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Belean A, Xue E, Cisneros B, Roberson EDO, Paley MA, Bigley TM. Transcriptomic profiling of thymic dysregulation and viral tropism after neonatal roseolovirus infection. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1375508. [PMID: 38895117 PMCID: PMC11183875 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1375508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Herpesviruses, including the roseoloviruses, have been linked to autoimmune disease. The ubiquitous and chronic nature of these infections have made it difficult to establish a causal relationship between acute infection and subsequent development of autoimmunity. We have shown that murine roseolovirus (MRV), which is highly related to human roseoloviruses, induces thymic atrophy and disruption of central tolerance after neonatal infection. Moreover, neonatal MRV infection results in development of autoimmunity in adult mice, long after resolution of acute infection. This suggests that MRV induces durable immune dysregulation. Methods In the current studies, we utilized single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNAseq) to study the tropism of MRV in the thymus and determine cellular processes in the thymus that were disrupted by neonatal MRV infection. We then utilized tropism data to establish a cell culture system. Results Herein, we describe how MRV alters the thymic transcriptome during acute neonatal infection. We found that MRV infection resulted in major shifts in inflammatory, differentiation and cell cycle pathways in the infected thymus. We also observed shifts in the relative number of specific cell populations. Moreover, utilizing expression of late viral transcripts as a proxy of viral replication, we identified the cellular tropism of MRV in the thymus. This approach demonstrated that double negative, double positive, and CD4 single positive thymocytes, as well as medullary thymic epithelial cells were infected by MRV in vivo. Finally, by applying pseudotime analysis to viral transcripts, which we refer to as "pseudokinetics," we identified viral gene transcription patterns associated with specific cell types and infection status. We utilized this information to establish the first cell culture systems susceptible to MRV infection in vitro. Conclusion Our research provides the first complete picture of roseolovirus tropism in the thymus after neonatal infection. Additionally, we identified major transcriptomic alterations in cell populations in the thymus during acute neonatal MRV infection. These studies offer important insight into the early events that occur after neonatal MRV infection that disrupt central tolerance and promote autoimmune disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrei Belean
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Eden Xue
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Benjamin Cisneros
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Elisha D. O. Roberson
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States
- Department of Genetics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Michael A. Paley
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Tarin M. Bigley
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States
- Department of Molecular Microbiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States
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2
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Fujimori S, Ohigashi I. The role of thymic epithelium in thymus development and age-related thymic involution. THE JOURNAL OF MEDICAL INVESTIGATION 2024; 71:29-39. [PMID: 38735722 DOI: 10.2152/jmi.71.29] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/14/2024]
Abstract
The establishment of an adaptive immune system is critical for protecting our bodies from neoplastic cancers and invading pathogens such as viruses and bacteria. As a primary lymphoid organ, the thymus generates lymphoid T cells that play a major role in the adaptive immune system. T cell generation in the thymus is controlled by interactions between thymocytes and other thymic cells, primarily thymic epithelial cells. Thus, the normal development and function of thymic epithelial cells are important for the generation of immunocompetent and self-tolerant T cells. On the other hand, the degeneration of the thymic epithelium due to thymic aging causes thymic involution, which is associated with the decline of adaptive immune function. Herein we summarize basic and current knowledge of the development and function of thymic epithelial cells and the mechanism of thymic involution. J. Med. Invest. 71 : 29-39, February, 2024.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sayumi Fujimori
- Division of Experimental Immunology, Institute of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Izumi Ohigashi
- Division of Experimental Immunology, Institute of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima, Japan
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3
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Schneider M, Allman A, Maillard I. Regulation of immune cell development, differentiation and function by stromal Notch ligands. Curr Opin Cell Biol 2023; 85:102256. [PMID: 37806295 PMCID: PMC10873072 DOI: 10.1016/j.ceb.2023.102256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2023] [Revised: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 09/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023]
Abstract
In multicellular organisms, cell-to-cell communication is critical for the regulation of tissue organization. Notch signaling relies on direct interactions between Notch receptors on signal-receiving cells and Notch ligands on adjacent cells. Notch evolved to mediate local cellular interactions that are responsive to spatial cues via dosage-sensitive short-lived signals. Immune cells utilize these unique properties of Notch signaling to direct their development, differentiation, and function. In this review, we explore how immune cells interact through Notch receptors with stromal cells in specialized niches of lymphohematopoietic organs that express Notch-activating ligands. We emphasize factors that control these interactions and focus on how Notch signals communicate spatial, quantitative, and temporal information to program the function of signal-receiving cells in the immune system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Schneider
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Anneka Allman
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Ivan Maillard
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
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4
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Song J, Li L, Fang Y, Lin Y, Wu L, Wan W, Wei G, Hua F, Ying J. FOXN Transcription Factors: Regulation and Significant Role in Cancer. Mol Cancer Ther 2023; 22:1028-1039. [PMID: 37566097 DOI: 10.1158/1535-7163.mct-23-0208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2023] [Revised: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023]
Abstract
A growing number of studies have demonstrated that cancer development is closely linked to abnormal gene expression, including alterations in the transcriptional activity of transcription factors. The Forkhead box class N (FOXN) proteins FOXN1-6 form a highly conserved class of transcription factors, which have been shown in recent years to be involved in the regulation of malignant progression in a variety of cancers. FOXNs mediate cell proliferation, cell-cycle progression, cell differentiation, metabolic homeostasis, embryonic development, DNA damage repair, tumor angiogenesis, and other critical biological processes. Therefore, transcriptional dysregulation of FOXNs can directly affect cellular physiology and promote cancer development. Numerous studies have demonstrated that the transcriptional activity of FOXNs is regulated by protein-protein interactions, microRNAs (miRNA), and posttranslational modifications (PTM). However, the mechanisms underlying the molecular regulation of FOXNs in cancer development are unclear. Here, we reviewed the molecular regulatory mechanisms of FOXNs expression and activity, their role in the malignant progression of tumors, and their value for clinical applications in cancer therapy. This review may help design experimental studies involving FOXN transcription factors, and enhance their therapeutic potential as antitumor targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiali Song
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang City, Jiangxi Province, P.R. China
| | - Longshan Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang City, Jiangxi Province, P.R. China
| | - Yang Fang
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang City, Jiangxi Province, P.R. China
