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Parvin A, Erabi G, Alemi A, Rezanezhad A, Maleksabet A, Sadeghpour S, Taheri-Anganeh M, Ghasemnejad-Berenji H. Seminal plasma proteomics as putative biomarkers for male infertility diagnosis. Clin Chim Acta 2024; 561:119757. [PMID: 38857670 DOI: 10.1016/j.cca.2024.119757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2024] [Revised: 05/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 06/12/2024]
Abstract
Male infertility represents a significant global public health issue that is currently emerging as a prominent research focus. Presently, laboratories adhere to the guidelines outlined by the World Health Organization (WHO) manuals for conducting routine semen analysis to diagnose male infertility. However, the accuracy of results in predicting sperm quality and fertility is limited because some individuals with a normal semen analysis report, an unremarkable medical history, and a physical examination may still experience infertility. As a result, the importance of employing more advanced techniques to investigate sperm function and male fertility in the treatment of male infertility and/or subfertility becomes apparent. The standard test for evaluating human semen has been improved by more complex tests that look at things like reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, total antioxidant capacity (TAC), sperm DNA fragmentation levels, DNA compaction, apoptosis, genetic testing, and the presence and location of anti-sperm antibodies. Recent discoveries of novel biomarkers have significantly enriched our understanding of male fertility. Moreover, the notable biological diversity among samples obtained from the same individual complicates the efficacy of routine semen analysis. Therefore, unraveling the molecular mechanisms involved in fertilization is pivotal in expanding our understanding of factors contributing to male infertility. By understanding how these proteins work and what role they play in sperm activity, we can look at the expression profile in men who can't have children to find diagnostic biomarkers. This review examines the various sperm and seminal plasma proteins associated with infertility, as well as proteins that are either deficient or exhibit aberrant expression, potentially contributing to male infertility causes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Parvin
- Student Research Committee, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Gisou Erabi
- Student Research Committee, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Alireza Alemi
- Student Research Committee, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Arman Rezanezhad
- Student Research Committee, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Amir Maleksabet
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Sonia Sadeghpour
- Reproductive Health Research Center, Clinical Research Institute, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Mortaza Taheri-Anganeh
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Cellular and Molecular Medicine Research Institute, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran.
| | - Hojat Ghasemnejad-Berenji
- Reproductive Health Research Center, Clinical Research Institute, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran.
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Batsalova T, Dzhambazov B. Significance of Type II Collagen Posttranslational Modifications: From Autoantigenesis to Improved Diagnosis and Treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:9884. [PMID: 37373030 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24129884] [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: 05/19/2023] [Revised: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Collagen type II (COL2), the main structural protein of hyaline cartilage, is considerably affected by autoimmune responses associated with the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Posttranslational modifications (PTMs) play a significant role in the formation of the COL2 molecule and supramolecular fibril organization, and thus, support COL2 function, which is crucial for normal cartilage structure and physiology. Conversely, the specific PTMs of the protein (carbamylation, glycosylation, citrullination, oxidative modifications and others) have been implicated in RA autoimmunity. The discovery of the anti-citrullinated protein response in RA, which includes anti-citrullinated COL2 reactivity, has led to the development of improved diagnostic assays and classification criteria for the disease. The induction of immunological tolerance using modified COL2 peptides has been highlighted as a potentially effective strategy for RA therapy. Therefore, the aim of this review is to summarize the recent knowledge on COL2 posttranslational modifications with relevance to RA pathophysiology, diagnosis and treatment. The significance of COL2 PTMs as a source of neo-antigens that activate immunity leading to or sustaining RA autoimmunity is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tsvetelina Batsalova
- Faculty of Biology, Paisii Hilendarski University of Plovdiv, 24 Tsar Assen Str., 4000 Plovdiv, Bulgaria
| | - Balik Dzhambazov
- Faculty of Biology, Paisii Hilendarski University of Plovdiv, 24 Tsar Assen Str., 4000 Plovdiv, Bulgaria
