Mechanisms of eosinophil secretion: large vesiculotubular carriers mediate transport and release of granule-derived cytokines and other proteins

Eosinophil extracellular traps in respiratory ailment: Pathogenic mechanisms and clinical translation

Background

Eosinophilic extracellular traps (EETs) are reticular complexes comprising deoxyribonucleic-Acid (DNA) fibers and granule proteins.

Aims

EETs play a crucial role in antimicrobial host responses and are pathogenic when overproduced or under degraded. EETs created by eosinophils appear to enable vital immune responses against extra-cellular pathogens, nevertheless, trap overproduction is evident in pathology.

Materials & Methods

As considerably research is performed, new data affirmed that EETs can alter the outcome of respiratory ailment.

Results

We probe into the disclosure and specificity of EETs produced in reaction to various stimuli and propose a role for those frameworks in ailment pathogenesis and the establishment of chronic, unresolved inflammation.

Discussion

Whether EETs can be used as a prospective brand-new target for the diagnosis, treatment and prognosis of respiratory ailments is a scientific theme worth studying.

Conclusion

We probe into the disclosure and specificity of EETs produced in reaction to various stimuli and propose a role for those frameworks in ailment pathogenesis and the establishment of chronic, unresolved inflammation.

Eosinophil extracellular vesicles and DNA traps in allergic inflammation

Eosinophil granulocytes, a specialized subset of white blood cells, have traditionally been associated with allergic responses and parasitic infections. However, recent research has unveiled their versatile roles in immune regulation beyond these classical functions. This review highlights the emerging field of eosinophil biology, with a particular focus on their release of extracellular vesicles (EVs) and extracellular DNA traps (EETs). It further explores potential implications of eosinophil-derived EVs and EETs for immune responses during inflammatory diseases. The release of EVs/EETs from eosinophils, which also affects the eosinophils themselves, may influence both local and systemic immune reactions, affecting the pathophysiology of conditions such as airway inflammation, chronic rhinosinusitis and atopic dermatitis.

SingleNucleotide Polymorphisms as Biomarkers of Mepolizumab and Benralizumab Treatment Response in Severe Eosinophilic Asthma

The most promising treatment options for severe uncontrolled asthma (SUA) have emerged in recent years with the development of monoclonal antibodies for blocking selective targets responsible for the underlying inflammation, such as mepolizumab and benralizumab. However, there is variability in treatment response that is not fully controlled. The variability of the response to mepolizumab and benralizumab could be influenced by single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), and it would be useful to detect these and use them as predictive biomarkers of response. We conducted a retrospective observational cohort study of 72 Caucasian patients recruited from a tertiary hospital with severe uncontrolled eosinophilic asthma treated with mepolizumab and benralizumab. Polymorphisms in the IL5 (rs4143832, rs17690122), RAD50 (rs11739623, rs4705959), IL1RL1 (rs1420101, rs17026974, rs1921622), GATA2 (rs4857855), IKZF2 (rs12619285), FCGR2A (rs1801274), FCGR2B (rs3219018, rs1050501), FCGR3A (rs10127939, rs396991), FCER1A (rs2251746, rs2427837), FCER1B (rs1441586, rs573790, rs569108), and ZNF415 (rs1054485) genes were analyzed by real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) using Taqman probes. The response was analyzed after 12 months of treatment. In patients under mepolizumab treatment, a treatment response defined as a reduction in exacerbations was associated with ZNF415 rs1054485-T (p = 0.042; OR = 5.33; 95% CI = 1.06-30.02), treatment response defined as a reduction in oral corticosteroids use was associated with the number of exacerbations in the previous year (p = 0.029; OR = 3.89; 95% CI = 1.24-14.92), and treatment response defined as improvement in lung function was associated with the age at the beginning of biological therapy (p = 0.002; OR = 1.10; 95% CI = 1.04-1.18), FCER1B rs569108-AA (p < 0.001; OR = 171.06; 95% CI = 12.94-6264.11), and FCER1A rs2427837-A (p = 0.021; OR = 8.61; 95% CI = 1.71-76.62). On the other hand, in patients under benralizumab treatment, treatment response, defined as a reduction in exacerbations, was associated with ZNF415 rs1054485-T (p = 0.073; OR = 1.3 × 108; 95% CI = 1.8 × 10-19-NA), FCER1B rs569108-AA (p = 0.050; OR = 11.51; 95% CI = 1.19-269.78), allergies (p = 0.045; OR = 4.02; 95% CI = 1.05-16.74), and sex (p = 0.028; OR = 4.78; 95% CI = 1.22-20.63); and treatment response defined as improvement in lung function was associated with polyposis (p = 0.027; OR = 9.16; 95% CI = 1.58-91.4), IKZF2 rs12619285-AA (p = 0.019; OR = 9.1; 95% CI = 1.7-75.78), IL5 rs4143832-T (p = 0.017; OR = 11.1; 95% CI = 1.9-112.17), and FCER1B rs1441586-C (p = 0.045; OR = 7.81; 95% CI = 1.16-73.45). The results of this study show the potential influence of the studied polymorphisms on the response to mepolizumab and benralizumab and the clinical benefit that could be obtained by defining predictive biomarkers of treatment response.

Eosinophil activation during immune responses: an ultrastructural view with an emphasis on viral diseases

Eosinophils are cells of the innate immune system that orchestrate complex inflammatory responses. The study of the cell biology of eosinophils, particularly associated with cell activation, is of great interest to understand their immune responses. From a morphological perspective, activated eosinophils show ultrastructural signatures that have provided critical insights into the comprehension of their functional capabilities. Application of conventional transmission electron microscopy in combination with quantitative assessments (quantitative transmission electron microscopy), molecular imaging (immunoEM), and 3-dimensional electron tomography have generated important insights into mechanisms of eosinophil activation. This review explores a multitude of ultrastructural events taking place in eosinophils activated in vitro and in vivo as key players in allergic and inflammatory diseases, with an emphasis on viral infections. Recent progress in our understanding of biological processes underlying eosinophil activation, including in vivo mitochondrial remodeling, is discussed, and it can bring new thinking to the field.

The true extent of eosinophil involvement in disease is unrecognized: the secret life of dead eosinophils

Eosinophil-mediated pathophysiology is tissue destructive and tissue altering with proinflammatory, prothrombotic, and profibrotic effects. The distinctive morphology of an eosinophil reveals a cytoplasm chockfull of unique granules, and the granule proteins have numerous toxic effects on cells, tissues, and organs. Eosinophils are not found in most human tissues, and eosinophil involvement in diseased tissues generally is identified by cell infiltration on histopathologic examination. However, eosinophils characteristically lose their structural integrity and deposit granules and granule proteins at sites of inflammation. Hence, their participation in tissue damage may be underrecognized or entirely overlooked. The eosinophil major basic protein 1 is a toxic granule protein and, when deposited, persists in tissues. Major basic protein 1 deposition can be regarded as a footprint of eosinophil activity. Analyses of numerous eosinophil-related diseases have demonstrated clear-cut evidence of major basic protein 1 deposition in affected tissues where eosinophils were not recognized by hematoxylin and eosin tissue staining and light microscopy. Eosinophil granule protein deposition, as exemplified by localization of major basic protein 1, especially when disproportionately greater than cellular infiltration, emerges as a biomarker of hidden eosinophil-related pathophysiology. Consequently, current assessments of recognized eosinophils may vastly underestimate their role in disease.

Extracellular sombrero vesicles are hallmarks of eosinophilic cytolytic degranulation in tissue sites of human diseases

Eosinophil sombrero vesicles are large tubular carriers resident in the cytoplasm of human eosinophils, identifiable by transmission electron microscopy, and important for immune mediator transport. Increased formation of sombrero vesicles occurs in activated eosinophils in vitro and in vivo. In tissue sites of eosinophilic cytolytic inflammation, extracellular eosinophil sombrero vesicles are noted, but their frequency and significance in eosinophil-associated diseases remain unclear. Here, we performed comprehensive quantitative transmission electron microscopy analyses and electron tomography to investigate the numbers, density, integrity, and 3-dimensional structure of eosinophil sombrero vesicles in different biopsy tissues from 5 prototypic eosinophil-associated diseases (eosinophilic chronic rhinosinusitis/nasal sinuses, ulcerative colitis/intestines, hypereosinophilic syndrome/skin, dermatitis/skin, and schistosomiasis/rectum). The morphology of extracellular eosinophil sombrero vesicles was also compared with that of cytoplasmic eosinophil sombrero vesicles, isolated by subcellular fractionation from peripheral blood eosinophils. We demonstrated that (i) eosinophil cytolysis, releasing intact sombrero vesicles and membrane-bound granules, is a consistent event in all eosinophil-associated diseases; (ii) eosinophil sombrero vesicles persist intact even after complete disintegration of all cell organelles, except granules (late cytolysis); (iii) the eosinophil sombrero vesicle population, composed of elongated, curved, and typical sombreros, and the eosinophil sombrero vesicle 3-dimensional architecture, diameter, and density remain unchanged in the extracellular matrix; (iv) free eosinophil sombrero vesicles closely associate with extracellular granules; and (v) free eosinophil sombrero vesicles also associate with externalized chromatin during eosinophil ETosis. Remarkably, eosinophil sombrero vesicles appeared on the surface of other cells, such as plasma cells. Thus, eosinophil cytolysis/ETosis can secrete intact sombrero vesicles, alongside granules, in inflamed tissues of eosinophil-associated diseases, potentially serving as propagators of eosinophil immune responses after cell death.

