1
|
Lunjani N, Ambikan AT, Hlela C, Levin M, Mankahla A, Heldstab‐Kast JI, Boonpiyathad T, Tan G, Altunbulakli C, Gray C, Nadeau KC, Neogi U, Akdis CA, O'Mahony L. Rural and urban exposures shape early life immune development in South African children with atopic dermatitis and nonallergic children. Allergy 2024; 79:65-79. [PMID: 37534631 PMCID: PMC10952395 DOI: 10.1111/all.15832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2023] [Revised: 07/01/2023] [Accepted: 07/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Immunological traits and functions have been consistently associated with environmental exposures and are thought to shape allergic disease susceptibility and protection. In particular, specific exposures in early life may have more significant effects on the developing immune system, with potentially long-term impacts. METHODS We performed RNA-Seq on peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from 150 children with atopic dermatitis and healthy nonallergic children in rural and urban settings from the same ethnolinguistic AmaXhosa background in South Africa. We measured environmental exposures using questionnaires. RESULTS A distinct PBMC gene expression pattern was observed in those children with atopic dermatitis (132 differentially expressed genes [DEGs]). However, the predominant influences on the immune cell transcriptome were related to early life exposures including animals, time outdoors, and types of cooking and heating fuels. Sample clustering revealed two rural groups (Rural_1 and Rural_2) that separated from the urban group (3413 and 2647 DEGs, respectively). The most significantly regulated pathways in Rural_1 children were related to innate activation of the immune system (e.g., TLR and cytokine signaling), changes in lymphocyte polarization (e.g., TH17 cells), and immune cell metabolism (i.e., oxidative phosphorylation). The Rural_2 group displayed evidence for ongoing lymphocyte activation (e.g., T cell receptor signaling), with changes in immune cell survival and proliferation (e.g., mTOR signaling, insulin signaling). CONCLUSIONS This study highlights the importance of the exposome on immune development in early life and identifies potentially protective (e.g., animal) exposures and potentially detrimental (e.g., pollutant) exposures that impact key immunological pathways.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nonhlanhla Lunjani
- Division of DermatologyUniversity of Cape TownCape TownSouth Africa
- APC Microbiome IrelandUniversity College CorkCorkIreland
| | - Anoop T. Ambikan
- The Systems Virology Lab, Division of Clinical Microbiology, Department of Laboratory MedicineKarolinska Institute, ANA FuturaStockholmSweden
| | - Carol Hlela
- Division of DermatologyUniversity of Cape TownCape TownSouth Africa
| | - Michael Levin
- Division of Paediatric Allergy, Department of Paediatrics and Child HealthUniversity of Cape TownCape TownSouth Africa
| | - Avumile Mankahla
- The Division of Dermatology, Department of Medicine and PharmacologyWalter Sisulu UniversityMthathaEastern CapeSouth Africa
| | | | - Tadech Boonpiyathad
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF), University of ZurichDavosSwitzerland
| | - Ge Tan
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF), University of ZurichDavosSwitzerland
| | - Can Altunbulakli
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF), University of ZurichDavosSwitzerland
| | - Clive Gray
- Division of ImmunologyUniversity of Cape TownCape TownSouth Africa
| | - Kari C. Nadeau
- Department of Environmental HealthHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public HealthBostonMAUSA
| | - Ujjwal Neogi
- The Systems Virology Lab, Division of Clinical Microbiology, Department of Laboratory MedicineKarolinska Institute, ANA FuturaStockholmSweden
| | - Cezmi A. Akdis
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF), University of ZurichDavosSwitzerland
- Christine Kühne‐Center for Allergy Research and EducationDavosSwitzerland
| | - Liam O'Mahony
- APC Microbiome IrelandUniversity College CorkCorkIreland
- Department of MedicineUniversity College CorkCorkIreland
- School of MicrobiologyUniversity College CorkCorkIreland
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Wang X, Deng K, Tao J, Zou J, Du Y, Dai L. RIPK1 polymorphisms and expression levels: impact on genetic susceptibility and clinical outcome of epithelial ovarian cancer. Cancer Cell Int 2023; 23:290. [PMID: 37996860 PMCID: PMC10668399 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-023-03139-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2021] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim of this study was to explore the associations of RIPK1 polymorphisms, plasma levels and mRNA expression with susceptibility to epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) and clinical outcome. METHODS Three hundred and nineteen EOC patients included in a 60-month follow-up program and 376 controls were enrolled. Two tag SNPs (rs6907943 and rs9392453) of RIPK1 were genotyped using polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) method. Plasma levels of RIPK1 and RIPK1 mRNA expression in white blood cells were determined by ELISA and qPCR, respectively. RESULTS For rs9392453, significantly increased EOC risk was found to be associated with C allele (P = 0.002, OR = 1.49, 95%CI 1.15-1.92), and with CT/CC genotypes in the dominant genetic model (P = 0.006, OR = 1.54, 95%CI 1.12-2.08). CC haplotype (rs6907943-rs9392453) was associated with increased EOC susceptibility. CC genotype of rs6907943 and CT/CC genotypes of rs9392453 were associated with early onset (age ≤ 50 years) of EOC (OR = 2.5, 95%CI 1.03-5.88, and OR = 1.64, 95%CI 1.04-2.63, respectively). AC genotype of rs6907943 was associated with better overall survival of EOC patients in the over-dominant genetic model (P = 0.035, HR = 0.41, 95%CI 0.18-0.94). Multivariate survival analysis identified the AC genotype of rs6907943 as an independent protective factor for survival of early onset patients (P = 0.044, HR = 0.12, 95%CI 0.02-0.95). Compared to controls, significantly increased plasma levels of RIPK1 and reduced RIPK1 mRNA expression were observed in patients. CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest that tag SNPs of RIPK1, increased plasma levels of RIPK1 protein and reduced RIPK1 mRNA expression in white blood cells, may influence the susceptibility to EOC. SNP rs6907943 may be a useful marker to distinguish EOC patients with high risk of death.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xuedong Wang
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Kui Deng
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Jing Tao
- National Center for Birth Defect Monitoring, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Juan Zou
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Department of Pathology, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Yiting Du
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Li Dai
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.
- National Center for Birth Defect Monitoring, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.
- Medical Big Data Center, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Abstract
Allergic diseases typically begin in early life and can impose a heavy burden on children and their families. Effective preventive measures are currently unavailable but may be ushered in by studies on the "farm effect", the strong protection from asthma and allergy found in children born and raised on traditional farms. Two decades of epidemiologic and immunologic research have demonstrated that this protection is provided by early and intense exposure to farm-associated microbes that target primarily innate immune pathways. Farm exposure also promotes timely maturation of the gut microbiome, which mediates a proportion of the protection conferred by the farm effect. Current research seeks to identify allergy-protective compounds from traditional farm environments, but standardization and regulation of such substances will likely prove challenging. On the other hand, studies in mouse models show that administration of standardized, pharmacological-grade lysates of human airway bacteria abrogates allergic lung inflammation by acting on multiple innate immune targets, including the airway epithelium/IL-33/ILC2 axis and dendritic cells whose Myd88/Trif-dependent tolerogenic reprogramming is sufficient for asthma protection in adoptive transfer models. To the extent that these bacterial lysates mimic the protective effects of natural exposure to microbe-rich environments, these agents might provide an effective tool for prevention of allergic disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Donata Vercelli
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Asthma & Airway Disease Research Center, The BIO5 Institute, and The Arizona Center for the Biology of Complex Diseases, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Martikainen MV, Huttunen K, Tossavainen T, Nordberg ME, Roponen M. Cattle farm dust alters cytokine levels in human airway construct model. Toxicol In Vitro 2023; 88:105559. [PMID: 36681285 DOI: 10.1016/j.tiv.2023.105559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Revised: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 01/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Epidemiological studies have revealed some alterations in systemic immunity that associate with farm exposure and the risk of respiratory diseases, but in vitro studies focusing on immunological responses in the airways are scarce. Our aim was to assess how cowshed dust affects the integrity and inflammation of human airway tissue in vitro. Cowshed dust samples were collected from four different dairy farms. Lung tissue constructs were exposed to dust samples in air-liquid interface. Transepithelial resistance of the tissue, secreted proteins, and a panel of pro-inflammatory cytokines, growth factors, and chemokines were analysed. Cowshed dust stimulation was associated mainly with increased production of IL-13, IL-15, IP-10 and IFN-γ. Some differences between farms were seen. Only one farm dust sample induced a significant change in transepithelial resistance, whereas dust from two of the farms induced the secretion of proteins. The exposure to cowshed dust affected protein and cytokine secretion, but the response profiles were not uniform between farms. The effect on tight junction dynamics was less pronounced, suggesting the relevance of soluble factors in induced responses in the airways. Our results indicate that in addition to farm type, the contribution of cowshed characteristics to dust composition and its immunomodulatory properties should be taken into account.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maria-Viola Martikainen
- Department of Environmental and Biological Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland.
