with ESR, C3 and C4. CONCLUSION Gut microbiota and T lymphocyte subsets of SLE changed and related to each other, which may break the immune balance and affect the occurrence and development of SLE. Therefore, it is necessary to pay attention to the changes of gut microbiota and provide new ideas for the treatment of SLE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fen-Ping Lian
- Department of Rheumatology, the Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan City, Shanxi Province, 030001, China
| | - Fen Zhang
- Department of Rheumatology, the Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan City, Shanxi Province, 030001, China
| | - Chun-Miao Zhao
- Department of Rheumatology, Xi'an International Medical Center Hospital, Xi'an City, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Xu-Xia Wang
- Department of Rheumatology, the Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan City, Shanxi Province, 030001, China
| | - Yu-Jie Bu
- Department of Rheumatology, the Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan City, Shanxi Province, 030001, China
| | - Xing Cen
- Department of Rheumatology, the Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan City, Shanxi Province, 030001, China
| | - Gui-Fang Zhao
- Department of Rheumatology, the Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan City, Shanxi Province, 030001, China
| | - Sheng-Xiao Zhang
- Department of Rheumatology, the Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan City, Shanxi Province, 030001, China
| | - Jun-Wei Chen
- Department of Rheumatology, the Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan City, Shanxi Province, 030001, China.
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Amini L, Kaeda J, Weber O, Reinke P. Low-dose Interleukin-2 Therapy: Fine-tuning Treg in Solid Organ Transplantation? Transplantation 2024; 108:1492-1508. [PMID: 38294829 PMCID: PMC11188637 DOI: 10.1097/tp.0000000000004866] [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: 09/30/2022] [Revised: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2024]
Abstract
Regulatory T cells (Treg), a subset of CD4 + T cells, are potent regulators of immune reactions, which have been shown to be a promising therapeutic alternative to toxic immunosuppressive drugs. Data support the utility of Treg in managing immunopathologies, including solid organ transplant rejection, graft-versus-host disease, and autoimmune disorders. Notably, reports suggest that interleukin-2 (IL-2) is critical to survival of Treg, which constitutively express high levels of CD25, that is, the IL-2 receptor α-chain, and are exquisitely sensitive to IL-2, even at very low concentrations in contrast to effector T cells, which only upregulate IL-2 receptor α-chain on activation. This has led to the notion of using low doses of exogenous IL-2 therapeutically to modulate the immune system, specifically Treg numbers and function. Here, we summarize developments of clinical experience with low-dose IL-2 (LD-IL-2) as a therapeutic agent. So far, no clinical data are available to support the therapeutic use of LD-IL-2 therapy in the solid organ transplant setting. For the latter, fine-tuning by biotechnological approaches may be needed because of the narrow therapeutic window and off-target effects of LD-IL-2 therapy and so to realize the therapeutic potential of this molecule.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leila Amini
- Berlin Center for Advanced Therapies, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Berlin Institute of Health – Center for Regenerative Therapies, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Jaspal Kaeda
- Berlin Center for Advanced Therapies, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Olaf Weber
- Institute of Molecular Medicine and Experimental Immunology (IMMEI), University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Petra Reinke
- Berlin Center for Advanced Therapies, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Berlin Institute of Health – Center for Regenerative Therapies, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
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Dong K, Wu XN, Liu YQ, Yang L, Liu C, Wang HP, Gao ZW. The roles of adenosine signaling in systemic lupus erythematosus. Heliyon 2024; 10:e29848. [PMID: 38699049 PMCID: PMC11064148 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e29848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2022] [Revised: 04/16/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a complex autoimmune disease with multiple etiological factors. Immune disorder contributes to SLE development and is an important clinical manifestation of SLE patients. Immune dysfunction is characterized by abnormal of B cells, T cells, monocyte-macrophages and dendritic cells (DCs), in both quantity and quality. Adenosine is a critical factor for human immune homeostasis, which acts as an immunosuppressive signal and can prevent the hyperactivity of human immune system. Adenosine levels are significant decreased in serum from SLE patients. Adenosine level is regulated by the CD39, CD73 and adenosine deaminase (ADA). CD39/CD73/ADA catalyzed the cascade enzymatic reaction, which contained the adenosine generation and degradation. Adenosine affects the function of various immune cells via bind to the adenosine receptors, which are expressed on the cell surface. This review aims to export the changes of immune cells and adenosine signal pathway in SLE, as well as the effect of adenosine signal pathway in SLE development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ke Dong
- Department of Clinical Diagnose, Tangdu Hospital, Airforce Medical University, Xi'an, Shannxi Province, China
| | - Xia-nan Wu
- Department of Clinical Diagnose, Tangdu Hospital, Airforce Medical University, Xi'an, Shannxi Province, China
| | - Ying-qi Liu
- No. 4 Company, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, Shannxi Province, China
| | - Lan Yang
- Department of Clinical Diagnose, Tangdu Hospital, Airforce Medical University, Xi'an, Shannxi Province, China
| | - Chong Liu
- Department of Clinical Diagnose, Tangdu Hospital, Airforce Medical University, Xi'an, Shannxi Province, China
| | - Hui-ping Wang
- Department of Clinical Diagnose, Tangdu Hospital, Airforce Medical University, Xi'an, Shannxi Province, China
| | - Zhao-wei Gao
- Department of Clinical Diagnose, Tangdu Hospital, Airforce Medical University, Xi'an, Shannxi Province, China
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Zhang Y, Yang J, Li J, Sun J, Zhou L, Xu D, Sha W, Dai L, Shen L. Rituximab may affect T lymphocyte subsets balance in primary membranous nephropathy. BMC Nephrol 2024; 25:86. [PMID: 38448810 PMCID: PMC10918849 DOI: 10.1186/s12882-024-03521-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 02/24/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim of this study was to investigate the effects and significance of rituximab (RTX) on the levels of T lymphocyte subsets in patients diagnosed with primary membranous nephropathy (PMN). METHODS A total of 58 PMN patients and 25 healthy donors were chosen as the subjects. Among the PMN patients, 40 individuals received RTX treatment and completed at least 6 months of follow-up. All subjects underwent flow cytometry analysis to determine the peripheral blood lymphocyte subsets. The changes in anti-PLA2R antibody titers and 24-hour urinary protein levels were evaluated by ELISA and Biuret method before and after treatment. RESULTS (1) The PMN group exhibited a significantly greater percentage of peripheral blood CD3-CD19+ B cells than the healthy group, which is consistent with the findings of previous reports. Additionally, compared with those in the peripheral blood of healthy individuals, the numbers of CD4+ central memory T cells, CD4+ effector memory T cells, CD4+/CD8+, and CD4+CD25+ T cells in the PMN peripheral blood were markedly greater. However, the number of peripheral blood Treg cells was reduced in the PMN group. (2) After 6 months of RTX treatment, PMN patients exhibited significant decreases in anti-PLA2R antibody titers, 24-hour urinary protein levels, and peripheral blood CD3-CD19+ B cells. Importantly, RTX administration decreased CD4+CD25+ T cells and CD4+/CD8+ in the peripheral blood of PMN patients and improved Treg cell levels. (3) RTX treatment induced alterations in the CD4+ T lymphocyte subsets in PMN patients, which did not correlate with B lymphocyte counts or anti-PLA2R antibody titers. CONCLUSIONS RTX treatment might have a beneficial impact on cellular immunity by effectively restoring the balance of CD4+ T lymphocyte subsets in PMN patients, which is beyond its effects on B cells and antibody production. TRIAL REGISTRATION The research was registered at the First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University. REGISTRATION NUMBER MR-32-23-016211. Registration Date: May 31, 2023.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanyuan Zhang
- Department of Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, PR China
- Department of Nephrology, Suzhou Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Suzhou, PR China
| | - Jingjing Yang
- Department of Nephrology, BenQ Medical Center, Suzhou, PR China
| | - Jianzhong Li
- Department of Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, PR China
| | - Jiani Sun
- Department of Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, PR China
| | - Ling Zhou
- Department of Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, PR China
| | - Deyu Xu
- Department of Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, PR China
| | - Wengang Sha
- Department of Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, PR China
| | - Lan Dai
- Jiangsu Institute of Hematology, Key Laboratory of Thrombosis and Hemostasis of Ministry of Health, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, PR China.
| | - Lei Shen
- Department of Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, PR China.