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O'Neil LJ, Oliveira CB, Wang X, Navarrete M, Barrera-Vargas A, Merayo-Chalico J, Aljahdali R, Aguirre-Aguilar E, Carlucci P, Kaplan MJ, Carmona-Rivera C. Neutrophil extracellular trap-associated carbamylation and histones trigger osteoclast formation in rheumatoid arthritis. Ann Rheum Dis 2023; 82:630-638. [PMID: 36737106 DOI: 10.1136/ard-2022-223568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Accepted: 01/23/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Neutrophil infiltration into the synovial joint is a hallmark of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), a disease characterised by progressive bone erosion. However, the mechanisms by which neutrophils participate in bone destruction remain unclear. Carbamylation is a posttranslational modification linked to increased bone erosion in RA and we previously showed that carbamylation is present in RA neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs). However, it remains unclear whether NETs and their carbamylated protein cargo directly promote bone destruction and alter osteoclast biology. METHODS NETs and carbamylated NETs (cNETs) were assessed for their capacity to induce osteoclast formation in CD14+ monocytes. Chemical inhibitors and neutralising antibodies were used to elucidate the pathway by which NETs induce osteoclastogenesis. HLA-DRB1*04:01 mice received intra-articular injection of cNETs for 4 weeks. Joints were isolated and assessed for osteoclast formation. Plasma and synovial fluid samples from patients with RA (n=32) were assessed for the presence of carbamylated histone, and correlations to disease specific outcomes were performed. RESULTS We found that NETs, when cNETs, instruct monocytes to undergo rapid osteoclast formation. NET-mediated osteoclastogenesis appears to depend on Toll-like receptor 4 signalling and NET-associated proteins including histones and neutrophil elastase. In vivo, we identified that the number of osteoclasts increased following immunisation with cNETs in HLA-DRB1*04:01 transgenic mice. Furthermore, carbamylated histones are increased in plasma and synovial fluid from patients with RA and correlate with active bone resorption and inflammatory markers. CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest that NETs have a direct role in RA-associated bone erosion by promoting osteoclast formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liam J O'Neil
- Systemic Autoimmunity Branch, National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA.,Manitoba Centre for Proteomics and Systems Biology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Christopher B Oliveira
- Systemic Autoimmunity Branch, National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Xinghao Wang
- Systemic Autoimmunity Branch, National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Mario Navarrete
- Manitoba Centre for Proteomics and Systems Biology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Ana Barrera-Vargas
- Department of Immunology and Rheumatology, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Medicas y de la Nutricion, Salvador Zubiran, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Javier Merayo-Chalico
- Department of Immunology and Rheumatology, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Medicas y de la Nutricion, Salvador Zubiran, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Rwan Aljahdali
- Systemic Autoimmunity Branch, National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Eduardo Aguirre-Aguilar
- Department of Immunology and Rheumatology, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Medicas y de la Nutricion, Salvador Zubiran, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Philip Carlucci
- Systemic Autoimmunity Branch, National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Mariana J Kaplan
- Systemic Autoimmunity Branch, National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Carmelo Carmona-Rivera
- Systemic Autoimmunity Branch, National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
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Roy R, Lorca C, Mulet M, Sánchez Milán JA, Baratas A, de la Casa M, Espinet C, Serra A, Gallart-Palau X. Altered ureido protein modification profiles in seminal plasma extracellular vesicles of non-normozoospermic men. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1113824. [PMID: 37033249 PMCID: PMC10073716 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1113824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/11/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Extracellular vesicles (EVs) have been recognized as key players in numerous physiological functions. These vesicles alter their compositions attuned to the health and disease states of the organism. In men, significant changes in the proteomic composition(s) of seminal plasma EVs (sEVs) have already been found to be related to infertility. METHODS Methods: In this study, we analyze the posttranslational configuration of sEV proteomes from normozoospermic (NZ) men and non-normozoospermic (non-NZ) men diagnosed with teratozoospermia and/or asthenozoospermia by unbiased, discovery-driven proteomics and advanced bioinformatics, specifically focusing on citrulline (Cit) and homocitrulline (hCit) posttranscriptional residues, both considered product of ureido protein modifications. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION Significant increase in the proteome-wide cumulative presence of hCit together with downregulation of Cit in specific proteins related to decisive molecular functions have been encountered in sEVs of non-NZ subjects. These findings identify novel culprits with a higher chance of affecting fundamental aspects of sperm functional quality and define potential specific diagnostic and prognostic non-invasive markers for male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosa Roy
- Department of Biology, Genetics Unit, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Cantoblanco, Madrid, Spain
| | - Cristina Lorca
- Biomedical Research Institute of Lleida (IRBLLEIDA), +Pec Proteomics Research Group (+PPRG), Neuroscience Area, University Hospital Arnau de Vilanova (HUAV), Lleida, Spain
- IMDEA-Food Research Institute, Campus of International Excellence UAM+CSIC, Old Cantoblanco Hospital, Madrid, Spain
| | - María Mulet
- Biomedical Research Institute of Lleida (IRBLLEIDA), +Pec Proteomics Research Group (+PPRG), Neuroscience Area, University Hospital Arnau de Vilanova (HUAV), Lleida, Spain