| | - Kati Huttunen
- Department of Environmental and Biological Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland; Environmental Health Unit, Department of Health Security, National Institute for Health and Welfare, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Tarleena Tossavainen
- Department of Environmental and Biological Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Maria-Elisa Nordberg
- Department of Environmental and Biological Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Marjut Roponen
- Department of Environmental and Biological Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
What Have Mechanistic Studies Taught Us About Childhood Asthma? THE JOURNAL OF ALLERGY AND CLINICAL IMMUNOLOGY. IN PRACTICE 2023; 11:684-692. [PMID: 36649800 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaip.2023.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2022] [Revised: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Childhood asthma is a chronic heterogeneous syndrome consisting of different disease entities or phenotypes. The immunologic and cellular processes that occur during asthma development are still not fully understood but represent distinct endotypes. Mechanistic studies have examined the role of gene expression, protein levels, and cell types in early life development and the manifestation of asthma, many under the influence of environmental stimuli, which can be both protective and risk factors for asthma. Genetic variants can regulate gene expression, controlled partly by different epigenetic mechanisms. In addition, environmental factors, such as living space, nutrition, and smoking, can contribute to these mechanisms. All of these factors produce modifications in gene expression that can alter the development and function of immune and epithelial cells and subsequently different trajectories of childhood asthma. These early changes in a partially immature immune system can have dramatic effects (e.g., causing dysregulation), which in turn contribute to different disease endotypes and may help to explain differential responsiveness to asthma treatment. In this review, we summarize published studies that have aimed to uncover distinct mechanisms in childhood asthma, considering genetics, epigenetics, and environment. Moreover, a discussion of new, powerful tools for single-cell immunologic assays for phenotypic and functional analysis is included, which promise new mechanistic insights into childhood asthma development and therapeutic and preventive strategies.
Collapse
|
6
|
Compositional differences between gut microbiota of adult patients with asthma and healthy controls. Postepy Dermatol Alergol 2023; 40:142-149. [PMID: 36909900 PMCID: PMC9993198 DOI: 10.5114/ada.2022.117998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Asthma is a complex and multifactorial disorder, with severe public health implications. Over the last several years, our knowledge in the field of human gut microbiota has expanded and allowed us to understand its crucial role in the development of many diseases. Aim To analyse the nature of human gut microbiota patterns among patients with asthma compared to healthy controls. Material and methods Composition of the complex gut microbiota was analysed in faecal samples from 13 asthma patients and 7 healthy volunteers using Next-Generation Sequencing technology (NGS). The Kruskal-Wallis Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and Mann-Whitney tests were used to compare the above two groups of subjects. Results The composition of the gut microbiota of asthma patients differed from that of healthy volunteers at each of the analysed levels (p < 0.05). Compared to healthy individuals, bacterial diversity was significantly lowered among the asthma group, which is the evidence of gut microbiota depletion in asthma patients. The analysis of beta diversity showed that the gut community compositions of asthma are widely dispersed in contrast to the tight clustering observed in the control group. Finally, the similarity index was found to be lower in the inter-group comparison than in the intra-group comparison, which confirmed changes in the gut microbial composition in the asthmatic group. Conclusions The study revealed significant differences in the human gut microbiome composition between asthma patients and the healthy control group.
Collapse
|
7
|
Frei R, Heye K, Roduit C. Environmental influences on childhood allergies and asthma - The Farm effect. Pediatr Allergy Immunol 2022; 33:e13807. [PMID: 35754122 PMCID: PMC9327508 DOI: 10.1111/pai.13807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Revised: 05/10/2022] [Accepted: 05/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Asthma and allergies are major health problems and exert an enormous socioeconomic burden. Besides genetic predisposition, environmental factors play a crucial role in the development of these diseases in childhood. Multiple worldwide epidemiological studies have shown that children growing up on farms are immune to allergic diseases and asthma. Farm-related exposures shape children's immune homeostasis, via mediators such as N-glycolylneuraminic acid or arabinogalactan, or by diverse environmental microbes. Moreover, nutritional factors, such as breastfeeding or farm milk and food diversity, inducing short-chain fatty acids-producing bacteria in the intestine, contribute to farm-related effects. All farm-related exposures induce an anti-inflammatory response of the innate immunity and increase the differentiation of regulatory T cells and T helper cell type 1. A better understanding of the components of the farm environment, that are protective to the development of allergy and asthma, and their underlying mechanisms, will help to develop new strategies for the prevention of allergy and asthma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Remo Frei
- Division of Paediatric Respiratory Medicine and Allergology, Department of Pediatrics, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital and Department for BioMedical Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.,Christine Kühne-Center for Allergy Research and Education (CK-CARE), Davos, Switzerland
| | - Kristina Heye
- Christine Kühne-Center for Allergy Research and Education (CK-CARE), Davos, Switzerland.,Children's Hospital of Eastern Switzerland, St Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Caroline Roduit
- Christine Kühne-Center for Allergy Research and Education (CK-CARE), Davos, Switzerland.,Children's Hospital of Eastern Switzerland, St Gallen, Switzerland.,University Children's Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Lunjani N, Tan G, Dreher A, Sokolowska M, Groeger D, Warwyzniak M, Altunbulakli C, Westermann P, Basera W, Hobane L, Botha M, Gray C, Mankahla A, Gray C, Nadeau KC, Hlela C, Levin M, O'Mahony L, Akdis CA. Environment-dependent alterations of immune mediators in urban and rural South African children with atopic dermatitis. Allergy 2022; 77:569-581. [PMID: 34086351 DOI: 10.1111/all.14974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2021] [Revised: 05/09/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In order to improve targeted therapeutic approaches for children with atopic dermatitis (AD), novel insights into the molecular mechanisms and environmental exposures that differentially contribute to disease phenotypes are required. We wished to identify AD immunological endotypes in South African children from rural and urban environments. METHODS We measured immunological, socio-economic and environmental factors in healthy children (n = 74) and children with AD (n = 78), in rural and urban settings from the same ethno-linguistic AmaXhosa background in South Africa. RESULTS Circulating eosinophils, monocytes, TARC, MCP-4, IL-16 and allergen-specific IgE levels were elevated, while IL-17A and IL-23 levels were reduced, in children with AD regardless of their location. Independent of AD, children living in a rural environment had the highest levels of TNFα, TNFβ, IL-1α, IL-6, IL-8, IL-21, MCP-1, MIP-1α, MIP-1β, MDC, sICAM1, sVCAM1, VEGFA, VEGFD and Tie2, suggesting a generalized microinflammation or a pattern of trained immunity without any specific TH polarization. In contrast, IL-15, IL-22, Flt1, PIGF and βFGF were highest in urban children. Rural healthy children had the lowest levels of food allergen-specific IgG4. Early life nutritional factors, medications, animal exposures, indoor environment, sunlight exposure, household size, household income and parental education levels were associated with differences in circulating cytokine levels. CONCLUSIONS This study highlights the immunological impact of environmental exposures and socio-economic status in the manifestation of immune endotypes in children with AD living in urban and rural areas, which are important in selecting appropriately matched immunological therapies for treatment of AD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nonhlanhla Lunjani
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF, University of Zurich, Davos, Switzerland.,Department of Dermatology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.,APC Microbiome Ireland, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Ge Tan
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF, University of Zurich, Davos, Switzerland.,Functional Genomics Center, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Anita Dreher