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Riaz MF, Garg G, Umeano L, Iftikhar S, Alhaddad SF, Paulsingh CN, Hamid P. Comparison of Low-Dose Interleukin 2 Therapy in Conjunction With Standard Therapy in Patients With Systemic Lupus Erythematosus vs Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Systematic Review. Cureus 2024; 16:e56704. [PMID: 38646383 PMCID: PMC11032642 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.56704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/23/2024] Open
Abstract
This systematic review aims to compare the efficacy and safety of a novel immunotherapy with low-dose interleukin 2 (IL2) across two of the most prevalent autoimmune diseases i.e. systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Contemporary therapeutic practices have not been able to achieve complete remission from these autoimmune disorders. In contrast, low-dose IL2 has shown promise in achieving this therapeutic goal via inducing self-tolerance in patients with autoimmune diseases; however, due to variable irregularities among autoimmune processes of variable diseases, the benefit of low-dose IL2 could not be determined among different autoimmune diseases. Therefore, we conducted a study to compare low-dose IL2 therapy effects on SLE and RA. We systematically screened four databases: PubMed, Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online (MEDLINE), PubMed Central (PMC), and Google Scholar. Inclusion and exclusion criteria were implemented. Quality appraisal of studies chosen for the review was done using the Cochrane Risk-of-Bias (RoB) assessment tool for randomized controlled trials, and the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS) and JBI critical appraisal tool for non-randomized clinical trials. Information was gathered from seven articles: three randomized controlled trials and four non-randomized clinical trials. Our review concluded that low-dose IL2 therapy in conjunction with respective standard therapies for SLE and RA has a higher efficacy and safety profile as compared to standard therapy alone and the therapeutic effects were comparable in both SLE and RA patients treated with low-dose IL2; however, this novel intervention does not seem to have a significant corrective effect on the biomarkers of RA as it does for SLE biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Faisal Riaz
- Internal Medicine, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences & Psychology, Fairfield, USA
- Oncology, Nuclear Medicine, Oncology and Radiotherapy Institute (NORI), Rawalpindi, PAK
| | - Gourav Garg
- Orthopaedics, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences & Psychology, Fairfield, USA
- Orthopaedics, King's Mill Hospital, Sutton-in-Ashfield, GBR
| | - Lotanna Umeano
- Internal Medicine, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences & Psychology, Fairfield, USA
| | - Sadaf Iftikhar
- Internal Medicine, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences & Psychology, Fairfield, USA
| | - Sarah F Alhaddad
- Pediatrics, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences & Psychology, Fairfield, USA
| | - Christian N Paulsingh
- Internal Medicine, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences & Psychology, Fairfield, USA
- Pathology, St. George's University School of Medicine, St. George's, GRD
| | - Pousette Hamid
- Neurology, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences & Psychology, Fairfield, USA
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Ding M, Jin L, Zhao J, Yang L, Cui S, Wang X, He J, Chang F, Shi M, Ma J, Song S, Jin H, Liu A. Add-on sirolimus for the treatment of mild or moderate systemic lupus erythematosus via T lymphocyte subsets balance. Lupus Sci Med 2024; 11:e001072. [PMID: 38351097 PMCID: PMC10868177 DOI: 10.1136/lupus-2023-001072] [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: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The efficacy of sirolimus in treating severe or refractory systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) has been confirmed by small-scale clinical trials. However, few studies focused on mild or moderate SLE. Therefore, in this study we elucidated clinical efficacy of add-on sirolimus in patients with mild or moderate SLE. METHODS Data of 17 consecutive patients with SLE were retrospectively collected. SLE Disease Activity Index-2000 (SLEDAI-2K), clinical manifestation, laboratory data and peripheral T lymphocyte subsets with cytokines were collected before and 6 months after sirolimus add-on treatment. T cell subsets were detected by flow cytometry and cytokines were determined by multiplex bead-based flow fluorescent immunoassay simultaneously. Twenty healthy controls matched with age and sex were also included in our study. RESULTS (1) The numbers of peripheral blood lymphocytes, T cells, T helper (Th) cells, regulatory T (Treg) cells, Th1 cells, Th2 cells and Treg/Th17 ratios in patients with SLE were significantly lower, while the numbers of Th17 cells were evidently higher than those of healthy control (p<0.05). (2) After 6 months of sirolimus add-on treatment, urinary protein, pancytopenia, immunological indicators and SLEDAI-2K in patients with SLE were distinctively improved compared with those before sirolimus treatment (p<0.05). (3) The numbers of peripheral blood lymphocytes, T cells, Th cells, Treg cells, Th2 cells and the ratios of Treg/Th17 in patients with SLE after treatment were clearly higher than those before (p<0.05). (4) The levels of plasma interleukin (IL)-5, IL-6 and IL-10 in patients with SLE decreased notably, conversely the IL-4 levels increased remarkably compared with pretreatment (p<0.05). CONCLUSIONS (1) Patients with SLE presented imbalanced T cell subsets, especially the decreased ratio of Treg/Th17. (2) Sirolimus add-on treatment ameliorated clinical involvement, serological abnormalities and disease activity without adverse reactions in patients with SLE. (3) The multi-target therapy facilitates the enhanced numbers of Treg cells, Treg/Th17 imbalance and anti-inflammatory cytokines, simultaneously, reducing inflammatory cytokines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng Ding
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Lu Jin
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Jinwen Zhao
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Lin Yang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Shaoxin Cui
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Xiaoping Wang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Jingjing He
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Fei Chang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Min Shi
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medicine, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Jun Ma
- Department of Anatomy, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
- Hebei Research Center for Stem Cell Medical Translational Engineering, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Shuran Song
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medicine, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Hongtao Jin
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Aijing Liu
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medicine, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
- Hebei Research Center for Stem Cell Medical Translational Engineering, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
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Su Q, Wang X, Li Y, Zhang J, Bai C, Wang X, Yang L, Zhang J, Zhang SX. Efficacy, Safety and the Lymphocyte Subset Changes of Low-Dose IL-2 in Patients with Autoimmune Rheumatic Diseases: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Rheumatol Ther 2024; 11:79-96. [PMID: 37980696 PMCID: PMC10796881 DOI: 10.1007/s40744-023-00620-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/21/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Current therapies for autoimmune rheumatic diseases (ARDs) have limited efficacy in certain patients, highlighting the need for the development of novel treatment approaches. This meta-analysis aims to assess the efficacy and safety of low-dose interleukin-2 (LD-IL-2) and evaluate the alterations in lymphocyte subsets in various rheumatic diseases following administration of different dosages of LD-IL-2. METHODS A comprehensive search was conducted in PubMed, Web of Science, the Cochrane Library, Embase databases and CNKI to identify relevant studies. A total of 31 trials were included in this meta-analysis. The review protocols were registered on PROSPERO (CRD42022318916), and the study followed the PRISMA guidelines. RESULTS Following LD-IL-2 treatment, patients with ARDs exhibited a significant increase in the number of Th17 cells and Tregs compared to their pre-treatment levels [standardized mean difference (SMD) = 0.50, 95% confidence interval (CI) (0.33, 0.67), P < 0.001; SMD = 1.13, 95% CI (0.97, 1.29), P < 0.001]. Moreover, the Th17/Tregs ratio showed a significant decrease [SMD = - 0.54, 95% CI (- 0.64, - 0.45), P < 0.001]. In patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), LD-IL-2 injection led to a significant increase in Treg numbers, and the Th17/Tregs ratio and disease activity scores, including Disease Activity Score-28 joints (DAS28), Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Index (SELENA-SLEDAI) and Cutaneous Dermatomyositis Disease Area and Severity Index (CDASI), were all significantly reduced. No serious adverse events were reported in any of the included studies. Additionally, 54.8% of patients with lupus nephritis achieved distinct clinical remission following LD-IL-2 treatment. Injection site reactions and fever were the most common side effects of LD-IL-2, occurring in 33.1% and 14.4% of patients, respectively. CONCLUSION LD-IL-2 treatment showed promise and was well tolerated in the management of ARDs, as it effectively promoted the proliferation and functional recovery of Tregs. TRIAL REGISTRATION Retrospectively registered (CRD42022318916, 21/04/2022).
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Affiliation(s)
- Qinyi Su
- Department of Rheumatology, The Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, 382. Wuyi Road, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
- Shanxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Rheumatism Immune Microecology, The Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
- Key Laboratory of Cellular Physiology at Shanxi Medical University, Ministry of Education, Taiyuan, China
| | - Xinmiao Wang
- Shanxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Rheumatism Immune Microecology, The Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
- Key Laboratory of Cellular Physiology at Shanxi Medical University, Ministry of Education, Taiyuan, China
| | - Yongzhi Li
- Shanxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Rheumatism Immune Microecology, The Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
- Key Laboratory of Cellular Physiology at Shanxi Medical University, Ministry of Education, Taiyuan, China
| | - Jiexiang Zhang
- Shanxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Rheumatism Immune Microecology, The Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
- Key Laboratory of Cellular Physiology at Shanxi Medical University, Ministry of Education, Taiyuan, China
| | - Cairui Bai
- Shanxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Rheumatism Immune Microecology, The Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
- Key Laboratory of Cellular Physiology at Shanxi Medical University, Ministry of Education, Taiyuan, China
| | - Xuechun Wang
- Shanxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Rheumatism Immune Microecology, The Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
- Key Laboratory of Cellular Physiology at Shanxi Medical University, Ministry of Education, Taiyuan, China
| | - Liu Yang
- Shanxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Rheumatism Immune Microecology, The Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
- Key Laboratory of Cellular Physiology at Shanxi Medical University, Ministry of Education, Taiyuan, China
| | - Jingting Zhang
- Shanxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Rheumatism Immune Microecology, The Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
- Key Laboratory of Cellular Physiology at Shanxi Medical University, Ministry of Education, Taiyuan, China
| | - Sheng-Xiao Zhang
- Department of Rheumatology, The Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, 382. Wuyi Road, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China.
- Shanxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Rheumatism Immune Microecology, The Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China.
- Key Laboratory of Cellular Physiology at Shanxi Medical University, Ministry of Education, Taiyuan, China.
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Su Q, Luo J, Wang X, Di J, Cao Y, Zhang S. Efficacy, safety and the lymphocyte subsets changes of low-dose IL-2 in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Immun Inflamm Dis 2024; 12:e1165. [PMID: 38270322 PMCID: PMC10808945 DOI: 10.1002/iid3.1165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2023] [Revised: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 01/26/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Existing therapies of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) are efficacious only in certain patients. Developing new treatment methods is urgent. This meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of low-dose IL-2 (LD-IL-2). METHODS According to published data from PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, ClinicalTrials.gov, MEDLINE, MEDLINE, Web of Knowledge, Cochrane Library, and FDA.gov, eight trials were included. RESULTS After the LD-IL-2 treatment, 54.8% of patients had distinct clinical remission. The SRI-4 response rates were 0.819 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.745-0.894), and the SELENA-SLEDAI scores were significantly decreased (SMD = -2.109, 95% CI: [-3.271, -0.947], p < .001). Besides, the proportions of CD4+ T (SMD = 0.614, 95% CI: [0.250, 0.979], p = .001) and Treg cells (SMD = 1.096, 95% CI: [0.544, 1.649], p < .001) were increased dramatically after LD-IL-2 treatment, while there were no statistical differences in the proportions of CD8+ T cells, Th1 cells, Th2 cells, and Th17 cells (p > .05). Besides, the proportions of Th17 (SMD = 1.121, 95% CI: [0.709, 1.533], p < .001) and Treg (SMD = 0.655, 95% CI: [0.273, 1.038], p = .001) were significantly increased after receiving subcutaneously 0.5 million IU of LD-IL-2 treatment per day for 5 days, but there were no statistical differences in the proportions of Treg after receiving 1 million IU every other day subcutaneously of LD-IL-2 treatment. Injection site reaction and fever were common side effects of IL-2, which occurred in 33.1% and 14.4% of patients. No serious adverse events were reported. CONCLUSION LD-IL-2 was promising and well-tolerated in treating SLE, which could promote Treg's proliferation and functional recovery. Injecting 0.5 million IU of IL-2 daily can better induce the differentiation of Treg cells and maintain immune homeostasis than injecting 1 million IU every other day.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qin‐Yi Su
- Department of RheumatologyThe Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical UniversityTaiyuanShanxiChina
- Shanxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Rheumatism Immune MicroecologyTaiyuanShanxiChina
- Key Laboratory of Cellular Physiology at Shanxi Medical UniversityMinistry of EducationTaiyuanChina
| | - Jing Luo
- Department of RheumatologyThe Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical UniversityTaiyuanShanxiChina
- Shanxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Rheumatism Immune MicroecologyTaiyuanShanxiChina
- Key Laboratory of Cellular Physiology at Shanxi Medical UniversityMinistry of EducationTaiyuanChina
| | - Xin‐Miao Wang
- Shanxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Rheumatism Immune MicroecologyTaiyuanShanxiChina
- Key Laboratory of Cellular Physiology at Shanxi Medical UniversityMinistry of EducationTaiyuanChina
| | - Jing‐Kai Di
- Shanxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Rheumatism Immune MicroecologyTaiyuanShanxiChina
- Key Laboratory of Cellular Physiology at Shanxi Medical UniversityMinistry of EducationTaiyuanChina
| | - Yi‐Xin Cao
- Shanxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Rheumatism Immune MicroecologyTaiyuanShanxiChina
- Key Laboratory of Cellular Physiology at Shanxi Medical UniversityMinistry of EducationTaiyuanChina
| | - Sheng‐Xiao Zhang
- Department of RheumatologyThe Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical UniversityTaiyuanShanxiChina
- Shanxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Rheumatism Immune MicroecologyTaiyuanShanxiChina
- Key Laboratory of Cellular Physiology at Shanxi Medical UniversityMinistry of EducationTaiyuanChina
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9
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Tang YY, Wang DC, Chen YY, Xu WD, Huang AF. Th1-related transcription factors and cytokines in systemic lupus erythematosus. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1305590. [PMID: 38164134 PMCID: PMC10757975 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1305590] [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: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an inflammatory disorder related to immunity dysfunction. The Th1 cell family including Th1 cells, transcription factor T-bet, and related cytokines IFNγ, TNFα, IL-2, IL-18, TGF-β, and IL-12 have been widely discussed in autoimmunity, such as SLE. In this review, we will comprehensively discuss the expression profile of the Th1 cell family in both SLE patients and animal models and clarify how the family members are involved in lupus development. Interestingly, T-bet-related age-associated B cells (ABCs) and low-dose IL-2 treatment in lupus were emergently discussed as well. Collection of the evidence will better understand the roles of the Th1 cell family in lupus pathogenesis, especially targeting IL-2 in lupus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang-Yang Tang
- Department of Evidence-Based Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Da-Cheng Wang
- Department of Evidence-Based Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - You-Yue Chen
- Department of Evidence-Based Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Wang-Dong Xu
- Department of Evidence-Based Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - An-Fang Huang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
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10
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Huangfu L, Li R, Huang Y, Wang S. The IL-17 family in diseases: from bench to bedside. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2023; 8:402. [PMID: 37816755 PMCID: PMC10564932 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-023-01620-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2023] [Revised: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The interleukin-17 (IL-17) family comprises six members (IL-17A-17F), and recently, all of its related receptors have been discovered. IL-17 was first discovered approximately 30 years ago. Members of this family have various biological functions, including driving an inflammatory cascade during infections and autoimmune diseases, as well as boosting protective immunity against various pathogens. IL-17 is a highly versatile proinflammatory cytokine necessary for vital processes including host immune defenses, tissue repair, inflammatory disease pathogenesis, and cancer progression. However, how IL-17 performs these functions remains controversial. The multifunctional properties of IL-17 have attracted research interest, and emerging data have gradually improved our understanding of the IL-17 signaling pathway. However, a comprehensive review is required to understand its role in both host defense functions and pathogenesis in the body. This review can aid researchers in better understanding the mechanisms underlying IL-17's roles in vivo and provide a theoretical basis for future studies aiming to regulate IL-17 expression and function. This review discusses recent progress in understanding the IL-17 signaling pathway and its physiological roles. In addition, we present the mechanism underlying IL-17's role in various pathologies, particularly, in IL-17-induced systemic lupus erythematosus and IL-17-related tumor cell transformation and metastasis. In addition, we have briefly discussed promising developments in the diagnosis and treatment of autoimmune diseases and tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Longjie Huangfu
- School of Stomatology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150001, P. R. China
| | - Ruiying Li
- Department of Oral Pathology, School of Stomatology, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, 571199, P. R. China
| | - Yamei Huang
- Department of Oral Pathology, School of Stomatology, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, 571199, P. R. China
| | - Shan Wang
- Department of Oral Pathology, School of Stomatology, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, 571199, P. R. China.
