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Blunt MD, Fisher H, Schittenhelm RB, Mbiribindi B, Fulton R, Khan S, Espana-Serrano L, Graham LV, Bastidas-Legarda L, Burns D, Khakoo SM, Mansour S, Essex JW, Ayala R, Das J, Purcell AW, Khakoo SI. The nuclear export protein XPO1 provides a peptide ligand for natural killer cells. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2024; 10:eado6566. [PMID: 39178254 PMCID: PMC11343027 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.ado6566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 07/22/2024] [Indexed: 08/25/2024]
Abstract
XPO1 (Exportin-1/CRM1) is a nuclear export protein that is frequently overexpressed in cancer and functions as a driver of oncogenesis. Currently small molecules that target XPO1 are being used in the clinic as anticancer agents. We identify XPO1 as a target for natural killer (NK) cells. Using immunopeptidomics, we have identified a peptide derived from XPO1 that can be recognized by the activating NK cell receptor KIR2DS2 in the context of human leukocyte antigen-C. The peptide can be endogenously processed and presented to activate NK cells specifically through this receptor. Although high XPO1 expression in cancer is commonly associated with a poor prognosis, we show that the outcome of specific cancers, such as hepatocellular carcinoma, can be substantially improved if there is concomitant evidence of NK cell infiltration. We thus identify XPO1 as a bona fide tumor antigen recognized by NK cells that offers an opportunity for a personalized approach to NK cell therapy for solid tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew D. Blunt
- School of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Hayden Fisher
- School of Cancer Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
- School of Chemistry, Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
- School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Ralf B. Schittenhelm
- Monash Proteomics & Metabolomics Platform, Biomedicine Discovery Institute and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Berenice Mbiribindi
- School of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Rebecca Fulton
- School of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Sajida Khan
- School of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Laura Espana-Serrano
- School of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Lara V. Graham
- School of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Leidy Bastidas-Legarda
- School of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
- School of Cancer Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
- School of Chemistry, Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
- School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
- Monash Proteomics & Metabolomics Platform, Biomedicine Discovery Institute and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
- Biomedicine Discovery Institute and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
- Steve and Cindy Rasmussen Institute for Genomic Medicine, Abigail Wexner Research Institute, and The Department of Pediatrics, Pelotonia Institute for Immuno-Oncology, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Daniel Burns
- School of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Sophie M.S. Khakoo
- School of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Salah Mansour
- School of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Jonathan W. Essex
- School of Chemistry, Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Rochelle Ayala
- Biomedicine Discovery Institute and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jayajit Das
- Steve and Cindy Rasmussen Institute for Genomic Medicine, Abigail Wexner Research Institute, and The Department of Pediatrics, Pelotonia Institute for Immuno-Oncology, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Anthony W. Purcell
- Biomedicine Discovery Institute and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Salim I. Khakoo
- School of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
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2
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Niño-Ramírez JE, Alcoceba M, Gutiérrez-Zufiaurre MN, Marcos M, Gil-Etayo FJ, Bartol-Sánchez MR, Eiros R, Chillón MC, García-Álvarez M, Terradillos-Sánchez P, Presa D, Muñoz JL, López-Bernús A, López-Sánchez E, González-Calle D, Sánchez PL, Compán-Fernández O, González M, García-Sanz R, Boix F. Killer-cell immunoglobulin-like receptor polymorphism is associated with COVID-19 outcome: Results of a pilot observational study. HLA 2024; 104:e15640. [PMID: 39148254 DOI: 10.1111/tan.15640] [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: 03/09/2024] [Revised: 07/18/2024] [Accepted: 07/31/2024] [Indexed: 08/17/2024]