- Christine Kühne-Center for Allergy Research and Education, Davos, Switzerland
| | - Milena Sokolowska
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF, University of Zurich, Davos, Switzerland
| | - David Groeger
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF, University of Zurich, Davos, Switzerland.,PrecisionBiotics Ltd, Cork, Ireland
| | - Marcin Warwyzniak
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF, University of Zurich, Davos, Switzerland
| | - Can Altunbulakli
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF, University of Zurich, Davos, Switzerland
| | - Patrick Westermann
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF, University of Zurich, Davos, Switzerland
| | - Wisdom Basera
- Division of Paediatric Allergy, Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, University of Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Lelani Hobane
- Division of Paediatric Allergy, Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, University of Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Maresa Botha
- Division of Paediatric Allergy, Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, University of Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Claudia Gray
- Division of Paediatric Allergy, Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, University of Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Avumile Mankahla
- The Division of Dermatology, Department of Medicine and Pharmacology, Walter Sisulu University, Eastern Cape, South Africa
| | - Clive Gray
- Division of Immunology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Kari C Nadeau
- Sean N. Parker Center for Allergy and Asthma Research, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Carol Hlela
- Department of Dermatology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Michael Levin
- Division of Paediatric Allergy, Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, University of Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Liam O'Mahony
- APC Microbiome Ireland, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland.,Department of Medicine, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland.,School of Microbiology, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Cezmi A Akdis
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF, University of Zurich, Davos, Switzerland.,Christine Kühne-Center for Allergy Research and Education, Davos, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Illi S, Depner M, Pfefferle PI, Renz H, Roduit C, Taft DH, Kalanetra KM, Mills DA, Farquharson FM, Louis P, Schmausser-Hechfellner E, Divaret-Chauveau A, Lauener R, Karvonen AM, Pekkanen J, Kirjavainen PV, Roponen M, Riedler J, Kabesch M, Schaub B, von Mutius E. Immune Responsiveness to LPS Determines Risk of Childhood Wheeze and Asthma in 17q21 Risk Allele Carriers. Am J Respir Crit Care Med 2021; 205:641-650. [PMID: 34919021 DOI: 10.1164/rccm.202106-1458oc] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In murine models microbial exposures induce protection from experimental allergic asthma through innate immunity. Our aim was to assess the association of early life innate immunity with the development of asthma in children at risk. METHODS In the PASTURE farm birth cohort innate, Th2, Th1 and Th17 cytokine expression at age 1 year was measured after stimulation of PBMCs with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in N=445 children. Children at risk of asthma were defined based on single-nucleotide polymorphisms at the 17q21 asthma gene locus. Specifically, we used the SNP rs7216389 in the GSDMB gene. Wheeze in the 1st year of life was assessed by weekly diaries and asthma by questionnaire at age 6 years. RESULTS Not all cytokines were detectable in all children after LPS-stimulation. When classifying detectability of cytokines by latent class analysis, carrying the 17q21 risk allele rs7216389 was associated with risk of wheeze only in the class with the lowest level of LPS-induced activation, odds ratio (OR)=1.89, 95%-CI 1.13-3.16, p=0.015. In contrast, in children with high cytokine activation after LPS-stimulation no association of the 17q21 risk allele with wheeze (OR=0.63, 95%-CI 0.29-1.40, p=0.258, p=0.034 for interaction) or school age asthma was observed. In these children consumption of unprocessed cow's milk was associated with higher cytokine activation (OR=3.37, 95%-CI 1.56-7.30, p=0.002), which was in part mediated by the gut microbiome. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that within the 17q21 genotype asthma risk can be mitigated by activated immune responses after innate stimulation, which is partly mediated by a gut-immune axis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sabina Illi
- Helmholtz Zentrum Munchen Deutsches Forschungszentrum fur Gesundheit und Umwelt, 9150, Institute of Asthma and Allergy Prevention, Neuherberg, Germany.,German Center for Lung Research, 542891, Giessen, Germany;
| | - Martin Depner
- Helmholtz Zentrum Munchen Deutsches Forschungszentrum fur Umwelt und Gesundheit, 9150, Institute of Asthma and Allergy Prevention, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Petra Ina Pfefferle
- Philipps-Universität Marburg Fachbereich Medizin, 98594, Comprehensive Biobank Marburg CBBM, Marburg, Germany.,German Center for Lung Research, 542891, Giessen, Germany
| | - Harald Renz
- Philipps-Universität Marburg, 9377, Institute of Laboratory Medicine, Marburg, Germany.,Sechenov University, 68477, Department of Clinical Immunology and Allergology, Laboratory of Immunopathology, Moskva, Russian Federation.,German Center for Lung Research, 542891, Giessen, Germany
| | - Caroline Roduit
- University of Zurich, Children's Hospital, Zurich, Switzerland.,Christine Kühne Center for Allergy Research and Education (CK-CARE) , Davos, Switzerland.,Children's Hospital of Eastern Switzerland, St. Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Diana Hazard Taft
- University of California Davis, 8789, Department of Food Science & Technology, Davis, California, United States
| | - Karen M Kalanetra
- University of California Davis, 8789, Department of Food Science & Technology, Davis, California, United States
| | - David A Mills
- University of California Davis, 8789, Department of Food Science & Technology, Davis, California, United States
| | - Freda M Farquharson
- University of Aberdeen, 1019, The Rowett Institute, Aberdeen, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
| | - Petra Louis
- University of Aberdeen, 1019, The Rowett Institute, Aberdeen, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
| | - Elisabeth Schmausser-Hechfellner
- Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt, 9150, Institute of Asthma and Allergy Prevention, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Amandine Divaret-Chauveau
- Burgundy Franche-Comté University, 439716, UMR 6249 Chrono-environment , Besancon, France.,University of Lorraine, 137665, EA3450 Développement Adaptation et Handicap (DevAH) , Nancy, France.,University Hospital Centre Nancy, 26920, Pediatric Allergy Department, Nancy, France
| | - Roger Lauener
- Children's Hospital of Eastern Switzerland, Children's Hospital of Eastern Switzerland, St. Gallen, Switzerland.,Christine Kühne Center for Allergy Research and Education (CK-CARE) , Davos, Switzerland
| | - Anne M Karvonen
- Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, 3837, Department of Health Security, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Juha Pekkanen
- University of Helsinki, Department of Public Health, Helsinki, Finland.,Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, 3837, Department of Health Security, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Pirkka V Kirjavainen
- Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, 3837, Department of Health Security, Kuopio, Finland.,University of Eastern Finland, 163043, Institute of Public Health and Clinical Nutrition, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Marjut Roponen
- University of Eastern Finland, 163043, Department of Environmental and Biological Sciences, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Josef Riedler
- Children's Hospital Schwarzach, Children's Hospital Schwarzach, Schwarzach, Austria
| | - Michael Kabesch
- University Children's Hospital Regensburg (KUNO), Department of Pediatric Pneumology and Allergy, Campus St. Hedwig, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Bianca Schaub
- Ludwig-Maximilians-Universitat Munchen, 9183, Dr. von Hauner Children's Hospital, Munchen, Germany.,German Center for Lung Research, 542891, Giessen, Germany
| | - Erika von Mutius
- Helmholtz Zentrum Munchen Deutsches Forschungszentrum fur Gesundheit und Umwelt, 9150, Institute of Asthma and Allergy Prevention, Neuherberg, Germany.,Ludwig-Maximilians-Universitat Munchen, 9183, Dr. von Hauner Children's Hospital, München, Germany.,German Center for Lung Research, 542891, Giessen, Germany
| | | |
Collapse
|
10
|