- Department of Stomatology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Haikou, 570216, P. R. China.
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11
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Tsai YG, Liao PF, Hsiao KH, Wu HM, Lin CY, Yang KD. Pathogenesis and novel therapeutics of regulatory T cell subsets and interleukin-2 therapy in systemic lupus erythematosus. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1230264. [PMID: 37771588 PMCID: PMC10522836 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1230264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a heterogeneous multisystem inflammatory disease with wide variability in clinical manifestations. Natural arising CD4+ regulatory T cells (Tregs) play a critical role in maintaining peripheral tolerance by suppressing inflammation and preventing autoimmune responses in SLE. Additionally, CD8+ regulatory T cells, type 1 regulatory T cells (Tr1), and B regulatory cells also have a less well-defined role in the pathogenesis of SLE. Elucidation of the roles of various Treg subsets dedicated to immune homeostasis will provide a novel therapeutic approach that governs immune tolerance for the remission of active lupus. Diminished interleukin (IL)-2 production is associated with a depleted Treg cell population, and its reversibility by IL-2 therapy provides important reasons for the treatment of lupus. This review focuses on the pathogenesis and new therapeutics of human Treg subsets and low-dose IL-2 therapy in clinical benefits with SLE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Giien Tsai
- Department of Pediatrics, Changhua Christian Children’s Hospital, Changhua, Taiwan
- School of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- School of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Department of Post-Baccalaureate Medicine, College of Medicine, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Pei-Fen Liao
- School of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Division of Allergy, Asthma and Rheumatology, Department of Pediatrics, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Kai-Hung Hsiao
- Department of Allergy, Immunology and Rheumatology, Changhua Christian Hospital, Changhua, Taiwan
| | - Hung-Ming Wu
- Department of Neurology, Changhua Christian Hospital, Changhua, Taiwan
| | - Ching-Yuang Lin
- Division of Pediatric Nephrology, Children’s Hospital, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Kuender D. Yang
- Department of Pediatrics, Mackay Memorial Hospital, New Taipei City, Taiwan
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
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12
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La Cava A. Low-dose interleukin-2 therapy in systemic lupus erythematosus. RHEUMATOLOGY AND IMMUNOLOGY RESEARCH 2023; 4:150-156. [PMID: 37781677 PMCID: PMC10538619 DOI: 10.2478/rir-2023-0021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
In systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), T regulatory cells (Tregs) contribute to the inhibition of autoimmune responses by suppressing self-reactive immune cells. Interleukin (IL)-2 plays an essential role in the generation, function and homeostasis of the Tregs and is reduced in SLE. Several clinical studies, including randomized trials, have shown that low-dose IL-2 therapy in SLE patients is safe and effective and can reduce disease manifestations. This review discusses the rationale for the use of low-dose IL-2 therapy in SLE, the clinical responses in patients, and the effects of this therapy on different types of T cells. Considerations are made on the current and future directions of use of low-dose IL-2 regimens in SLE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio La Cava
- Department of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA90095, USA
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13
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Ming B, Zhu Y, Zhong J, Dong L. Regulatory T cells: a new therapeutic link for Sjögren syndrome? Rheumatology (Oxford) 2023; 62:2963-2970. [PMID: 36790059 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/kead070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2022] [Revised: 01/21/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Great advancements have been made in understanding the pathogenesis of SS, but there remain unmet needs for effective and targeted treatments. Glandular and extraglandular dysfunction in SS is associated with autoimmune lymphocytic infiltration that invades the epithelial structures of affected organs. Regulatory T (Treg) cells are a subset of CD4+ T lymphocytes that maintain self-tolerance during physiological conditions. Besides inhibiting excessive inflammation and autoimmune response by targeting various immune cell subsets and tissues, Treg cells have also been shown to promote tissue repair and regeneration in pathogenic milieus. The changes of quantity and function of Treg cells in various autoimmune and chronic inflammatory disorders have been reported, owing to their effects on immune regulation. Here we summarize the recent findings from murine models and clinical data about the dysfunction of Treg cells in SS pathogenesis and discuss the therapeutic strategies of direct or indirect targeting of Treg cells in SS. Understanding the current knowledge of Treg cells in the development of SS will be important to elucidate disease pathogenesis and may guide research for successful therapeutic intervention in this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bingxia Ming
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yaowu Zhu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jixin Zhong
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Lingli Dong
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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14
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Bonilha CS, Veras FP, de Queiroz Cunha F. NET-targeted therapy: effects, limitations, and potential strategies to enhance treatment efficacy. Trends Pharmacol Sci 2023; 44:622-634. [PMID: 37468402 DOI: 10.1016/j.tips.2023.06.007] [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: 05/26/2023] [Revised: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023]
Abstract
Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) are complex structures released by activated neutrophils during inflammatory responses. Due to their unique potential for causing tissue damage and modulating immune responses, there is increasing interest in studying these structures as potential targets for the treatment of infectious diseases, autoimmune diseases, and cancer. However, therapeutic targeting of NETs might trigger deleterious effects that may limit treatment efficacy. NET disruption may increase the microbial load in infection; in autoimmunity, NET targeting might impair peripheral tolerance, but it might reduce adaptive immune responses in cancer. In this review, we explore the therapeutic and deleterious effects of NET-targeted therapy while shedding light on novel strategies to overcome treatment-related limitations and enhance treatment efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caio Santos Bonilha
- Center for Research in Inflammatory Diseases, University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo 14049-900, Brazil; Institute of Infection, Immunity, and Inflammation, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8TA, UK.
| | - Flavio Protasio Veras
- Center for Research in Inflammatory Diseases, University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo 14049-900, Brazil; Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Alfenas, Minas Gerais 37130-001, Brazil
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15
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Zhang X, Zhang J, Pan Z, Zhang Y, Xu X, Sheng Y, Zhu Z, Zhou F, Wen L. Transcriptome sequencing reveals novel molecular features of SLE severity. Front Genet 2023; 14:1121359. [PMID: 37554401 PMCID: PMC10406386 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2023.1121359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disorder characterized by the production of autoantibodies, immune complex deposition, and tissue/organ damage. In this study, we aimed to identify molecular features and signaling pathways associated with SLE severity using RNA sequencing (RNA-seq), single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq), and clinical parameters. Methods: We analyzed transcriptome profiles of 45 SLE patients, grouped into mild (mSLE, SLEDAI ≤ 9) and severe (sSLE, SLEDAI > 9) based on SLE Disease Activity Index (SLEDAI) scores. We also collected clinical data on anti-dsDNA, ANA, ESR, CRP, snRNP, AHA, and anti-Smith antibody status for each patient. Results: By comparing gene expression across groups, we identified 12 differentially expressed genes (DEGs), including 7 upregulated (CEACAM6, UCHL1, ARFGEF3, AMPH, SERPINB10, TACSTD2, and OTX1) and 5 downregulated (SORBS2, TRIM64B, SORCS3, DRAXIN, and PCDHGA10) DEGs in sSLE compared to mSLE. Furthermore, using the CIBERSORT algorithm, we found that Treg cells were significantly decreased in sSLE and negatively correlated with AMPH expression, which was mainly expressed in Treg cells from SLE patients according to public scRNA-seq data (GSE135779). Discussion: Overall, our findings shed light on the molecular mechanisms underlying SLE severity and provide insight into potential therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaojing Zhang
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
- Institute of Dermatology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
- Key Laboratory of Dermatology (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Jiali Zhang
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
- Institute of Dermatology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
- Key Laboratory of Dermatology (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Zhaobing Pan
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
- Institute of Dermatology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
- Key Laboratory of Dermatology (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Yuxi Zhang
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
- Institute of Dermatology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
- Key Laboratory of Dermatology (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Xiaoqing Xu
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
- Institute of Dermatology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
- Key Laboratory of Dermatology (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Yujun Sheng
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
- Institute of Dermatology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
- Key Laboratory of Dermatology (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Zhengwei Zhu
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
- Institute of Dermatology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
- Key Laboratory of Dermatology (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Fusheng Zhou
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
- Institute of Dermatology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
- Key Laboratory of Dermatology (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education, Hefei, Anhui, China
- Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Leilei Wen
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
- Institute of Dermatology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
- Key Laboratory of Dermatology (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education, Hefei, Anhui, China
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16
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Akbarzadeh R, Riemekasten G, Humrich JY. Low-dose interleukin-2 therapy: a promising targeted therapeutic approach for systemic lupus erythematosus. Curr Opin Rheumatol 2023; 35:98-106. [PMID: 36563007 DOI: 10.1097/bor.0000000000000924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Low-dose interleukin-2 (IL-2) therapy is increasingly recognized as a promising novel therapeutic concept in inflammatory and autoimmune diseases, in particular in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). As IL-2 is indispensable for the growth and survival of regulatory T cells (Treg), deficiency of this regulatory cytokine plays a significant role in immune dysregulation and breach of tolerance in SLE. Recovery of Treg activity by low-dose IL-2 therapy directly interferes with the immune pathology in SLE and thus can be considered a targeted treatment approach with a unique and physiological mode of action. RECENT FINDINGS In this review, the pathophysiological rationales behind the concept of low-dose IL-2 therapy in SLE will be explained and major advances in translational research and the clinical development of low-dose IL-2 therapy focusing on the results from two recent, randomized and placebo-controlled phase 2 trials will be highlighted. SUMMARY Several clinical studies including two recent randomized trials have proven the very good safety profile of low-dose IL-2 therapy and its capability to selectively recover and expand the Treg population in patients with active SLE. Given the emerging evidence for the clinical potential of low-dose IL-2 therapy in SLE, these studies strongly confirm the pathophysiological concept behind this targeted therapeutic approach in SLE and provide a robust basis for establishing further in-depth and confirmatory clinical trials testing the application of low-dose IL-2 in SLE and other autoimmune diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reza Akbarzadeh
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
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17
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Yang Y, Yan C, Yu L, Zhang X, Shang J, Fan J, Zhang R, Ren J, Duan X. The star target in SLE: IL-17. Inflamm Res 2023; 72:313-328. [PMID: 36538077 DOI: 10.1007/s00011-022-01674-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2022] [Revised: 10/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of this review is to discuss the significance of IL-17 in SLE and the potential of IL-17-targeted therapy. BACKGROUND Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease that can affect many organs and tissues throughout the body. It is characterized by overactive B and T cells and loss of immune tolerance to autoantigens. Interleukin-17 (IL-17) is a cytokine that promotes inflammation and has been implicated in the pathogenesis of several autoimmune diseases as well as inflammatory diseases. In in vitro cellular experiments in lupus susceptible mice or SLE patients, there is substantial evidence that IL-17 is a highly promising therapeutic target. METHODS We searched papers from PubMed database using the search terms, such as interleukin-17, systemic lupus erythematosus, treatment targets, T cells, lupus nephritis, and other relevant terms. RESULTS We discuss in this paper the molecular mechanisms of IL-17 expression, Th17 cell proliferation, and the relationship between IL-17 and Th17. The significance of IL-17 in SLE and the potential of IL-17-targeted therapy are further discussed in detail. CONCLUSION IL-17 has a very high potential for the development as a star target in SLE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Yang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Chen Yan
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Le Yu
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Xiuling Zhang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Jingjing Shang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Jie Fan
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Rongwei Zhang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Jie Ren
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Xinwang Duan
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China.
