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Cutts Z, Patterson S, Maliskova L, Taylor KE, Ye C, Dall'Era M, Yazdany J, Criswell L, Fragiadakis GK, Langelier C, Capra JA, Sirota M, Lanata CM. Cell-Specific Transposable Element Gene Expression Analysis Identifies Associations with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Phenotypes. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.11.27.567477. [PMID: 38076936 PMCID: PMC10705239 DOI: 10.1101/2023.11.27.567477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2024]
Abstract
There is an established yet unexplained link between interferon (IFN) and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). The expression of sequences derived from transposable elements (TEs) may contribute to production of type I IFNs and generation of autoantibodies. We profiled cell-sorted RNA-seq data (CD4+ T cells, CD14+ monocytes, CD19+ B cells, and NK cells) from PBMCs of 120 SLE patients and quantified TE expression identifying 27,135 TEs. We tested for differential TE expression across 10 SLE phenotypes including autoantibody production and disease activity and discovered 731 differentially expressed (DE) TEs whose effects were mostly cell-specific and phenotype-specific. DE TEs were enriched for specific families and viral genes encoded in TE sequences. Increased expression of DE TEs was associated with genes involved in antiviral activity such as LY6E, ISG15, TRIM22 and pathways such as interferon signaling. These findings suggest that expression of TEs contributes to activation of SLE-related mechanisms in a cell-specific manner, which can impact disease diagnostics and therapeutics.
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Reddam A, Bollati V, Wu H, Favero C, Tarantini L, Hoxha M, Comfort N, Gold DR, Phipatanakul W, Baccarelli AA. Air pollution and human endogenous retrovirus methylation in the school inner-city asthma intervention study. Toxicol Sci 2023; 193:166-174. [PMID: 37042721 PMCID: PMC10230279 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfad035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Human endogenous retroviruses (HERVs) are transposable genomic elements generally repressed through DNA methylation. HERVs can be demethylated and expressed in response to environmental stimuli. Therefore, more research is needed to understand the influence of environmental exposures on HERV methylation. Air pollutants are commonly linked with global hypomethylation, and as HERVs comprise of nearly 8% of repetitive elements in the human genome, our objective was to examine the association between air pollutant exposure and HERV methylation. We investigated 180 students with asthma participating in the School Inner-City Asthma Intervention Study, which evaluated the efficacy of classroom air filters and school-wide pest management on air pollutant/allergen exposure and asthma. Both air pollutants measured in classrooms and asthma outcomes assessed by surveys were collected pre- and post-intervention. Buccal swabs were also collected pre- and post-intervention, and methylation levels from 9 transposable genomic elements (HERV-E, -FRD, -K, -L, -R, -W, -9, and HRES and LINE1) were measured. Adjusting for relevant covariates, the overall air pollutant mixture was cross-sectionally associated with higher HERV-W and lower HERV-L and LINE1 methylation. Coarse PM was cross-sectionally associated with higher HERV-K methylation and CO2 with lower LINE1 methylation. These results suggest that exposure to air pollutants is associated with HERV-W and HERV-K hypermethylation and HERV-L and LINE1 hypomethylation in children with asthma. Future studies are needed to characterize the links between HERV methylation and possible adverse outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aalekhya Reddam
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences; Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, New York 10032, USA
| | - Valentina Bollati
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan 20122, Italy
| | - Haotian Wu
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences; Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, New York 10032, USA
| | - Chiara Favero
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan 20122, Italy
| | - Letizia Tarantini
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan 20122, Italy
| | - Mirjam Hoxha
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan 20122, Italy
| | - Nicole Comfort
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences; Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, New York 10032, USA
| | - Diane R Gold
- Channing Division of Network Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA
| | - Wanda Phipatanakul
- Asthma Clinical Research Center, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA
| | - Andrea A Baccarelli
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences; Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, New York 10032, USA
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3
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Hosseiniporgham S, Sechi LA. Anti-HERV-K Drugs and Vaccines, Possible Therapies against Tumors. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:vaccines11040751. [PMID: 37112663 PMCID: PMC10144246 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11040751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2023] [Revised: 03/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/31/2023] Open
Abstract
The footprint of human endogenous retroviruses (HERV), specifically HERV-K, has been found in malignancies, such as melanoma, teratocarcinoma, osteosarcoma, breast cancer, lymphoma, and ovary and prostate cancers. HERV-K is characterized as the most biologically active HERV due to possession of open reading frames (ORF) for all Gag, Pol, and Env genes, which enables it to be more infective and obstructive towards specific cell lines and other exogenous viruses, respectively. Some factors might contribute to carcinogenicity and at least one of them has been recognized in various tumors, including overexpression/methylation of long interspersed nuclear element 1 (LINE-1), HERV-K Gag, and Env genes themselves plus their transcripts and protein products, and HERV-K reverse transcriptase (RT). Therapies effective for HERV-K-associated tumors mostly target invasive autoimmune responses or growth of tumors through suppression of HERV-K Gag or Env protein and RT. To design new therapeutic options, more studies are needed to better understand whether HERV-K and its products (Gag/Env transcripts and HERV-K proteins/RT) are the initiators of tumor formation or just the disorder’s developers. Accordingly, this review aims to present evidence that highlights the association between HERV-K and tumorigenicity and introduces some of the available or potential therapies against HERV-K-induced tumors.