| | - Yue Lin
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang City, Jiangxi Province, P.R. China
| | - Luojia Wu
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang City, Jiangxi Province, P.R. China
| | - Wei Wan
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang City, Jiangxi Province, P.R. China
| | - Gen Wei
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang City, Jiangxi Province, P.R. China
| | - Fuzhou Hua
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang City, Jiangxi Province, P.R. China
| | - Jun Ying
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang City, Jiangxi Province, P.R. China
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5
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Farley AM, Chengrui A, Palmer S, Liu D, Kousa AI, Rouse P, Major V, Sweetman J, Morys J, Corsinotti A, Nichols J, Ure J, McLay R, Boulter L, Chapman SJ, Tomlinson SR, Blackburn CC. Thymic epithelial cell fate and potency in early organogenesis assessed by single cell transcriptional and functional analysis. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1202163. [PMID: 37559721 PMCID: PMC10407560 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1202163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 08/11/2023] Open
Abstract
During development, cortical (c) and medullary (m) thymic epithelial cells (TEC) arise from the third pharyngeal pouch endoderm. Current models suggest that within the thymic primordium most TEC exist in a bipotent/common thymic epithelial progenitor cell (TEPC) state able to generate both cTEC and mTEC, at least until embryonic day 12.5 (E12.5) in the mouse. This view, however, is challenged by recent transcriptomics and genetic evidence. We therefore set out to investigate the fate and potency of TEC in the early thymus. Here using single cell (sc) RNAseq we identify a candidate mTEC progenitor population at E12.5, consistent with recent reports. Via lineage-tracing we demonstrate this population as mTEC fate-restricted, validating our bioinformatics prediction. Using potency analyses we also establish that most E11.5 and E12.5 progenitor TEC are cTEC-fated. Finally we show that overnight culture causes most if not all E12.5 cTEC-fated TEPC to acquire functional bipotency, and provide a likely molecular mechanism for this changed differentiation potential. Collectively, our data overturn the widely held view that a common TEPC predominates in the E12.5 thymus, showing instead that sublineage-primed progenitors are present from the earliest stages of thymus organogenesis but that these early fetal TEPC exhibit cell-fate plasticity in response to extrinsic factors. Our data provide a significant advance in the understanding of fetal thymic epithelial development and thus have implications for thymus-related clinical research, in particular research focussed on generating TEC from pluripotent stem cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alison Mary Farley
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine, Institute for Stem Cell Research, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - An Chengrui
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine, Institute for Stem Cell Research, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Sam Palmer
- Mathematical Institute, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Dong Liu
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine, Institute for Stem Cell Research, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Anastasia I. Kousa
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine, Institute for Stem Cell Research, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Paul Rouse
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine, Institute for Stem Cell Research, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Viktoria Major
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine, Institute for Stem Cell Research, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Joanna Sweetman
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine, Institute for Stem Cell Research, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Jan Morys
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine, Institute for Stem Cell Research, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Andrea Corsinotti
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine, Institute for Stem Cell Research, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Jennifer Nichols
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine, Institute for Stem Cell Research, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Janice Ure
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine, Institute for Stem Cell Research, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Renee McLay
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine, Institute for Stem Cell Research, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Luke Boulter
- Medical Research Council (MRC) Human Genetics Unit, Institute of Genetics and Cancer, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - S. Jon Chapman
- Mathematical Institute, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Simon R. Tomlinson
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine, Institute for Stem Cell Research, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - C. Clare Blackburn
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine, Institute for Stem Cell Research, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
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6
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Lucas B, White AJ, Klein F, Veiga-Villauriz C, Handel A, Bacon A, Cosway EJ, James KD, Parnell SM, Ohigashi I, Takahama Y, Jenkinson WE, Hollander GA, Lu WY, Anderson G. Embryonic keratin19 + progenitors generate multiple functionally distinct progeny to maintain epithelial diversity in the adult thymus medulla. Nat Commun 2023; 14:2066. [PMID: 37045811 PMCID: PMC10097809 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-37589-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 04/14/2023] Open
Abstract
The thymus medulla is a key site for immunoregulation and tolerance, and its functional specialisation is achieved through the complexity of medullary thymic epithelial cells (mTEC). While the importance of the medulla for thymus function is clear, the production and maintenance of mTEC diversity remains poorly understood. Here, using ontogenetic and inducible fate-mapping approaches, we identify mTEC-restricted progenitors as a cytokeratin19+ (K19+) TEC subset that emerges in the embryonic thymus. Importantly, labelling of a single cohort of K19+ TEC during embryogenesis sustains the production of multiple mTEC subsets into adulthood, including CCL21+ mTEClo, Aire+ mTEChi and thymic tuft cells. We show K19+ progenitors arise prior to the acquisition of multiple mTEC-defining features including RANK and CCL21 and are generated independently of the key mTEC regulator, Relb. In conclusion, we identify and define a multipotent mTEC progenitor that emerges during embryogenesis to support mTEC diversity into adult life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beth Lucas
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
| | - Andrea J White
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
| | - Fabian Klein
- Department of Paediatrics and Institute of Developmental and Regenerative Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Clara Veiga-Villauriz
- Department of Paediatrics and Institute of Developmental and Regenerative Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Adam Handel
- Department of Paediatrics and Institute of Developmental and Regenerative Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Andrea Bacon
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
| | - Emilie J Cosway
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
| | - Kieran D James
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
| | - Sonia M Parnell
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
| | - Izumi Ohigashi
- Institute for Advanced Medical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Yousuke Takahama
- Thymus Biology Section, Experimental Immunology Branch, NCI/NIH, Bethesda, USA
| | - William E Jenkinson
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
| | - Georg A Hollander
- Department of Paediatrics and Institute of Developmental and Regenerative Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Paediatric Immunology, Department of Biomedicine, University of Basel and University Children's Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Wei-Yu Lu
- Centre for Inflammation Research, Queen's Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Graham Anderson
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK.