The emerging role of exosomes in innate immunity, diagnosis and therapy

Exosomes, which are nano-sized transport bio-vehicles, play a pivotal role in maintaining homeostasis by exchanging genetic or metabolic information between different cells. Exosomes can also play a vital role in transferring virulent factors between the host and parasite, thereby regulating host gene expression and the immune interphase. The association of inflammation with disease development and the potential of exosomes to enhance or mitigate inflammatory pathways support the notion that exosomes have the potential to alter the course of a disease. Clinical trials exploring the role of exosomes in cancer, osteoporosis, and renal, neurological, and pulmonary disorders are currently underway. Notably, the information available on the signatory efficacy of exosomes in immune-related disorders remains elusive and sporadic. In this review, we discuss immune cell-derived exosomes and their application in immunotherapy, including those against autoimmune connective tissue diseases. Further, we have elucidated our views on the major issues in immune-related pathophysiological processes. Therefore, the information presented in this review highlights the role of exosomes as promising strategies and clinical tools for immune regulation.

Schistosomiasis Mansoni-Recruited Eosinophils: An Overview in the Granuloma Context

Eosinophils are remarkably recruited during schistosomiasis mansoni, one of the most common parasitic diseases worldwide. These cells actively migrate and accumulate at sites of granulomatous inflammation termed granulomas, the main pathological feature of this disease. Eosinophils colonize granulomas as a robust cell population and establish complex interactions with other immune cells and with the granuloma microenvironment. Eosinophils are the most abundant cells in granulomas induced by Schistosoma mansoni infection, but their functions during this disease remain unclear and even controversial. Here, we explore the current information on eosinophils as components of Schistosoma mansoni granulomas in both humans and natural and experimental models and their potential significance as central cells triggered by this infection.

Eo, what are we doing here?

A plethora of studies have established the importance of eosinophils in protective immunity against infections and in allergy. In this issue of Immunity, Ignacio et al. (2022) define a vital for eosinophils in coordinating a microbiota-epithelial-immune axis that maintains intestinal homeostasis.

In Vivo ETosis of Human Eosinophils: The Ultrastructural Signature Captured by TEM in Eosinophilic Diseases

Eosinophilic diseases, also termed eosinophil-associated diseases (EADs), are characterized by eosinophil-rich inflammatory infiltrates and extensive eosinophil degranulation with clinically relevant organ pathology. Recent evidence shows that eosinophil cytolytic degranulation, that is, the release of intact, membrane-delimited granules that arises from the eosinophil cytolysis, occurs mainly through ETosis, meaning death with a cytolytic profile and extrusion of nucleus-originated DNA extracellular traps (ETs). The ultrastructural features of eosinophil ETosis (EETosis) have been studied mostly in vitro after stimulation, but are still poorly understood in vivo. Here, we investigated in detail, by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), the ultrastructure of EETosis in selected human EADs affecting several tissues and organ systems. Biopsies of patients diagnosed with eosinophilic chronic rhinosinusitis/ECRS (frontal sinus), ulcerative colitis/UC (intestine), and hypereosinophilic syndrome/HES (skin) were processed for conventional TEM. First, we found that a large proportion of tissue-infiltrated eosinophils in all diseases (~45-65% of all eosinophils) were undergoing cytolysis with release of free extracellular granules (FEGs). Second, we compared the morphology of tissue inflammatory eosinophils with that shown by in vitro ETosis-stimulated eosinophils. By applying single-cell imaging analysis, we sought typical early and late EETosis events: chromatin decondensation; nuclear delobulation and rounding; expanded nuclear area; nuclear envelope alterations and disruption; and extracellular decondensed chromatin spread as ETs. We detected that 53% (ECRS), 37% (UC), and 82% (HES) of all tissue cytolytic eosinophils had ultrastructural features of ETosis in different degrees. Eosinophils in early ETosis significantly increased their nuclear area compared to non-cytolytic eosinophils due to excessive chromatin decondensation and expansion observed before nuclear envelope disruption. ETosis led not only to the deposition of intact granules, but also to the release of eosinophil sombrero vesicles (EoSVs) and Charcot-Leyden crystals (CLCs). Free intact EoSVs and CLCs were associated with FEGs and extracellular DNA nets. Interestingly, not all cytolytic eosinophils in the same microenvironment exhibited ultrastructure of ETosis, thus indicating that different populations of eosinophils might be selectively activated into this pathway. Altogether, our findings captured an ultrastructural signature of EETosis in vivo in prototypic EADs highlighting the importance of this event as a form of eosinophil degranulation and release of inflammatory markers (EoSVs and CLCs).

Mitochondrial Population in Mouse Eosinophils: Ultrastructural Dynamics in Cell Differentiation and Inflammatory Diseases

Mitochondria are multifunctional organelles of which ultrastructure is tightly linked to cell physiology. Accumulating evidence shows that mitochondrial remodeling has an impact on immune responses, but our current understanding of the mitochondrial architecture, interactions, and morphological changes in immune cells, mainly in eosinophils, is still poorly known. Here, we applied transmission electron microscopy (TEM), single-cell imaging analysis, and electron tomography, a technique that provides three-dimensional (3D) views at high resolution, to investigate mitochondrial dynamics in mouse eosinophils developing in cultures as well as in the context of inflammatory diseases characterized by recruitment and activation of these cells (mouse models of asthma, H1N1 influenza A virus (IAV) infection, and schistosomiasis mansoni). First, quantitative analyses showed that the mitochondrial area decrease 70% during eosinophil development (from undifferentiated precursor cells to mature eosinophils). Mitophagy, a consistent process revealed by TEM in immature but not in mature eosinophils, is likely operating in mitochondrial clearance during eosinophilopoiesis. Events of mitochondria interaction (inter-organelle membrane contacts) were also detected and quantitated within developing eosinophils and included mitochondria-endoplasmic reticulum, mitochondria-mitochondria, and mitochondria-secretory granules, all of them significantly higher in numbers in immature compared to mature cells. Moreover, single-mitochondrion analyses revealed that as the eosinophil matures, mitochondria cristae significantly increase in number and reshape to lamellar morphology. Eosinophils did not change (asthma) or reduced (IAV and Schistosoma infections) their mitochondrial mass in response to inflammatory diseases. However, asthma and schistosomiasis, but not IAV infection, induced amplification of both cristae numbers and volume in individual mitochondria. Mitochondrial cristae remodeling occurred in all inflammatory conditions with the proportions of mitochondria containing only lamellar or tubular, or mixed cristae (an ultrastructural aspect seen just in tissue eosinophils) depending on the tissue/disease microenvironment. The ability of mitochondria to interact with granules, mainly mobilized ones, was remarkably captured by TEM in eosinophils participating in all inflammatory diseases. Altogether, we demonstrate that the processes of eosinophilopoiesis and inflammation-induced activation interfere with the mitochondrial dynamics within mouse eosinophils leading to cristae remodeling and inter-organelle contacts. The understanding of how mitochondrial dynamics contribute to eosinophil immune functions is an open interesting field to be explored.

Eosinophils as Drivers of Severe Eosinophilic Asthma: Endotypes or Plasticity?