Wang Z, Lai Z, Zhang X, Huang P, Xie J, Jiang Q, Zhang Q, Chung KF. Altered gut microbiome compositions are associated with the severity of asthma. J Thorac Dis 2021; 13:4322-4338. [PMID: 34422359 PMCID: PMC8339736 DOI: 10.21037/jtd-20-2189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2020] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Background Despite substantial evidence on the contribution of the diversity of the gut microbiome to the pathogenesis of asthma and allergic diseases, little is known about their relationship with asthma severity and/or clinical phenotypes. We analyzed the difference in composition of the gut microbiome between subjects with asthma and healthy subjects and explored its role in the development of asthma. Methods Fecal samples from 15 subjects with severe asthma (SA), 14 with non-severe asthma (NSA), and 15 healthy subjects were assessed by 16S ribosomal RNA gene sequencing methods to identify the gut bacterial composition. Results Compared with those in the NSA group, patients in the SA group had a higher dose of inhaled corticosteroids, and there were more atopic subjects (60% vs. 35.7%, respectively). No significant differences were found at the phylum level either in operational taxonomic unit numbers or in diversity scores among the SA, NSA, and healthy groups. However, at the family level, the relative abundance of Acidaminococcaceae in the SA group was remarkedly lower than that in the group with healthy subjects (P<0.05). Furthermore, Veillonellaceae and Prevotellaceae were significantly more common in samples from the SA group than in those from the NSA group (P<0.05). In the SA group, positive correlations were observed between the relative abundance of Veillonellaceae and mid-expiratory flow 25% (MEF25%) predicted (r=0.538, P=0.047), as well as between the relative abundance of Acidaminococcaceae and body mass index (r=0642, P=0.010). Principal component analysis suggested that the relative abundances of Acidaminococcaceae and Prevotellaceae were associated with severe asthma. Moreover, we found that class Betaproteobacteria, order Burkholderiales, and family Alcaligenaceae were significantly different among the groups defined by serum immunoglobulin E (IgE) levels. Conclusions Our findings suggest that altered gut microbiome compositions are involved in the severity of asthma and that there are specific bacteria related to different asthma phenotypes in terms of serum IgE levels.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhiqiang Wang
- Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Guangzhou Insitute of Respiratory Health, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, National Center for Respiratory Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China.,Hexian Memorial Hospital of PanYu District, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhengdao Lai
- Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Guangzhou Insitute of Respiratory Health, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, National Center for Respiratory Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China.,Dongguan Institute of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Afliated Dongguan People's Hospital, Southern Medicial University, Dongguan, China
| | - Xiaoxian Zhang
- Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Guangzhou Insitute of Respiratory Health, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, National Center for Respiratory Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Peikai Huang
- Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Guangzhou Insitute of Respiratory Health, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, National Center for Respiratory Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Respiration Medicine, Huizhou Municipal Central Hospital, Huizhou, China
| | - Jiaxing Xie
- Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Guangzhou Insitute of Respiratory Health, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, National Center for Respiratory Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qian Jiang
- Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Guangzhou Insitute of Respiratory Health, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, National Center for Respiratory Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qingling Zhang
- Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Guangzhou Insitute of Respiratory Health, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, National Center for Respiratory Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Kian Fan Chung
- National Heart & Lung Institute, Imperial College London & Biomedical Research Unit, Royal Brompton & Harefield NHS Trust, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Pivniouk V, Gimenes Junior JA, Honeker LK, Vercelli D. The role of innate immunity in asthma development and protection: Lessons from the environment. Clin Exp Allergy 2021; 50:282-290. [PMID: 31581343 DOI: 10.1111/cea.13508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2019] [Revised: 08/27/2019] [Accepted: 09/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Asthma, a complex, chronic disease characterized by airway inflammation, hyperresponsiveness and remodelling, affects over 300 million people worldwide. While the disease is typically associated with exaggerated allergen-induced type 2 immune responses, these responses are strongly influenced by environmental exposures that stimulate innate immune pathways capable of promoting or protecting from asthma. The dual role played by innate immunity in asthma pathogenesis offers multiple opportunities for both research and clinical interventions and is the subject of this review.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vadim Pivniouk
- Asthma and Airway Disease Research Center, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA.,Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | | | - Linnea K Honeker
- Asthma and Airway Disease Research Center, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Donata Vercelli
- Asthma and Airway Disease Research Center, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA.,Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
The intersect of genetics, environment, and microbiota in asthma-perspectives and challenges. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2021; 147:781-793. [PMID: 33678251 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2020.08.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2020] [Revised: 07/07/2020] [Accepted: 08/05/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
In asthma, a significant portion of the interaction between genetics and environment occurs through microbiota. The proposed mechanisms behind this interaction are complex and at times contradictory. This review covers recent developments in our understanding of this interaction: the "microbial hypothesis" and the "farm effect"; the role of endotoxin and genetic variation in pattern recognition systems; the interaction with allergen exposure; the additional involvement of host gut and airway microbiota; the role of viral respiratory infections in interaction with the 17q21 and CDHR3 genetic loci; and the importance of in utero and early-life timing of exposures. We propose a unified framework for understanding how all these phenomena interact to drive asthma pathogenesis. Finally, we point out some future challenges for continued research in this field, in particular the need for multiomic integration, as well as the potential utility of asthma endotyping.
Collapse
|
13
|
Neonatal endotoxin stimulation is associated with a long-term bronchiolar epithelial expression of innate immune and anti-allergic markers that attenuates the allergic response. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0226233. [PMID: 32379832 PMCID: PMC7205282 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0226233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2019] [Accepted: 04/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Allergic asthma is the most common phenotype of the pathology, having an early-onset in childhood and producing a Th2-driven airways remodeling process that leads to symptoms and pathophysiological changes. The avoidance of aeroallergen exposure in early life has been shown to prevent asthma, but without repeated success and with the underlying preventive mechanisms at the beginning of asthma far to be fully recognized. In the present study, we aimed to evaluate if neonatal LPS-induced boost in epithelial host defenses contribute to prevent OVA-induced asthma in adult mice. To this, we focused on the response of bronchiolar club cells (CC), which are highly specialized in maintaining the epithelial homeostasis in the lung. In these cells, neonatal LPS administration increased the expression of TLR4 and TNFα, as well as the immunodulatory/antiallergic proteins: club cell secretory protein (CCSP) and surfactant protein D (SP-D). LPS also prevented mucous metaplasia of club cells and reduced the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)-dependent mucin overproduction, with mice displaying normal breathing patterns after OVA challenge. Furthermore, the overexpression of the epithelial Th2-related molecule TSLP was blunted, and normal TSLP and IL-4 levels were found in the bronchoalveolar lavage. A lower eosinophilia was detected in LPS-pretreated mice, along with an increase in phagocytes and regulatory cells (CD4+CD25+FOXP3+ and CD4+IL-10+), together with higher levels of IL-12 and TNFα. In conclusion, our study demonstrates stable asthma-preventive epithelial effects promoted by neonatal LPS stimulation, leading to the presence of regulatory cells in the lung. These anti-allergic dynamic mechanisms would be overlaid in the epithelium, favored by an adequate epidemiological environment, during the development of asthma.