- IMDEA-Food Research Institute, Campus of International Excellence UAM+CSIC, Old Cantoblanco Hospital, Madrid, Spain
| | - José Antonio Sánchez Milán
- Biomedical Research Institute of Lleida (IRBLLEIDA), +Pec Proteomics Research Group (+PPRG), Neuroscience Area, University Hospital Arnau de Vilanova (HUAV), Lleida, Spain
| | - Alejandro Baratas
- Department of Biology, Genetics Unit, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Cantoblanco, Madrid, Spain
| | - Moisés de la Casa
- Department of Biology, Genetics Unit, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Cantoblanco, Madrid, Spain
- GINEFIV, Assisted Reproduction Centre, Madrid, Spain
| | - Carme Espinet
- Department of Medical Basic Sciences, University of Lleida (UdL), Lleida, Spain
| | - Aida Serra
- Biomedical Research Institute of Lleida (IRBLLEIDA), +Pec Proteomics Research Group (+PPRG), Neuroscience Area, University Hospital Arnau de Vilanova (HUAV), Lleida, Spain
- IMDEA-Food Research Institute, Campus of International Excellence UAM+CSIC, Old Cantoblanco Hospital, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Medical Basic Sciences, University of Lleida (UdL), Lleida, Spain
- *Correspondence: Aida Serra, ; Xavier Gallart-Palau,
| | - Xavier Gallart-Palau
- Biomedical Research Institute of Lleida (IRBLLEIDA), +Pec Proteomics Research Group (+PPRG), Neuroscience Area, University Hospital Arnau de Vilanova (HUAV), Lleida, Spain
- Department of Psychology, University of Lleida (UdL), Lleida, Spain
- *Correspondence: Aida Serra, ; Xavier Gallart-Palau,
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Ru Z, Zhang H, Huang X, Lou J, Liao J, Chen Z, Yang X. A new pattern of citrullinated peptides improves the sensitivity for diagnosing rheumatoid arthritis. Clin Biochem 2022; 105-106:87-93. [DOI: 10.1016/j.clinbiochem.2022.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2021] [Revised: 03/29/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
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Trejo-Zambrano MI, Gómez-Bañuelos E, Andrade F. Redox-Mediated Carbamylation As a Hapten Model Applied to the Origin of Antibodies to Modified Proteins in Rheumatoid Arthritis. Antioxid Redox Signal 2022; 36:389-409. [PMID: 33906423 PMCID: PMC8982126 DOI: 10.1089/ars.2021.0064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2021] [Accepted: 04/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Significance: The production of antibodies to posttranslationally modified antigens is a hallmark in rheumatoid arthritis (RA). In particular, the presence of citrullination-associated antibodies, targeting both citrullinating enzymes (the peptidylarginine deiminases [PADs]) and citrullinated antigens (anticitrullinated protein antibodies [ACPAs]), has suggested that dysregulated citrullination is relevant for disease pathogenesis. Antibodies to other protein modifications with physicochemical similarities to citrulline, such as carbamylated-lysine and acetylated-lysine, have also gained interest in RA, but their mechanistic relation to ACPAs remains unclear. Recent Advances: Recent studies using RA-derived monoclonal antibodies have found that ACPAs are cross-reactive to carbamylated and acetylated peptides, challenging our understanding of the implications of such cross-reactivity. Critical Issues: Analogous to the classic antibody response to chemically modified proteins, we examine the possibility that antibodies to modified proteins in RA are more likely to resemble antihapten antibodies rather than autoantibodies. This potential shift in the autoantibody paradigm in RA offers the opportunity to explore new mechanisms involved in the origin and cross-reactivity of pathogenic antibodies in RA. In contrast to citrullination, carbamylation is a chemical modification associated with oxidative stress, it is highly immunogenic, and is considered in the group of posttranslational modification-derived products. We discuss the possibility that carbamylated proteins are antigenic drivers of cross-reacting antihapten antibodies that further create the ACPA response, and that ACPAs may direct the production of antibodies to PAD enzymes. Future Directions: Understanding the complexity of autoantibodies in RA is critical to develop tools to clearly define their origin, identify drivers of disease propagation, and develop novel therapeutics. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 36, 389-409.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Eduardo Gómez-Bañuelos
- Division of Rheumatology, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Felipe Andrade
- Division of Rheumatology, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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7
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Bay-Jensen AC, Siebuhr AS, Damgaard D, Drobinski P, Thudium C, Mortensen J, Nielsen CH. Objective and noninvasive biochemical markers in rheumatoid arthritis: where are we and where are we going? Expert Rev Proteomics 2021; 18:159-175. [PMID: 33783300 DOI: 10.1080/14789450.2021.1908892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects approximately 1% of the adult population. RA is multi-factorial, and as such our understanding of the molecular pathways involved in the disease is currently limited. An increasing number of studies have suggested that several molecular phenotypes (i.e. endotypes) of RA exist, and that different endotypes respond differently to various treatments. Biochemical markers may be an attractive means for achieving precision medicine, as they are objective and easily obtainable. AREAS COVERED We searched recent publications on biochemical markers in RA as either diagnostic or prognostic markers, or as markers of disease activity. Here, we provide a narrative overview of different classes of markers, such as autoantibodies, citrulline products, markers of tissue turnover and cytokines, that have been tested in clinical cohorts or trials including RA patients. EXPERT OPINION Although many biochemical markers have been identified and tested, few are currently being used in clinical practice. As more treatment options are becoming available, the need for precision medicine tools that can aid physicians and patients in choosing the right treatment is growing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne C Bay-Jensen