Asthma is now recognized as a heterogeneous disease, encompassing different phenotypes driven by distinct pathophysiological mechanisms called endotypes. Common phenotypes of asthma, referred to as eosinophilic asthma, are characterized by the presence of eosinophilia. Eosinophils are usually considered invariant, terminally differentiated effector cells and have become a primary therapeutic target in severe eosinophilic asthma (SEA) and other eosinophil-associated diseases (EADs). Biological treatments that target eosinophils reveal an unexpectedly complex role of eosinophils in asthma, including in SEA, suggesting that "not all eosinophils are equal". In this review, we address our current understanding of the role of eosinophils in asthma with regard to asthma phenotypes and endotypes. We further address the possibility that different SEA phenotypes may involve differences in eosinophil biology. We discuss how these differences could arise through eosinophil "endotyping", viz. adaptations of eosinophil function imprinted during their development, or through tissue-induced plasticity, viz. local adaptations of eosinophil function through interaction with their lung tissue niches. In doing so, we also discuss opportunities, technical challenges, and open questions that, if addressed, might provide considerable benefits in guiding the choice of the most efficient precision therapies of SEA and, by extension, other EADs.

Immune Cell Degranulation in Fungal Host Defence

Humans have developed complex immune systems that defend against invading microbes, including fungal pathogens. Many highly specialized cells of the immune system share the ability to store antimicrobial compounds in membrane bound organelles that can be immediately deployed to eradicate or inhibit growth of invading pathogens. These membrane-bound organelles consist of secretory vesicles or granules, which move to the surface of the cell, where they fuse with the plasma membrane to release their contents in the process of degranulation. Lymphocytes, macrophages, neutrophils, mast cells, eosinophils, and basophils all degranulate in fungal host defence. While anti-microbial secretory vesicles are shared among different immune cell types, information about each cell type has emerged independently leading to an uncoordinated and confusing classification of granules and incomplete description of the mechanism by which they are deployed. While there are important differences, there are many similarities in granule morphology, granule content, stimulus for degranulation, granule trafficking, and release of granules against fungal pathogens. In this review, we describe the similarities and differences in an attempt to translate knowledge from one immune cell to another that may facilitate further studies in the context of fungal host defence.

The Release Kinetics of Eosinophil Peroxidase and Mitochondrial DNA Is Different in Association with Eosinophil Extracellular Trap Formation

Eosinophils are a subset of granulocytes characterized by a high abundance of specific granules in their cytoplasm. To act as effector cells, eosinophils degranulate and form eosinophil extracellular traps (EETs), which contain double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) co-localized with granule proteins. The exact molecular mechanism of EET formation remains unknown. Although the term “EET release” has been used in scientific reports, it is unclear whether EETs are pre-formed in eosinophils and subsequently released. Moreover, although eosinophil degranulation has been extensively studied, a precise time-course of granule protein release has not been reported until now. In this study, we investigated the time-dependent release of eosinophil peroxidase (EPX) and mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) following activation of both human and mouse eosinophils. Unexpectedly, maximal degranulation was already observed within 1 min with no further change upon complement factor 5 (C5a) stimulation of interleukin-5 (IL-5) or granulocyte/macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF)-primed eosinophils. In contrast, bulk mtDNA release in the same eosinophil populations occurred much slower and reached maximal levels between 30 and 60 min. Although no single-cell analyses have been performed, these data suggest that the molecular pathways leading to degranulation and mtDNA release are at least partially different. Moreover, based on these data, it is likely that the association between the mtDNA scaffold and granule proteins in the process of EET formation occurs in the extracellular space.

Exosomes: A Key Piece in Asthmatic Inflammation

Asthma is a chronic disease of the airways that has an important inflammatory component. Multiple cells are implicated in asthma pathogenesis (lymphocytes, eosinophils, mast cells, basophils, neutrophils), releasing a wide variety of cytokines. These cells can exert their inflammatory functions throughout extracellular vesicles (EVs), which are small vesicles released by donor cells into the extracellular microenvironment that can be taken up by recipient cells. Depending on their size, EVs can be classified as microvesicles, exosomes, or apoptotic bodies. EVs are heterogeneous spherical structures secreted by almost all cell types. One of their main functions is to act as transporters of a wide range of molecules, such as proteins, lipids, and microRNAs (miRNAs), which are single-stranded RNAs of approximately 22 nucleotides in length. Therefore, exosomes could influence several physiological and pathological processes, including those involved in asthma. They can be detected in multiple cell types and biofluids, providing a wealth of information about the processes that take account in a pathological scenario. This review thus summarizes the most recent insights concerning the role of exosomes from different sources (several cell populations and biofluids) in one of the most prevalent respiratory diseases, asthma.

Overexpression of corticotropin-releasing factor in intestinal mucosal eosinophils is associated with clinical severity in Diarrhea-Predominant Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) has been identified in intestinal mucosal eosinophils and associated with psychological stress and gut dysfunction. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is commonly characterized by altered intestinal motility, immune activation, and increased gut barrier permeability along with heightened susceptibility to psychosocial stress. Despite intensive research, the role of mucosal eosinophils in stress-associated gut dysfunction remains uncertain. In this study, we evaluated eosinophil activation profile and CRF content in the jejunal mucosa of diarrhea-predominant IBS (IBS-D) and healthy controls (HC) by gene/protein expression and transmission electron microscopy. We also explored the association between intestinal eosinophil CRF and chronic stress, and the potential mechanisms underlying the stress response by assessing eosinophil response to neuropeptides. We found that mucosal eosinophils displayed higher degranulation profile in IBS-D as compared to HC, with increased content of CRF in the cytoplasmic granules, which significantly correlated with IBS clinical severity, life stress background and depression. Eosinophils responded to substance P and carbachol by increasing secretory activity and CRF synthesis and release, without promoting pro-inflammatory activity, a profile similar to that found in mucosal eosinophils from IBS-D. Collectively, our results suggest that intestinal mucosal eosinophils are potential contributors to stress-mediated gut dysfunction through CRF production and release.

Regulatory eosinophils induce the resolution of experimental arthritis and appear in remission state of human rheumatoid arthritis

OBJECTIVES

Eosinophils possess pro-inflammatory functions in asthma. However, our recent studies have suggested that innate lymphoid cells type 2 (ILC2s) and eosinophils have proresolving properties in rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Nothing is known yet about the mechanisms determining the double-edged role of eosinophils. Therefore, we investigated whether asthma, a paradigm eosinophilic disease, can elicit resolution of chronic arthritis.

METHODS

Ovalbumin-triggered eosinophilic asthma was combined with K/BxN serum-induced arthritis, where lung and synovial eosinophil subsets were compared by single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq). To investigate the involvement of the ILC2-interleukin-5 (IL-5) axis, hydrodynamic injection (HDI) of IL-25 and IL-33 plasmids, IL-5 reporter mice and anti-IL-5 antibody treatment were used. In patients with RA, the presence of distinct eosinophil subsets was examined in peripheral blood and synovial tissue. Disease activity of patients with RA with concomitant asthma was monitored before and after mepolizumab (anti-IL-5 antibody) therapy.

RESULTS

The induction of eosinophilic asthma caused resolution of murine arthritis and joint tissue protection. ScRNA-seq revealed a specific subset of regulatory eosinophils (rEos) in the joints, distinct from inflammatory eosinophils in the lungs. Mechanistically, synovial rEos expanded on systemic upregulation of IL-5 released by lung ILC2s. Eosinophil depletion abolished the beneficial effect of asthma on arthritis. rEos were consistently present in the synovium of patients with RA in remission, but not in active stage. Remarkably, in patients with RA with concomitant asthma, mepolizumab treatment induced relapse of arthritis.

CONCLUSION

These findings point to a hitherto undiscovered proresolving signature in an eosinophil subset that stimulates arthritis resolution.

A functional role for eicosanoid-lysophospholipids in activating monocyte signaling

Recently, eicosanoid-lysophospholipids were identified as novel metabolites generated from the direct cyclooxygenase- or lipoxygenase-catalyzed oxidation of 2-arachidonoyl-lysophospholipids produced from either phospholipase A1-mediated hydrolysis of diacyl arachidonoyl-phospholipids or through the cytochrome c-catalyzed oxidative hydrolysis of the vinyl ether linkage of arachidonoyl-plasmalogens. Although the metabolic pathways generating eicosanoid-lysophospholipids have been increasingly appreciated, the signaling functions of eicosanoid-lysophospholipids remain largely unknown. Herein, we demonstrate that 2-12(S)-HETE-lysophospholipids as well as nonesterified 12(S)-HETE are potent lipid mediators that activate THP-1 human monocytic cells to generate tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα) and interleukin 8 (IL8). Remarkably, low nanomolar concentrations of 12(S)-HETE-lysophospholipids, but not other oxidized signaling lipids examined activated THP-1 cells resulting in the production of large amounts of TNFα. Moreover, TNFα release induced by 12(S)-HETE-lysophospholipids was inhibited by the TNFα converting enzyme inhibitor TAPI-0 indicating normal processing of TNFα in THP-1 cells stimulated with these agonists. Western blotting analyses revealed that 12(S)-HETE-lysophospholipids activated the phosphorylation of NFκB p65, suggesting activation of the canonical NFκB signaling pathway. Importantly, activation of THP-1 cells to release TNFα was stereoselective with 12(S)-HETE favored over 12(R)-HETE. Furthermore, the EC50 of 2-12(S)-HETE-lysophosphatidylcholine in activating THP-1 cells was 2.1 nm, whereas the EC50 of free 12(S)-HETE was 23 nm Additionally, lipid extracts of activated platelets were separated by RP-HPLC demonstrating the coelution of 12(S)-HETE with fractions initiating TNFα release. Collectively, these results demonstrate the potent signaling properties of 2-12(S)-HETE-lysophospholipids and 12(S)-HETE by their ability to release TNFα and activate NFκB signaling thereby revealing a previously unknown role of 2-12(S)-HETE-lysophospholipids in mediating inflammatory responses.