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Hui L, Ziyue Z, Chao L, Bin Y, Aoyu L, Haijing W. Epigenetic Regulations in Autoimmunity and Cancer: from Basic Science to Translational Medicine. Eur J Immunol 2023; 53:e2048980. [PMID: 36647268 DOI: 10.1002/eji.202048980] [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: 05/28/2021] [Revised: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Epigenetics, as a discipline that aims to explain the differential expression of phenotypes arising from the same gene sequence and the heritability of epigenetic expression, has received much attention in medicine. Epigenetic mechanisms are constantly being discovered, including DNA methylation, histone modifications, noncoding RNAs and m6A. The immune system mainly achieves an immune response through the differentiation and functional expression of immune cells, in which epigenetic modification will have an important impact. Because of immune infiltration in the tumor microenvironment, immunotherapy has become a research hotspot in tumor therapy. Epigenetics plays an important role in autoimmune diseases and cancers through immunology. An increasing number of drugs targeting epigenetic mechanisms, such as DNA methyltransferase inhibitors, histone deacetylase inhibitors, and drug combinations, are being evaluated in clinical trials for the treatment of various cancers (including leukemia and osteosarcoma) and autoimmune diseases (systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, systemic sclerosis). This review summarizes the progress of epigenetic regulation for cancers and autoimmune diseases to date, shedding light on potential therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Hui
- Department of Orthopedics, Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, P. R. China
| | - Zhao Ziyue
- Department of Orthopedics, Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, P. R. China
| | - Liu Chao
- Department of Orthopedics, Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, P. R. China
| | - Yu Bin
- Department of Orthopedics, Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, P. R. China
| | - Li Aoyu
- Department of Orthopedics, Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, P. R. China
| | - Wu Haijing
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, Department of Dermatology, Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, P. R. China
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5
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Rangel SC, da Silva MD, da Silva AL, dos Santos JDMB, Neves LM, Pedrosa A, Rodrigues FM, Trettel CDS, Furtado GE, de Barros MP, Bachi ALL, Romano CM, Nali LHDS. Human endogenous retroviruses and the inflammatory response: A vicious circle associated with health and illness. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1057791. [PMID: 36518758 PMCID: PMC9744114 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1057791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Human Endogenous Retroviruses (HERVs) are derived from ancient exogenous retroviral infections that have infected our ancestors' germline cells, underwent endogenization process, and were passed throughout the generations by retrotransposition and hereditary transmission. HERVs comprise 8% of the human genome and are critical for several physiological activities. Yet, HERVs reactivation is involved in pathological process as cancer and autoimmune diseases. In this review, we summarize the multiple aspects of HERVs' role within the human genome, as well as virological and molecular aspects, and their fusogenic property. We also discuss possibilities of how the HERVs are possibly transactivated and participate in modulating the inflammatory response in health conditions. An update on their role in several autoimmune, inflammatory, and aging-related diseases is also presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Coelho Rangel
- UNISA Research Center, Universidade Santo Amaro, Post-Graduation in Health Sciences, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Amanda Lopes da Silva
- Laboratório de Virologia, Instituto de Medicina Tropical de São Paulo, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Lucas Melo Neves
- UNISA Research Center, Universidade Santo Amaro, Post-Graduation in Health Sciences, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ana Pedrosa
- CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB - Centre for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology, University of Coimbra, (3004-504), Coimbra, Portugal
| | | | - Caio dos Santos Trettel
- Interdisciplinary Program in Health Sciences, Institute of Physical Activity Sciences and Sports (ICAFE), Cruzeiro do Sul University, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Guilherme Eustáquio Furtado
- Polytechnic Institute of Coimbra, Applied Research Institute, Rua da Misericórdia, Lagar dos Cortiços – S. Martinho do Bispo, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Marcelo Paes de Barros
- Interdisciplinary Program in Health Sciences, Institute of Physical Activity Sciences and Sports (ICAFE), Cruzeiro do Sul University, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - André Luis Lacerda Bachi
- UNISA Research Center, Universidade Santo Amaro, Post-Graduation in Health Sciences, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Camila Malta Romano
- Laboratório de Virologia, Instituto de Medicina Tropical de São Paulo, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil,Hospital das Clínicas HCFMUSP (LIM52), Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Luiz Henrique Da Silva Nali
- UNISA Research Center, Universidade Santo Amaro, Post-Graduation in Health Sciences, São Paulo, Brazil,*Correspondence: Luiz Henrique Da Silva Nali, ;
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Liang J, Xie F, Feng J, Huang C, Shen J, Han Z, Luo W, He J, Chen H. Progress in the application of body fluid and tissue level mRNAs-non-coding RNAs for the early diagnosis and prognostic evaluation of systemic lupus erythematosus. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1020891. [PMID: 36325322 PMCID: PMC9618628 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1020891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The diagnosis and differential classification of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is difficult, especially in patients with early-onset SLE who are susceptible to systemic multi-organ damage and serious complications and have difficulties in individualized treatment. At present, diagnosis is based mainly on clinical manifestations and the detection of serological antinuclear antibodies. The pathogenesis of SLE involves multiple factors, is clinically heterogeneous, and lacks specific biomarkers. Therefore, it is necessary to identify new biomarkers for the diagnosis and subtype classification of SLE. Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) are composed of microRNAs, long non-coding RNAs, small nucleolar RNAs, circular RNAs, and transfer RNAs. They play an important role in the occurrence and development of diseases and are used widely in the early diagnosis and prognosis of autoimmune diseases. In this review, we focus on the research progress in the diagnosis and prognostic assessment of SLE using humoral to tissue level ncRNAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiabin Liang
- Central Laboratory of Guangzhou Panyu Central Hospital, Guangzhou, China
- Graduate School of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Fangmei Xie
- Central Laboratory of Guangzhou Panyu Central Hospital, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jie Feng
- Radiology Department of Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chen Huang
- Central Laboratory of Guangzhou Panyu Central Hospital, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jian Shen
- Central Laboratory of Guangzhou Panyu Central Hospital, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zeping Han
- Central Laboratory of Guangzhou Panyu Central Hospital, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wenfeng Luo
- Central Laboratory of Guangzhou Panyu Central Hospital, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jinhua He
- Central Laboratory of Guangzhou Panyu Central Hospital, Guangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Hanwei Chen, ; Jinhua He,
| | - Hanwei Chen
- Central Laboratory of Guangzhou Panyu Central Hospital, Guangzhou, China
- Radiology Department of Panyu Health Management Center (Panyu Rehabilitation Hospital), Guangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Hanwei Chen, ; Jinhua He,
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7
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Kaplun DS, Kaluzhny DN, Prokhortchouk EB, Zhenilo SV. DNA Methylation: Genomewide Distribution, Regulatory Mechanism and Therapy Target. Acta Naturae 2022; 14:4-19. [PMID: 36694897 PMCID: PMC9844086 DOI: 10.32607/actanaturae.11822] [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: 10/07/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
DNA methylation is the most important epigenetic modification involved in the regulation of transcription, imprinting, establishment of X-inactivation, and the formation of a chromatin structure. DNA methylation in the genome is often associated with transcriptional repression and the formation of closed heterochromatin. However, the results of genome-wide studies of the DNA methylation pattern and transcriptional activity of genes have nudged us toward reconsidering this paradigm, since the promoters of many genes remain active despite their methylation. The differences in the DNA methylation distribution in normal and pathological conditions allow us to consider methylation as a diagnostic marker or a therapy target. In this regard, the need to investigate the factors affecting DNA methylation and those involved in its interpretation becomes pressing. Recently, a large number of protein factors have been uncovered, whose ability to bind to DNA depends on their methylation. Many of these proteins act not only as transcriptional activators or repressors, but also affect the level of DNA methylation. These factors are considered potential therapeutic targets for the treatment of diseases resulting from either a change in DNA methylation or a change in the interpretation of its methylation level. In addition to protein factors, a secondary DNA structure can also affect its methylation and can be considered as a therapy target. In this review, the latest research into the DNA methylation landscape in the genome has been summarized to discuss why some DNA regions avoid methylation and what factors can affect its level or interpretation and, therefore, can be considered a therapy target.