Collapse
|
14
|
Deckers J, Lambrecht BN, Hammad H. How a farming environment protects from atopy. Curr Opin Immunol 2019; 60:163-169. [PMID: 31499321 DOI: 10.1016/j.coi.2019.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2019] [Accepted: 08/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
It is now well established that the exposure to certain environments such as farms has the potential to protect from the development of allergies later in life. This protection is achieved when repeated exposure to the farming environment occurs early in life, but persists when children spend sufficient amount of time in contact with livestock and hay, and drink unpasteurized milk. The capacity of farm dust to protect from allergy development lies, amongst others, in the microbe composition in the farm. These protective microbes release various metabolites and cell wall components that change farmers' home dust composition, when compared to urbanized home dust. Additionally, they can colonize various barrier sites (skin, lung, intestine) in farmers' children, leading to persistent changes in the way their immune system and their barrier cells respond to environmental allergens.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Julie Deckers
- Laboratory of Immunoregulation and Mucosal Immunology, VIB Center for Inflammation Research, Technologiepark-Zwijnaarde 71, B-9052 Ghent (Zwijnaarde), Belgium; Department of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Bart N Lambrecht
- Laboratory of Immunoregulation and Mucosal Immunology, VIB Center for Inflammation Research, Technologiepark-Zwijnaarde 71, B-9052 Ghent (Zwijnaarde), Belgium; Department of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium; Department of Respiratory Medicine, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Hamida Hammad
- Laboratory of Immunoregulation and Mucosal Immunology, VIB Center for Inflammation Research, Technologiepark-Zwijnaarde 71, B-9052 Ghent (Zwijnaarde), Belgium; Department of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Frei R, Roduit C, Ferstl R, O'Mahony L, Lauener RP. Exposure of Children to Rural Lifestyle Factors Associated With Protection Against Allergies Induces an Anti-Neu5Gc Antibody Response. Front Immunol 2019; 10:1628. [PMID: 31379833 PMCID: PMC6660244 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.01628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2019] [Accepted: 07/01/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Rural lifestyle has been shown to be highly protective against the development of allergies. Contact to farm-animals or pets and early-life consumption of milk products turned out to be important. These exposures provide contact to N-glycolylneuraminic acid (Neu5Gc), a sialic acid naturally expressed in mammalians but not in humans or microbes although both are able to incorporate exogenously provided Neu5Gc and induce thereby an anti-Neu5Gc antibody response. Farmers' children had elevated levels of anti-Neu5Gc antibodies associated with increased contact to Neu5Gc. Farm-related exposures that were associated with protection against allergies such as exposure to farm-animals or pets and consumption of milk were also associated with an antibody response to Neu5Gc in children. Exposure to cats was associated with increased anit-Neu5Gc IgG levels at different timepoints assessed between 1 year of age and school-age. Moreover, consumption of non-pasteurized milk in the first year of life was associated with increased anti-Neu5Gc IgG levels. Neu5Gc-providing exposures that were associated with protection against allergies were reflected in an elevated anti-Neu5Gc IgG level in children. Exposure to Neu5Gc was associated with anti-inflammation and protection of asthma development in children and mice without contribution of anti-Neu5Gc antibodies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Remo Frei
- Christine Kuehne-Center for Allergy Research and Education (CK-CARE), Davos, Switzerland.,Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF), University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Caroline Roduit
- Christine Kuehne-Center for Allergy Research and Education (CK-CARE), Davos, Switzerland.,Children's Hospital, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.,Children's Hospital of Eastern Switzerland, St. Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Ruth Ferstl
- Christine Kuehne-Center for Allergy Research and Education (CK-CARE), Davos, Switzerland.,Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF), University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Liam O'Mahony
- Departments of Medicine and Microbiology, APC Microbiome Ireland, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Roger P Lauener
- Christine Kuehne-Center for Allergy Research and Education (CK-CARE), Davos, Switzerland.,Children's Hospital of Eastern Switzerland, St. Gallen, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Sokolowska M, Akdis CA. Highlights in immune response, microbiome and precision medicine in allergic disease and asthma. Curr Opin Immunol 2018; 48:iv-ix. [PMID: 29127996 DOI: 10.1016/j.coi.2017.10.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Several recent key findings in immunology of allergic diseases that have led to a need of reassessment of our current thinking are reviewed in this issue of the journal. Recently developed strong evidence on the role of hygiene hypothesis in protection from allergic disease and its immune mechanisms is reviewed by Ober et al. The authors pointed out immunologic mechanisms of lower prevalence of asthma and allergic sensitization observed among Amish children living on traditional farms with higher endotoxin levels as compared to Hutterite children living on industrialized farms. Barcik et al. reviewed that biologically active histamine in humans is produced by certain bacteria in the gut in addition to several cells, and has broad immunoregulatory functions. Turcanu et al. reviewed immune mechanisms of a revolutionary change to protect from food allergy. The immunologic window of opportunity in the infants can be used to enable oral tolerance in severe allergy predisposed children. Accordingly, van de Veen et al. reviewed general mechanisms of allergen tolerance highlighting recent findings. Extensive usage of precision medicine due to emerging biologics is knocking the doors of allergic diseases and asthma. Boyd et al. reviewed the existing and future "immune monitoring" approaches in the multiple omics perspective with the hope of identifying better correlates of disease status, predictors of therapeutic outcomes, and potential side-effects of treatment. Paul et al. reviewed newly uncovered innate and adaptive immunologic mechanisms that contribute to the pathogenesis of eosinophilic esophagitis. Further highlighting newly developing disease subgroups and precision medicine, Guttman-Yassky & Kruger reviewed clinical subtypes of atopic dermatitis and psoriasis, which may potentially benefit from newly developing highly efficient biologicals. Complementing this paper, Kabashima & Nomura reviewed similarities and distinctions in mouse models of atopic dermatitis and psoriasis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Milena Sokolowska
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF), University of Zurich, Davos, Switzerland, Christine Kühne - Center for Allergy Research and Education (CK-CARE), Davos, Switzerland.