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18
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Regulatory T cell homeostasis: Requisite signals and implications for clinical development of biologics. Clin Immunol 2023; 246:109201. [PMID: 36470337 DOI: 10.1016/j.clim.2022.109201] [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: 09/06/2022] [Revised: 10/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Novel biologics are currently being tested in clinical trials for the treatment of autoimmune diseases and the prevention of transplant allograft rejection. Their premise is to deliver highly efficient immunosuppression while minimizing side-effects, as they specifically target inflammatory mediators involved in the dysregulation of the immune system. However, the pleiotropism of soluble mediators and cell-to-cell interactions with potential to exert both proinflammatory and regulatory influences on the outcome of the immune response can lead to unpredictable results. Predicting responses to biologic drugs requires mechanistic understanding of the cell type-specific effect of immune mediators. Elucidation of the central role of regulatory T cells (Treg), a small subset of T cells dedicated to immune homeostasis, in preventing the development of auto- and allo-immunity has provided a deeper understanding of the signaling pathways that govern immune tolerance. This review focuses on the requisite signals that promote Treg homeostasis and discusses the anticipated outcomes of biologics targeting these signals. Our goal is to inform and facilitate the design of cell-specific biologics that thwart T effector cells (Teff) while promoting Treg function for the treatment of autoimmune diseases and the prevention of transplant rejection.
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19
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Doglio M, Alexander T, Del Papa N, Snowden JA, Greco R. New insights in systemic lupus erythematosus: From regulatory T cells to CAR-T-cell strategies. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2022; 150:1289-1301. [PMID: 36137815 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2022.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2022] [Revised: 07/11/2022] [Accepted: 08/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Systemic lupus erythematous is a heterogeneous autoimmune disease with potentially multiorgan damage. Its complex etiopathogenesis involves genetic, environmental, and hormonal factors, leading to a loss of self-tolerance with autoantibody production and immune complex formation. Given the relevance of autoreactive B lymphocytes, several therapeutic approaches have been made targeting these cells. However, the disease remains incurable, reflecting an unmet need for effective strategies. Novel therapeutic concepts have been investigated to provide more specific and sustainable disease modification compared with continued immunosuppression. Autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation has already provided the proof-of-concept that immunodepletion can lead to durable treatment-free remissions, albeit with significant treatment-related toxicity. In the future, chimeric antigen receptor-T-cell therapies, for example, CD19 chimeric antigen receptor-T, may provide a more effective lymphodepletion and with less toxicity than autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. An emerging field is to enhance immune tolerance by exploiting the suppressive capacities of regulatory T cells, which are dysfunctional in patients with systemic lupus erythematous, and thus resemble promising candidates for adoptive cell therapy. Different approaches have been developed in this area, from polyclonal to genetically engineered regulatory T cells. In this article, we discuss the current evidence and future directions of cellular therapies for the treatment of systemic lupus erythematous, including hematopoietic stem cell transplantation and advanced regulatory T-cell-based cellular therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Doglio
- Experimental Hematology Unit, Department of Immunology Transplantations and Infectious Diseases, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Vita-Salute University, Milan, Italy; Unit of Pediatric Immunohematology, San Raffaele Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Tobias Alexander
- Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Berlin, Germany; Deutsches Rheuma-Forschungszentrum (DRFZ), an Institute of the Leibniz Association, Berlin, Germany.
| | | | - John A Snowden
- Department of Haematology, Sheffield Teaching Hospitals Foundation NHS Trust, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Raffaella Greco
- Unit of Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Mila, Italy.
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20
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Sanders JM, Jeyamogan S, Mathew JM, Leventhal JR. Foxp3+ regulatory T cell therapy for tolerance in autoimmunity and solid organ transplantation. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1055466. [PMID: 36466912 PMCID: PMC9714335 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1055466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2022] [Accepted: 11/02/2022] [Indexed: 08/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Regulatory T cells (Tregs) are critical for tolerance in humans. The exact mechanisms by which the loss of peripheral tolerance leads to the development of autoimmunity and the specific role Tregs play in allograft tolerance are not fully understood; however, this population of T cells presents a unique opportunity in the development of targeted therapeutics. In this review, we discuss the potential roles of Foxp3+ Tregs in the development of tolerance in transplantation and autoimmunity, and the available data regarding their use as a treatment modality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jes M. Sanders
- Department of Surgery, Comprehensive Transplant Center Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Shareni Jeyamogan
- Department of Surgery, Comprehensive Transplant Center Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - James M. Mathew
- Department of Surgery, Comprehensive Transplant Center Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, United States
- Department of Microbiology-Immunology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, United States
- Simpson Querrey Institute for BioNanotechnology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Joseph R. Leventhal
- Department of Surgery, Comprehensive Transplant Center Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, United States
- Simpson Querrey Institute for BioNanotechnology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, United States
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21
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Chen Y, Tian B. IFN-γ promotes the development of systemic lupus erythematosus through the IFNGR1/2-PSTAT1-TBX21 signaling axis. Am J Transl Res 2022; 14:6874-6888. [PMID: 36398225 PMCID: PMC9641460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic disease that causes inflammation in cartilage and the lining of blood vessels. Emerging evidence implicates IFN-γ as a major effector molecule in SLE during both active and stable stages. Here, we investigated the effects of IFN-γ on cytokines that play an autoimmune disease-promoting role and Th1-versus-Th2 and B cell dualism in SLE patients and mouse models of SLE. METHODS The levels of pro-inflammatory factors CXCL11, IFN-γ, IL-1β and IL-4, and immune complexes IgG, anti-dsDNA and anti-RNP were assessed through enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA). Flow cytometry was performed to measure Th1, Th2 and B cell counts and IFNGR1, IFNGR2, pSTAT1 and TBX21 expression. The pathology of renal tissue from mouse SLE models was investigated through Hematoxylin eosin (H&E) staining. The levels of IgG, anti-dsDNA and anti-RNP were determined through immunofluorescence (IF) assays. RESULTS Skin damage was observed in SLE patients in both active and stable stages. ELISA analysis showed that SLE patients displayed higher levels of pro-inflammatory factors (CXCL11, IFN-γ, IL-1β and IL-4) and immune complexes (IgG, anti-dsDNA and anti-RNP). The percentage of Th1 and B cells was increased in blood samples from SLE patients with skin lesions (SL) or lupus nephritis (LN). The percentage of Th2 cells among the groups were comparable. Higher levels of IFNGR1, IFNGR2, pSTAT1 and TBX21 were observed in Th1 but not Th2 cells. In SLE mouse models, H&E staining revealed fewer immune complexes in glomerular endothelial cells and decreased hyaline thrombus in the capillary lumen following treatment with anti-IFN-γ antibodies or following IFNGR1 or STAT1 silencing. CONCLUSION IFN-γ contributes to the pathogenesis of SLE through the IFNGR1/2-pSTAT1-TBX21 axis and regulates inflammation and immune complex formation in SLE mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Chen
- Department of Nephrology, First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical UniversityShenyang 100012, Liaoning, China
| | - Bailing Tian
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical UniversityShenyang 100012, Liaoning, China
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22
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Zhang JQ, Zhang SX, Wang J, Qiao J, Qiu MT, Wu XY, Chen JW, Gao C, Li XF. Low-dose IL-2 therapy limits the reduction in absolute numbers of peripheral lymphocytes in systemic lupus erythematosus patients with infection. Curr Med Res Opin 2022; 38:1037-1044. [PMID: 35414310 DOI: 10.1080/03007995.2022.2065145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a heterogeneous autoimmune disorder characterized by disturbed cellular and humoral immune responses. Dysregulations of immune system and immunosuppressive medications predispose SLE patients to infection. This study aims to investigate the alterations and absolute concentrations of lymphocyte subpopulations in SLE patients with different infection and their responses of low-dose IL-2 therapy. METHODS A total of 333 patients with SLE without recent infection, 162 patients suffering infection, and age and sex-matched 132 healthy controls (HCs) were recruited. Of them, 54 SLE patients (including 41 non-infected group and 13 infected group) received a 5-day course of low-dose IL-2 administration at a dose of 0.5 million IU per day. Lymphocyte subpopulations were analyzed by flow cytometry. RESULTS Patients with SLE had lower levels of lymphocyte subpopulations in peripheral blood such as T, B, NK, CD4 + T, CD8+ T, Th1, Th2, Th17, and Treg cells, and the reduction in these cells was more obvious in patients with infection (p <.05 to p <.01). Low-dose IL-2 effectively expanded T (p <.001), B (p <.001), CD4 + T (p <.01), CD8 + T (p <.001), Th1 (p <.01), Th17 (p <.1), and Treg cells (p <.01) of SLE patients, these cells were comparable to that of HCs after the IL-2 treatment. CONCLUSIONS Patients with SLE had insufficiency of circulating lymphocyte subsets. This phenomenon was more obverse in those accompanying infection, suggesting the low concentration of lymphocytes may be used as indicators of high infection risk in SLE patients. Low-dose IL-2 induced expansion of Treg cells and NK cells, which may contribute to the restoration of immune homeostasis in SLE patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia-Qian Zhang
- Department of Rheumatology, The Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
- Key laboratory of Cellular Physiology, Shanxi Medical University, Ministry of Education, Shanxi, China
| | - Sheng-Xiao Zhang
- Department of Rheumatology, The Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
- Key laboratory of Cellular Physiology, Shanxi Medical University, Ministry of Education, Shanxi, China
| | - Jia Wang
- Department of Rheumatology, The Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
- Key laboratory of Cellular Physiology, Shanxi Medical University, Ministry of Education, Shanxi, China
| | - Jun Qiao
- Department of Rheumatology, The Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
- Key laboratory of Cellular Physiology, Shanxi Medical University, Ministry of Education, Shanxi, China
| | - Meng-Ting Qiu
- Department of Rheumatology, The Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
- Key laboratory of Cellular Physiology, Shanxi Medical University, Ministry of Education, Shanxi, China
| | - Xiao-Yan Wu
- Department of Rheumatology, The Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
- Key laboratory of Cellular Physiology, Shanxi Medical University, Ministry of Education, Shanxi, China
| | - Jun-Wen Chen
- Department of Rheumatology, The Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Chong Gao
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Xiao-Feng Li
- Department of Rheumatology, The Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
- Key laboratory of Cellular Physiology, Shanxi Medical University, Ministry of Education, Shanxi, China
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Yuan Y, Kolios AGA, Liu Y, Zhang B, Li H, Tsokos GC, Zhang X. Therapeutic potential of interleukin-2 in autoimmune diseases. Trends Mol Med 2022; 28:596-612. [PMID: 35624009 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmed.2022.04.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2022] [Revised: 04/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Autoimmune diseases are characterized by dysregulation and aberrant activation of cells in the immune system. Therefore, restoration of the immune balance represents a promising therapeutic target in autoimmune diseases. Interleukin-2 (IL-2) can promote the expansion and differentiation of different immune cell subsets dose-dependently. At high doses, IL-2 can promote the differentiation and expansion of effector and memory T cells, whereas at low doses, IL-2 can promote the differentiation, survival, and function of regulatory T (Treg) cells, a CD4+ T cell subset that is essential for the maintenance of immune homeostasis and immune tolerance. Therefore, IL-2 exerts immunostimulatory and immunosuppressive effects in autoimmune diseases. The immunoregulatory role of low-dose IL-2 has sparked excitement for the therapeutic exploration of modulating the IL-2-Treg axis in the context of autoimmune diseases. In this review, we discuss recent advances in the therapeutic potential of IL-2 or IL-2-derived molecules in the treatment of autoimmune diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yeshuang Yuan
- Department of Rheumatology, Beijing Hospital, National Center of Gerontology, Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Clinical Immunology Center, Graduate School of Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Antonios G A Kolios
- Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Yudong Liu
- Department of Rheumatology, Beijing Hospital, National Center of Gerontology, Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Clinical Immunology Center, Graduate School of Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Bo Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Hao Li
- Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - George C Tsokos
- Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Xuan Zhang
- Department of Rheumatology, Beijing Hospital, National Center of Gerontology, Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Clinical Immunology Center, Graduate School of Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100730, China.