- ImmunoScience, Nordic Bioscience Biomarkers and Research, Herlev, Denmark
| | - Anne Sofie Siebuhr
- ImmunoScience, Nordic Bioscience Biomarkers and Research, Herlev, Denmark
| | - Dres Damgaard
- Center for Rheumatolology and Spine Diseases, Institute for Inflammation Research, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
| | - Patryk Drobinski
- ImmunoScience, Nordic Bioscience Biomarkers and Research, Herlev, Denmark
| | - Christian Thudium
- ImmunoScience, Nordic Bioscience Biomarkers and Research, Herlev, Denmark
| | - Joachim Mortensen
- ImmunoScience, Nordic Bioscience Biomarkers and Research, Herlev, Denmark
| | - Claus H Nielsen
- Center for Rheumatolology and Spine Diseases, Institute for Inflammation Research, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
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Zheng Z, Mergaert AM, Fahmy LM, Bawadekar M, Holmes CL, Ong IM, Bridges AJ, Newton MA, Shelef MA. Disordered Antigens and Epitope Overlap Between Anti-Citrullinated Protein Antibodies and Rheumatoid Factor in Rheumatoid Arthritis. Arthritis Rheumatol 2019; 72:262-272. [PMID: 31397047 DOI: 10.1002/art.41074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2018] [Accepted: 08/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Anti-citrullinated protein antibodies (ACPAs) and rheumatoid factor (RF) are commonly present in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) without a clear rationale for their coexistence. Moreover, autoantibodies develop against proteins with different posttranslational modifications and native proteins without obvious unifying characteristics of the antigens. We undertook this study to broadly evaluate autoantibody binding in seronegative and seropositive RA to identify novel features of reactivity. METHODS An array was created using a total of 172,828 native peptides, citrulline-containing peptides, and homocitrulline-containing peptides derived primarily from proteins citrullinated in the rheumatoid joint. IgG and IgM binding to peptides were compared between cyclic citrullinated peptide (CCP)-positive RF+, CCP+RF-, CCP-RF+, and CCP-RF- serum from RA patients (n = 48) and controls (n = 12). IgG-bound and endogenously citrullinated peptides were analyzed for amino acid patterns and predictors of intrinsic disorder, i.e., unstable 3-dimensional structure. Binding to IgG-derived peptides was specifically evaluated. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay confirmed key results. RESULTS Broadly, CCP+RF+ patients had high citrulline-specific IgG binding to array peptides and CCP+RF- and CCP-RF+ patients had modest citrulline-specific IgG binding (median Z scores 3.02, 1.42, and 0.75, respectively; P < 0.0001). All RA groups had low homocitrulline-specific binding. CCP+RF+ patients had moderate IgG binding to native peptides (median Z score 2.38; P < 0.0001). The highest IgG binding was to citrulline-containing peptides, irrespective of protein identity, especially if citrulline was adjacent to glycine or serine, motifs also seen in endogenous citrullination in the rheumatoid joint. Highly bound peptides had multiple features predictive of disorder. IgG from CCP+RF+ patients targeted citrulline-containing IgG-derived peptides. CONCLUSION Disordered antigens, which are frequently citrullinated, and common epitopes for ACPAs and RF are potentially unifying features for RA autoantibodies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Irene M Ong
- University of Wisconsin-Madison and University of Wisconsin Carbone Comprehensive Cancer Center
| | - Alan J Bridges
- University of Wisconsin-Madison and William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Hospital
| | | | - Miriam A Shelef
- University of Wisconsin-Madison and William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Hospital
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Post-Translational Modifications of Proteins: Novel Insights in the Autoimmune Response in Rheumatoid Arthritis. Cells 2019; 8:cells8070657. [PMID: 31261953 PMCID: PMC6678491 DOI: 10.3390/cells8070657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2019] [Revised: 06/19/2019] [Accepted: 06/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Post-translational modifications (PTM) are chemical changes mostly catalyzed by enzymes that recognize specific target sequences in specific proteins. These modifications play a key role in regulating the folding of proteins, their targeting to specific subcellular compartments, their interaction with ligands or other proteins, and eventually their immunogenic properties. Citrullination is the best characterized PTM in the field of rheumatology, with antibodies anticyclic citrullinated peptides being the gold standard for the diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). In recent years, growing evidence supports not only that a wide range of proteins are subject to citrullination and can trigger an autoimmune response in RA, but also that several other PTMs such as carbamylation and acetylation occur in patients with this disease. This induces a wide spectrum of autoantibodies, as biomarkers, with different sensitivity and specificity for diagnosis, which may be linked to peculiar clinical manifestations and/or response to treatment. The purpose of this review article is to critically summarize the available literature on antibodies against post-translationally modified proteins, in particular antibodies against citrullinated proteins (ACPA) and antibodies against modified proteins (AMPA), and outline their diagnostic and prognostic role to be implemented in clinical practice for RA patients.