| | - Cezmi A Akdis
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF), University of Zurich, Davos, Switzerland, Christine Kühne - Center for Allergy Research and Education (CK-CARE), Davos, Switzerland.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Lehmann I. [Environmental pollutants as adjuvant factors of immune system derived diseases]. Bundesgesundheitsblatt Gesundheitsforschung Gesundheitsschutz 2018; 60:592-596. [PMID: 28466130 DOI: 10.1007/s00103-017-2545-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
The main task of the immune system is to protect the body against invading pathogens. To be able to do so, immune cells must be able to recognize and combat exogenous challenges and at the same time tolerate body-borne structures. A complex regulatory network controls the sensitive balance between defense and tolerance. Perturbation of this network ultimately leads to the development of chronic inflammation, such as allergies, autoimmune reactions, and infections, because the immune system is no longer able to efficiently eliminate invading pathogens. Environmental pollutants can cause such perturbations by affecting the function of immune cells in such a way that they would react hypersensitively against allergens and the body's own structures, respectively, or that they would be no longer able to adequately combat pathogens. This indirect effect is also known as adjuvant effect. For pesticides, heavy metals, wood preservatives, or volatile organic compounds such adjuvant effects are well known. Examples of the mechanism by which environmental toxins contribute to chronic inflammatory diseases are manifold and will be discussed along asthma and allergies.While the immune system of healthy adults is typically well able to distinguish between foreign and endogenous substances even under adverse environmental conditions, that of children would react much more sensible upon comparable environmental challenges. To prevent priming for diseases by environmental cues during that highly sensitive period of early childhood children are to be particularly protected.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Irina Lehmann
- Department Umweltimmunologie, Helmholtz-Zentrum für Umweltforschung, Permoserstraße 15, 04318, Leipzig, Deutschland.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Sokolowska M, Frei R, Lunjani N, Akdis CA, O'Mahony L. Microbiome and asthma. Asthma Res Pract 2018; 4:1. [PMID: 29318023 PMCID: PMC5755449 DOI: 10.1186/s40733-017-0037-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2017] [Accepted: 12/18/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The mucosal immune system is in constant communication with the vast diversity of microbes present on body surfaces. The discovery of novel molecular mechanisms, which mediate host-microbe communication, have highlighted the important roles played by microbes in influencing mucosal immune responses. Dendritic cells, epithelial cells, ILCs, T regulatory cells, effector lymphocytes, NKT cells and B cells can all be influenced by the microbiome. Many of the mechanisms being described are bacterial strain- or metabolite-specific. Microbial dysbiosis in the gut and the lung is increasingly being associated with the incidence and severity of asthma. More accurate endotyping of patients with asthma may be assisted by further analysis of the composition and metabolic activity of an individual’s microbiome. In addition, the efficacy of specific therapeutics may be influenced by the microbiome and novel bacterial-based therapeutics should be considered in future clinical studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Milena Sokolowska
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research, University of Zürich, Obere Strasse 22, 7270 Davos, Switzerland.,Christine Kühne - Center for Allergy Research and Education (CK-CARE), Davos, Switzerland
| | - Remo Frei
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research, University of Zürich, Obere Strasse 22, 7270 Davos, Switzerland.,Christine Kühne - Center for Allergy Research and Education (CK-CARE), Davos, Switzerland
| | - Nonhlanhla Lunjani
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research, University of Zürich, Obere Strasse 22, 7270 Davos, Switzerland.,Christine Kühne - Center for Allergy Research and Education (CK-CARE), Davos, Switzerland.,University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Cezmi A Akdis
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research, University of Zürich, Obere Strasse 22, 7270 Davos, Switzerland.,Christine Kühne - Center for Allergy Research and Education (CK-CARE), Davos, Switzerland
| | - Liam O'Mahony
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research, University of Zürich, Obere Strasse 22, 7270 Davos, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Exposure to nonmicrobial N-glycolylneuraminic acid protects farmers' children against airway inflammation and colitis. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2017.04.051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
|
20
|
Natural protective immunity against grass pollen allergy is maintained by a diverse spectrum of response types. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2017; 140:1746-1749.e11. [PMID: 28867457 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2017.07.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2017] [Revised: 07/15/2017] [Accepted: 07/24/2017] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
|
21
|
Ober C, Sperling AI, von Mutius E, Vercelli D. Immune development and environment: lessons from Amish and Hutterite children. Curr Opin Immunol 2017; 48:51-60. [PMID: 28843541 DOI: 10.1016/j.coi.2017.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2017] [Revised: 08/06/2017] [Accepted: 08/08/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Children who grow up in traditional farm environments are protected from developing asthma and allergy. This 'farm effect' can be largely explained by the child's early life contact with farm animals, in particular cows, and their microbes. Our studies in Amish and Hutterite school children living on farms in the U.S. have further demonstrated that this protection is mediated through innate immune pathways. Although very similar with respect to ancestry and many lifestyle factors that are associated with asthma risk, Amish and Hutterites follow farming practices that are associated with profound differences in the levels of house dust endotoxin, in the prevalence of asthma and atopy among school children, and in the proportions, phenotypes, and functions of immune cells from these children. In this review, we will consider our studies in Amish and Hutterites children in the context of the many previous studies in European farm children and discuss how these studies have advanced our understanding of the asthma-protective 'farm effect'.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carole Ober
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA.
| | - Anne I Sperling
- Section of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine and the Committee on Immunology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Erika von Mutius
- Dr. von Hauner Children's Hospital, Ludwig Maximilians University Munich, Germany; Comprehensive Pneumology Center, Munich, Germany; German Center for Lung Research, Germany
| | - Donata Vercelli
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Asthma and Airway Disease Research Center, and Bio5 Institute, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85724, USA
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Renz H, Holt PG, Inouye M, Logan AC, Prescott SL, Sly PD. An exposome perspective: Early-life events and immune development in a changing world. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2017; 140:24-40. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2017.05.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2017] [Revised: 05/22/2017] [Accepted: 05/23/2017] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
|
23
|
Chiu CY, Chan YL, Tsai YS, Chen SA, Wang CJ, Chen KF, Chung IF. Airway Microbial Diversity is Inversely Associated with Mite-Sensitized Rhinitis and Asthma in Early Childhood. Sci Rep 2017; 7:1820. [PMID: 28500319 PMCID: PMC5431806 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-02067-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2017] [Accepted: 04/10/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Microbiota plays an important role in regulating immune responses associated with atopic diseases. We sought to evaluate relationships among airway microbiota, serum IgE levels, allergic sensitization and their relevance to rhinitis and asthma. Microbial characterization was performed using Illumina-based 16S rRNA gene sequencing of 87 throat swabs collected from children with asthma (n = 32) and rhinitis (n = 23), and from healthy controls (n = 32). Data analysis was performed using QIIME (Quantitative Insights Into Microbial Ecology) v1.8. Significantly higher abundance of Proteobacteria was found in children with rhinitis than in the healthy controls (20.1% vs. 16.1%, P = 0.009). Bacterial species richness (Chao1 index) and diversity (Shannon index) were significantly reduced in children with mite sensitization but not in those with food or IgE sensitization. Compared with healthy children without mite sensitization, the mite-sensitized children with rhinitis and asthma showed significantly lower Chao1 and Shannon indices. Moraxella and Leptotrichia species were significantly found in the interaction of mite sensitization with rhinitis and asthma respectively. Airway microbial diversity appears to be inversely associated with sensitization to house dust mites. A modulation between airway dysbiosis and responses to allergens may potentially cause susceptibility to rhinitis and asthma in early childhood.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chih-Yung Chiu
- Department of Pediatrics, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Keelung, and Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan. .,Division of Pediatric Pulmonology, Department of Pediatrics, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Linkou, and Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan.
| | - Yi-Ling Chan
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Linkou, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Shuen Tsai
- The Institute of Biomedical Informatics, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ssu-An Chen
- The Institute of Biomedical Informatics, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Jung Wang
- Department of Pediatrics, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Keelung, and Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Kuan-Fu Chen
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Linkou, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - I-Fang Chung
- The Institute of Biomedical Informatics, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan. .,The Center for Systems and Synthetic Biology, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan.
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Comorbidity and coexisting symptoms and infections presented in general practice by COPD patients: Does livestock density in the residential environment play a role? Int J Hyg Environ Health 2017; 220:704-710. [PMID: 28279622 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijheh.2017.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2016] [Revised: 02/22/2017] [Accepted: 02/22/2017] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) constitute a potentially susceptible group towards environmental exposures such as livestock farm emissions, given their compromised respiratory health status. The primary aim of this study was to examine the association between livestock exposure and comorbidities and coexisting symptoms and infections in COPD patients. METHODS Data were collected from 1828 COPD patients (without co-occurring asthma) registered in 23 general practices and living in a rural area with a high livestock density. Prevalence of comorbid diseases/disorders and coexisting symptoms/infections were based on electronic health records from the year 2012. Various indicators of individual exposure to livestock were estimated based on residential addresses, using a geographic information system. RESULTS At least one comorbid disorder was present in 69% of the COPD patients (especially cardiac disorders and depression, while 49% had at least one coexisting symptom and/or infection (especially upper respiratory tract infections, respiratory symptoms and pneumonia). Half of the COPD-patients resided less than 500m of the nearest farm. Some positive as well as inverse associations were found between the examined outcomes and exposure estimates, although not consistent. CONCLUSIONS Despite the high prevalence of coexisting chronic and acute conditions presented in primary care by in COPD patients, this investigation found no convincing evidence for an association with livestock exposure estimates. There is a need for a replication of the present findings in studies with a longitudinal design, on different groups of potentially susceptible patients. Future research should also elucidate the biological plausibility of possible protective effects of exposure.