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7
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Toribio ML, González-García S. Notch Partners in the Long Journey of T-ALL Pathogenesis. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24021383. [PMID: 36674902 PMCID: PMC9866461 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24021383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2022] [Revised: 12/30/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL) is an aggressive hematological disease that arises from the oncogenic transformation of developing T cells during T-lymphopoiesis. Although T-ALL prognosis has improved markedly in recent years, relapsing and refractory patients with dismal outcomes still represent a major clinical issue. Consequently, understanding the pathological mechanisms that lead to the appearance of this malignancy and developing novel and more effective targeted therapies is an urgent need. Since the discovery in 2004 that a major proportion of T-ALL patients carry activating mutations that turn NOTCH1 into an oncogene, great efforts have been made to decipher the mechanisms underlying constitutive NOTCH1 activation, with the aim of understanding how NOTCH1 dysregulation converts the physiological NOTCH1-dependent T-cell developmental program into a pathological T-cell transformation process. Several molecular players have so far been shown to cooperate with NOTCH1 in this oncogenic process, and different therapeutic strategies have been developed to specifically target NOTCH1-dependent T-ALLs. Here, we comprehensively analyze the molecular bases of the cross-talk between NOTCH1 and cooperating partners critically involved in the generation and/or maintenance and progression of T-ALL and discuss novel opportunities and therapeutic approaches that current knowledge may open for future treatment of T-ALL patients.
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8
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Human thymoma-associated mutation of the GTF2I transcription factor impairs thymic epithelial progenitor differentiation in mice. Commun Biol 2022; 5:1037. [PMID: 36175547 PMCID: PMC9522929 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-022-04002-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2022] [Accepted: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Few human tumours present with a recurrent pathognomonic mutation in a transcription factor. Thymomas are an exception, with the majority of some subtypes exhibiting a distinct somatically acquired missense mutation in the general transcription factor GTF2I. Co-dominant expression of wild-type and mutated forms of Gtf2i in the mouse thymic epithelium is associated with aberrant thymic architecture and reduced thymopoietic activity. Phenotypic and molecular characterization of the mutant epithelium indicates that medullary differentiation is particularly affected as a result of impaired differentiation of bi-potent epithelial progenitors. The resulting gene expression signature is dominated by that of immature cortex-like thymic epithelial cells. TCR repertoire analysis of the cytopenic T cell compartment indicates efficient intrathymic selection; hence, despite marked homeostatic proliferation of T cell clones, autoimmunity is not observed. Thus, our transgenic mouse model recapitulates some aspects of the pathophysiology of a genetically defined type of human thymoma. Thymic architecture and T cell repertoire analysis of a mouse model for thymoma and the role of the transcription factor GTF2I shows suitability of this model to recapitulate human thymomas and a severe effect of Gtf2i mutations on the medullary compartment.
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9
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Kadouri N, Givony T, Nevo S, Hey J, Ben Dor S, Damari G, Dassa B, Dobes J, Weichenhan D, Bähr M, Paulsen M, Haffner-Krausz R, Mall MA, Plass C, Goldfarb Y, Abramson J. Transcriptional regulation of the thymus master regulator Foxn1. Sci Immunol 2022; 7:eabn8144. [PMID: 36026441 DOI: 10.1126/sciimmunol.abn8144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
FOXN1 is a transcription factor critical for the development of both thymic epithelial cell (TEC) and hair follicle cell (HFC) compartments. However, mechanisms controlling its expression remain poorly understood. To address this question, we performed thorough analyses of the evolutionary conservation and chromatin status of the Foxn1 locus in different tissues and states and identified several putative cis-regulatory regions unique to TECs versus HFCs. Furthermore, experiments using genetically modified mice with specific deletions in the Foxn1 locus and additional bioinformatic analyses helped us identify key regions and transcription factors involved in either positive or negative regulation of Foxn1 in both TECs and HFCs. Specifically, we identified SIX1 and FOXN1 itself as key factors inducing Foxn1 expression in embryonic and neonatal TECs. Together, our data provide important mechanistic insights into the transcriptional regulation of the Foxn1 gene in TEC versus HFC and highlight the role of FOXN1 in its autoregulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noam Kadouri
- Department of Immunology and Regenerative Biology, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Tal Givony
- Department of Immunology and Regenerative Biology, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Shir Nevo
- Department of Immunology and Regenerative Biology, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Joschka Hey
- Division of Cancer Epigenomics, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany.,Ruprecht Karl University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Shifra Ben Dor
- Bioinformatics Unit, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Golda Damari
- Department of Veterinary Resources, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Bareket Dassa
- Bioinformatics Unit, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Jan Dobes
- Department of Immunology and Regenerative Biology, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Dieter Weichenhan
- Division of Cancer Epigenomics, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Marion Bähr
- Division of Cancer Epigenomics, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Michelle Paulsen
- Translational Lung Research Center Heidelberg (TLRC), German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Heidelberg, Germany.,Department of Translational Pulmonology, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | | | - Marcus A Mall
- Translational Lung Research Center Heidelberg (TLRC), German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Heidelberg, Germany.,Department of Translational Pulmonology, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.,Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Christoph Plass
- Division of Cancer Epigenomics, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Yael Goldfarb
- Department of Immunology and Regenerative Biology, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Jakub Abramson