Eosinophils in the gastrointestinal tract and their role in the pathogenesis of major colorectal disorders

Eosinophils are currently regarded as versatile mobile cells controlling and regulating multiple biological pathways and responses in health and disease. These cells store in their specific granules numerous biologically active substances (cytotoxic cationic proteins, cytokines, growth factors, chemokines, enzymes) ready for rapid release. The human gut is the main destination of eosinophils that are produced and matured in the bone marrow and then transferred to target tissues through the circulation. In health the most important functions of gut-residing eosinophils comprise their participation in the maintenance of the protective mucosal barrier and interactions with other immune cells in providing immunity to microbiota of the gut lumen. Eosinophils are closely involved in the development of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), when their cytotoxic granule proteins cause damage to host tissues. However, their roles in Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis appear to follow different immune response patterns. Eosinophils in IBD are especially important in altering the structure and protective functions of the mucosal barrier and modulating massive neutrophil influx to the lamina propria followed by transepithelial migration to colorectal mucus. IBD-associated inflammatory process involving eosinophils then appears to expand to the mucus overlaying the internal gut surface. The author hypothesises that immune responses within colorectal mucus as well as ETosis exerted by both neutrophils and eosinophils on the both sides of the colonic epithelial barrier act as additional pathogenetic factors in IBD. Literature analysis also shows an association between elevated eosinophil levels and better colorectal cancer (CRC) prognosis, but mechanisms behind this effect remain to be elucidated. In conclusion, the author emphasises the importance of investigating colorectal mucus in IBD and CRC patients as a previously unexplored milieu of disease-related inflammatory responses.

Identification of Piecemeal Degranulation and Vesicular Transport of MBP-1 in Liver-Infiltrating Mouse Eosinophils During Acute Experimental Schistosoma mansoni Infection

Eosinophils have been long associated with helminthic infections, although their functions in these diseases remain unclear. During schistosomiasis caused by the trematode Schistosoma mansoni, eosinophils are specifically recruited and migrate to sites of granulomatous responses where they degranulate. However, little is known about the mechanisms of eosinophil secretion during this disease. Here, we investigated the degranulation patterns, including the cellular mechanisms of major basic protein-1 (MBP-1) release, from inflammatory eosinophils in a mouse model of S. mansoni infection (acute phase). Fragments of the liver, a major target organ of this disease, were processed for histologic analyses (whole slide imaging), conventional transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and immunonanogold EM using a pre-embedding approach for precise localization of major basic protein 1 (MBP-1), a typical cationic protein stored pre-synthesized in eosinophil secretory (specific) granules. A well-characterized granulomatous inflammatory response with a high number of infiltrating eosinophils surrounding S. mansoni eggs was observed in the livers of infected mice. Moreover, significant elevations in the levels of plasma Th2 cytokines (IL-4, IL-13, and IL-10) and serum enzymes (alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase) reflecting altered liver function were detected in response to the infection. TEM quantitative analyses revealed that while 19.1% of eosinophils were intact, most of them showed distinct degranulation processes: cytolysis (13.0%), classical and/or compound exocytosis identified by granule fusions (1.5%), and mainly piecemeal degranulation (PMD) (66.4%), which is mediated by vesicular trafficking. Immunonanogold EM showed a consistent labeling for MBP-1 associated with secretory granules. Most MBP-1-positive granules had PMD features (79.0 ± 4.8%). MBP-1 was also present extracellularly and on vesicles distributed in the cytoplasm and attached to/surrounding the surface of emptying granules. Our data demonstrated that liver-infiltrating mouse eosinophils are able to degranulate through different secretory processes during acute experimental S. mansoni infections with PMD being the predominant mechanism of eosinophil secretion. This means that a selective secretion of MBP-1 is occurring. Moreover, our study demonstrates, for the first time, a vesicular trafficking of MBP-1 within mouse eosinophils elicited by a helminth infection. Vesicle-mediated secretion of MBP-1 may be relevant for the rapid release of small concentrations of MBP-1 under cell activation.

Single-Cell Analyses of Human Eosinophils at High Resolution to Understand Compartmentalization and Vesicular Trafficking of Interferon-Gamma

Human eosinophils release numerous cytokines that are pre-synthesized and stored within their cytoplasmic-specific (secretory) granules. For example, high levels of interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) are constitutively expressed in these cells, but the intracellular compartments involved in the transport and release of this cytokine remain to be established. In this work, we used a single-cell approach to investigate the subcellular localization of IFN-γ in human eosinophils stimulated or not with tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) or CC-chemokine ligand 11 CCL11 (eotaxin-1), inflammatory mediators that induce eosinophil activation and secretion. A pre-embedding immunonanogold transmission electron microscopy (TEM) technique that combines optimal epitope preservation and access to membrane microdomains was applied to detect precise localization of IFN-γ in combination with computational quantitative analyses. In parallel, degranulation processes and formation of eosinophil sombrero vesicles (EoSVs), large transport carriers involved in the transport of granule-derived cytokines, were investigated. Quantitative TEM revealed that both CCL11 and TNF-α-activated eosinophils significantly increased the total number of EoSVs compared to the unstimulated group, indicating that this vesicular system is actively formed in response to cell activation. Ultrastructural immunolabeling identified a robust pool of IFN-γ on secretory granules in both unstimulated and stimulated cells. Moreover, EoSVs carrying IFN-γ were seen around or/and in contact with secretory granules and also distributed in the cytoplasm. Labeling was clearly associated with EoSV membranes. The total number of IFN-γ-positive EoSVs was significantly higher in stimulated compared to unstimulated cells, and these labeled vesicles had a differential distribution in the cytoplasm of activated cells, being significantly higher in the cell periphery compared with the inner cell, thus revealing intracellular IFN-γ mobilization for release. IFN-γ extracellular labeling was found at the cell surface, including on extracellular vesicles. Our results provide direct evidence that human eosinophils compartmentalize IFN-γ within secretory granules and identify, for the first time, a vesicular trafficking of IFN-γ associated with large transport carriers. This is important to understand how IFN-γ is trafficked and secreted during inflammatory responses.

Vesicle-associated membrane protein 7-mediated eosinophil degranulation promotes allergic airway inflammation in mice

Eosinophil degranulation is a determining factor in allergy-mediated airway pathology. Receptor-mediated degranulation in eosinophils requires vesicle-associated membrane protein 7 (VAMP-7), a principal component of the SNARE fusion machinery. The specific contribution of eosinophil degranulation to allergen-induced airway responses remains poorly understood. We generated mice with VAMP-7 gene deficiency exclusively in eosinophils (eoCRE/V7) from a cross using eosinophil-specific Cre recombinase-expressing mice crossed with VAMP-7^f/f mice. Eosinophils from eoCRE/V7 mice showed deficient degranulation responses in vitro, and responses continued to be decreased following ex vivo intratracheal adoptive transfer of eoCRE/V7 eosinophils into IL-5/hE2/EPX^−/− mice. Consistent with diminished degranulation responses, reduced airway hyperresponsiveness was observed in ovalbumin-sensitized and challenged eoCRE/V7 mice following methacholine inhalation. Therefore, VAMP-7 mediates eosinophil degranulation both in vitro and ex vivo, and this event augments airway hyperresponsiveness.

Lian Willetts et al. demonstrate that vesicle-associated membrane protein 7 (VAMP 7), a principal component of the membrane fusion machinery, promotes eosinophil degranulation in allergic airway inflammation. This study suggests VAMP7 as a therapeutic target for ameliorating asthma.