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10
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Trier NH, Holm BE, Hansen PR, Slot O, Locht H, Houen G. Specificity of Anti-Citrullinated Protein Antibodies in Rheumatoid Arthritis. Antibodies (Basel) 2019; 8:antib8020037. [PMID: 31544843 PMCID: PMC6640722 DOI: 10.3390/antib8020037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2019] [Revised: 05/28/2019] [Accepted: 06/06/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease of unknown etiology. The majority of individuals with RA are positive for the disease-specific anti-citrullinated protein antibodies (ACPAs). These antibodies are primarily of cross-reactive nature, hence, the true autoantigen to ACPA remains unidentified. In this study, we analyzed the reactivity of RA sera to several post-translationally modified epitopes, in order to further characterize the specific nature of ACPAs by immunoassays. Substituting citrulline with other amino acids, e.g., D-citrulline, homo-citrulline and methyl-arginine illustrated that ACPAs are utmost specific for citrullinated targets. Collectively, these findings support that ACPAs and citrullinated targets are specific for RA, making citrulline-containing peptide targets the most effective assays for detection of ACPAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole H Trier
- Department of Biomarkers and Autoimmunity, Statens Serum Institut, Artillerivej 5, 2300 Copenhagen S, Denmark.
| | - Bettina E Holm
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Rigshospitalet, Ole Maaløes vej 26, 2200 Copenhagen N, Denmark.
| | - Paul R Hansen
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Universitetsparken 2, 2100 Copenhagen Ø, Denmark.
| | - Ole Slot
- Department of Rheumatology, Rigshospitalet Glostrup, Nordre Ringvej 57, 2600 Glostrup, Denmark.
| | - Henning Locht
- Department of Rheumatology, Frederiksberg Hospital, Nordre Fasanvej 57, 2000 Frederiksberg, Denmark.
| | - Gunnar Houen
- Department of Biomarkers and Autoimmunity, Statens Serum Institut, Artillerivej 5, 2300 Copenhagen S, Denmark.
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Verheul MK, Böhringer S, van Delft MAM, Jones JD, Rigby WFC, Gan RW, Holers VM, Edison JD, Deane KD, Janssen KMJ, Westra J, Brink M, Rantapää-Dahlqvist S, Huizinga TWJ, van der Helm-van Mil AHM, van der Woude D, Toes REM, Trouw LA. Triple Positivity for Anti-Citrullinated Protein Autoantibodies, Rheumatoid Factor, and Anti-Carbamylated Protein Antibodies Conferring High Specificity for Rheumatoid Arthritis: Implications for Very Early Identification of At-Risk Individuals. Arthritis Rheumatol 2018; 70:1721-1731. [PMID: 29781231 DOI: 10.1002/art.40562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2017] [Accepted: 05/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In rheumatoid arthritis (RA), anti-citrullinated protein antibodies (ACPAs) and rheumatoid factor (RF) are commonly used to aid in the diagnosis. Although these autoantibodies are mainly found in RA, their specificity is not optimal. It is therefore difficult to identify RA patients, especially in very early disease, based on the presence of ACPAs and RF alone. In addition, anti-carbamylated protein (anti-CarP) antibodies have diagnostic and prognostic value, since their presence is associated with joint damage in RA patients and also associated with the future development of RA in patients with arthralgia. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to investigate the value of combined antibody testing in relation to prediction and diagnosis of (early) RA. METHODS A literature search resulted in identification of 12 relevant studies, consisting of RA patients, pre-RA individuals, disease controls, healthy first-degree relatives of RA patients, and healthy control subjects, in which data on RF, ACPAs, and anti-CarP antibody status were available. Using these data, random effects meta-analyses were carried out for several antibody combinations. RESULTS The individual antibodies were highly prevalent in patients with RA (34-80%) compared to the control groups, but were also present in non-RA controls (0-23%). For the classification of most subjects correctly as having RA or as a non-RA control, the combination of ACPAs and/or RF often performed well (specificity 65-100%, sensitivity 59-88%). However, triple positivity for ACPAs, RF, and anti-CarP antibodies resulted in a higher specificity for RA (98-100%), accompanied by a lower sensitivity (11-39%). CONCLUSION As the rheumatology field is moving toward very early identification of RA and possible screening for individuals at maximum risk of RA in populations with a low pretest probability, an autoantibody profile of triple positivity for ACPAs, RF, and anti-CarP provides interesting information that might help identify individuals at risk of developing RA.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Ryan W Gan
- Colorado School of Public Health, Aurora
| | | | - Jess D Edison
- Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, Maryland