- Department of Immunology and Regenerative Biology, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
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10
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Shichkin VP, Antica M. Key Factors for Thymic Function and Development. Front Immunol 2022; 13:926516. [PMID: 35844535 PMCID: PMC9280625 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.926516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2022] [Accepted: 05/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The thymus is the organ responsible for T cell development and the formation of the adaptive immunity function. Its multicellular environment consists mainly of the different stromal cells and maturing T lymphocytes. Thymus-specific progenitors of epithelial, mesenchymal, and lymphoid cells with stem cell properties represent only minor populations. The thymic stromal structure predominantly determines the function of the thymus. The stromal components, mostly epithelial and mesenchymal cells, form this specialized area. They support the consistent developmental program of functionally distinct conventional T cell subpopulations. These include the MHC restricted single positive CD4+ CD8- and CD4- CD8+ cells, regulatory T lymphocytes (Foxp3+), innate natural killer T cells (iNKT), and γδT cells. Several physiological causes comprising stress and aging and medical treatments such as thymectomy and chemo/radiotherapy can harm the thymus function. The present review summarizes our knowledge of the development and function of the thymus with a focus on thymic epithelial cells as well as other stromal components and the signaling and transcriptional pathways underlying the thymic cell interaction. These critical thymus components are significant for T cell differentiation and restoring the thymic function after damage to reach the therapeutic benefits.
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11
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Provin N, Giraud M. Differentiation of Pluripotent Stem Cells Into Thymic Epithelial Cells and Generation of Thymic Organoids: Applications for Therapeutic Strategies Against APECED. Front Immunol 2022; 13:930963. [PMID: 35844523 PMCID: PMC9277542 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.930963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2022] [Accepted: 05/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The thymus is a primary lymphoid organ essential for the induction of central immune tolerance. Maturing T cells undergo several steps of expansion and selection mediated by thymic epithelial cells (TECs). In APECED and other congenital pathologies, a deficiency in genes that regulate TEC development or their ability to select non auto-reactive thymocytes results in a defective immune balance, and consequently in a general autoimmune syndrome. Restoration of thymic function is thus crucial for the emergence of curative treatments. The last decade has seen remarkable progress in both gene editing and pluripotent stem cell differentiation, with the emergence of CRISPR-based gene correction, the trivialization of reprogramming of somatic cells to induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSc) and their subsequent differentiation into multiple cellular fates. The combination of these two approaches has paved the way to the generation of genetically corrected thymic organoids and their use to control thymic genetic pathologies affecting self-tolerance. Here we review the recent advances in differentiation of iPSc into TECs and the ability of the latter to support a proper and efficient maturation of thymocytes into functional and non-autoreactive T cells. A special focus is given on thymus organogenesis and pathway modulation during iPSc differentiation, on the impact of the 2/3D structure on the generated TECs, and on perspectives for therapeutic strategies in APECED based on patient-derived iPSc corrected for AIRE gene mutations.
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12
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Bhalla P, Su DM, van Oers NSC. Thymus Functionality Needs More Than a Few TECs. Front Immunol 2022; 13:864777. [PMID: 35757725 PMCID: PMC9229346 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.864777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Accepted: 05/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The thymus, a primary lymphoid organ, produces the T cells of the immune system. Originating from the 3rd pharyngeal pouch during embryogenesis, this organ functions throughout life. Yet, thymopoiesis can be transiently or permanently damaged contingent on the types of systemic stresses encountered. The thymus also undergoes a functional decline during aging, resulting in a progressive reduction in naïve T cell output. This atrophy is evidenced by a deteriorating thymic microenvironment, including, but not limited, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transitions, fibrosis and adipogenesis. An exploration of cellular changes in the thymus at various stages of life, including mouse models of in-born errors of immunity and with single cell RNA sequencing, is revealing an expanding number of distinct cell types influencing thymus functions. The thymus microenvironment, established through interactions between immature and mature thymocytes with thymus epithelial cells (TEC), is well known. Less well appreciated are the contributions of neural crest cell-derived mesenchymal cells, endothelial cells, diverse hematopoietic cell populations, adipocytes, and fibroblasts in the thymic microenvironment. In the current review, we will explore the contributions of the many stromal cell types participating in the formation, expansion, and contraction of the thymus under normal and pathophysiological processes. Such information will better inform approaches for restoring thymus functionality, including thymus organoid technologies, beneficial when an individuals’ own tissue is congenitally, clinically, or accidentally rendered non-functional.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pratibha Bhalla
- Department of Immunology, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States
| | - Dong-Ming Su
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Genetics, The University of North Texas Health Sciences Center, Fort Worth, TX, United States
| | - Nicolai S C van Oers
- Department of Immunology, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States.,Department of Microbiology, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States.,Department of Pediatrics, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States
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13