Collapse
|
25
|
Kääriö H, Huttunen K, Karvonen AM, Schaub B, von Mutius E, Pekkanen J, Hirvonen MR, Roponen M. Exposure to a farm environment is associated with T helper 1 and regulatory cytokines at age 4.5 years. Clin Exp Allergy 2016; 46:71-7. [PMID: 26362849 DOI: 10.1111/cea.12636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2015] [Revised: 08/21/2015] [Accepted: 08/23/2015] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Farm exposure has been shown to protect from childhood asthma and allergic diseases, but underlying immunological mechanisms are not clear yet. OBJECTIVE To explore whether farming lifestyle determines cytokine profile of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of 4.5-year-old children (n = 88) from the Finnish PASTURE birth cohort study. METHODS We analysed regulatory (IL-10, IL-2), T helper 1 (Th1)-associated (IL-12, IFN-γ), inflammatory (IL-1β, TNF, CXCL8) and Th2-associated (IL-13) cytokines in unstimulated PBMCs and after a short-term (5 h) stimulation with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Specific farm exposures (stables, hay barn, farm milk) at age 4 years were assessed from questionnaires. RESULTS The unstimulated PBMCs of farm children produced more IL-10 (GMR 1.22, P = 0.032), IL-12 (GMR 1.24, P = 0.012) and IFN-γ (GMR 1.24, P = 0.024) than those of non-farm children. Also, specific farm exposures were associated with higher spontaneous production of cytokines. The number of specific farm exposures tended to be dose dependently associated with higher spontaneous production of IFN-γ (test for trends, P = 0.013) and lower LPS-induced production of TNF (test for trends, P = 0.025). CONCLUSION AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Farming lifestyle seemed to be associated with increased spontaneous production of Th1 and regulatory cytokines. Decreased TNF responses to short-term LPS stimulation in farm-exposed children may imply tolerogenic immune mechanisms. These novel findings might contribute to the asthma and allergy protection in farm environment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- H Kääriö
- Department of Environmental Science, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - K Huttunen
- Department of Environmental Science, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - A M Karvonen
- Department of Health Protection, National Institute for Health and Welfare, Kuopio, Finland
| | - B Schaub
- Department of Pulmonary and Allergy, University Children's Hospital Munich, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - E von Mutius
- Department of Pulmonary and Allergy, University Children's Hospital Munich, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - J Pekkanen
- Department of Health Protection, National Institute for Health and Welfare, Kuopio, Finland.,Department of Public Health, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - M-R Hirvonen
- Department of Environmental Science, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland.,Department of Health Protection, National Institute for Health and Welfare, Kuopio, Finland
| | - M Roponen
- Department of Environmental Science, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Smits HH, van der Vlugt LE, von Mutius E, Hiemstra PS. Childhood allergies and asthma: New insights on environmental exposures and local immunity at the lung barrier. Curr Opin Immunol 2016; 42:41-47. [PMID: 27254380 DOI: 10.1016/j.coi.2016.05.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2016] [Revised: 05/13/2016] [Accepted: 05/16/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
While certain bacteria and respiratory viruses promote local inflammation and disease onset, a more diverse colonization of the different species in the (gut) microbiome may be linked to more regulatory responses and protection against asthma and allergies. These processes are also influenced in part by food intake, both targeting the composition of the gut microbiome and influencing the immune system via metabolites. Early life environmental microbial exposure also contributes to protection against asthma and allergy and is linked with an early activation of the innate immune system and the development of regulatory immune responses. Although greater mechanistic insight is needed, it is tempting to speculate that part of the environmental effect can be explained by modulation of the microbiome composition at mucosal surfaces, epithelial barrier function and/or local immunity. A review of the latest studies is provided.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hermelijn H Smits
- Department of Parasitology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands.
| | - Luciën Epm van der Vlugt
- Department of Parasitology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands; Department of Pulmonology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Erika von Mutius
- Dr von Hauner Children's Hospital, Ludwig Maximilians University of Munich, Munich, Germany; Comprehensive Pneumology Centre Munich (CPC-M), Member of the German Center for Lung Research, Germany
| | - Pieter S Hiemstra
- Department of Pulmonology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Strömbeck A, Lundell AC, Nordström I, Andersson K, Adlerberth I, Wold AE, Rudin A. Earlier infantile immune maturation is related to higher DTP vaccine responses in children. Clin Transl Immunology 2016; 5:e65. [PMID: 27217956 PMCID: PMC4815027 DOI: 10.1038/cti.2016.7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2015] [Revised: 01/29/2016] [Accepted: 02/07/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
There are large inter-individual variations in vaccine-specific antibody responses in children. We sought to investigate whether early-life environmental factors and/or adaptive immune maturation were related to diphtheria–tetanus–pertussis (DTP) vaccine-specific antibody levels at 18 months of age. In the prospective FARMFLORA birth-cohort, including both farming and non-farming families, children were immunized with DTP vaccine at 3, 5 and 12 months of age. DTP vaccine-induced antibody levels were measured in plasma at 18 months of age. Infants' blood samples obtained at birth, 3–5 days, 4, 18 and 36 months and at 8 years of age were analyzed for total CD4+ T- and B-cell counts, proportions of naïve and memory T and B cells, and fractions of putative regulatory T cells by flow cytometry. Multivariate factor analysis was used to examine associations between immune variables and vaccine responses. The most apparent multivariate pattern was that higher anti-DTP antibody titers at 18 months of age were associated with lower infantile total counts of T and B cells in the blood. Furthermore, lower infantile total T- and B-cell blood counts were associated with higher proportions of circulating CD45RO+ memory T cells and to lower proportions of α4β7+ naïve T cells later in childhood. The multivariate findings were corroborated in univariate correlation analyses. Sex, delivery mode and dairy farm exposure were unrelated to the magnitude of DTP-specific antibody responses. Our results thus suggest that children with a more mature/activated infantile adaptive immunity respond with higher vaccine-induced anti-DTP antibody levels at 18 months of age.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Strömbeck
- Department of Rheumatology and Inflammation Research, Institute of Medicine, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg , Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Anna-Carin Lundell
- Department of Rheumatology and Inflammation Research, Institute of Medicine, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg , Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Inger Nordström
- Department of Rheumatology and Inflammation Research, Institute of Medicine, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg , Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Kerstin Andersson
- Department of Rheumatology and Inflammation Research, Institute of Medicine, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg , Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Ingegerd Adlerberth
- Department of Clinical Bacteriology, Institute of Biomedicine, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg , Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Agnes E Wold
- Department of Clinical Bacteriology, Institute of Biomedicine, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg , Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Anna Rudin
- Department of Rheumatology and Inflammation Research, Institute of Medicine, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg , Gothenburg, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
von Mutius E. The microbial environment and its influence on asthma prevention in early life. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2016; 137:680-9. [PMID: 26806048 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2015.12.1301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 131] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2015] [Revised: 11/27/2015] [Accepted: 12/05/2015] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