| | | | - Koen M J Janssen
- University of Groningen and University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Johanna Westra
- University of Groningen and University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Rene E M Toes
- Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
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12
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Verheul M, van Veelen P, van Delft M, de Ru A, Janssen G, Rispens T, Toes R, Trouw L. Pitfalls in the detection of citrullination and carbamylation. Autoimmun Rev 2018; 17:136-141. [DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2017.11.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Immune responses to peptides containing homocitrulline or citrulline in the DR4-transgenic mouse model of rheumatoid arthritis. J Autoimmun 2017; 89:75-81. [PMID: 29242008 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaut.2017.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2017] [Revised: 11/30/2017] [Accepted: 12/03/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Antibodies to proteins/peptides containing citrulline are hallmarks of Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA). These antibodies are strongly associated with the expression of the Shared Epitope (SE). RA patients also generate antibodies to homocitrulline-containing proteins/peptides (also referred to as anti-carbamylated protein antibodies (Anti-CarP)). This study was undertaken to investigate the relationship between homocitrulline and citrulline immune responses using an established mouse model of RA: DR4-transgenic (DR4tg) mice that express the human SE. C57BL/6 (B6) and DR4tg (on a B6 background) mice were immunized subcutaneously with a homocitrullinated peptide (HomoCitJED). Splenic T cell proliferation was evaluated by 3H-thymidine incorporation assay. Antibodies to homocitrullinated and citrullinated antigens were screened by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Antibody cross-reactivity was examined by inhibition with HomoCitJED and its citrullinated counterpart peptide, CitJED (the number of homocitrullines in HomoCitJED is equal to the number of citrullines in CitJED). HomoCitJED-immunized DR4tg mice developed early T and B cell responses to HomoCitJED and late responses to CitJED. These mice also developed anti-CCP2 antibodies. In some mice, antibodies to HomoCitJED were also reactive to CitJED. B6 mice immunized with HomoCitJED developed late T and B cell responses to HomoCitJED, but did not generate responses to citrullinated antigens. Unlike DR4tg mice, anti-HomoCitJED antibodies from B6 mice did not react to CitJED. In conclusion, DR4tg mice immunized with HomoCitJED developed immune responses to CitJED, indicating cross-reactivity. CitJED immune responses were dependent on the SE. HomoCitJED responses occurred in the absence of the SE (B6 mice); however, they developed earlier in DR4tg SE-expressing mice.
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Lac P, Racapé M, Barra L, Bell DA, Cairns E. Relatedness of Antibodies to Peptides Containing Homocitrulline or Citrulline in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis. J Rheumatol 2017; 45:302-309. [DOI: 10.3899/jrheum.170446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/12/2017] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Objective.Antibodies that target citrullinated protein/peptide (ACPA) and homocitrullinated/carbamylated protein/peptide (AHCPA) are associated with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The relationship between ACPA and AHCPA remains unclear. We examined the expression and cross-reactivity of these antibodies using citrulline- and homocitrulline-containing synthetic peptides, CitJED and HomoCitJED, respectively, which have equal numbers of citrulline or homocitrulline residues on the same peptide backbone.Methods.Serum from healthy subjects (n = 51) and patients with RA (n = 137), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE; n = 37), and psoriatic arthritis (PsA; n = 37) were screened for IgG anti-CitJED and anti-HomoCitJED antibodies by ELISA. Cross-reactivity of these antibodies was examined by inhibition with various concentrations of CitJED and HomoCitJED.Results.Out of 137 patients with RA, antibodies to CitJED and HomoCitJED were detected in 69 (50%) and 78 (57%), respectively. Anti-CitJED and HomoCitJED antibodies were 77% concordant and their levels were strongly correlated [Spearman correlation coefficient (rs) = 0.6676]. Sera from 25/27 patients (93%) with RA were inhibited by both CitJED and HomoCitJED with equal or higher affinity for the cognate (homologous) peptide.Conclusion.Antibodies to CitJED and HomoCitJED frequently occurred in RA, but were not found in SLE or PsA, suggesting that these antibodies are specific to RA. Cross-reactivity between anti-HomoCitJED and anti-CitJED antibodies suggests that ACPA and AHCPA are derived from the same B cell population and both may contribute to the pathogenesis of RA.