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García-León MJ, Mosquera M, Cela C, Alcain J, Zuklys S, Holländer G, Toribio ML. Abrogation of Notch Signaling in Embryonic TECs Impacts Postnatal mTEC Homeostasis and Thymic Involution. Front Immunol 2022; 13:867302. [PMID: 35707539 PMCID: PMC9189879 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.867302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Accepted: 04/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Notch signaling is crucial for fate specification and maturation of thymus-seeding progenitors along the T-cell lineage. Recent studies have extended the role of Notch signaling to thymic epithelial cells (TECs), showing that Notch regulates TEC progenitor maintenance and emergence of medullary TECs (mTECs) in fetal thymopoiesis. Based on immunohistochemistry studies of spatiotemporal regulation of Notch activation in the postnatal thymus, we show that in vivo Notch activation is not confined to fetal TECs. Rather, Notch signaling, likely mediated through the Notch1 receptor, is induced in postnatal cortical and medullary TECs, and increases significantly with age in the latter, in both humans and mice, suggesting a conserved role for Notch signaling in TEC homeostasis during thymus aging. To investigate the functional impact of Notch activation in postnatal TEC biology, we used a mouse model in which RPBJκ, the transcriptional effector of canonical Notch signaling, is deleted in epithelial cells, including TECs, under the control of the transcription factor Foxn1. Immunohistochemistry and flow cytometry analyses revealed no significant differences in TEC composition in mutant (RPBJκ-KOTEC) and wild-type (WT) littermate mice at early postnatal ages. However, a significant reduction of the medullary region was observed in mutant compared to WT older thymi, which was accompanied by an accelerated decrease of postnatal mTEC numbers. Also, we found that organization and integrity of the postnatal thymic medulla critically depends on activation of the canonical Notch signaling pathway, as abrogation of Notch signaling in TECs led to the disruption of the medullary thymic microenvironment and to an accelerated thymus atrophy. These features paralleled a significant increase in the proportion of intrathymic non-T lineage cells, mostly B cells, and a slight decrease of DP thymocyte numbers compatible with a compromised thymic function in mutant mice. Therefore, impaired Notch signaling induced in embryonic development impacts postnatal TECs and leads to an accelerated mTEC degeneration and a premature thymus involution. Collectively, our data have uncovered a new role for Notch1 signaling in the control of adult mTEC homeostasis, and point toward Notch signaling manipulation as a novel strategy for thymus regeneration and functional recovery from immunosenescence.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Jesús García-León
- Immune System Development and Function Unit, Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (UAM), Madrid, Spain
| | - Marta Mosquera
- Immune System Development and Function Unit, Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (UAM), Madrid, Spain
| | - Carmela Cela
- Immune System Development and Function Unit, Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (UAM), Madrid, Spain
| | - Juan Alcain
- Immune System Development and Function Unit, Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (UAM), Madrid, Spain
| | - Saulius Zuklys
- Department of Biomedicine and University Children's Hospital of Basel, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Georg Holländer
- Department of Biomedicine and University Children's Hospital of Basel, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.,Department of Paediatrics and the Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - María L Toribio
- Immune System Development and Function Unit, Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (UAM), Madrid, Spain
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14
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Nusser A, Sagar, Swann JB, Krauth B, Diekhoff D, Calderon L, Happe C, Grün D, Boehm T. Developmental dynamics of two bipotent thymic epithelial progenitor types. Nature 2022; 606:165-171. [PMID: 35614226 PMCID: PMC9159946 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-022-04752-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2017] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
T cell development in the thymus is essential for cellular immunity and depends on the organotypic thymic epithelial microenvironment. In comparison with other organs, the size and cellular composition of the thymus are unusually dynamic, as exemplified by rapid growth and high T cell output during early stages of development, followed by a gradual loss of functional thymic epithelial cells and diminished naive T cell production with age1-10. Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) has uncovered an unexpected heterogeneity of cell types in the thymic epithelium of young and aged adult mice11-18; however, the identities and developmental dynamics of putative pre- and postnatal epithelial progenitors have remained unresolved1,12,16,17,19-27. Here we combine scRNA-seq and a new CRISPR-Cas9-based cellular barcoding system in mice to determine qualitative and quantitative changes in the thymic epithelium over time. This dual approach enabled us to identify two principal progenitor populations: an early bipotent progenitor type biased towards cortical epithelium and a postnatal bipotent progenitor population biased towards medullary epithelium. We further demonstrate that continuous autocrine provision of Fgf7 leads to sustained expansion of thymic microenvironments without exhausting the epithelial progenitor pools, suggesting a strategy to modulate the extent of thymopoietic activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anja Nusser
- Department of Developmental Immunology, Max Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Sagar
- Quantitative Single Cell Biology Group, Max Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics, Freiburg, Germany
- Department of Medicine II, University Hospital Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Jeremy B Swann
- Department of Developmental Immunology, Max Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Brigitte Krauth
- Department of Developmental Immunology, Max Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Dagmar Diekhoff
- Department of Developmental Immunology, Max Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Lesly Calderon
- Department of Developmental Immunology, Max Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics, Freiburg, Germany
- Institute of Molecular Pathology, Vienna, Austria
| | - Christiane Happe
- Department of Developmental Immunology, Max Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Dominic Grün
- Quantitative Single Cell Biology Group, Max Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics, Freiburg, Germany.
- Würzburg Institute of Systems Immunology, Max Planck Research Group at the Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany.
- Helmholtz Institute for RNA-Based Infection Research (HIRI), Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research (HZI), Würzburg, Germany.
| | - Thomas Boehm
- Department of Developmental Immunology, Max Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics, Freiburg, Germany.
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.