Contemporary understanding of the secretory granules in human eosinophils

Eosinophil secretory (specific) granules have a unique morphology and are both a morphologic hallmark of eosinophils and fundamental to eosinophil-mediated responses. Eosinophil mediators with multiple functional activities are presynthesized and stored within these granules, poised for very rapid, stimulus-induced secretion. The structural organization and changes of eosinophil specific granules are revealing in demonstrating the complex and diverse secretory activities of this cell. Here, we review our current knowledge on the architecture, composition, and function of eosinophil specific granules as highly elaborated organelles able to produce vesiculotubular carriers and to interplay with the intracellular vesicular trafficking. We reconsider prior identifications of eosinophil cytoplasmic granules, including "primary," "secondary," "microgranules," and "small granules"; and consonant with advances, we provide a contemporary recognition that human eosinophils contain a single population of specific granules and their developmental precursors and derived secretory vesicles.

Activation of Eosinophils and Mast Cells in Functional Dyspepsia: an Ultrastructural Evaluation

We recently identified mucosal mast cell and eosinophil hyperplasia in association with a duodenal impaired barrier function in functional dyspepsia (FD). We aimed to further describe the implication of these immune cells by assessing their activation state at the ultrastructural level and by evaluating the association between impaired epithelial integrity and immune activation. Duodenal biopsies were obtained from 24 FD patients and 37 healthy controls. The ultrastructure of mast cells and eosinophils was analyzed by transmission electron microscopy. Transepithelial electrical resistance and paracellular permeability were measured to evaluate epithelial barrier function. The type of degranulation in eosinophils and mast cells was piecemeal. Eosinophils displayed higher degree of degranulation in FD patients than in controls (p < 0.0001). Quantification revealed a decreased granular density in eosinophils of FD patients (p < 0.0001). The degree of degranulation in mast cells was similar in both groups. However, a more heterogeneous profile was found in the FD group (p < 0.0001). No association between epithelial integrity and the number and activation state of mucosal eosinophils and mast cells was found. We demonstrated ultrastructural changes in degranulation state of eosinophils and mast cells, suggesting that eosinophil and mast cell activation play a role in the pathophysiology of FD.

Eosinophils in fungal diseases: An overview

Eosinophils are the prominent cells in asthma, allergic bronchopulmonary mycosis (ABPMs), and fungal-sensitization-associated asthma, but their roles in the immunopathology of these disorders are not well understood. Moreover, the immunological mechanisms underlying the molecular direct effector interactions between fungi and eosinophils are rare and not fully known. Here, we provide an overview of eosinophil contributions to allergic asthma and ABPMs. We also revise the major general mechanisms of fungal recognition by eosinophils and consider past and recent advances in our understanding of the molecular mechanisms associated with eosinophil innate effector responses to different fungal species relevant to ABPMs (Alternaria alternata, Candida albicans, and Aspergillus fumigatus). We further examine and speculate about the therapeutic relevance of these findings in fungus-associated allergic pulmonary diseases.

Diverse exocytic pathways for mast cell mediators

Mast cells play pivotal roles in innate and adaptive immunities but are also culprits in allergy, autoimmunity, and cardiovascular diseases. Mast cells respond to environmental changes by initiating regulated exocytosis/secretion of various biologically active compounds called mediators (e.g. proteases, amines, and cytokines). Many of these mediators are stored in granules/lysosomes and rely on intricate degranulation processes for release. Mast cell stabilizers (e.g. sodium cromoglicate), which prevent such degranulation processes, have therefore been clinically employed to treat asthma and allergic rhinitis. However, it has become increasingly clear that different mast cell diseases often involve multiple mediators that rely on overlapping but distinct mechanisms for release. This review illustrates existing evidence that highlights the diverse exocytic pathways in mast cells. We also discuss strategies to delineate these pathways so as to identify unique molecular components which could serve as new drug targets for more effective and specific treatments against mast cell-related diseases.

Pharmacophore-based discovery of 2-(phenylamino)aceto-hydrazides as potent eosinophil peroxidase (EPO) inhibitors

There is an increasing interest in developing novel eosinophil peroxidase (EPO) inhibitors, in order to provide new treatment strategies against chronic inflammatory and neurodegenerative diseases caused by eosinophilic disorder. Within this study, a ligand-based pharmacophore model for EPO inhibitors was generated and used for in silico screening of large 3 D molecular structure databases, containing more than 4 million compounds. Hits obtained were clustered and a total of 277 compounds were selected for biological assessment. A class of 2-(phenyl)amino-aceto-hydrazides with different substitution pattern on the aromatic ring was found to contain the most potent EPO inhibitors, exhibiting IC₅₀ values down to 10 nM. The generated pharmacophore model therefore, represents a valuable tool for the selection of compounds for biological testing. The compounds identified as potent EPO inhibitors will serve to initiate a hit to lead and lead optimisation program for the development of new therapeutics against eosinophilic disorders.

Functions of tissue-resident eosinophils

Eosinophils are a prominent cell type in particular host responses such as the response to helminth infection and allergic disease. Their effector functions have been attributed to their capacity to release cationic proteins stored in cytoplasmic granules by degranulation. However, eosinophils are now being recognized for more varied functions in previously underappreciated diverse tissue sites, based on the ability of eosinophils to release cytokines (often preformed) that mediate a broad range of activities into the local environment. In this Review, we consider evolving insights into the tissue distribution of eosinophils and their functional immunobiology, which enable eosinophils to secrete in a selective manner cytokines and other mediators that have diverse, 'non-effector' functions in health and disease.

The value of peripheral blood eosinophil count in predicting in-stent restenosis in patients with stable angina pectoris undergoing drug eluting stenting

INTRODUCTION

In-stent restenosis (ISR) remains a major limitation of percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). A role for peripheral blood cells as major regulators of immune and inflammatory systems has been proposed. We aim to evaluate the relationship between eosinophil count and development of restenosis after drug-eluting stent (DES) implantation.

METHODS

In this prospective study, all consecutive patients undergoing elective DES implantation for chronic stable angina (CSA) in a university-affiliated heart center within a 6-month period were enrolled and followed for another 6 months. Complete blood count with differentiation was performed 6 weeks after the index procedure. During the follow-up period, the cohort of patients who developed ISR was compared to the cohort of patients without ISR, descriptively and the total number of eosinophilic white cells was used to predict the occurrence of ISR.

RESULTS

153 men and 48 women with CSA underwent PCI with DES implantation, from which, 26 patients needed repeat coronary angiography for recurrent symptoms. There was an established ISR in 17 (8.5%) patients. The total number of eosinophils in their peripheral blood was 267 ± 132 cells/μL in patients with ISR, significantly higher than the number of eosinophils in those without ISR 174 ± 133 cells/μL (P-value < 0.010). Eosinophil count remained an independent predictor of ISR in multivariate analysis as the eosinophil count value over 242 cells/μL had sensitivity of 66.7% and specificity of 84.5% for the presence of ISR.

CONCLUSION

The total number of eosinophils, counted 6 weeks after DES implantation, prevails as the sole predictor of ISR occurrence in our study. This suggests an association between immune sensitivity reaction to DES material and development of ISR in patients after PCI.

Cysteinyl Leukotrienes in Eosinophil Biology: Functional Roles and Therapeutic Perspectives in Eosinophilic Disorders

Cysteinyl leukotrienes (cysLTs), LTC4, and its extracellular metabolites, LTD4 and LTE4, have varied and multiple roles in mediating eosinophilic disorders including host defense against parasitic helminthes and allergic inflammation, especially in the lung and in asthma. CysLTs are known to act through at least 2 receptors termed cysLT1 receptor (CysLT1R) and cysLT2 receptor (CysLT2R). Eosinophils contain a dominant population of cytoplasmic crystalloid granules that store various preformed proteins. Human eosinophils are sources of cysLTs and are known to express the two known cysLTs receptors (CysLTRs). CysLTs can have varied functions on eosinophils, ranging from intracrine regulators of secretion of granule-derived proteins to paracrine/autocrine roles in eosinophil chemotaxis, differentiation, and survival. Lately, it has been recognized the expression of CysLTRs in the membranes of eosinophil granules. Moreover, cysLTs have been shown to evoke secretion from isolated cell-free eosinophil granules operating through their receptors expressed on granule membranes. In this work, we review the functional roles of cysLTs in eosinophil biology. We review cysLTs biosynthesis, their receptors, and argue the intracrine and paracrine/autocrine responses induced by cysLTs in eosinophils and in isolated free extracellular eosinophil granules. We also examine and speculate on the therapeutic relevance of targeting CysLTRs in the treatment of eosinophilic disorders.