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Affiliation(s)
- D. S. Kaplun
- Institute of Bioengineering, Research Center of Biotechnology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 119071 Russia
- Institute of Gene Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 119071 Russia
| | - D. N. Kaluzhny
- Engelhardt Institute of Molecular Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 119991 Russia
| | - E. B. Prokhortchouk
- Institute of Bioengineering, Research Center of Biotechnology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 119071 Russia
- Institute of Gene Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 119071 Russia
| | - S. V. Zhenilo
- Institute of Bioengineering, Research Center of Biotechnology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 119071 Russia
- Institute of Gene Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 119071 Russia
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8
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Min X, Zheng M, Yu Y, Wu J, Kuang Q, Hu Z, Ouyang L, Lu S, Zhao M. Ultraviolet light induces HERV expression to activate RIG-I signalling pathway in keratinocytes. Exp Dermatol 2022; 31:1165-1176. [PMID: 35332586 DOI: 10.1111/exd.14568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2021] [Revised: 03/12/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Skin inflammation and photosensitivity are common in lupus erythematosus (LE) patients, and ultraviolet (UV) light is a known trigger of skin and possibly systemic inflammation in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE) patients. Type I interferons (IFN) are upregulated in LE skin after UV exposure; however, the mechanisms to explain UVB-induced inflammation remain unclear. Here, we demonstrated that UVB irradiation-induced activation of human endogenous retroviruses (HERVs) plays a major role in the immune response. UVB-induced HERV-associated dsRNA transcription and subsequent activation of the innate antiviral RIG-I/MDA5/IRF7 pathway led to downstream transcription of interferon-stimulated genes, which promotes UVB-induced apoptosis and proliferation inhibition in keratinocytes through RIG-I and MDA5 pathways. Our findings indicate that UVB irradiation induces HERV-dsRNA overexpression, and the dsRNA-sensing innate immunity pathway promotes type I IFN production, which may be a potential mechanism of skin inflammatory response and skin lesion of SLE/DLE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoli Min
- 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
| | - Yaqin Yu
- 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
| | - Jiali Wu
- 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
| | - Qiqi Kuang
- 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
| | - Zhi 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
| | - Lianlian Ouyang
- 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
| | - 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
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9
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Temerozo JR, Fintelman-Rodrigues N, Dos Santos MC, Hottz ED, Sacramento CQ, de Paula Dias da Silva A, Mandacaru SC, Dos Santos Moraes EC, Trugilho MRO, Gesto JSM, Ferreira MA, Saraiva FB, Palhinha L, Martins-Gonçalves R, Azevedo-Quintanilha IG, Abrantes JL, Righy C, Kurtz P, Jiang H, Tan H, Morel C, Bou-Habib DC, Bozza FA, Bozza PT, Souza TML. Human endogenous retrovirus K in the respiratory tract is associated with COVID-19 physiopathology. MICROBIOME 2022; 10:65. [PMID: 35459226 PMCID: PMC9024070 DOI: 10.1186/s40168-022-01260-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2021] [Accepted: 03/15/2022] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Critically ill 2019 coronavirus disease (COVID-19) patients under invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV) are 10 to 40 times more likely to die than the general population. Although progression from mild to severe COVID-19 has been associated with hypoxia, uncontrolled inflammation, and coagulopathy, the mechanisms involved in the progression to severity are poorly understood. METHODS The virome of tracheal aspirates (TA) from 25 COVID-19 patients under IMV was assessed through unbiased RNA sequencing (RNA-seq), and correlation analyses were conducted using available clinical data. Unbiased sequences from nasopharyngeal swabs (NS) from mild cases and TA from non-COVID patients were included in our study for further comparisons. RESULTS We found higher levels and differential expression of human endogenous retrovirus K (HERV-K) genes in TA from critically ill and deceased patients when comparing nasopharyngeal swabs from mild cases to TA from non-COVID patients. In critically ill patients, higher HERV-K levels were associated with early mortality (within 14 days of diagnosis) in the intensive care unit. Increased HERV-K expression in deceased patients was associated with IL-17-related inflammation, monocyte activation, and an increased consumption of clotting/fibrinolysis factors. Moreover, increased HERV-K expression was detected in human primary monocytes from healthy donors after experimental SARS-CoV-2 infection in vitro. CONCLUSION Our data implicate the levels of HERV-K transcripts in the physiopathology of COVID-19 in the respiratory tract of patients under invasive mechanical ventilation. Video abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jairo R Temerozo
- Laboratory on Thymus Research, Oswaldo Cruz Institute (IOC), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
- National Institute for Science and Technology on Neuroimmunomodulation (INCT/NIM), Oswaldo Cruz Institute (IOC), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
- Laboratory of Immunopharmacology, Oswaldo Cruz Institute (IOC), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
- Center for Technological Development in Health (CDTS), National Institute for Science and Technology on Innovation on Disease Of Neglected Poppulations (INCT/IDPN), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Natalia Fintelman-Rodrigues
- Laboratory of Immunopharmacology, Oswaldo Cruz Institute (IOC), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
- Center for Technological Development in Health (CDTS), National Institute for Science and Technology on Innovation on Disease Of Neglected Poppulations (INCT/IDPN), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Monique Cristina Dos Santos
- Laboratory of Immunopharmacology, Oswaldo Cruz Institute (IOC), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Eugenio D Hottz
- Laboratory of Immunopharmacology, Oswaldo Cruz Institute (IOC), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
- Laboratory of Immunothrombosis, Department of Biochemistry, Federal University of Juiz de Fora (UFJF), Juiz de Fora, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Carolina Q Sacramento
- Laboratory of Immunopharmacology, Oswaldo Cruz Institute (IOC), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
- Center for Technological Development in Health (CDTS), National Institute for Science and Technology on Innovation on Disease Of Neglected Poppulations (INCT/IDPN), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Aline de Paula Dias da Silva
- Laboratory of Immunopharmacology, Oswaldo Cruz Institute (IOC), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
- Center for Technological Development in Health (CDTS), National Institute for Science and Technology on Innovation on Disease Of Neglected Poppulations (INCT/IDPN), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Samuel Coelho Mandacaru
- Center for Technological Development in Health (CDTS), National Institute for Science and Technology on Innovation on Disease Of Neglected Poppulations (INCT/IDPN), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
- Laboratory of Toxinology, Oswaldo Cruz Institute (IOC), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Emilly Caroline Dos Santos Moraes