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15
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Magaletta ME, Lobo M, Kernfeld EM, Aliee H, Huey JD, Parsons TJ, Theis FJ, Maehr R. Integration of single-cell transcriptomes and chromatin landscapes reveals regulatory programs driving pharyngeal organ development. Nat Commun 2022; 13:457. [PMID: 35075189 PMCID: PMC8786836 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-28067-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2021] [Accepted: 01/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Maldevelopment of the pharyngeal endoderm, an embryonic tissue critical for patterning of the pharyngeal region and ensuing organogenesis, ultimately contributes to several classes of human developmental syndromes and disorders. Such syndromes are characterized by a spectrum of phenotypes that currently cannot be fully explained by known mutations or genetic variants due to gaps in characterization of critical drivers of normal and dysfunctional development. Despite the disease-relevance of pharyngeal endoderm, we still lack a comprehensive and integrative view of the molecular basis and gene regulatory networks driving pharyngeal endoderm development. To close this gap, we apply transcriptomic and chromatin accessibility single-cell sequencing technologies to generate a multi-omic developmental resource spanning pharyngeal endoderm patterning to the emergence of organ-specific epithelia in the developing mouse embryo. We identify cell-type specific gene regulation, distill GRN models that define developing organ domains, and characterize the role of an immunodeficiency-associated forkhead box transcription factor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margaret E Magaletta
- Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
- Diabetes Center of Excellence, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Macrina Lobo
- Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
- Diabetes Center of Excellence, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Eric M Kernfeld
- Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
- Diabetes Center of Excellence, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Hananeh Aliee
- Institute of Computational Biology, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Munich, Germany
| | - Jack D Huey
- Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
- Diabetes Center of Excellence, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Teagan J Parsons
- Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
- Diabetes Center of Excellence, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Fabian J Theis
- Institute of Computational Biology, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Munich, Germany
- Department of Mathematics, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany
- School of Life Sciences Weihenstephan, Technische Universität München, Freising, Germany
| | - René Maehr
- Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA.
- Diabetes Center of Excellence, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA.
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16
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Shevyrev D, Tereshchenko V, Kozlov V, Sennikov S. Phylogeny, Structure, Functions, and Role of AIRE in the Formation of T-Cell Subsets. Cells 2022; 11:194. [PMID: 35053310 PMCID: PMC8773594 DOI: 10.3390/cells11020194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2021] [Revised: 01/03/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
It is well known that the most important feature of adaptive immunity is the specificity that provides highly precise recognition of the self, altered-self, and non-self. Due to the high specificity of antigen recognition, the adaptive immune system participates in the maintenance of genetic homeostasis, supports multicellularity, and protects an organism from different pathogens at a qualitatively different level than innate immunity. This seemingly simple property is based on millions of years of evolution that led to the formation of diversification mechanisms of antigen-recognizing receptors and later to the emergence of a system of presentation of the self and non-self antigens. The latter could have a crucial significance because the presentation of nearly complete diversity of auto-antigens in the thymus allows for the "calibration" of the forming repertoires of T-cells for the recognition of self, altered-self, and non-self antigens that are presented on the periphery. The central role in this process belongs to promiscuous gene expression by the thymic epithelial cells that express nearly the whole spectrum of proteins encoded in the genome, meanwhile maintaining their cellular identity. This complex mechanism requires strict control that is executed by several transcription factors. One of the most important of them is AIRE. This noncanonical transcription factor not only regulates the processes of differentiation and expression of peripheral tissue-specific antigens in the thymic medullar epithelial cells but also controls intercellular interactions in the thymus. Besides, it participates in an increase in the diversity and transfer of presented antigens and thus influences the formation of repertoires of maturing thymocytes. Due to these complex effects, AIRE is also called a transcriptional regulator. In this review, we briefly described the history of AIRE discovery, its structure, functions, and role in the formation of antigen-recognizing receptor repertoires, along with other transcription factors. We focused on the phylogenetic prerequisites for the development of modern adaptive immunity and emphasized the importance of the antigen presentation system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniil Shevyrev
- Research Institute for Fundamental and Clinical Immunology (RIFCI), 630099 Novosibirsk, Russia; (V.T.); (V.K.); (S.S.)
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17
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Hu C, Zhang K, Jiang F, Wang H, Shao Q. Epigenetic modifications in thymic epithelial cells: an evolutionary perspective for thymus atrophy. Clin Epigenetics 2021; 13:210. [PMID: 34819170 PMCID: PMC8612001 DOI: 10.1186/s13148-021-01197-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The thymic microenvironment is mainly comprised of thymic epithelial cells, the cytokines, exosomes, surface molecules, and hormones from the cells, and plays a vital role in the development, differentiation, maturation and homeostasis of T lymphocytes. However, the thymus begins to degenerate as early as the second year of life and continues through aging in human beings, leading to a decreased output of naïve T cells, the limited TCR diversity and an expansion of monoclonal memory T cells in the periphery organs. These alternations will reduce the adaptive immune response to tumors and emerging infectious diseases, such as COVID-19, also it is easier to suffer from autoimmune diseases in older people. In the context of global aging, it is important to investigate and clarify the causes and mechanisms of thymus involution. Main body Epigenetics include histone modification, DNA methylation, non-coding RNA effects, and chromatin remodeling. In this review, we discuss how senescent thymic epithelial cells determine and control age-related thymic atrophy, how this process is altered by epigenetic modification. How the thymus adipose influences the dysfunctions of the thymic epithelial cells, and the prospects of targeting thymic epithelial cells for the treatment of thymus atrophy. Conclusion Epigenetic modifications are emerging as key regulators in governing the development and senescence of thymic epithelial cells. It is beneficial to re-establish effective thymopoiesis, identify the potential therapeutic strategy and rejuvenate the immune function in the elderly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cexun Hu
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China.,Department of Immunology, Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine of Jiangsu Province, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, No. 301 Xuefu Road, Zhenjiang, 212013, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Keyu Zhang
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China.,Department of Immunology, Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine of Jiangsu Province, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, No. 301 Xuefu Road, Zhenjiang, 212013, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Feng Jiang
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China.,Department of Immunology, Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine of Jiangsu Province, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, No. 301 Xuefu Road, Zhenjiang, 212013, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Hui Wang
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China. .,Department of Immunology, Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine of Jiangsu Province, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, No. 301 Xuefu Road, Zhenjiang, 212013, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China.
| | - Qixiang Shao
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China. .,Department of Immunology, Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine of Jiangsu Province, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, No. 301 Xuefu Road, Zhenjiang, 212013, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China. .,Jiangsu College of Nursing, School of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine, Huai'an, 223002, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China.