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Linke A, Tiegs G, Neumann K. Pathogenic T-Cell Responses in Immune-Mediated Glomerulonephritis. Cells 2022; 11:cells11101625. [PMID: 35626662 PMCID: PMC9139939 DOI: 10.3390/cells11101625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2022] [Revised: 05/04/2022] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Glomerulonephritis (GN) comprises a group of immune-mediated kidney diseases affecting glomeruli and the tubulointerstitium. Glomerular crescent formation is a histopathological characteristic of severe forms of GN, also referred to as crescentic GN (cGN). Based on histological findings, cGN includes anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)-associated GN, a severe form of ANCA-associated vasculitis, lupus nephritis associated with systemic lupus erythematosus, Goodpasture’s disease, and IgA nephropathy. The immunopathogenesis of cGN is associated with activation of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells, which particularly accumulate in the periglomerular and tubulointerstitial space but also infiltrate glomeruli. Clinical observations and functional studies in pre-clinical animal models provide evidence for a pathogenic role of Th1 and Th17 cell-mediated immune responses in cGN. Emerging evidence further argues that CD8+ T cells have a role in disease pathology and the mechanisms of activation and function of recently identified tissue-resident CD4+ and CD8+ T cells in cGN are currently under investigation. This review summarizes the mechanisms of pathogenic T-cell responses leading to glomerular damage and renal inflammation in cGN. Advanced knowledge of the underlying immune mechanisms involved with cGN will enable the identification of novel therapeutic targets for the replacement or reduction in standard immunosuppressive therapy or the treatment of refractory disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Linke
- Institute of Experimental Immunology and Hepatology, Center of Experimental Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistrasse 52, 20246 Hamburg, Germany;
- Hamburg Center for Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistrasse 52, 20246 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Gisa Tiegs
- Institute of Experimental Immunology and Hepatology, Center of Experimental Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistrasse 52, 20246 Hamburg, Germany;
- Hamburg Center for Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistrasse 52, 20246 Hamburg, Germany
- Correspondence: (G.T.); (K.N.); Tel.: +49-40-741058731 (G.T.); +49-40-741058738 (K.N.)
| | - Katrin Neumann
- Institute of Experimental Immunology and Hepatology, Center of Experimental Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistrasse 52, 20246 Hamburg, Germany;
- Hamburg Center for Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistrasse 52, 20246 Hamburg, Germany
- Correspondence: (G.T.); (K.N.); Tel.: +49-40-741058731 (G.T.); +49-40-741058738 (K.N.)
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25
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Kuca-Warnawin E, Plebańczyk M, Ciechomska M, Olesińska M, Szczęsny P, Kontny E. Impact of Adipose-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells (ASCs) of Rheumatic Disease Patients on T Helper Cell Differentiation. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23105317. [PMID: 35628127 PMCID: PMC9140468 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23105317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2022] [Revised: 04/27/2022] [Accepted: 05/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Complex pathogenesis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and systemic sclerosis (SSc) is associated with an imbalance of various Th-cell subpopulations. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have the ability to restore this balance. However, bone marrow-derived MSCs of SLE and SSc patients exhibit many abnormalities, whereas the properties of adipose derived mesenchymal stem cells (ASCS) are much less known. Therefore, we examined the effect of ASCs obtained from SLE (SLE/ASCs) and SSc (SSc/ASCs) patients on Th subset differentiation, using cells from healthy donors (HD/ASCs) as controls. ASCs were co-cultured with activated CD4+ T cells or peripheral blood mononuclear cells. Expression of transcription factors defining Th1, Th2, Th17, and regulatory T cell (Tregs) subsets, i.e., T-bet, GATA3, RORc, and FoxP3, were analysed by quantitative RT-PCR, the concentrations of subset-specific cytokines were measured by ELISA, and Tregs formation by flow cytometry. Compared with HD/ASCs, SLE/ASCs and especially SSc/ASCs triggered Th differentiation which was disturbed at the transcription levels of genes encoding Th1- and Tregs-related transcription factors. However, we failed to find functional consequences of this abnormality, because all tested ASCs similarly switched differentiation from Th1 to Th2 direction with accompanying IFNγ/IL-4 ratio decrease, up-regulated Th17 formation and IL-17 secretion, and up-regulated classical Tregs generation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ewa Kuca-Warnawin
- Department of Pathophysiology and Immunology, National Institute of Geriatrics, Rheumatology and Rehabilitation, Spartańska 1, 02-637 Warsaw, Poland; (M.P.); (M.C.); (E.K.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Magdalena Plebańczyk
- Department of Pathophysiology and Immunology, National Institute of Geriatrics, Rheumatology and Rehabilitation, Spartańska 1, 02-637 Warsaw, Poland; (M.P.); (M.C.); (E.K.)
| | - Marzena Ciechomska
- Department of Pathophysiology and Immunology, National Institute of Geriatrics, Rheumatology and Rehabilitation, Spartańska 1, 02-637 Warsaw, Poland; (M.P.); (M.C.); (E.K.)
| | - Marzena Olesińska
- Clinic of Connective Tissue Diseases, National Institute of Geriatrics, Rheumatology and Rehabilitation, 02-637 Warsaw, Poland; (M.O.); (P.S.)
| | - Piotr Szczęsny
- Clinic of Connective Tissue Diseases, National Institute of Geriatrics, Rheumatology and Rehabilitation, 02-637 Warsaw, Poland; (M.O.); (P.S.)
| | - Ewa Kontny
- Department of Pathophysiology and Immunology, National Institute of Geriatrics, Rheumatology and Rehabilitation, Spartańska 1, 02-637 Warsaw, Poland; (M.P.); (M.C.); (E.K.)
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T Cells, Interleukin-2 and Systemic Lupus Erythematosus—From Pathophysiology to Therapy. Cells 2022; 11:cells11060980. [PMID: 35326431 PMCID: PMC8946767 DOI: 10.3390/cells11060980] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2022] [Revised: 03/08/2022] [Accepted: 03/11/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The phenotypic and functional complexities of T cells engender complicated and often confusing concepts as to how T cells ignite, accelerate and brake the inflammatory processes involved in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), let alone the plasticity of T cells that takes place under different immunological contexts. Nevertheless, being one of the prime survival factors of T cells, interleukin (IL)-2 plays a potentially critical role in many immunological scenarios during the pathophysiological process of SLE. Here, the pathophysiology of lupus T cells and current, as well as ongoing, therapeutic approaches of SLE that involve low-dose IL-2 administration will be highlighted. The mechanisms of IL-2 deficiency in SLE pathophysiology, the effects of low-dose IL-2 on T cells and restoration of lupus manifestations in murine SLE models, as well as the efficacy and safety of clinical trials that evaluated low-dose IL-2-containing regimens in patients with SLE will be discussed.