- Laboratory of Immunopharmacology, Oswaldo Cruz Institute (IOC), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
- Laboratory of Toxinology, Oswaldo Cruz Institute (IOC), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Monique R O Trugilho
- Center for Technological Development in Health (CDTS), National Institute for Science and Technology on Innovation on Disease Of Neglected Poppulations (INCT/IDPN), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
- Laboratory of Toxinology, Oswaldo Cruz Institute (IOC), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - João S M Gesto
- Center for Technological Development in Health (CDTS), National Institute for Science and Technology on Innovation on Disease Of Neglected Poppulations (INCT/IDPN), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Marcelo Alves Ferreira
- Center for Technological Development in Health (CDTS), National Institute for Science and Technology on Innovation on Disease Of Neglected Poppulations (INCT/IDPN), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Felipe Betoni Saraiva
- Instituto de Tecnologia em Imunobiológicos (Bio-Manguinhos), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Lohanna Palhinha
- Laboratory of Immunopharmacology, Oswaldo Cruz Institute (IOC), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Remy Martins-Gonçalves
- Laboratory of Immunopharmacology, Oswaldo Cruz Institute (IOC), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | | | - Juliana L Abrantes
- Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Cássia Righy
- Paulo Niemeyer State Brain Institute (IECPN), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
- Evandro Chagas National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Pedro Kurtz
- Paulo Niemeyer State Brain Institute (IECPN), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
- D'Or Institute for Research and Education, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Hui Jiang
- MGI Tech Co. Ltd, Building No.11, Beishan Industrial Zone, Yantian District, Shenzhen, 518083, China
| | - Hongdong Tan
- MGI Tech Co. Ltd, Building No.11, Beishan Industrial Zone, Yantian District, Shenzhen, 518083, China
| | - Carlos Morel
- Center for Technological Development in Health (CDTS), National Institute for Science and Technology on Innovation on Disease Of Neglected Poppulations (INCT/IDPN), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Dumith Chequer Bou-Habib
- Laboratory on Thymus Research, Oswaldo Cruz Institute (IOC), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
- National Institute for Science and Technology on Neuroimmunomodulation (INCT/NIM), Oswaldo Cruz Institute (IOC), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Fernando A Bozza
- Evandro Chagas National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
- D'Or Institute for Research and Education, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Patrícia T Bozza
- Laboratory of Immunopharmacology, Oswaldo Cruz Institute (IOC), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Thiago Moreno L Souza
- Laboratory of Immunopharmacology, Oswaldo Cruz Institute (IOC), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil.
- Center for Technological Development in Health (CDTS), National Institute for Science and Technology on Innovation on Disease Of Neglected Poppulations (INCT/IDPN), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil.
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10
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Wang Y, Zhang L, Huang T, Wu GR, Zhou Q, Wang FX, Chen LM, Sun F, Lv Y, Xiong F, Zhang S, Yu Q, Yang P, Gu W, Xu Y, Zhao J, Zhang H, Xiong W, Wang CY. The methyl-CpG-binding domain 2 facilitates pulmonary fibrosis by orchestrating fibroblast to myofibroblast differentiation. Eur Respir J 2022; 60:13993003.03697-2020. [PMID: 35086828 DOI: 10.1183/13993003.03697-2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2020] [Accepted: 12/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Although DNA methylation has been recognized in the pathogenesis of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), the exact mechanisms, however, are yet to be fully addressed. Herein, we demonstrated that lungs originated from IPF patients and mice after bleomycin (BLM)-induced pulmonary fibrosis are characterized by the altered DNA methylation along with overexpression of methyl-CpG-binding domain 2 (MBD2) in myofibroblasts, a reader responsible for interpreting DNA methylome-encoded information. Specifically, depletion of Mbd2 in fibroblasts or myofibroblasts protected mice from BLM-induced pulmonary fibrosis coupled with a significant reduction of fibroblast differentiation. Mechanistically, TGF-β1 induced a positive feedback regulatory loop between transforming growth factor-β receptor I (TβRI), Smad3 and Mbd2, and erythroid differentiation regulator 1 (Erdr1). TGF-β1 induced fibroblasts to undergo a global DNA hypermethylation along with Mbd2 overexpression in a TβRI/Smad3 dependent manner, and Mbd2 selectively bound to the methylated CpG DNA within the Erdr1 promoter to repress its expression, through which it enhances TGF-β/Smads signaling to promote fibroblast differentiating into myofibroblast and exacerbate pulmonary fibrosis. Therefore, enhancing Erdr1 expression strikingly reversed established pulmonary fibrosis. Collectively, our data support that strategies aimed at silencing Mbd2 or increasing Erdr1 could be viable therapeutic approaches for prevention and treatment of pulmonary fibrosis in clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Wang
- The Center for Biomedical Research, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, National Health Center (NHC) Key Laboratory of Respiratory Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Sciences and Technology, , Wuhan , China.,These authors contributed equally to this work
| | - Lei Zhang
- The Center for Biomedical Research, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, National Health Center (NHC) Key Laboratory of Respiratory Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Sciences and Technology, , Wuhan , China.,These authors contributed equally to this work
| | - Teng Huang
- The Center for Biomedical Research, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, National Health Center (NHC) Key Laboratory of Respiratory Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Sciences and Technology, , Wuhan , China
| | - Guo-Rao Wu
- The Center for Biomedical Research, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, National Health Center (NHC) Key Laboratory of Respiratory Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Sciences and Technology, , Wuhan , China
| | - Qing Zhou
- The Center for Biomedical Research, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, National Health Center (NHC) Key Laboratory of Respiratory Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Sciences and Technology, , Wuhan , China
| | - Fa-Xi Wang
- The Center for Biomedical Research, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, National Health Center (NHC) Key Laboratory of Respiratory Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Sciences and Technology, , Wuhan , China
| | - Long-Min Chen
- The Center for Biomedical Research, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, National Health Center (NHC) Key Laboratory of Respiratory Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Sciences and Technology, , Wuhan , China
| | - Fei Sun
- The Center for Biomedical Research, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, National Health Center (NHC) Key Laboratory of Respiratory Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Sciences and Technology, , Wuhan , China
| | - Yongman Lv
- Health Management Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology
| | - Fei Xiong