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18
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Liang Z, Zhang Q, Zhang Z, Sun L, Dong X, Li T, Tan L, Xie X, Sun L, Zhao Y. The Development and Survival of Thymic Epithelial Cells Require TSC1-Dependent Negative Regulation of mTORC1 Activity. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2021; 207:2039-2050. [PMID: 34535574 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.2100463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Thymic epithelial cells (TECs) are critical for the development and generation of functionally competent T cells. Until now, the mechanism that regulates the survival of TECs is poorly understood. In the current study, we found that Tsc1 controls the homeostasis of medullary TECs (mTECs) by inhibiting lysosomal-mediated apoptosis pathway in mice. TEC-specific deletion of Tsc1 predominately decreased the cell number of mTECs and, to a lesser content, affected the development cortical TECs. The defect of mTECs caused by Tsc1 deficiency in mice impaired thymocyte development and peripheral T cell homeostasis. Mechanistically, Tsc1 deficiency did not affect the cell proliferation of mTECs but increased the apoptosis of mTECs significantly. RNA-sequencing analysis showed that pathways involved in lysosomal biogenesis, cell metabolism, and apoptosis were remarkably elevated in Tsc1-deficient mTECs compared with their wild-type counterparts. Tsc1-deficient mTECs exhibited overproduction of reactive oxygen species and malfunction of lysosome, with lysosome membrane permeabilization and the release of cathepsin B and cathepsin L to the cytosol, which then lead to Bid cleaved into active truncated Bid and subsequently intrinsic apoptosis. Finally, we showed that the impaired development of mTECs could be partially reversed by decreasing mTORC1 activity via haploinsufficiency of Raptor Thus, Tsc1 is essential for the homeostasis of mTECs by inhibiting lysosomal-mediated apoptosis through mTORC1-dependent pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhanfeng Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Qian Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Zhaoqi Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Lina Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xue Dong
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Tianxiu Li
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Liang Tan
- Department of Urological Organ Transplantation, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Xubiao Xie
- Department of Urological Organ Transplantation, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Liguang Sun
- Institute of Translational Medicine, The First Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, China; and .,National-Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Models for Human Diseases, Changchun, China
| | - Yong Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China; .,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
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19
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Wu H, Li X, Zhou C, Yu Q, Ge S, Pan Z, Zhao Y, Xia S, Zhou X, Liu X, Wang H, Shao Q. Circulating mature dendritic cells homing to the thymus promote thymic epithelial cells involution via the Jagged1/Notch3 axis. Cell Death Discov 2021; 7:225. [PMID: 34462426 PMCID: PMC8404188 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-021-00619-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2021] [Revised: 08/13/2021] [Accepted: 08/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Multiple proinflammatory conditions, including chemotherapy, radiotherapy, transplant rejection, and microbial infections, have been identified to induce involution of the thymus. However, the underlying cellular and molecular mechanisms of these inflammatory conditions inducing apoptosis of thymic epithelial cells (TECs), the main components of the thymus, remain largely unknown. In the circulation, mature dendritic cells (mDCs), the predominant initiator of innate and adaptive immune response, can migrate into the thymus. Herein, we demonstrated that mDCs were able to directly inhibit TECs proliferation and induce their apoptosis by activating the Jagged1/Notch3 signaling pathway. Intrathymic injection of either mDCs or recombinant mouse Jagged1-human Fc fusion protein (rmJagged1-hFc) into mice resulted in acute atrophy of the thymus. Furthermore, DAPT, a γ-secretase inhibitor, reversed the effects induced by mDC or rmJagged1-hFc. These findings suggest that acute or aging-related thymus degeneration can be induced either by mass migration of circulating mDCs in a short period of time or by a few but constantly homing mDCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haojie Wu
- Reproductive Sciences Institute, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine, Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, Jiangsu, P. R. China
| | - Xiaohan Li
- Reproductive Sciences Institute, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine, Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, Jiangsu, P. R. China
| | - Chen Zhou
- Reproductive Sciences Institute, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine, Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, Jiangsu, P. R. China
| | - Qihong Yu
- Reproductive Sciences Institute, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine, Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, Jiangsu, P. R. China
| | - Shiyao Ge
- Reproductive Sciences Institute, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine, Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, Jiangsu, P. R. China
| | - Zihui Pan
- Reproductive Sciences Institute, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine, Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, Jiangsu, P. R. China
| | - Yangjing Zhao
- Reproductive Sciences Institute, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine, Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, Jiangsu, P. R. China
| | - Sheng Xia
- Reproductive Sciences Institute, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine, Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, Jiangsu, P. R. China
| | - Xiaoming Zhou
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine, Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, Jiangsu, P. R. China
| | - Xia Liu
- Reproductive Sciences Institute, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine, Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, Jiangsu, P. R. China
| | - Hui Wang
- Reproductive Sciences Institute, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine, Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, Jiangsu, P. R. China.
| | - Qixiang Shao
- Reproductive Sciences Institute, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine, Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, Jiangsu, P. R. China.