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27
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Gao X, Song Y, Lu S, Hu L, Zheng M, Jia S, Zhao M. Insufficient Iron Improves Pristane-Induced Lupus by Promoting Treg Cell Expansion. Front Immunol 2022; 13:799331. [PMID: 35296076 PMCID: PMC8918487 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.799331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2021] [Accepted: 02/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Trace element iron affects T cell biology, but the knowledge about the role of iron in regulating Treg cell expansion is limited. Treg cells play an important role in keeping peripheral T cell tolerance, increasing Treg cell expansion is a promising therapeutic method for SLE. Here we showed that iron deficiency promotes Treg cell expansion by reducing ROS accumulation, improving the disease progression of pristane-induced lupus. Increased oxidative stress inhibits Treg cell differentiation by inducing cell apoptosis. Our data suggest that altering iron metabolism promotes Treg cell expansion by preventing oxidation-induced cell death, which may provide a potential therapeutic strategy for SLE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaofei Gao
- Department of Dermatology, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenomics, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Research Unit of Key Technologies of Diagnosis and Treatment for Immune-related Skin Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Changsha, China
- Clinical Medical Research Center of Major Skin Diseases and Skin Health of Hunan Province, Changsha, China
| | - Yang Song
- Department of Dermatology, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenomics, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Research Unit of Key Technologies of Diagnosis and Treatment for Immune-related Skin Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Changsha, China
- Clinical Medical Research Center of Major Skin Diseases and Skin Health of Hunan Province, Changsha, China
| | - Shuang Lu
- Department of Dermatology, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenomics, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Research Unit of Key Technologies of Diagnosis and Treatment for Immune-related Skin Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Changsha, China
- Clinical Medical Research Center of Major Skin Diseases and Skin Health of Hunan Province, Changsha, China
| | - Longyuan Hu
- Department of Dermatology, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenomics, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Research Unit of Key Technologies of Diagnosis and Treatment for Immune-related Skin Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Changsha, China
- Clinical Medical Research Center of Major Skin Diseases and Skin Health of Hunan Province, Changsha, China
| | - Meiling Zheng
- Department of Dermatology, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenomics, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Research Unit of Key Technologies of Diagnosis and Treatment for Immune-related Skin Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Changsha, China
- Clinical Medical Research Center of Major Skin Diseases and Skin Health of Hunan Province, Changsha, China
| | - Sujie Jia
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenomics, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Department of Pharmacy, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- *Correspondence: Sujie Jia, ; Ming Zhao,
| | - Ming Zhao
- Department of Dermatology, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenomics, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Research Unit of Key Technologies of Diagnosis and Treatment for Immune-related Skin Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Changsha, China
- Clinical Medical Research Center of Major Skin Diseases and Skin Health of Hunan Province, Changsha, China
- *Correspondence: Sujie Jia, ; Ming Zhao,
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Wang Q, Zhang SX, Chang MJ, Qiao J, Wang CH, Li XF, Yu Q, He PF. Characteristics of the Gut Microbiome and Its Relationship With Peripheral CD4+ T Cell Subpopulations and Cytokines in Rheumatoid Arthritis. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:799602. [PMID: 35185845 PMCID: PMC8851473 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.799602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2021] [Accepted: 01/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
This study investigated the association between intestinal microbiota abundance and diversity and cluster of differentiation (CD)4+ T cell subpopulations, cytokine levels, and disease activity in rheumatoid arthritis RA. A total of 108 rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients and 99 healthy control (HC) subjects were recruited. PICRUSt2 was used for functional metagenomic predictions. Absolute counts of peripheral CD4+ T cell subpopulations and cytokine levels were detected by flow cytometry and with a cytokine bead array, respectively. Correlations were analyzed with the Spearman rank correlation test. The results showed that the diversity of intestinal microbiota was decreased in RA patients compared to HCs. At the phylum level, the abundance of Firmicutes, Fusobacteriota, and Bacteroidota was decreased while that of Actinobacteria and Proteobacteria was increased and at the genus level, the abundance of Faecalibacterium, Blautia, and Escherichia-Shigella was increased while that of Bacteroides and Coprococcus was decreased in RA patients compared to HC subjects. The linear discriminant analysis effect size indicated that Bifidobacterium was the most significant genus in RA. The most highly enriched Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway in RA patients was amino acid metabolism. The relative abundance of Megamonas, Monoglobus, and Prevotella was positively correlated with CD4+ T cell counts and cytokine levels; and the relative numbers of regulatory T cells (Tregs) and T helper (Th17)/Treg ratio were negatively correlated with disease activity in RA. These results suggest that dysbiosis of certain bacterial lineages and alterations in gut microbiota metabolism lead to changes in the host immune profile that contribute to RA pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Wang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
- Key Laboratory of Cellular Physiology at Shanxi Medical University, Ministry of Education, Taiyuan, China
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Big Data for Clinical Decision Research, Taiyuan, China
| | - Sheng-Xiao Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Cellular Physiology at Shanxi Medical University, Ministry of Education, Taiyuan, China
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, The Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Min-Jing Chang
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Big Data for Clinical Decision Research, Taiyuan, China
- School of Management, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Jun Qiao
- Key Laboratory of Cellular Physiology at Shanxi Medical University, Ministry of Education, Taiyuan, China
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, The Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Cai-Hong Wang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, The Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Xiao-Feng Li
- Key Laboratory of Cellular Physiology at Shanxi Medical University, Ministry of Education, Taiyuan, China
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, The Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Qi Yu
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Big Data for Clinical Decision Research, Taiyuan, China
- School of Management, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
- *Correspondence: Qi Yu,
| | - Pei-Feng He
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Big Data for Clinical Decision Research, Taiyuan, China
- School of Management, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
- Pei-Feng He,
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Venkatadri R, Sabapathy V, Dogan M, Sharma R. Targeting Regulatory T Cells for Therapy of Lupus Nephritis. Front Pharmacol 2022; 12:806612. [PMID: 35069220 PMCID: PMC8775001 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.806612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Lupus glomerulonephritis (LN) is a complex autoimmune disease characterized by circulating autoantibodies, immune-complex deposition, immune dysregulation and defects in regulatory T cell (Tregs). Treatment options rely on general immunosuppressants and steroids that have serious side effects. Approaches to target immune cells, such as B cells in particular, has had limited success and new approaches are being investigated. Defects in Tregs in the setting of autoimmunity is well known and Treg-replacement strategies are currently being explored. The aim of this minireview is to rekindle interest on Treg-targeting strategies. We discuss the existing evidences for Treg-enhancement strategies using key cytokines interleukin (IL)-2, IL-33 and IL-6 that have shown to provide remission in LN. We also discuss strategies for indirect Treg-modulation for protection from LN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajkumar Venkatadri
- Center for Immunity, Inflammation and Regenerative Medicine (CIIR), Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, United States
| | - Vikram Sabapathy
- Center for Immunity, Inflammation and Regenerative Medicine (CIIR), Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, United States
| | - Murat Dogan
- Center for Immunity, Inflammation and Regenerative Medicine (CIIR), Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, United States
| | - Rahul Sharma
- Center for Immunity, Inflammation and Regenerative Medicine (CIIR), Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, United States
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Induction of Foxp3 and activation of Tregs by HSP gp96 for treatment of autoimmune diseases. iScience 2021; 24:103445. [PMID: 34877502 PMCID: PMC8633978 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2021.103445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Revised: 09/16/2021] [Accepted: 11/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Upregulation and stabilization of Foxp3 expression in Tregs are essential for regulating Treg function and immune homeostasis. In this study, gp96 immunization showed obvious therapeutic effects in a Lyn–/– mouse model of systemic lupus erythematosus. Moreover, gp96 alleviated the initiation and progression of MOG-induced experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis. Immunization of gp96 increased Treg frequency, expansion, and suppressive function. Gene expression profiling identified the NF-κB family member p65 and c-Rel as the key transcription factors for enhanced Foxp3 expression in Treg by gp96. Mutant gp96 within its Toll-like receptor (TLR) binding domain, TLR2 knockout mice, and mice with cell-specific deletion of MyD88, were used to demonstrate that gp96 activated Tregs and induced Foxp3 expression via a TLR2-MyD88-mediated NF-κB signaling pathway. Taken together, these results show that gp96 immunization restricted antibody-induced and Th-induced autoimmune diseases by integrating Treg expansion and activation, indicating its potential clinical usefulness against autoimmune diseases. SLE symptoms in Lyn–/– mice are ameliorated by gp96 immunization Tregs expanded by gp96 provide potential in suppressing Th-mediated EAE Gp96 promotes Treg proliferation, stability, and suppressive function Gp96 binds to and activates Treg in a TLR2-MyD88-NF-кB-Foxp3 pathway
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Abstract
Failure of regulatory T (Treg) cells to properly control immune responses leads invariably to autoimmunity and organ damage. Decreased numbers or impaired function of Treg cells, especially in the context of inflammation, has been documented in many human autoimmune diseases. Restoration of Treg cell fitness and/or expansion of their numbers using low-dose natural IL-2, the main cytokine driving Treg cell survival and function, has demonstrated clinical efficacy in early clinical trials. Genetically modified IL-2 with an extended half-life and increased selectivity for Treg cells is now in clinical development. Administration of IL-2 combined with therapies targeting other pathways involved in the expression of autoimmune diseases should further enhance its therapeutic potential. Ongoing clinical efforts that capitalize on the early clinical success of IL-2 treatment should bring the use of this cytokine to the forefront of biological treatments for autoimmune diseases.
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Paquissi FC, Abensur H. The Th17/IL-17 Axis and Kidney Diseases, With Focus on Lupus Nephritis. Front Med (Lausanne) 2021; 8:654912. [PMID: 34540858 PMCID: PMC8446428 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2021.654912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 08/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a disease characterized by dysregulation and hyperreactivity of the immune response at various levels, including hyperactivation of effector cell subtypes, autoantibodies production, immune complex formation, and deposition in tissues. The consequences of hyperreactivity to the self are systemic and local inflammation and tissue damage in multiple organs. Lupus nephritis (LN) is one of the most worrying manifestations of SLE, and most patients have this involvement at some point in the course of the disease. Among the effector cells involved, the Th17, a subtype of T helper cells (CD4+), has shown significant hyperactivation and participates in kidney damage and many other organs. Th17 cells have IL-17A and IL-17F as main cytokines with receptors expressed in most renal cells, being involved in the activation of many proinflammatory and profibrotic pathways. The Th17/IL-17 axis promotes and maintains repetitive tissue damage and maladaptive repair; leading to fibrosis, loss of organ architecture and function. In the podocytes, the Th17/IL-17 axis effects include changes of the cytoskeleton with increased motility, decreased expression of health proteins, increased oxidative stress, and activation of the inflammasome and caspases resulting in podocytes apoptosis. In renal tubular epithelial cells, the Th17/IL-17 axis promotes the activation of profibrotic pathways such as increased TGF-β expression and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) with consequent increase of extracellular matrix proteins. In addition, the IL-17 promotes a proinflammatory environment by stimulating the synthesis of inflammatory cytokines by intrinsic renal cells and immune cells, and the synthesis of growth factors and chemokines, which together result in granulopoiesis/myelopoiesis, and further recruitment of immune cells to the kidney. The purpose of this work is to present the prognostic and immunopathologic role of the Th17/IL-17 axis in Kidney diseases, with a special focus on LN, including its exploration as a potential immunotherapeutic target in this complication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feliciano Chanana Paquissi
- Department of Medicine, Clínica Girassol, Luanda, Angola
- Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Hugo Abensur
- Hospital das Clínicas, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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Zhang W, Liu X, Zhu Y, Liu X, Gu Y, Dai X, Li B. Transcriptional and posttranslational regulation of Th17/Treg balance in health and disease. Eur J Immunol 2021; 51:2137-2150. [PMID: 34322865 DOI: 10.1002/eji.202048794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2020] [Revised: 06/14/2021] [Accepted: 07/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Regulatory T (Treg) cells and T helper type 17 (Th17) cells play important roles in adaptive immune responses, antagonizing each other in immune disorders. Th17/Treg balance is critical to maintaining the immune homeostasis of human bodies and is tightly regulated under healthy conditions. The transcription factors that are required for driving Th17 and Treg cell lineages differentiation respectively, RORγt and FOXP3 are tightly regulated under different tissue microenvironment, especially the transcriptional induction, posttranslational modifications, and dynamic enzymatic cofactors binding. The imbalance caused by alteration of the quantity or properties of RORγt+ Th17 or FOXP3+ Treg can contribute to inflammatory disorders in humans. Restoring Th17/Treg balance by modifying the enzymatic activities of RORγt and FOXP3 binding partners may be therapeutically applied to treat severe immune disorders. In this review, we focus on the transcriptional and posttranslational regulations of Th17/Treg balance, immune disorders caused by Th17/Treg imbalance, and new therapeutic strategies for restoring immune homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weiqi Zhang
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xu Liu
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yicheng Zhu
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xinnan Liu
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yunting Gu
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xueyu Dai