- The Center for Biomedical Research, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, National Health Center (NHC) Key Laboratory of Respiratory Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Sciences and Technology, , Wuhan , China
| | - Shu Zhang
- The Center for Biomedical Research, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, National Health Center (NHC) Key Laboratory of Respiratory Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Sciences and Technology, , Wuhan , China
| | - Qilin Yu
- The Center for Biomedical Research, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, National Health Center (NHC) Key Laboratory of Respiratory Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Sciences and Technology, , Wuhan , China
| | - Ping Yang
- The Center for Biomedical Research, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, National Health Center (NHC) Key Laboratory of Respiratory Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Sciences and Technology, , Wuhan , China
| | - Weikuan Gu
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery and BME-Campbell Clinic, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee , USA
| | - Yongjian Xu
- The Center for Biomedical Research, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, National Health Center (NHC) Key Laboratory of Respiratory Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Sciences and Technology, , Wuhan , China
| | - Jianping Zhao
- The Center for Biomedical Research, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, National Health Center (NHC) Key Laboratory of Respiratory Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Sciences and Technology, , Wuhan , China
| | - Huilan Zhang
- The Center for Biomedical Research, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, National Health Center (NHC) Key Laboratory of Respiratory Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Sciences and Technology, , Wuhan , China
| | - Weining Xiong
- The Center for Biomedical Research, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, National Health Center (NHC) Key Laboratory of Respiratory Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Sciences and Technology, , Wuhan , China.,Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Tissue Engineering, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, , Shanghai , China
| | - Cong-Yi Wang
- The Center for Biomedical Research, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, National Health Center (NHC) Key Laboratory of Respiratory Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Sciences and Technology, , Wuhan , China
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11
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Ashrafizadeh M, Zarrabi A, Mostafavi E, Aref AR, Sethi G, Wang L, Tergaonkar V. Non-coding RNA-based regulation of inflammation. Semin Immunol 2022; 59:101606. [PMID: 35691882 DOI: 10.1016/j.smim.2022.101606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2021] [Revised: 05/01/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Inflammation is a multifactorial process and various biological mechanisms and pathways participate in its development. The presence of inflammation is involved in pathogenesis of different diseases such as diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular diseases and even, cancer. Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) comprise large part of transcribed genome and their critical function in physiological and pathological conditions has been confirmed. The present review focuses on miRNAs, lncRNAs and circRNAs as ncRNAs and their potential functions in inflammation regulation and resolution. Pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory factors are regulated by miRNAs via binding to 3'-UTR or indirectly via affecting other pathways such as SIRT1 and NF-κB. LncRNAs display a similar function and they can also affect miRNAs via sponging in regulating levels of cytokines. CircRNAs mainly affect miRNAs and reduce their expression in regulating cytokine levels. Notably, exosomal ncRNAs have shown capacity in inflammation resolution. In addition to pre-clinical studies, clinical trials have examined role of ncRNAs in inflammation-mediated disease pathogenesis and cytokine regulation. The therapeutic targeting of ncRNAs using drugs and nucleic acids have been analyzed to reduce inflammation in disease therapy. Therefore, ncRNAs can serve as diagnostic, prognostic and therapeutic targets in inflammation-related diseases in pre-clinical and clinical backgrounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milad Ashrafizadeh
- Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Sabanci University, Orta Mahalle, Üniversite Caddesi No. 27, Orhanlı, Tuzla, 34956 Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ali Zarrabi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Istinye University, 34396 Istanbul, Turkey.
| | - Ebrahim Mostafavi
- Stanford Cardiovascular Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Amir Reza Aref
- Belfer Center for Applied Cancer Science, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Translational Sciences, Xsphera Biosciences Inc. 6, Tide Street, Boston, MA 02210, USA
| | - Gautam Sethi
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117600, Singapore; NUS Centre for Cancer Research (N2CR), Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 119228, Singapore.
| | - Lingzhi Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117600, Singapore; Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Vinay Tergaonkar
- Laboratory of NF-κB Signaling, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), Singapore, Singapore; Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore; Department of Pathology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore.
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12
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Posso-Osorio I, Tobón GJ, Cañas CA. Human endogenous retroviruses (HERV) and non-HERV viruses incorporated into the human genome and their role in the development of autoimmune diseases. J Transl Autoimmun 2021; 4:100137. [PMID: 34917914 PMCID: PMC8669383 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtauto.2021.100137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2021] [Revised: 11/18/2021] [Accepted: 12/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Genomic incorporation of viruses as human endogenous retroviruses (HERVs) are components of our genome that possibly originated by incorporating ancestral of exogenous viruses. Their roles in the evolution of the human genome, gene expression, and the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases (ADs) and neoplastic phenomena are the subject of intense research. This review analyzes the evolutionary and virological aspects of HERVs and other viruses that incorporate their genome into the human genome and have known role in the genesis of ADs. These insights are helpful to understand further the possible role in autoimmunity genesis of HERVs, other ancestral viruses no HERVs and modern viruses with the ability to incorporate into the human genome or interact with HERVs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iván Posso-Osorio
- CIRAT: Centro de Investigación en Reumatología, Autoinmunidad y Medicina Traslacional, Fundación Valle Del Lili and Universidad Icesi, Cali, Colombia.,Fundación Valle del Lili, Rheumatology Unit, Cali, Colombia
| | - Gabriel J Tobón
- Fundación Valle del Lili, Rheumatology Unit, Cali, Colombia.,Department of Medical Microbiology, Immunology and Cell Biology. Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, IL, USA
| | - Carlos A Cañas
- CIRAT: Centro de Investigación en Reumatología, Autoinmunidad y Medicina Traslacional, Fundación Valle Del Lili and Universidad Icesi, Cali, Colombia.,Fundación Valle del Lili, Rheumatology Unit, Cali, Colombia
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13