Extracellular Microvesicle Production by Human Eosinophils Activated by "Inflammatory" Stimuli

A key function of human eosinophils is to secrete cytokines, chemokines and cationic proteins, trafficking, and releasing these mediators for roles in inflammation and other immune responses. Eosinophil activation leads to secretion of pre-synthesized granule-stored mediators through different mechanisms, but the ability of eosinophils to secrete extracellular vesicles (EVs), very small vesicles with preserved membrane topology, is still poorly understood. In the present work, we sought to identify and characterize EVs released from human eosinophils during different conditions: after a culturing period or after isolation and stimulation with inflammatory stimuli, which are known to induce eosinophil activation and secretion: CCL11 (eotaxin-1) and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α). EV production was investigated by nanoscale flow cytometry, conventional transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and pre-embedding immunonanogold EM. The tetraspanins CD63 and CD9 were used as EV biomarkers for both flow cytometry and ultrastructural immunolabeling. Nanoscale flow cytometry showed that human eosinophils produce EVs in culture and that a population of EVs expressed detectable CD9, while CD63 was not consistently detected. When eosinophils were stimulated immediately after isolation and analyzed by TEM, EVs were clearly identified as microvesicles (MVs) outwardly budding off the plasma membrane. Both CCL11 and TNF-α induced significant increases of MVs compared to unstimulated cells. TNF-α induced amplified release of MVs more than CCL11. Eosinophil MV diameters varied from 20 to 1000 nm. Immunonanogold EM revealed clear immunolabeling for CD63 and CD9 on eosinophil MVs, although not all MVs were labeled. Altogether, we identified, for the first time, that human eosinophils secrete MVs and that this production increases in response to inflammatory stimuli. This is important to understand the complex secretory activities of eosinophils underlying immune responses. The contribution of the eosinophil-derived MVs to the regulation of immune responses awaits further investigation.

Vesicular trafficking of immune mediators in human eosinophils revealed by immunoelectron microscopy

Electron microscopy (EM)-based techniques are mostly responsible for our current view of cell morphology at the subcellular level and continue to play an essential role in biological research. In cells from the immune system, such as eosinophils, EM has helped to understand how cells package and release mediators involved in immune responses. Ultrastructural investigations of human eosinophils enabled visualization of secretory processes in detail and identification of a robust, vesicular trafficking essential for the secretion of immune mediators via a non-classical secretory pathway associated with secretory (specific) granules. This vesicular system is mainly organized as large tubular-vesicular carriers (Eosinophil Sombrero Vesicles - EoSVs) actively formed in response to cell activation and provides a sophisticated structural mechanism for delivery of granule-stored mediators. In this review, we highlight the application of EM techniques to recognize pools of immune mediators at vesicular compartments and to understand the complex secretory pathway within human eosinophils involved in inflammatory and allergic responses.

CD63 is tightly associated with intracellular, secretory events chaperoning piecemeal degranulation and compound exocytosis in human eosinophils

Eosinophil activation leads to secretion of presynthesized, granule-stored mediators that determine the course of allergic, inflammatory, and immunoregulatory responses. CD63, a member of the transmembrane-4 glycoprotein superfamily (tetraspanins) and present on the limiting membranes of eosinophil-specific (secretory) granules, is considered a potential surface marker for eosinophil degranulation. However, the intracellular secretory trafficking of CD63 in eosinophils and other leukocytes is not understood. Here, we provide a comprehensive investigation of CD63 trafficking at high resolution within human eosinophils stimulated with inflammatory stimuli, CCL11 and tumor necrosis factor α, which induce distinctly differing secretory processes in eosinophils: piecemeal degranulation and compound exocytosis, respectively. By using different transmission electron microscopy approaches, including an immunonanogold technique, for enhanced detection of CD63 at subcellular compartments, we identified a major intracellular pool of CD63 that is directly linked to eosinophil degranulation events. Transmission electron microscopy quantitative analyses demonstrated that, in response to stimulation, CD63 is concentrated within granules undergoing secretion by piecemeal degranulation or compound exocytosis and that CD63 tracks with the movements of vesicles and granules in the cytoplasm. Although CD63 was observed at the cell surface after stimulation, immunonanogold electron microscopy revealed that a strong CD63 pool remains in the cytoplasm. It is remarkable that CCL11 and tumor necrosis factor α triggered increased formation of CD63(+) large vesiculotubular carriers (eosinophil sombrero vesicles), which fused with granules in the process of secretion, likely acting in the intracellular translocation of CD63. Altogether, we identified active, intracellular CD63 trafficking connected to eosinophil granule-derived secretory pathways. This is important for understanding the complex secretory activities of eosinophils underlying immune responses.

Genetic loci on chromosome 5 are associated with circulating levels of interleukin-5 and eosinophil count in a European population with high risk for cardiovascular disease

IL-5 is a Th2 cytokine which activates eosinophils and is suggested to have an atheroprotective role. Genetic variants in the IL5 locus have been associated with increased risk of CAD and ischemic stroke. In this study we aimed to identify genetic variants associated with IL-5 concentrations and apply a Mendelian randomisation approach to assess IL-5 levels for causal effect on intima-media thickness in a European population at high risk of coronary artery disease. We analysed SNPs within robustly associated candidate loci for immune, inflammatory, metabolic and cardiovascular traits. We identified 2 genetic loci for IL-5 levels (chromosome 5, rs56183820, BETA=0.11, P=6.73E(-5) and chromosome 14, rs4902762, BETA=0.12, P=5.76E(-6)) and one for eosinophil count (rs72797327, BETA=-0.10, P=1.41E(-6)). Both chromosome 5 loci were in the vicinity of the IL5 gene, however the association with IL-5 levels failed to replicate in a meta-analysis of 2 independent cohorts (rs56183820, BETA=0.04, P=0.2763, I(2)=24, I(2)-P=0.2516). No significant associations were observed between SNPs associated with IL-5 levels or eosinophil count and IMT measures. Expression quantitative trait analyses indicate effects of the IL-5 and eosinophil-associated SNPs on RAD50 mRNA expression levels (rs12652920 (r2=0.93 with rs56183820) BETA=-0.10, P=8.64E(-6) and rs11739623 (r2=0.96 with rs72797327) BETA=-0.23, P=1.74E(-29), respectively). Our data do not support a role for IL-5 levels and eosinophil count in intima-media thickness, however SNPs associated with IL-5 and eosinophils might influence stability of the atherosclerotic plaque via modulation of RAD50 levels.

Eosinophils: important players in humoral immunity

Eosinophils perform numerous tasks. They are involved in inflammatory reactions associated with innate immune defence against parasitic infections and are also involved in pathological processes in response to allergens. Recently, however, it has become clear that eosinophils also play crucial non-inflammatory roles in the generation and maintenance of adaptive immune responses. Eosinophils, being a major source of the plasma cell survival factor APRIL (activation and proliferation-induced ligand), are essential not only for the long-term survival of plasma cells in the bone marrow, but also for the maintenance of these cells in the lamina propria which underlies the gut epithelium. At steady state under non-inflammatory conditions eosinophils are resident cells of the gastrointestinal tract, although only few are present in the major organized lymphoid tissue of the gut - the Peyer's patches (PP). Surprisingly, however, lack of eosinophils abolishes efficient class-switching of B cells to immunoglobulin (Ig)A in the germinal centres of PP. Thus, eosinophils are required to generate and to maintain mucosal IgA plasma cells, and as a consequence their absence leads to a marked reduction of IgA both in serum and in the gut-associated lymphoid tissues (GALT). Eosinophils thus have an essential part in long-term humoral immune protection, as they are crucial for the longevity of antibody-producing plasma cells in the bone marrow and, in addition, for gut immune homeostasis.

Transcription Factor Repertoire of Homeostatic Eosinophilopoiesis

The production of mature eosinophils (Eos) is a tightly orchestrated process with the aim to sustain normal Eos levels in tissues while also maintaining low numbers of these complex and sensitive cells in the blood. To identify regulators of homeostatic eosinophilopoiesis in mice, we took a global approach to identify genome-wide transcriptome and epigenome changes that occur during homeostasis at critical developmental stages, including Eos-lineage commitment and lineage maturation. Our analyses revealed a markedly greater number of transcriptome alterations associated with Eos maturation (1199 genes) than with Eos-lineage commitment (490 genes), highlighting the greater transcriptional investment necessary for differentiation. Eos-lineage-committed progenitors (EoPs) were noted to express high levels of granule proteins and contain granules with an ultrastructure distinct from that of mature resting Eos. Our analyses also delineated a 976-gene Eos-lineage transcriptome that included a repertoire of 56 transcription factors, many of which have never previously been associated with Eos. EoPs and Eos, but not granulocyte-monocyte progenitors or neutrophils, expressed Helios and Aiolos, members of the Ikaros family of transcription factors, which regulate gene expression via modulation of chromatin structure and DNA accessibility. Epigenetic studies revealed a distinct distribution of active chromatin marks between genes induced with lineage commitment and genes induced with cell maturation during Eos development. In addition, Aiolos and Helios binding sites were significantly enriched in genes expressed by EoPs and Eos with active chromatin, highlighting a potential novel role for Helios and Aiolos in regulating gene expression during Eos development.