- Institute of Medical Genetics and Reproductive Immunity, School of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine, Jiangsu College of Nursing, Huai'an, 223002, Jiangsu, P. R. China.
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20
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Sharma H, Moroni L. Recent Advancements in Regenerative Approaches for Thymus Rejuvenation. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2021; 8:2100543. [PMID: 34306981 PMCID: PMC8292900 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202100543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2021] [Revised: 04/04/2021] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
The thymus plays a key role in adaptive immunity by generating a diverse population of T cells that defend the body against pathogens. Various factors from disease and toxic insults contribute to the degeneration of the thymus resulting in a fewer output of T cells. Consequently, the body is prone to a wide host of diseases and infections. In this review, first, the relevance of the thymus is discussed, followed by thymic embryological organogenesis and anatomy as well as the development and functionality of T cells. Attempts to regenerate the thymus include in vitro methods, such as forming thymic organoids aided by biofabrication techniques that are transplantable. Ex vivo methods that have shown promise in enhancing thymic regeneration are also discussed. Current regenerative technologies have not yet matched the complexity and functionality of the thymus. Therefore, emerging techniques that have shown promise and the challenges that lie ahead are explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Himal Sharma
- MERLN Institute for Technology‐Inspired Regenerative MedicineDepartment of Complex Tissue RegenerationMaastricht UniversityMaastricht6229 ERNetherlands
| | - Lorenzo Moroni
- MERLN Institute for Technology‐Inspired Regenerative MedicineDepartment of Complex Tissue RegenerationMaastricht UniversityMaastricht6229 ERNetherlands
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21
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Bautista JL, Cramer NT, Miller CN, Chavez J, Berrios DI, Byrnes LE, Germino J, Ntranos V, Sneddon JB, Burt TD, Gardner JM, Ye CJ, Anderson MS, Parent AV. Single-cell transcriptional profiling of human thymic stroma uncovers novel cellular heterogeneity in the thymic medulla. Nat Commun 2021; 12:1096. [PMID: 33597545 PMCID: PMC7889611 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-21346-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2020] [Accepted: 01/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The thymus' key function in the immune system is to provide the necessary environment for the development of diverse and self-tolerant T lymphocytes. While recent evidence suggests that the thymic stroma is comprised of more functionally distinct subpopulations than previously appreciated, the extent of this cellular heterogeneity in the human thymus is not well understood. Here we use single-cell RNA sequencing to comprehensively profile the human thymic stroma across multiple stages of life. Mesenchyme, pericytes and endothelial cells are identified as potential key regulators of thymic epithelial cell differentiation and thymocyte migration. In-depth analyses of epithelial cells reveal the presence of ionocytes as a medullary population, while the expression of tissue-specific antigens is mapped to different subsets of epithelial cells. This work thus provides important insight on how the diversity of thymic cells is established, and how this heterogeneity contributes to the induction of immune tolerance in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jhoanne L Bautista
- Diabetes Center, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Nathan T Cramer
- Diabetes Center, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Corey N Miller
- Diabetes Center, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Jessica Chavez
- Diabetes Center, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - David I Berrios
- Diabetes Center, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Lauren E Byrnes
- Diabetes Center, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Joe Germino
- Diabetes Center, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Bakar Institute for Computational Health Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Vasilis Ntranos
- Diabetes Center, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Bakar Institute for Computational Health Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Julie B Sneddon
- Diabetes Center, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Broad Center of Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Anatomy, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Cell and Tissue Biology, School of Dentistry, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Trevor D Burt
- Broad Center of Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Division of Neonatology and the Children's Health & Discovery Initiative, Department of Pediatrics, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - James M Gardner
- Diabetes Center, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Chun J Ye
- Bakar Institute for Computational Health Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Institute for Human Genetics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Chan Zuckerberg Biohub, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Mark S Anderson
- Diabetes Center, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Audrey V Parent
- Diabetes Center, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
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Li J, Gordon J, Chen ELY, Xiao S, Wu L, Zúñiga-Pflücker JC, Manley NR. NOTCH1 signaling establishes the medullary thymic epithelial cell progenitor pool during mouse fetal development. Development 2020; 147:dev.178988. [PMID: 32467240 DOI: 10.1242/dev.178988] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2019] [Accepted: 05/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
The cortical and medullary thymic epithelial cell (cTEC and mTEC) lineages are essential for inducing T cell lineage commitment, T cell positive selection and the establishment of self-tolerance, but the mechanisms controlling their fetal specification and differentiation are poorly understood. Here, we show that notch signaling is required to specify and expand the mTEC lineage. Notch1 is expressed by and active in TEC progenitors. Deletion of Notch1 in TECs resulted in depletion of mTEC progenitors and dramatic reductions in mTECs during fetal stages, consistent with defects in mTEC specification and progenitor expansion. Conversely, forced notch signaling in all TECs resulted in widespread expression of mTEC progenitor markers and profound defects in TEC differentiation. In addition, lineage-tracing analysis indicated that all mTECs have a history of receiving a notch signal, consistent with notch signaling occurring in mTEC progenitors. These data provide strong evidence for a requirement for notch signaling in specification of the mTEC lineage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Li
- Department of Genetics, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Julie Gordon
- Department of Genetics, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Edward L Y Chen
- Department of Immunology, University of Toronto, and Sunnybrook Research Institute, Toronto, ON M4N 3M5, Canada
| | - Shiyun Xiao
- Department of Genetics, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Luying Wu
- Department of Genetics, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Juan Carlos Zúñiga-Pflücker
- Department of Immunology, University of Toronto, and Sunnybrook Research Institute, Toronto, ON M4N 3M5, Canada
| | - Nancy R Manley
- Department of Genetics, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
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