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Bin Li
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
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34
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Dong S, Hiam-Galvez KJ, Mowery CT, Herold KC, Gitelman SE, Esensten JH, Liu W, Lares AP, Leinbach AS, Lee M, Nguyen V, Tamaki SJ, Tamaki W, Tamaki CM, Mehdizadeh M, Putnam AL, Spitzer MH, Ye CJ, Tang Q, Bluestone JA. The effects of low-dose IL-2 on Treg adoptive cell therapy in patients with Type 1 diabetes. JCI Insight 2021; 6:e147474. [PMID: 34324441 PMCID: PMC8492314 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.147474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2021] [Accepted: 07/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A previous phase I study showed that the infusion of autologous Tregs expanded ex vivo into patients with recent-onset type 1 diabetes (T1D) had an excellent safety profile. However, the majority of the infused Tregs were undetectable in the peripheral blood 3 months postinfusion (Treg-T1D trial). Therefore, we conducted a phase I study (TILT trial) combining polyclonal Tregs and low-dose IL-2, shown to enhance Treg survival and expansion, and assessed the impact over time on Treg populations and other immune cells. METHODS Patients with T1D were treated with a single infusion of autologous polyclonal Tregs followed by one or two 5-day courses of recombinant human low-dose IL-2 (ld-IL-2). Flow cytometry, cytometry by time of flight, and 10x Genomics single-cell RNA-Seq were used to follow the distinct immune cell populations’ phenotypes over time. RESULTS Multiparametric analysis revealed that the combination therapy led to an increase in the number of infused and endogenous Tregs but also resulted in a substantial increase from baseline in a subset of activated NK, mucosal associated invariant T, and clonal CD8+ T cell populations. CONCLUSION These data support the hypothesis that ld-IL-2 expands exogenously administered Tregs but also can expand cytotoxic cells. These results have important implications for the use of a combination of ld-IL-2 and Tregs for the treatment of autoimmune diseases with preexisting active immunity. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01210664 (Treg-T1D trial), NCT02772679 (TILT trial). FUNDING Sean N. Parker Autoimmune Research Laboratory Fund, National Center for Research Resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shen Dong
- Diabetes Center, UCSF, San Francisco, United States of America
| | - Kamir J Hiam-Galvez
- Parker Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy, UCSF, San Francisco, United States of America
| | - Cody T Mowery
- Institute for Human Genetics, UCSF, San Francisco, United States of America
| | - Kevan C Herold
- Department of Immunobiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, United States of America
| | - Stephen E Gitelman
- Division Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes Center, UCSF, San Francisco, United States of America
| | - Jonathan H Esensten
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, UCSF, San Francisco, United States of America
| | - Weihong Liu
- Diabetes Center, UCSF, San Francisco, United States of America
| | - Angela P Lares
- Diabetes Center, UCSF, San Francisco, United States of America
| | | | - Michael Lee
- Diabetes Center, UCSF, San Francisco, United States of America
| | - Vinh Nguyen
- Diabetes Center, UCSF, San Francisco, United States of America
| | - Stanley J Tamaki
- Flow Cytometry Core Parnassus, UCSF, San Francisco, United States of America
| | - Whitney Tamaki
- Diabetes Center, UCSF, San Francisco, United States of America
| | | | | | - Amy L Putnam
- Diabetes Center, UCSF, San Francisco, United States of America
| | - Matthew H Spitzer
- Department of Otolaryngology, UCSF, San Francisco, United States of America
| | - C Jimmie Ye
- Institute for Human Genetics, UCSF, San Francisco, United States of America
| | - Qizhi Tang
- Division of Transplant Surgery, UCSF, San Francisco, United States of America
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35
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Li W, Gong M, Park YP, Elshikha AS, Choi SC, Brown J, Kanda N, Yeh WI, Peters L, Titov AA, Teng X, Brusko TM, Morel L. Lupus susceptibility gene Esrrg modulates regulatory T cells through mitochondrial metabolism. JCI Insight 2021; 6:e143540. [PMID: 34156979 PMCID: PMC8410062 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.143540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2020] [Accepted: 06/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Estrogen-related receptor γ (Esrrg) is a murine lupus susceptibility gene associated with T cell activation. Here, we report that Esrrg controls Tregs through mitochondria homeostasis. Esrrg deficiency impaired the maintenance and function of Tregs, leading to global T cell activation and autoimmunity in aged mice. Further, Esrrg-deficient Tregs presented an impaired differentiation into follicular Tregs that enhanced follicular helper T cells' responses. Mechanistically, Esrrg-deficient Tregs presented with dysregulated mitochondria with decreased oxygen consumption as well as ATP and NAD+ production. In addition, Esrrg-deficient Tregs exhibited decreased phosphatidylinositol and TGF-β signaling pathways and increased mTOR complex 1 activation. We found that the expression of human ESRRG, which is high in Tregs, was lower in CD4+ T cells from patients with lupus than in healthy controls. Finally, knocking down ESRRG in Jurkat T cells decreased their metabolism. Together, our results reveal a critical role of Esrrg in the maintenance and metabolism of Tregs, which may provide a genetic link between lupus pathogenesis and mitochondrial dysfunction in T cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Li
- Department of Pathology, Immunology and Laboratory Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Minghao Gong
- Department of Pathology, Immunology and Laboratory Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Yuk Pheel Park
- Department of Pathology, Immunology and Laboratory Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Ahmed S Elshikha
- Department of Pathology, Immunology and Laboratory Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA.,Department of Pharmaceutics, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
| | - Seung-Chul Choi
- Department of Pathology, Immunology and Laboratory Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Josephine Brown
- Department of Pathology, Immunology and Laboratory Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Nathalie Kanda
- Department of Pathology, Immunology and Laboratory Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Wen-I Yeh
- Department of Pathology, Immunology and Laboratory Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Leeana Peters
- Department of Pathology, Immunology and Laboratory Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Anton A Titov
- Department of Pathology, Immunology and Laboratory Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Xiangyu Teng
- Department of Pathology, Immunology and Laboratory Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Todd M Brusko
- Department of Pathology, Immunology and Laboratory Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Laurence Morel
- Department of Pathology, Immunology and Laboratory Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
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36
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Immunotherapeutic strategy based on anti-OX40L and low dose of IL-2 to prolong graft survival in sensitized mice by inducing the generation of CD4 + and CD8 + Tregs. Int Immunopharmacol 2021; 97:107663. [PMID: 33887578 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2021.107663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2020] [Revised: 03/17/2021] [Accepted: 04/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Alloreactive memory cells play a critical role after a second transplant and are difficult to suppress. This study investigated the effect of an immunotherapeutic strategy that combines anti-OX40L, rapamycin (Rapa), and a low dose of IL-2 in a memory cell-based adoptive model. In this model, the median survival time (MST) of the grafts of the combined treatment group was significantly extended compared to that of the control group and other treatment groups. A similar effect was observed regarding a reduction in memory T cells (Tm) and inflammatory cytokines production. Also, the percentages of Foxp3+ regulatory T cells (Tregs) increased in our model. In addition, mounting evidence has shown CD8+CD122+ T cells are also Tregs. We found that the group of CD8+CD122+PD1+ T cells was markedly increased in the combined treatment group, especially in the graft. We further demonstrated that CD8+CD122+PD1+ T cells could suppress activated T cells. Our data suggest that anti-OX40L combined with Rapa and a low dose of IL-2 can suppress Tm, modulate CD4 and CD8 Tregs, and induce long-term heart allograft survival in sensitized mice.
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37
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Graßhoff H, Comdühr S, Monne LR, Müller A, Lamprecht P, Riemekasten G, Humrich JY. Low-Dose IL-2 Therapy in Autoimmune and Rheumatic Diseases. Front Immunol 2021; 12:648408. [PMID: 33868284 PMCID: PMC8047324 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.648408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2020] [Accepted: 03/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Regulatory T cells (Treg) are crucial for the maintenance of peripheral tolerance and for the control of ongoing inflammation and autoimmunity. The cytokine interleukin-2 (IL-2) is essentially required for the growth and survival of Treg in the peripheral lymphatic tissues and thus plays a vital role in the biology of Treg. Most autoimmune and rheumatic diseases exhibit disturbances in Treg biology either at a numerical or functional level resulting in an imbalance between protective and pathogenic immune cells. In addition, in some autoimmune diseases, a relative deficiency of IL-2 develops during disease pathogenesis leading to a disturbance of Treg homeostasis, which further amplifies the vicious cycle of tolerance breach and chronic inflammation. Low-dose IL-2 therapy aims either to compensate for this IL-2 deficiency to restore a physiological state or to strengthen the Treg population in order to be more effective in counter-regulating inflammation while avoiding global immunosuppression. Here we highlight key findings and summarize recent advances in the clinical translation of low-dose IL-2 therapy for the treatment of autoimmune and rheumatic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Jens Y. Humrich
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
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38
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Zhao Y, Liu Z, Qin L, Wang T, Bai O. Insights into the mechanisms of Th17 differentiation and the Yin-Yang of Th17 cells in human diseases. Mol Immunol 2021; 134:109-117. [PMID: 33756352 DOI: 10.1016/j.molimm.2021.03.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2020] [Revised: 01/28/2021] [Accepted: 03/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Th17 cells are a lineage of CD4+ T helper cells with Th17-specific transcription factors RORγt and RoRα. Since its discovery in 2005, research on Th17 has been in rapid progress, and increasing cytokines or transcription factors have been uncovered in the activation and differentiation of Th17 cells. Furthermore, growing evidence proves there are two different subsets of Th17 cells, namely non-pathogenic Th17 (non-pTh17) and pathogenic Th17 (pTh17), both of which play important roles in adaptive immunity, especially in host defenses, autoimmune diseases, and cancer. In this review, we summarize and discuss the mechanisms of Th17 cells differentiation, and their roles in immunity and diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yangzhi Zhao
- Department of Hematology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China.
| | - Zhongshan Liu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China.
| | - Lei Qin
- Institute for Immunology, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China.
| | - Tiejun Wang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China.
| | - Ou Bai
- Department of Hematology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China.
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39
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Liossis SN, Staveri C. What's New in the Treatment of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus. Front Med (Lausanne) 2021; 8:655100. [PMID: 33748165 PMCID: PMC7973110 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2021.655100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2021] [Accepted: 02/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune multisystem disease with a variable presentation and manifestations ranging from mild to severe or even life-threatening. There is an ongoing and unmet need for novel, disease-specific, effective and safe treatment modalities. The aim of this review is to summarize data on SLE treatment that have emerged over the last 3 years. We will put emphasis on studies evaluating potential treatments on severe lupus manifestations such as lupus nephritis. Despite the existence of several therapeutic agents in SLE, the disease keeps causing significant morbidity. It is encouraging that a variety of therapeutic options are currently under investigation, although there are occasional trial failures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stamatis Nick Liossis
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Patras University Hospital, Patras, Greece.,Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Patras Medical School, Patras, Greece
| | - Chrysanthi Staveri
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Patras University Hospital, Patras, Greece
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40
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Zhang J, Huang Y. Low-dose IL-2 in the treatment of immune-related diseases. EUR J INFLAMM 2021. [DOI: 10.1177/20587392211039935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Since the discovery of interleukin-2 (IL-2) in 1979, increasing attention has been focused on its role in regulating immune function. IL-2 has been found to play an important role in maintaining autoimmune tolerance, and it is essential for the proliferation and differentiation of regulatory T cells (Treg) cells. Other studies have found that the role of IL-2 in vivo is closely related to its concentration. Low-dose IL-2 selectively stimulates the proliferation of Treg cells in vivo, while high-dose IL-2 primarily promotes the proliferation of effector T cells. In view of these findings, an increasing number of studies have focused on the use of low-dose IL-2 in the treatment of immune-related diseases in recent years. The results have been encouraging, with mild adverse reactions. This article mainly focuses on the latest progress made in the IL-2 treatment of immune-related diseases and its regulatory effect on the immune status in different diseases, providing a reference for the rational clinical application of IL-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiakui Zhang
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, The Hefei Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Yong Huang
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, The Hefei Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
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41
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Du Y, Fang Q, Zheng SG. Regulatory T Cells: Concept, Classification, Phenotype, and Biological Characteristics. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2021; 1278:1-31. [PMID: 33523440 DOI: 10.1007/978-981-15-6407-9_1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Regulatory T cells (Treg) play an indispensable role in maintaining the body's immune nonresponse to self-antigens and suppressing the body's unwarranted and potentially harmful immune responses. Their absence, reduction, dysfunction, transformation, and instability can lead to numerous autoimmune diseases. There are several distinct subtypes of the Treg cells, although they share certain biological characteristics and have unique phenotypes with different regulatory functions, as well as mechanistic abilities. In this book chapter, we introduce the latest advances in Treg cell subtypes pertaining to classification, phenotype, biological characteristics, and mechanisms. We also highlight the relationship between Treg cells and various diseases, including autoimmune, infectious, as well as tumors and organ transplants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Du
- Department of Pathology and Physiopathology, Guilin Medical University, Guilin, Guangxi, China.,Laboratory of Tumor Immunology and Microenvironmental Regulation, Guilin Medical University, Guilin, Guangxi, China
| | - Qiannan Fang
- Department of Clinical Immunology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Song-Guo Zheng
- Department of Internal Medicine, Ohio State University College of Medicine and Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA.