There is accumulating evidence to suggest that the environmental microbiome plays a significant role in asthma development. The very low prevalence of asthma in populations highly exposed to microbial environments (farm children and Amish populations) highlights its preventive potential. This microbial diversity might be necessary to instruct a well-adapted immune response and regulated inflammatory responses to other inhaled and ingested environmental elements, such as allergens, particles, and viruses. Like the internal gut microbiome, which is increasingly recognized as an important instructor of immune maturation, the external environmental microbiome might shape immune responses on the skin, airway mucosal surfaces, and potentially also the gut early in life. The diversity of the external microbial world will ensure that of the many maladapted pathways leading to asthma development, most, if not all, will be counterbalanced. Likewise, important contributors to asthma, such as allergen sensitization and allergic manifestations early in life, are being suppressed. Thus the facets of innate immunity targeted by microbes and their compounds and metabolites might be the master switch to asthma and allergy protection, which has been found in environments rich in microbial exposures.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Erika von Mutius
- Department of Pediatrics, Dr von Hauner Children's Hospital of Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, Munich, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Bair-Merritt MH, Voegtline K, Ghazarian SR, Granger DA, Blair C, Johnson SB. Maternal intimate partner violence exposure, child cortisol reactivity and child asthma. CHILD ABUSE & NEGLECT 2015; 48:50-7. [PMID: 25435104 PMCID: PMC4446253 DOI: 10.1016/j.chiabu.2014.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2014] [Revised: 10/31/2014] [Accepted: 11/04/2014] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
Psychosocial stressors like intimate partner violence (IPV) exposure are associated with increased risk of childhood asthma. Longitudinal studies have not investigated the role of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis reactivity (and associated alterations in cortisol release) in the child IPV exposure-asthma association. We sought to investigate this association, and to assess whether this relationship differs by child HPA reactivity. This secondary analysis used longitudinal cohort data from the Family Life Project. Participants included 1,292 low-income children and mothers; maternal interview and child biomarker data, including maternal report of IPV and child asthma, and child salivary cortisol obtained with validated stress reactivity paradigms, were collected when the child was 7, 15, 24, 35, and 48 months. Using structural equation modeling, maternal IPV when the child was 7 months of age predicted subsequent reports of childhood asthma (B=0.18, p=.002). This association differed according to the child's HPA reactivity status, with IPV exposed children who were HPA reactors at 7 and 15 months of age--defined as a ≥10% increase in cortisol level twenty minutes post peak arousal during the challenge tasks and a raw increase of at least .02μg/dl--being significantly at risk for asthma (7 months: B=0.17, p=.02; 15 months: B=0.17, p=.02). Our findings provide support that children who are physiologically reactive are the most vulnerable to adverse health outcomes when faced with environmental stressors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Megan H Bair-Merritt
- Division of General Pediatrics, Boston Medical Center, 88 East Newton Street, Vose 305, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Kristin Voegtline
- Department of Population, Family, and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 North Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Sharon R Ghazarian
- Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, 200 North Wolfe Street, Division of General Pediatrics, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
| | - Douglas A Granger
- Institute for Interdisciplinary Salivary Bioscience Research, Arizona State University, 550 East Orange Street, Tempe, AZ 85287, USA; School of Nursing, Johns Hopkins, 525 North Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA; Department of Applied Psychology, New York University, 246 Greene Street, New York, NY 10003, USA
| | - Clancy Blair
- Division of General Pediatrics, Boston Medical Center, 88 East Newton Street, Vose 305, Boston, MA 02118, USA; Department of Population, Family, and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 North Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA; Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, 200 North Wolfe Street, Division of General Pediatrics, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA; Institute for Interdisciplinary Salivary Bioscience Research, Arizona State University, 550 East Orange Street, Tempe, AZ 85287, USA; School of Nursing, Johns Hopkins, 525 North Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA; Department of Applied Psychology, New York University, 246 Greene Street, New York, NY 10003, USA
| | - Sara B Johnson
- Department of Population, Family, and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 North Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA; Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, 200 North Wolfe Street, Division of General Pediatrics, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Lundell AC, Hesselmar B, Nordström I, Adlerberth I, Wold AE, Rudin A. Higher B-cell activating factor levels at birth are positively associated with maternal dairy farm exposure and negatively related to allergy development. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2015; 136:1074-1082.e3. [PMID: 25936566 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2015.03.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2014] [Revised: 02/18/2015] [Accepted: 03/04/2015] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A high proportion of circulating immature/naive CD5(+) B cells during early infancy is a risk factor for allergy development. B-cell activating factor (BAFF) is an important cytokine for B-cell maturation. OBJECTIVE We sought to investigate whether BAFF levels are related to environmental exposures during pregnancy and early childhood and whether BAFF levels are associated with postnatal B-cell maturation and allergic disease. METHODS In the FARMFLORA study, including both farming and nonfarming families, we measured BAFF levels in plasma from mothers and their children at birth and at 1, 4, 18, and 36 months of age. Infants' blood samples were also analyzed for B-cell numbers and proportions of CD5(+) and CD27(+) B cells. Allergic disease was clinically evaluated at 18 and 36 months of age. RESULTS Circulating BAFF levels were maximal at birth, and farmers' children had higher BAFF levels than nonfarmers' children. Higher BAFF levels at birth were positively associated with proportions of CD27(+) memory B cells among farmers' children and inversely related to proportions of CD5(+) immature/naive B cells among nonfarmers' children. Children with allergic disease at 18 months of age had lower cord blood BAFF levels than nonallergic children. At birth, girls had higher BAFF levels and lower proportions of CD5(+) B cells than boys. CONCLUSIONS Farm exposure during pregnancy appears to induce BAFF production in the newborn child, and high neonatal BAFF levels were associated with more accelerated postnatal B-cell maturation, which lend further strength to the role of B cells in the hygiene hypothesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna-Carin Lundell
- Department of Rheumatology and Inflammation Research, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.
| | - Bill Hesselmar
- Department of Pediatrics, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Inger Nordström
- Department of Rheumatology and Inflammation Research, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Ingegerd Adlerberth
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Agnes E Wold
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Anna Rudin
- Department of Rheumatology and Inflammation Research, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Wells AD, Poole JA, Romberger DJ. Influence of farming exposure on the development of asthma and asthma-like symptoms. Int Immunopharmacol 2014; 23:356-63. [PMID: 25086344 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2014.07.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2014] [Revised: 07/09/2014] [Accepted: 07/11/2014] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Based upon age and type of farming exposures, a wide range of studies demonstrate either protective or deleterious effects of the farming environment on asthma. In this review, we highlight key studies supporting the concept that farming exposure protects children from asthma and atopy based on studies performed largely in European pediatric cohorts. Various types of farming in certain regions appear to have a greater effect on asthma protection, as does the consumption of unpasteurized milk. In the United State, where concentrated animal feeding operations (CAFOs) are more common, asthma is increased in children exposed especially to swine CAFOs; whereas, rates of atopy and allergy are lower in these children. We also review studies evaluating the role of farming exposures both as a child and/or as an adult on asthma seen in adults. The importance of microbes in farming environments and the contribution of various components of the innate immune system including toll-like receptors to the underlying mechanisms of asthma related to farming exposures are also reviewed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Adam D Wells
- Pulmonary, Critical Care, Sleep & Allergy Division, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-5990, USA
| | - Jill A Poole
- Pulmonary, Critical Care, Sleep & Allergy Division, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-5990, USA
| | - Debra J Romberger
- VA Nebraska-Western Iowa Health Care System, Research Service, Omaha, NE 68105, USA; Pulmonary, Critical Care, Sleep & Allergy Division, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-5990, USA
| |
Collapse
|