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Beyond citrullination: other post-translational protein modifications in rheumatoid arthritis. Nat Rev Rheumatol 2017; 13:331-339. [PMID: 28275265 DOI: 10.1038/nrrheum.2017.15] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The presence of autoantibodies is one of the hallmarks of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). In the past few decades, rheumatoid factors (autoantibodies that recognize the Fc-tail of immunoglobulins) as well as anti-citrullinated protein antibodies (ACPAs) have been studied intensively. ACPAs recognize post-translationally modified proteins in which the amino acid arginine has been converted into a citrulline. More recently, other autoantibody systems recognizing post-translationally modified proteins have also gained attention, including autoantibodies recognizing fragmented immunoglobulin (anti-hinge antibodies), autoantibodies recognizing acetylated proteins and autoantibodies recognizing proteins that are modified by adducts formed under oxidative stress. In particular, detailed insights have been obtained on the presence and properties of autoantibodies recognizing carbamylated proteins, commonly called anti-carbamylated protein (anti-CarP) antibodies. In this Review, we summarize the current knowledge relating to these emerging autoantibodies that recognize post-translationally modified proteins identified in RA, with an emphasis on anti-CarP antibodies.
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Mechanisms leading from systemic autoimmunity to joint-specific disease in rheumatoid arthritis. Nat Rev Rheumatol 2016; 13:79-86. [PMID: 27974851 DOI: 10.1038/nrrheum.2016.200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 162] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
A key unanswered question in the pathophysiology of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is how systemic autoimmunity progresses to joint-specific inflammation. In patients with seropositive RA (that is, characterized by the presence of autoantibodies) evidence is accumulating that immunity against post-translationally modified (such as citrullinated) autoantigens might be triggered in mucosal organs, such as the lung, long before the first signs of inflammation are seen in the joints. However, the mechanism by which systemic autoimmunity specifically homes to the joint and bone compartment, thereby triggering inflammation, remains elusive. This Review summarizes potential pathways involved in this joint-homing mechanism, focusing particularly on osteoclasts as the primary targets of anti-citrullinated protein antibodies (ACPAs) in the bone and joint compartment. Osteoclasts are dependent on citrullinating enzymes for their normal differentiation and are unique in displaying citrullinated antigens on their cell surface in a non-inflamed state. The binding of ACPAs to osteoclasts releases the chemokine IL-8, leading to bone erosion and pain. This process initiates a chain of events that could lead to attraction and activation of neutrophils, resulting in a complex series of proinflammatory processes in the synovium, eventually leading to RA.
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Turunen S, Huhtakangas J, Nousiainen T, Valkealahti M, Melkko J, Risteli J, Lehenkari P. Rheumatoid arthritis antigens homocitrulline and citrulline are generated by local myeloperoxidase and peptidyl arginine deiminases 2, 3 and 4 in rheumatoid nodule and synovial tissue. Arthritis Res Ther 2016; 18:239. [PMID: 27765067 PMCID: PMC5072303 DOI: 10.1186/s13075-016-1140-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2016] [Accepted: 09/27/2016] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Seropositive rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is characterized by autoantibodies binding to citrullinated and homocitrullinated proteins. We wanted to study the expression patterns of these disease-associated protein forms and if the rheumatoid nodule and synovial tissue itself contain biologically active levels of citrullinating peptidyl arginine deiminases 2, 3 and 4 and homocitrullination-facilitating neutrophil enzyme myeloperoxidase. Method Total of 195 synovial samples from metatarsal joints from five ACPA/RF-positive RA patients (n = 77), synovial samples from knees of eight seropositive RA (n = 60), seven seronegative RA (n = 33) and five osteoarthritis (n = 25) patients were analyzed for citrulline and homocitrulline contents using HPLC. The location of citrulline- and homocitrulline-containing proteins, PAD 2, 3, 4 and myeloperoxidase were shown by immunostaining. Myeloperoxidase and citrulline- or homocitrulline-containing proteins were stained on Western blot. Results Overall, necrosis was frequent in metatarsals of seropositive RA and absent in seronegative RA and osteoarthritis patients. In histological analysis, there was a significant local patterning and variation in the citrulline and homocitrulline content and it was highest in metatarsal synovial tissues of seropositive RA patients. We found peptidyl arginine deiminase 2, 3 and 4 in the lining and sublining layers of intact synovial tissue. Myeloperoxidase was found locally around necrotic areas. The tissues with necrosis contained the highest levels of citrulline and homocitrulline. Conclusions Rheumatoid nodules and synovia contain significant amount of PAD2, 3 and 4 and myeloperoxidase enzymes. These enzymes could explain the levels of citrulline and homocitrulline in seropositive RA synovial and rheumatoid nodule tissues especially around necrotic tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanna Turunen
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Cancer and Translational Medicine Research Unit, University of Oulu, P.O. Box 5000, 90014, Oulu, Finland.