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Dittmar T, Weiler J, Luo T, Hass R. Cell-Cell Fusion Mediated by Viruses and HERV-Derived Fusogens in Cancer Initiation and Progression. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:5363. [PMID: 34771528 PMCID: PMC8582398 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13215363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2021] [Revised: 10/22/2021] [Accepted: 10/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cell fusion is a well-known, but still scarcely understood biological phenomenon, which might play a role in cancer initiation, progression and formation of metastases. Although the merging of two (cancer) cells appears simple, the entire process is highly complex, energy-dependent and tightly regulated. Among cell fusion-inducing and -regulating factors, so-called fusogens have been identified as a specific type of proteins that are indispensable for overcoming fusion-associated energetic barriers and final merging of plasma membranes. About 8% of the human genome is of retroviral origin and some well-known fusogens, such as syncytin-1, are expressed by human (cancer) cells. Likewise, enveloped viruses can enable and facilitate cell fusion due to evolutionarily optimized fusogens, and are also capable to induce bi- and multinucleation underlining their fusion capacity. Moreover, multinucleated giant cancer cells have been found in tumors derived from oncogenic viruses. Accordingly, a potential correlation between viruses and fusogens of human endogenous retroviral origin in cancer cell fusion will be summarized in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Dittmar
- Institute of Immunology, Center for Biomedical Education and Research (ZBAF), Witten/Herdecke University, 58448 Witten, Germany;
| | - Julian Weiler
- Institute of Immunology, Center for Biomedical Education and Research (ZBAF), Witten/Herdecke University, 58448 Witten, Germany;
| | - Tianjiao Luo
- Biochemistry and Tumor Biology Laboratory, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hannover Medical School, 30625 Hannover, Germany;
| | - Ralf Hass
- Biochemistry and Tumor Biology Laboratory, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hannover Medical School, 30625 Hannover, Germany;
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14
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Nadeem A, Al-Harbi NO, Ahmad SF, Alhazzani K, Attia SM, Alsanea S, Alhoshani A, Mahmood HM, Alfardan AS, Bakheet SA. Exposure to the plasticizer, Di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate during juvenile period exacerbates autism-like behavior in adult BTBR T + tf/J mice due to DNA hypomethylation and enhanced inflammation in brain and systemic immune cells. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2021; 109:110249. [PMID: 33497755 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2021.110249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2020] [Revised: 01/10/2021] [Accepted: 01/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Epigenetic modifications are known to play a crucial role in the behavioral modifications through regulation of gene expression. Environmental factors are known to regulate genetic transcription through DNA methylation which is one of the mechanisms of epigenetic modification. Di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) is one of the most abundant phthalate plasticizers in day-to-day products. Prenatal/postnatal DEHP administration has been reported to cause inflammation as well as behavioral dysregulation, however it is not known if exposure to DEHP during juvenile stage affects peripheral/neuronal inflammation and autism-like symptoms in BTBR mice at adulthood. This study investigated effect of DEHP exposure during juvenile period on DNA methylation (global DNA methylation/DNMT1 expression) and inflammation (IL-17A, IL-6, MCP-1, TNF-α) in CD4 + T cells/CD11c + DCs and cortex, and autism-like symptoms (three-chambered sociability test, self-grooming and marble burying test) in asocial BTBR and social C57 mice at adulthood. Our data reveal that BTBR mice exposed to DEHP during juvenile period have hypomethylated DNA/DNMT1 expression in CD11c + DCs and cortex as compared to vehicle-exposed BTBR mice. It was associated with upregulated inflammation in periphery [plasma IL-6/IL-17A, CD11c + DCs (IL-6/MCP-1/TNF-α), and CD4+ T cells (IL-17A)] and cortex (IL-6, MCP-1, TNF-α), and aggravation in autism-like symptoms in DEHP-treated BTBR mice. These data propose that exposure of DEHP during juvenile period may affect autism-like behavior and inflammation in BTBR mice at adulthood through epigenetic regulation. Therefore, underlying genetic predisposition may play a crucial role in worsening of autistic symptoms in ASD subjects in adulthood if they are exposed to environmental pollutants such as DEHP during juvenile period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed Nadeem
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Naif O Al-Harbi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sheikh F Ahmad
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Khalid Alhazzani
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sabry M Attia
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sary Alsanea
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ali Alhoshani
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hafiz M Mahmood
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ali S Alfardan
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Saleh A Bakheet
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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15
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Pappalardo XG, Barra V. Losing DNA methylation at repetitive elements and breaking bad. Epigenetics Chromatin 2021; 14:25. [PMID: 34082816 PMCID: PMC8173753 DOI: 10.1186/s13072-021-00400-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2021] [Accepted: 05/21/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background DNA methylation is an epigenetic chromatin mark that allows heterochromatin formation and gene silencing. It has a fundamental role in preserving genome stability (including chromosome stability) by controlling both gene expression and chromatin structure. Therefore, the onset of an incorrect pattern of DNA methylation is potentially dangerous for the cells. This is particularly important with respect to repetitive elements, which constitute the third of the human genome. Main body Repetitive sequences are involved in several cell processes, however, due to their intrinsic nature, they can be a source of genome instability. Thus, most repetitive elements are usually methylated to maintain a heterochromatic, repressed state. Notably, there is increasing evidence showing that repetitive elements (satellites, long interspersed nuclear elements (LINEs), Alus) are frequently hypomethylated in various of human pathologies, from cancer to psychiatric disorders. Repetitive sequences’ hypomethylation correlates with chromatin relaxation and unscheduled transcription. If these alterations are directly involved in human diseases aetiology and how, is still under investigation. Conclusions Hypomethylation of different families of repetitive sequences is recurrent in many different human diseases, suggesting that the methylation status of these elements can be involved in preservation of human health. This provides a promising point of view towards the research of therapeutic strategies focused on specifically tuning DNA methylation of DNA repeats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xena Giada Pappalardo
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences (BIOMETEC), University of Catania, 95125, Catania, Italy.,National Council of Research, Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation (IRIB), Unit of Catania, 95125, Catania, Italy
| | - Viviana Barra
- Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, 90128, Palermo, Italy.