Expression and subcellular localization of the Qa-SNARE syntaxin17 in human eosinophils

BACKGROUND

SNARE members mediate membrane fusion during intracellular trafficking underlying innate and adaptive immune responses by different cells. However, little is known about the expression and function of these proteins in human eosinophils, cells involved in allergic, inflammatory and immunoregulatory responses. Here, we investigate the expression and distribution of the Qa-SNARE syntaxin17 (STX17) within human eosinophils isolated from the peripheral blood.

METHODS

Flow cytometry and a pre-embedding immunonanogold electron microscopy (EM) technique that combines optimal epitope preservation and secondary Fab-fragments of antibodies linked to 1.4 nm gold particles for optimal access to microdomains, were used to investigate STX17.

RESULTS

STX17 was detected within unstimulated eosinophils. Immunogold EM revealed STX17 on secretory granules and on granule-derived vesiculotubular transport carriers (Eosinophil Sombrero Vesicles-EoSVs). Quantitative EM analyses showed that 77.7% of the granules were positive for STX17 with a mean±SEM of 3.9±0.2 gold particles/granule. Labeling was present on both granule outer membranes and matrices while EoSVs showed clear membrane-associated labeling. STX17 was also present in secretory granules in eosinophils stimulated with the cytokine tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) or the CC-chemokine ligand 11 CCL11 (eotaxin-1), stimuli that induce eosinophil degranulation. The number of secretory granules labeled for STX17 was significantly higher in CCL11 compared with the unstimulated group. The level of cell labeling did not change when unstimulated cells were compared with TNF-α-stimulated eosinophils.

CONCLUSIONS

The present study clearly shows by immunanonogold EM that STX17 is localized in eosinophil secretory granules and transport vesicles and might be involved in the transport of granule-derived cargos.

Multifaceted roles of cysteinyl leukotrienes in eliciting eosinophil granule protein secretion

Cysteinyl leukotrienes (cysLTs) are cell membrane-impermeant lipid mediators that play major roles in the pathogenesis of eosinophilic inflammation and are recognized to act via at least 2 receptors, namely, cysLT1 receptor (cysLT1R) and cysLT2 receptor (cysLT2R). Eosinophils, which are granulocytes classically associated with host defense against parasitic helminthes and allergic conditions, are distinguished from leukocytes by their dominant population of cytoplasmic crystalloid (also termed secretory, specific, or secondary) granules that contain robust stores of diverse preformed proteins. Human eosinophils are the main source of cysLTs and are recognized to express both cysLTs receptors (cysLTRs) on their surface, at the plasma membrane. More recently, we identified the expression of cysLTRs in eosinophil granule membranes and demonstrated that cysLTs, acting via their granule membrane-expressed receptors, elicit secretion from cell-free human eosinophil granules. Herein, we review the multifaceted roles of cysLTs in eliciting eosinophil granule protein secretion. We discuss the intracrine and autocrine/paracrine secretory responses evoked by cysLTs in eosinophils and in cell-free extracellular eosinophil crystalloid granules. We also discuss the importance of this finding in eosinophil immunobiology and speculate on its potential role(s) in eosinophilic diseases.

CNS myelin sheath is stochastically built by homotypic fusion of myelin membranes within the bounds of an oligodendrocyte process

Myelin - the multilayer membrane that envelops axons - is a facilitator of rapid nerve conduction. Oligodendrocytes form CNS myelin; the prevailing hypothesis being that they do it by extending a process that circumnavigates the axon. It is pertinent to ask how myelin is built because oligodendrocyte plasma membrane and myelin are compositionally different. To this end, we examined oligodendrocyte cultures and embryonic avian optic nerves by electron microscopy, immuno-electron microscopy and three-dimensional electron tomography. The results support three novel concepts. Myelin membranes are synthesized as tubules and packaged into "myelinophore organelles" in the oligodendrocyte perikaryon. Myelin membranes are matured in and transported by myelinophore organelles within an oligodendrocyte process. The myelin sheath is generated by myelin membrane fusion inside an oligodendrocyte process. These findings abrogate the dogma of myelin resulting from a wrapping motion of an oligodendrocyte process and open up new avenues in the quest for understanding myelination in health and disease.

Intraepithelial giardia intestinalis: a case report and literature review

The giardiasis is a neglected parasitic disease. The WHO has estimated more than 280 million of human infections each year; however, intraepithelial giardiasis is a rare entity, there are only 5 reports showing invasive giardiasis. A pediatric female patient with chronic abdominal pain, diarrhea, or pasty stools, without fever, was seen in the Gastroenterology and Nutrition Service. The stool studies were negative for pathogens and lactose hydrogen breath test was positive. The presumptive clinical diagnosis was giardiasis and the patient was empirically treated with nitazoxanide. But, the patient persisted with abdominal pain and pasty stools. Endoscopy was indicated to search for Helicobacter and Giardia. Guardian and patient gave written informed consent. Hematological profile was normal. The endoscopy was performed under general anesthesia and the biopsies and duodenal aspirate were obtained. The microscopic analyses of duodenal fluid showed Giardia trophozoites. Electron microscopic analysis was negative for Helicobacter pylori, but Giardia trophozoites with a typical crescent shape within the tissue were found. The patient was treated with tinidazole, subsequent tests showed that lactose absorption was normal, stool examinations were negative for Giardia and abdominal pain had stopped. This case suggest that intraepithelial giardiasis could be a common entity but unseen because the giardiasis diagnosis is usually made on fecal samples. Future studies are necessary to determine the role of intraepithelial trophozoites in giardiasis pathogenic mechanisms.

Eosinophil cytokines, chemokines, and growth factors: emerging roles in immunity

Eosinophils derive from the bone marrow and circulate at low levels in the blood in healthy individuals. These granulated cells preferentially leave the circulation and marginate to tissues, where they are implicated in the regulation of innate and adaptive immunity. In diseases such as allergic inflammation, eosinophil numbers escalate markedly in the blood and tissues where inflammatory foci are located. Eosinophils possess a range of immunomodulatory factors that are released upon cell activation, including over 35 cytokines, growth factors, and chemokines. Unlike T and B cells, eosinophils can rapidly release cytokines within minutes in response to stimulation. While some cytokines are stored as pre-formed mediators in crystalloid granules and secretory vesicles, eosinophils are also capable of undergoing de novo synthesis and secretion of these immunological factors. Some of the molecular mechanisms that coordinate the final steps of cytokine secretion are hypothesized to involve binding of membrane fusion complexes comprised of soluble N-ethylmaleimide sensitive factor attachment protein receptors (SNAREs). These intracellular receptors regulate the release of granules and vesicles containing a range of secreted proteins, among which are cytokines and chemokines. Emerging evidence from both human and animal model-based research has suggested an active participation of eosinophils in several physiological/pathological processes such as immunomodulation and tissue remodeling. The observed eosinophil effector functions in health and disease implicate eosinophil cytokine secretion as a fundamental immunoregulatory process. The focus of this review is to describe the cytokines, growth factors, and chemokines that are elaborated by eosinophils, and to illustrate some of the intracellular events leading to the release of eosinophil-derived cytokines.