| | - Johanna Huhtakangas
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Cancer and Translational Medicine Research Unit, University of Oulu, P.O. Box 5000, 90014, Oulu, Finland.,Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Oulu University Hospital, Oulu, Finland
| | - Tomi Nousiainen
- Division of Orthopedic Surgery, Oulu University Hospital, Oulu, Finland
| | | | - Jukka Melkko
- Department of Pathology, Cancer and Translational Medicine Research Unit, University of Oulu and Oulu University Hospital, Oulu, Finland
| | - Juha Risteli
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Cancer and Translational Medicine Research Unit, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland.,Northern Finland Laboratory Centre NordLab, Oulu University Hospital, Oulu, Finland
| | - Petri Lehenkari
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Cancer and Translational Medicine Research Unit, University of Oulu, P.O. Box 5000, 90014, Oulu, Finland.,Division of Orthopedic Surgery, Oulu University Hospital, Oulu, Finland
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Turunen S, Koivula MK, Risteli L, Risteli J. Ureido group-specific antibodies are induced in rabbits immunized with citrulline- or homocitrulline-containing antigens. Autoimmunity 2016; 49:459-465. [PMID: 27098309 DOI: 10.3109/08916934.2016.1171853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
The specificities and cross-reactions of antibodies induced by citrulline- and homocitrulline-containing proteins may give implications on the role of citrulline- and homocitrulline-binding antibodies in the pathogenesis and progression of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Here we use rabbits as an experimental model of antibody development in RA. Thirty-two animals were immunized with peptide antigens containing either homocitrulline or citrulline. The sera were tested for binding to CCP and MCV antigens and to peptide sequences related to carboxyterminal telopeptides of type I and II collagens and containing arginine, citrulline, or homocitrulline. The binding of CCP and MCV antigens to antisera against homocitrulline-containing immunogens could be inhibited by human serum albumin containing homocitrulline, whereas similar binding to sera against citrulline-containing immunogens was not inhibited. The antisera induced with citrulline-containing collagen telopeptides recognized type I collagen-related antigens in a sequence-specific manner, as antibody binding to both citrulline- and homocitrulline-containing peptides was inhibited by corresponding citrullinated and native peptides. In contrast, type II collagen-related peptides were recognized by the antisera in a ureido group-specific manner, as their binding to homocitrulline-containing peptide was inhibited by both citrulline- and homocitrulline-containing, but not native peptide. Binding of the citrullinated type II collagen peptide could only be inhibited by the similarly citrullinated peptide. In conclusion, antibodies induced with citrulline or homocitrulline-containing antigens bound antigens in a ureido group-specific manner, recognizing citrulline and homocitrulline also in other sequences than those used in the original immunization. In competitive situations the amino acid present in the immunization antigen was favored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanna Turunen
- a Department of Clinical Chemistry , Cancer and Translational Medicine Research Unit, Medical Research Center, University of Oulu , Oulu , Finland and
| | - Marja-Kaisa Koivula
- a Department of Clinical Chemistry , Cancer and Translational Medicine Research Unit, Medical Research Center, University of Oulu , Oulu , Finland and.,b Northern Finland Laboratory Centre NordLab, Oulu University Hospital , Oulu , Finland
| | - Leila Risteli
- a Department of Clinical Chemistry , Cancer and Translational Medicine Research Unit, Medical Research Center, University of Oulu , Oulu , Finland and.,b Northern Finland Laboratory Centre NordLab, Oulu University Hospital , Oulu , Finland
| | - Juha Risteli
- a Department of Clinical Chemistry , Cancer and Translational Medicine Research Unit, Medical Research Center, University of Oulu , Oulu , Finland and.,b Northern Finland Laboratory Centre NordLab, Oulu University Hospital , Oulu , Finland
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