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16
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Wieland L, Engel K, Volkmer I, Krüger A, Posern G, Kornhuber ME, Staege MS, Emmer A. Overexpression of Endogenous Retroviruses and Malignancy Markers in Neuroblastoma Cell Lines by Medium-Induced Microenvironmental Changes. Front Oncol 2021; 11:637522. [PMID: 34026614 PMCID: PMC8138558 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.637522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2020] [Accepted: 04/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuroblastoma (NB) is the commonest solid tumor outside the central nervous system in infancy and childhood with a unique biological heterogeneity. In patients with advanced, metastasizing neuroblastoma, treatment failure and poor prognosis is often marked by resistance to chemo- or immunotherapy. Thus, identification of robust biomarkers seems essential for understanding tumor progression and developing effective therapy. Here, we have studied the expression of human endogenous retroviruses (HERV) as potential targets in NB cell lines during stem-cell medium-induced microenvironmental change. Quantitative PCR revealed that relative expression of the HERV-K family and HERV-W1 ENV were increased in all three NB cell lines after incubation in stem-cell medium. Virus transcriptome analyses revealed the transcriptional activation of three endogenous retrovirus elements: HERV-R ENV (ERV3-1), HERV-E1 and HERV-Fc2 ENV (ERVFC1-1). Known malignancy markers in NB, e.g. proto-oncogenic MYC or MYCN were expressed highly heterogeneously in the three investigated NB cell lines with up-regulation of MYC and MYCN upon medium-induced microenvironmental change. In addition, SiMa cells exclusively showed a phenotype switching from loosely-adherent monolayers to low proliferating grape-like cellular aggregates, which was accompanied by an enhanced CD133 expression. Interestingly, the overexpression of HERV was associated with a significant elevation of immune checkpoint molecule CD200 in both quantitative PCR and RNA-seq analysis suggesting tumor escape mechanism in NB cell lines after incubation in serum-free stem cell medium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Wieland
- Department of Neurology, Medical Faculty, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle, Germany.,Department of Surgical and Conservative Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Medical Faculty, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle, Germany
| | - Kristina Engel
- Department of Surgical and Conservative Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Medical Faculty, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle, Germany
| | - Ines Volkmer
- Department of Surgical and Conservative Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Medical Faculty, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle, Germany
| | - Anna Krüger
- Department of Surgical and Conservative Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Medical Faculty, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle, Germany
| | - Guido Posern
- Institute for Physiological Chemistry, Medical Faculty, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle, Germany
| | - Malte E Kornhuber
- Department of Neurology, Medical Faculty, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle, Germany
| | - Martin S Staege
- Department of Surgical and Conservative Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Medical Faculty, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle, Germany
| | - Alexander Emmer
- Department of Neurology, Medical Faculty, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle, Germany
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17
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He S, Du H, Wang Y, Shi X, Zhou Y. Hsa_circ_0010957 level is increased and sponges microRNA‑125b in CD4 + T cells of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus. Mol Med Rep 2021; 23:469. [PMID: 33880592 PMCID: PMC8097751 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2021.12108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2020] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a severe autoimmune disorder, the pathogenesis of which remains largely unknown. The present study aimed to investigate the role and mechanism of circular RNAs in the etiopathogenesis of SLE. CD4+ T cells in patients with SLE expressed higher levels of hsa_circ_0010957 compared with healthy individuals and was a good differentiator of the active from inactive SLE disease. It was also determined that hsa_circ_0010957 mediated microRNA (miR)-125b/STAT3 signaling and subsequent secretion of inflammatory cytokines interleukin (IL)-18, IL-6 and IL-17, which are important factors in the process of SLE. Hsa_circ_0010957 abrogated the proinflammatory effect of IL-6 via the blockade of STAT3 signaling. In conclusion, increased hsa_circ_0010957 may be involved in SLE pathogenesis via miR-125b/STAT3 signaling. Hsa_circ_0010957 promises to be a potential biomarker and therapeutic target for SLE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shan He
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Jinhua Municipal Central Hospital, Jinhua Hospital of Zhejiang University, Jinhua, Zhejiang 321000, P.R. China
| | - Hongwei Du
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Jinhua Municipal Central Hospital, Jinhua Hospital of Zhejiang University, Jinhua, Zhejiang 321000, P.R. China
| | - Yingfang Wang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Jinhua Municipal Central Hospital, Jinhua Hospital of Zhejiang University, Jinhua, Zhejiang 321000, P.R. China
| | - Xiaowei Shi
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Jinhua Municipal Central Hospital, Jinhua Hospital of Zhejiang University, Jinhua, Zhejiang 321000, P.R. China
| | - Yongwei Zhou
- Department of Joint Surgery, Jinhua Municipal Central Hospital, Jinhua Hospital of Zhejiang University, Jinhua, Zhejiang 321000, P.R. China
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18
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Wang X, Ma R, Shi W, Wu Z, Shi Y. Emerging roles of circular RNAs in systemic lupus erythematosus. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2021; 24:212-222. [PMID: 33767917 PMCID: PMC7973136 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2021.02.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are a class of non-coding RNAs with covalently closed single-stranded structures lacking 5'-3' polarity and a polyadenine tail. Over recent years, a growing body of studies have been conducted to explore the roles of circRNAs in human diseases. Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a severe autoimmune disorder characterized by the presence of autoantibodies and excessive inflammation, which impact multiple organs. Recent advances have begun to shed light on the roles of circRNAs in SLE, providing fresh insights into the pathogenesis of SLE and the latent capacity for translation into clinical applications. Here, we briefly introduce these "star molecules" and summarize their roles in SLE. In addition, we outline the limitations of the current studies and raise prospects for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Wang
- Department of Dermatology, Shanghai Skin Disease Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200443, China.,Institute of Psoriasis, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Rui Ma
- Ministry of Education, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Children's Environmental Health, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Weimin Shi
- Department of Dermatology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhouwei Wu
- Department of Dermatology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuling Shi
- Department of Dermatology, Shanghai Skin Disease Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200443, China.,Institute of Psoriasis, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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19
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Epigenomic and transcriptomic analysis of chronic inflammatory diseases. Genes Genomics 2021; 43:227-236. [PMID: 33638813 DOI: 10.1007/s13258-021-01045-8] [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: 12/30/2020] [Accepted: 01/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Chronic inflammatory diseases (CIDs) have complex pathologies that result from aberrant and persistent immune responses. However, the precise triggers and mechanisms remain elusive. An important aspect of CID research focuses on epigenetics modifications, which regulate gene expression and provide a dynamic transcriptional response to inflammation. In recent years, mounting evidence has demonstrated an association between epigenomic and transcriptomic dysregulation and the phenotypes of CIDs. In particular, epigenetic changes at cis-regulatory elements have provided new insights for immune cell-specific alterations that contribute to disease etiology. Furthermore, the advancements in single-cell genomics provide novel solutions to cell type heterogeneity, which has long posed challenges for CID diagnosis and treatment. In this review, we discuss the current state of epigenomics research of CID and the insights derived from single-cell transcriptomic and epigenomic studies.
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20
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Viral Infections and Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: New Players in an Old Story. Viruses 2021; 13:v13020277. [PMID: 33670195 PMCID: PMC7916951 DOI: 10.3390/v13020277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2021] [Revised: 02/06/2021] [Accepted: 02/07/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
A causal link between viral infections and autoimmunity has been studied for a long time and the role of some viruses in the induction or exacerbation of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in genetically predisposed patients has been proved. The strength of the association between different viral agents and SLE is variable. Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), parvovirus B19 (B19V), and human endogenous retroviruses (HERVs) are involved in SLE pathogenesis, whereas other viruses such as Cytomegalovirus (CMV) probably play a less prominent role. However, the mechanisms of viral-host interactions and the impact of viruses on disease course have yet to be elucidated. In addition to classical mechanisms of viral-triggered autoimmunity, such as molecular mimicry and epitope spreading, there has been a growing appreciation of the role of direct activation of innate response by viral nucleic acids and epigenetic modulation of interferon-related immune response. The latter is especially important for HERVs, which may represent the molecular link between environmental triggers and critical immune genes. Virus-specific proteins modulating interaction with the host immune system have been characterized especially for Epstein-Barr virus and explain immune evasion, persistent infection and self-reactive B-cell "immortalization". Knowledge has also been expanding on key viral proteins of B19-V and CMV and their possible association with specific phenotypes such as antiphospholipid syndrome. This progress may pave the way to new therapeutic perspectives, including the use of known or new antiviral drugs, postviral immune response modulation and innate immunity inhibition. We herein describe the state-of-the-art knowledge on the role of viral infections in SLE, with a focus on their mechanisms of action and potential therapeutic targets.