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42
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This review gives an overview of the recently published clinical trials in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). RECENT FINDINGS Our continuously improving understanding of the cellular and molecular mechanisms, which are involved in the pathogenesis of SLE, has inspired the performance of multiple clinical trials in an attempt to modify recognized targets. Here, we summarize results obtained from recent trials, which used monoclonal antibodies blocking cytokines, blockers of costimulatory molecules or deleting immune cells, small drug inhibitors of kinases and replenishment of cytokines. SUMMARY The therapeutic options for patients with SLE grow continuously and in parallel it raises the need for pathogenetic mechanism-based precision medicine so that we may select the right treatment for the right patient.
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43
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Romo-Tena J, Kaplan MJ. Immunometabolism in the pathogenesis of systemic lupus erythematosus: an update. Curr Opin Rheumatol 2020; 32:562-571. [PMID: 32826478 PMCID: PMC10463177 DOI: 10.1097/bor.0000000000000738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW To provide an update on state-of-the-art evidence on the role of immunometabolism reprogramming in the pathogenesis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). RECENT FINDINGS Mitochondrial dysfunction and enhanced oxidative stress, along with specific defects in other metabolic pathways, can promote dysregulation of innate and adaptive immune responses in SLE. These abnormalities appear to be driven by genetic and epigenetic factors, modulated by stochastic events. In addition to extensive descriptions of abnormalities in immunometabolism of lupus lymphocytes, recent studies support the critical role of dysregulation of metabolic pathways in innate immune cells including neutrophils, macrophages and dendritic cells, in SLE pathogenesis. Recent abnormalities described in lipid metabolism have been associated with SLE disease activity and related damage. Promising therapeutic strategies that target these metabolic abnormalities have recently been described in SLE. SUMMARY Fundamental new insights regarding the role of mitochondrial dysfunction in innate immune dysregulation in SLE pathogenesis have recently emerged. Defects in specific molecular pathways pertinent to immunometabolism in SLE have been described. New insights in translational medicine and promising therapeutic targets have been proposed based on these recent findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorge Romo-Tena
- Systemic Autoimmunity Branch, Intramural Research Program, National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
- Medical Science PhD Program, School of Medicine, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Mariana J. Kaplan
- Systemic Autoimmunity Branch, Intramural Research Program, National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
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44
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Yang L, Zhang C, Bai X, Xiao C, Dang E, Wang G. hsa_circ_0003738 Inhibits the Suppressive Function of Tregs by Targeting miR-562/IL-17A and miR-490-5p/IFN-γ Signaling Pathway. MOLECULAR THERAPY-NUCLEIC ACIDS 2020; 21:1111-1119. [PMID: 32871353 PMCID: PMC7475646 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2020.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2020] [Revised: 06/18/2020] [Accepted: 07/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Dysfunction in the suppressive function of regulatory T cells (Tregs) has been related to the pathogenesis of psoriasis. Accumulating evidence has demonstrated the importance of circular RNAs (circRNAs) in regulating various biological process, such as cell proliferation, apoptosis, etc. However, the role of circRNAs in modulating the suppressive functions of psoriatic Tregs and the underlying mechanisms have not been investigated. Here, by using circRNA microarray analysis, we discovered four upregulated and four downregulated circRNAs in psoriatic Tregs. Quantitative real-time PCR further confirmed a significant increase of circ_0003738 in psoriatic Tregs. Importantly, knockdown of circ_0003738 by lentivirus in psoriatic Tregs could restore their suppressive functions via inhibiting the secretion of proinflammatory cytokines interleukin-17A (IL-17A) and interferon (IFN)-γ. Moreover, we found that circ_0003738 could bind to miR-562 to release the inhibition of target gene IL-17RA (IL-17 receptor A), thus promoting IL-17A signaling in psoriatic Tregs. In parallel, circ_0003738 acted also as a sponge for miR-490-5p and relieved inhibition for the target gene IFNGR2, which promoted IFN-γ signaling in psoriatic Tregs. Our study demonstrated that upregulated circ_0003738 decreased the suppressive function of psoriatic Tregs via the miR-562/IL17RA and miR-490-5p/IFNGR2 (IFN-γ receptor 2) axis, which indicated the involvement of circRNAs in the pathogenesis of dysfunctional Tregs. These findings will provide new therapeutic targets for the treatment of psoriasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luting Yang
- Department of Dermatology, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710032, China; Laboratory of Gene Therapy, Department of Biochemistry, College of Life Sciences, Shaanxi Normal University, No. 620, South Chang'an Road, Xi'an 710062, China
| | - Chen Zhang
- Department of Dermatology, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710032, China
| | - Xiaocui Bai
- Department of Dermatology, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710032, China
| | - Chunying Xiao
- Department of Dermatology, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710032, China
| | - Erle Dang
- Department of Dermatology, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710032, China
| | - Gang Wang
- Department of Dermatology, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710032, China.
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45
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Li M, Yang C, Wang Y, Song W, Jia L, Peng X, Zhao R. The Expression of P2X7 Receptor on Th1, Th17, and Regulatory T Cells in Patients with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus or Rheumatoid Arthritis and Its Correlations with Active Disease. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2020; 205:1752-1762. [PMID: 32868411 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.2000222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2020] [Accepted: 07/31/2020] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
P2X7 receptor (P2X7R) is highly expressed on immune cells, triggering the release of cytokines and regulating autoimmune responses. To investigate P2X7R surface expression on T helper (Th) 1, Th17, and regulatory T (Treg) cells in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) or rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and correlations with disease activity, 29 SLE and 29 RA patients and 18 healthy controls (HCs) were enrolled. We showed that SLE and RA patients had significantly higher levels of plasma cytokines (IFN-γ, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-17A, and IL-23), frequencies of Th1 and Th17 cells, and expression of P2X7R on Th1 and Th17 than HCs, and the Th17/Treg ratio was significantly increased, whereas Treg cell levels were significantly decreased. The Ca2+ influx increase following BzATP stimulation was significantly higher in CD4+PBMCs from SLE and RA patients than in HCs. Blood levels of shed P2X7R were increased in SLE and RA patients. Furthermore, 28-joint Disease Activity Score and SLE Disease Activity Index score showed negative correlations with Treg cell levels and positive correlations with Th17/Treg ratio and Th17 cell P2X7R expression. Interestingly, Th17 cell P2X7R expression was closely correlated with IL-1β, C-reactive protein, the erythrocyte sedimentation rate, anticyclic citrullinated peptide Abs, albumin, and C4. These data indicate that increased Th17 cell P2X7R expression is functionally and positively related to disease activity and some inflammatory mediators in SLE and RA patients, and P2X7R could be critical in promoting the Th17 immune response and contributing to the complex pathogenesis of SLE and RA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingxuan Li
- School of Laboratory Medicine, Weifang Medical University, Weifang 261053, Shandong, China
| | - Chuanyu Yang
- Department of Blood Transfusion, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang 261031, Shandong, China; and
| | - Yunhai Wang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang 261031, Shandong, China
| | - Wei Song
- School of Laboratory Medicine, Weifang Medical University, Weifang 261053, Shandong, China
| | - Lina Jia
- School of Laboratory Medicine, Weifang Medical University, Weifang 261053, Shandong, China
| | - Xiaoxiang Peng
- School of Laboratory Medicine, Weifang Medical University, Weifang 261053, Shandong, China;
| | - Ronglan Zhao
- School of Laboratory Medicine, Weifang Medical University, Weifang 261053, Shandong, China;
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Cannas D, Loi E, Serra M, Firinu D, Valera P, Zavattari P. Relevance of Essential Trace Elements in Nutrition and Drinking Water for Human Health and Autoimmune Disease Risk. Nutrients 2020; 12:E2074. [PMID: 32668647 PMCID: PMC7400883 DOI: 10.3390/nu12072074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2020] [Revised: 07/08/2020] [Accepted: 07/09/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Trace elements produce double-edged effects on the lives of animals and particularly of humans. On one hand, these elements represent potentially toxic agents; on the other hand, they are essentially needed to support growth and development and confer protection against disease. Certain trace elements and metals are particularly involved in humoral and cellular immune responses, playing the roles of cofactors for essential enzymes and antioxidant molecules. The amount taken up and the accumulation in human tissues decisively control whether the exerted effects are toxic or beneficial. For these reasons, there is an urgent need to re-consider, harmonize and update current legislative regulations regarding the concentrations of trace elements in food and in drinking water. This review aims to provide information on the interrelation of certain trace elements with risk of autoimmune disease, with a particular focus on type 1 diabetes and multiple sclerosis. In addition, an overview of the current regulations and regulatory gaps is provided in order to highlight the importance of this issue for everyday nutrition and human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Cannas
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Unit of Biology and Genetics, University of Cagliari, 09042 Cagliari, Italy; (D.C.); (E.L.)
| | - Eleonora Loi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Unit of Biology and Genetics, University of Cagliari, 09042 Cagliari, Italy; (D.C.); (E.L.)
| | - Matteo Serra
- Department of Civil, Environmental Engineering and Architecture, University of Cagliari, 09123 Cagliari, Italy;
| | - Davide Firinu
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, Monserrato Campus, University of Cagliari, 09042 Cagliari, Italy;
| | - Paolo Valera
- Department of Civil, Environmental Engineering and Architecture, University of Cagliari, 09123 Cagliari, Italy;
| | - Patrizia Zavattari
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Unit of Biology and Genetics, University of Cagliari, 09042 Cagliari, Italy; (D.C.); (E.L.)
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Scheinecker C, Göschl L, Bonelli M. Treg cells in health and autoimmune diseases: New insights from single cell analysis. J Autoimmun 2019; 110:102376. [PMID: 31862128 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaut.2019.102376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 114] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2019] [Accepted: 11/22/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Autoimmune diseases, such as Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) or Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) are characterized by the breakdown of immunological tolerance. Defects of regulatory T cells have been described among the various mechanisms, that are important for the development of autoimmune diseases, due to their critical role as regulators of peripheral immune tolerance and homeostasis. Initially T suppressor cells have been described as one population of peripheral T cells. Based on new technological advances a new understanding of the heterogeneity of different Treg cell populations in the lymphoid and non-lymphoid tissue has evolved over the last years. While initially Foxp3 has been defined as the main master regulator of Treg cells, we have learned that Treg cells from various tissue can be identified by a specific transcriptomic and epigenetic signature. Epigenetic mechanisms allow Treg cell stability, but we have also learned that certain Treg subsets are plastic and can under specific circumstances even enhance autoimmunity and inflammatory processes. Quantitative and functional defects of Treg cells have been observed in a variety of autoimmune diseases. Due to our understanding of the nature of this cell population, Treg cells have been a target of new Treg based therapies, such as low-dose IL-2. In addition, ongoing clinical trials aim to test safety and efficacy of transferred, in vitro expanded Treg cells in patients with autoimmune diseases and transplant patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clemens Scheinecker
- Internal Medicine III, Division of Rheumatology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
| | - Lisa Göschl
- Internal Medicine III, Division of Rheumatology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
| | - Michael Bonelli
- Internal Medicine III, Division of Rheumatology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
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