Eosinophil secretion of granule-derived cytokines

Eosinophils are tissue-dwelling leukocytes, present in the thymus, and gastrointestinal and genitourinary tracts of healthy individuals at baseline, and recruited, often in large numbers, to allergic inflammatory foci and sites of active tissue repair. The biological significance of eosinophils is vast and varied. In health, eosinophils support uterine and mammary gland development, and maintain bone marrow plasma cells and adipose tissue alternatively activated macrophages, while in response to tissue insult eosinophils function as inflammatory effector cells, and, in the wake of an inflammatory response, promote tissue regeneration, and wound healing. One common mechanism driving many of the diverse eosinophil functions is the regulated and differential secretion of a vast array of eosinophil-derived cytokines. Eosinophils are distinguished from most other leukocytes in that many, if not all, of the over three dozen eosinophil-derived cytokines are pre-synthesized and stored within intracellular granules, poised for very rapid, stimulus-induced secretion. Eosinophils engaged in cytokine secretion in situ utilize distinct pathways of cytokine release that include classical exocytosis, whereby granules themselves fuse with the plasma membrane and release their entire contents extracellularly; piecemeal degranulation, whereby granule-derived cytokines are selectively mobilized into vesicles that emerge from granules, traverse the cytoplasm and fuse with the plasma membrane to release discrete packets of cytokines; and eosinophil cytolysis, whereby intact granules are extruded from eosinophils, and deposited within tissues. In this latter scenario, extracellular granules can themselves function as stimulus-responsive secretory-competent organelles within the tissue. Here, we review the distinctive processes of differential secretion of eosinophil granule-derived cytokines.

NOX2-derived ROS-mediated surface translocation of BLT1 is essential for exocytosis in human eosinophils induced by LTB4

BACKGROUND

Leukotriene B4 (LTB4) is a proinflammatory lipid mediator that elicits eosinophil exocytosis, leading to allergic inflammation. However, the detailed intracellular signaling mechanisms of eosinophil exocytosis induced by LTB4 are poorly understood. Herein, we report that NADPH oxidase (NOX)2-derived reactive oxygen species (ROS)-mediated BLT1 migration to the cell surface is required for exocytosis in human eosinophils induced by LTB4.

METHODS

Peripheral blood eosinophils were purified and stimulated for up to 60 min with LTB4. The signaling role of NOX2-derived ROS in BLT1-dependent exocytosis in LTB4-stimulated eosinophils was investigated.

RESULTS

Stimulating eosinophils with LTB4 induced intracellular ROS production and surface upregulation of the exocytosis marker protein CD63 via BLT1-mediated signaling. LTB4 induced p47(phox) phosphorylation and 91(phox) expression required for NOX2 activation in a BLT1-dependent manner. Pretreatment with NOX2 inhibitors, but not mitochondria inhibitor, prevented LTB4-induced ROS generation and exocytosis. At 30 min after stimulation with LTB4, BLT1 expression at the cell surface was upregulated. LTB4-triggered surface upregulation of BLT1 was also blocked by inhibition of ROS generation with NOX2 inhibitors. Moreover, stimulation for 30 min with LTB4 resulted in the interaction of BLT1 with NOX2 by immunoprecipitation. LTB4-induced ROS generation, surface upregulation of BLT1 and exocytosis was also inhibited by pretreatment with a lipid raft disruptor, protein kinase C inhibitor, or Src kinase inhibitor.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that NOX2-derived ROS-mediated BLT1 trafficking to the cell surface plays a key role in the exocytosis of human eosinophils induced by LTB4.

Pre-embedding immunogold labeling to optimize protein localization at subcellular compartments and membrane microdomains of leukocytes

Precise immunolocalization of proteins within a cell is central to understanding cell processes and functions such as intracellular trafficking and secretion of molecules during immune responses. Here we describe a protocol for ultrastructural detection of proteins in leukocytes. The method uses a pre-embedding approach (immunolabeling before standard processing for transmission electron microscopy (TEM)). This protocol combines several strategies for ultrastructure and antigen preservation, robust blocking of nonspecific binding sites, as well as superior antibody penetration for detecting molecules at subcellular compartments and membrane microdomains. A further advantage of this technique is that electron microscopy (EM) processing is quick. This method has been used to study leukocyte biology, and it has helped demonstrate how activated leukocytes deliver specific cargos. It may also potentially be applied to a variety of different cell types. Excluding the initial time required for sample preparation (15 h) and the final resin polymerization step (16 h), the protocol (immunolabeling and EM procedures) can be completed in 8 h.

Human Eosinophil Leukocytes Express Protein Disulfide Isomerase in Secretory Granules and Vesicles: Ultrastructural Studies

Protein disulfide isomerase (PDI) has fundamental roles in the oxidative folding of proteins in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) of eukaryotic cells. The study of this molecule has been attracting considerable attention due to its association with other cell functions and human diseases. In leukocytes, such as neutrophils, PDI is involved with cell adhesion, signaling and inflammation. However, the expression of PDI in other leukocytes, such as eosinophils, important cells in inflammatory, allergic and immunomodulatory responses, remains to be defined. Here we used different approaches to investigate PDI expression within human eosinophils. Western blotting and flow cytometry demonstrated high PDI expression in both unstimulated and CCL11/eotaxin-1-stimulated eosinophils, with similar levels in both conditions. By using an immunogold electron microscopy technique that combines better epitope preservation and secondary Fab-fragments of antibodies linked to 1.4-nm gold particles for optimal access to microdomains, we identified different intracellular sites for PDI. In addition to predictable strong PDI labeling at the nuclear envelope, other unanticipated sites, such as secretory granules, lipid bodies and vesicles, including large transport vesicles (eosinophil sombrero vesicles), were also labeled. Thus, we provide the first identification of PDI in human eosinophils, suggesting that this molecule may have additional/specific functions in these leukocytes.

An extragranular compartment of blood eosinophils contains eosinophil protein X/eosinophil-derived neurotoxin (EPX/EDN)

Serum and plasma profiles of eosinophil protein X (EPX/EDN) and those of other eosinophil proteins differ in various conditions, suggesting a different mobilisation from storage granules. This work studied the subcellular localisation of EPX/EDN in non-primed and in vivo primed blood eosinophils from healthy and allergic subjects, during and out of the pollen season. Primed eosinophils contain easily mobilisable secretory proteins. By fractionation on sucrose density gradients, EPX/EDN localised in the specific granules as well as in a cytoplasmic extra-granular compartment of low equilibrium density that partially overlapped with vesicular structures, cytosolic proteins and plasma membranes. This compartment was clearly separate from the low density peak of ECP that increases during the pollen season. There were no significant differences in the amounts of EPX/EDN present in the low density peak of healthy and allergic subjects. Immuno-gold labelling electron microscopy showed EPX/EDN in specific granules, cytoplasm and associated to plasma membranes. In conclusion, substantial amounts of EPX/EDN localise in an extra-granular, low equilibrium density compartment of human eosinophils.

Asparagine-linked glycans determine the cytotoxic capacity of eosinophil cationic protein (ECP)

Eosinophil cationic protein (ECP) is a toxic, granule-stored protein of the eosinophil granulocyte. It is a heterogeneous protein; molecular weights can differ from 15 to 22 kDa, due to glycosylations. We purified high molecular weight ECP from blood donors with the ECP434GG (rs2073342) genotype, with the aim of examining whether removal of carbohydrates could enhance the cytotoxic capacity. The cytotoxic activity of the ECP pools was tested against the NCI-H69 cell line, before and after enzymatic deglycosylation. ECP was also analysed by SELDI-TOF MS to monitor the changes in molecular mass after deglycosylation. Five high molecular weight pools of ECP (HMW-ECP I-V) with decreasing degrees of glycosylation were tested at concentrations ranging from 0.02 to 0.6 μM. The activity ranged from EC50 of >0.6 μM to 0.04 μM; HMW-ECP II had the lowest activity and HMW-ECP V the highest. After deglycosylation with N-glycosidase F, pools HMW-ECP I-III were reduced to the same molecular weight of 15.78 kDa and acquired potent cytotoxic activities. HMW-ECP IV and V with molecular species at 16.3 and 16.1 kDa were highly cytotoxic as such and were only partially deglycosylated, with slight enhancement of the toxic properties. The results suggest the presence of several HMW-ECP molecular species with differences in their post-translational modifications and cytotoxic properties. We conclude that a fraction of native ECP is stored in a non-cytotoxic form, which can be converted into a cytotoxic form by N-deglycosylation, whereas another fraction is stored as a highly cytotoxic form carrying different post-translational modifications.

Eosinophil-derived cytokines in health and disease: unraveling novel mechanisms of selective secretion

Over the past two decades, our understanding of eosinophils has evolved from that of categorically destructive effector cells to include active participation in immune modulation, tissue repair processes, and normal organ development, in both health and disease. At the core of their newly appreciated functions is the capacity of eosinophils to synthesize, store within intracellular granules, and very rapidly secrete a highly diverse repertoire of cytokines. Mechanisms governing the selective secretion of preformed cytokines from eosinophils are attractive therapeutic targets and may well be more broadly applicable to other immune cells. Here, we discuss recent advances in deciphering pathways of cytokine secretion, both from intact eosinophils and from tissue-deposited cell-free eosinophil granules, extruded from eosinophils undergoing a lytic cell death.