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21
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Mustelin T, Ukadike KC. How Retroviruses and Retrotransposons in Our Genome May Contribute to Autoimmunity in Rheumatological Conditions. Front Immunol 2020; 11:593891. [PMID: 33281822 PMCID: PMC7691656 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.593891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2020] [Accepted: 10/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
More than 200 human disorders include various manifestations of autoimmunity. The molecular events that lead to these diseases are still incompletely understood and their causes remain largely unknown. Numerous potential triggers of autoimmunity have been proposed over the years, but very few of them have been conclusively confirmed or firmly refuted. Viruses have topped the lists of suspects for decades, and it seems that many viruses, including those of the Herpesviridae family, indeed can influence disease initiation and/or promote exacerbations by a number of mechanisms that include prolonged anti-viral immunity, immune subverting factors, and mechanisms, and perhaps “molecular mimicry”. However, no specific virus has yet been established as being truly causative. Here, we discuss a different, but perhaps mechanistically related possibility, namely that retrotransposons or retroviruses that infected us in the past and left a lasting copy of themselves in our genome still can provoke an escalating immune response that leads to autoimmune disease. Many of these loci still encode for retroviral proteins that have retained some, or all, of their original functions. Importantly, these endogenous proviruses cannot be eliminated by the immune system the way it can eliminate exogenous viruses. Hence, if not properly controlled, they may drive a frustrated and escalating chronic, or episodic, immune response to the point of a frank autoimmune disorder. Here, we discuss the evidence and the proposed mechanisms, and assess the therapeutic options that emerge from the current understanding of this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomas Mustelin
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Kennedy C Ukadike
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
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22
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Talotta R, Atzeni F, Laska MJ. The contribution of HERV-E clone 4-1 and other HERV-E members to the pathogenesis of rheumatic autoimmune diseases. APMIS 2020; 128:367-377. [PMID: 32202683 DOI: 10.1111/apm.13039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2019] [Accepted: 02/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Human endogenous retroviruses (HERV)-E consist of a family of more than 1300 elements, stably integrated in the human genome. Some of them are full-length proviruses able to synthesize the viral proteins gag, pol and env. The reactivation of HERV-E elements has been associated to placentation, cancer and autoimmunity. In this narrative review, we aimed to report the status of the art concerning the involvement of HERV-E in rheumatic autoimmune diseases. Following a research on PubMed database, a total of 87 articles were selected. The highest amount of evidence derives from studies on systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), whereas a few to no data are available on other immune-mediated diseases. In SLE, the hyper-expression of HERV-E clone 4-1 in peripheral blood mononuclear cells or differentiated lymphocytes has been associated with disease activity and autoantibody production. It is likely that HERV-E take part to the pathogenesis of rheumatic autoimmune diseases but additional research is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rossella Talotta
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Rheumatology Unit, University of Messina, Azienda Ospedaliera "Gaetano Martino", Messina, Italy
| | - Fabiola Atzeni
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Rheumatology Unit, University of Messina, Azienda Ospedaliera "Gaetano Martino", Messina, Italy
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23
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Talotta R, Atzeni F, Laska MJ. Retroviruses in the pathogenesis of systemic lupus erythematosus: Are they potential therapeutic targets? Autoimmunity 2020; 53:177-191. [PMID: 32321325 DOI: 10.1080/08916934.2020.1755962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The pathogenesis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is characterised by the hyper-activation of immunologic pathways related to the antiviral response. Exogenous and endogenous retroviruses, by integrating their DNA templates in the host cell genome, may epigenetically control the transcription of genes involved in the immune response. Furthermore, their nucleic acids or neo-synthesized proteins could stimulate the sensor molecules placed upstream the inflammatory cascade. Exogenous retroviruses, like human immunodeficiency virus, have been associated to SLE-like manifestations or to a fair SLE diagnosis. In addition, there is some evidence confirming a pathogenic role of human endogenous retroviruses in SLE. In line with these data, the use of antiretroviral agents could represent an attractive opportunity in the future therapeutic algorithms of this disease, but studies are still missing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rossella Talotta
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University Hospital "Gaetano Martino", Messina, Italy
| | - Fabiola Atzeni
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University Hospital "Gaetano Martino", Messina, Italy
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24
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Talotta R, Sarzi-Puttini P, Laska MJ, Atzeni F. Retrotransposons shuttling genetic and epigenetic information from the nuclear to the mitochondrial compartment: Do they play a pathogenetic role in scleroderma? Cytokine Growth Factor Rev 2019; 49:42-58. [PMID: 31677967 DOI: 10.1016/j.cytogfr.2019.10.001] [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: 07/11/2019] [Revised: 10/09/2019] [Accepted: 10/10/2019] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Endogenous retroelements are a class of ancient defective viral insertions contained in the genome of host cells, where they account for up to 40% of all DNA. Centuries of co-existence in host genome have led to the development of immunotolerance to endogenous retroelements, most of which are defective and unable to replicate or transcribe functional proteins. However, given their capacity to move across the nuclear and mitochondrial genome and recombine, they could mix phenotypes and give rise to infections that may trigger innate and adaptive immune responses by sensing receptors capable of recognising foreign nucleic acids and proteins. It has recently been suggested that they play a role in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases on the grounds of their partial reactivation or the epigenetic control of host gene transcription. A number of studies have confirmed their contribution to the development of rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis and systemic lupus erythematosus, but there is still a lack of data concerning systemic sclerosis (SSc). Their role in the pathogenesis of SSc can be hypothesised on the basis of mitochondrial and nuclear chromatinic damage, and hyper-activation of the immune pathway involved in antiviral defense. SSc is characterised by genetic and immunological evidence of a viral infection but, as no viral agent has yet been isolated from SSc patients, the hypothesis that partial reactivation of endogenous retroviruses may trigger the disease cannot be excluded and deserves further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rossella Talotta
- Rheumatology Unit, University of Messina, Azienda Ospedaliera Gaetano Martino, Via Consolare Valeria 1, 98100 Messina, Italy.
| | - Piercarlo Sarzi-Puttini
- Rheumatology Unit, University Hospital ASST-Fatebenefratelli-Sacco, Via G.B Grassi 74, 20157 Milan, Italy.
| | | | - Fabiola Atzeni
- Rheumatology Unit, University of Messina, Azienda Ospedaliera Gaetano Martino, Via Consolare Valeria 1, 98100 Messina, Italy.
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