Abstract
The pathogenesis of COVID-19 warrants unravelling. Genetic polymorphism analysis may help answer the variability in disease outcome. To determine the role of KIR and HLA polymorphisms in susceptibility, progression, and severity of SARS-CoV-2 infection, 458 patients and 667 controls enrolled in this retrospective observational study from April to December 2020. Mild/moderate and severe/death study groups were established. HLA-A, -B, -C, and KIR genotyping were performed using the Lifecodes® HLA-SSO and KIR-SSO kits on the Luminex® 200™ xMAP fluoroanalyser. A probability score using multivariate binary logistic regression analysis was calculated to estimate the likelihood of severe COVID-19. ROC analysis was used to calculate the best cut-off point for predicting a worse clinical outcome with high sensitivity and specificity. A p ≤ 0.05 was considered statistically significant. KIR AA genotype protected positively against severity/death from COVID-19. Furthermore, KIR3DL1, KIR2DL3 and KIR2DS4 genes protected patients from severe forms of COVID-19. KIR Bx genotype, as well as KIR2DL2, KIR2DS2, KIR2DS3 and KIR3DS1 were identified as biomarkers of severe COVID-19. Our logistic regression model, which included clinical and KIR/HLA variables, categorised our cohort of patients as high/low risk for severe COVID-19 disease with high sensitivity and specificity (Se = 94.29%, 95% CI [80.84-99.30]; Sp = 84.55%, 95% CI [79.26-88.94]; OR = 47.58, 95%CI [11.73-193.12], p < 0.0001). These results illustrate an association between KIR/HLA ligand polymorphism and different COVID-19 outcomes and remarks the possibility of use them as a surrogate biomarkers to detect severe patients in possible future infectious outbreaks.
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Affiliation(s)
- J E Niño-Ramírez
- Laboratorio de HLA-Biología Molecular, Servicio de Hematología, Hospital Universitario de Salamanca, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Salamanca (IBSAL), CIBERONC, Centro de Investigación del Cáncer (CIC) and Universidad de Salamanca (USAL), Salamanca, Spain
| | - M Alcoceba
- Laboratorio de HLA-Biología Molecular, Servicio de Hematología, Hospital Universitario de Salamanca, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Salamanca (IBSAL), CIBERONC, Centro de Investigación del Cáncer (CIC) and Universidad de Salamanca (USAL), Salamanca, Spain
| | - M N Gutiérrez-Zufiaurre
- Servicio de Microbiología, Hospital Universitario de Salamanca, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Salamanca (IBSAL), Universidad de Salamanca (USAL), Salamanca, Spain
| | - M Marcos
- Servicio de Medicina Interna, Hospital Universitario de Salamanca, IBSAL, Salamanca, Spain
| | - F J Gil-Etayo
- Laboratorio de HLA-Biología Molecular, Servicio de Hematología, Hospital Universitario de Salamanca, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Salamanca (IBSAL), CIBERONC, Centro de Investigación del Cáncer (CIC) and Universidad de Salamanca (USAL), Salamanca, Spain
| | - M R Bartol-Sánchez
- Servicio de Neumología, Hospital Universitario de Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
| | - R Eiros
- Servicio de Cardiología, Hospital Universitario de Salamanca, IBSAL, USAL, CIBERCV, Salamanca, Spain
| | - M C Chillón
- Laboratorio de HLA-Biología Molecular, Servicio de Hematología, Hospital Universitario de Salamanca, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Salamanca (IBSAL), CIBERONC, Centro de Investigación del Cáncer (CIC) and Universidad de Salamanca (USAL), Salamanca, Spain
| | - M García-Álvarez
- Laboratorio de HLA-Biología Molecular, Servicio de Hematología, Hospital Universitario de Salamanca, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Salamanca (IBSAL), CIBERONC, Centro de Investigación del Cáncer (CIC) and Universidad de Salamanca (USAL), Salamanca, Spain
| | - P Terradillos-Sánchez
- Laboratorio de HLA-Biología Molecular, Servicio de Hematología, Hospital Universitario de Salamanca, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Salamanca (IBSAL), CIBERONC, Centro de Investigación del Cáncer (CIC) and Universidad de Salamanca (USAL), Salamanca, Spain
| | - D Presa
- Laboratorio de HLA-Biología Molecular, Servicio de Hematología, Hospital Universitario de Salamanca, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Salamanca (IBSAL), CIBERONC, Centro de Investigación del Cáncer (CIC) and Universidad de Salamanca (USAL), Salamanca, Spain
| | - J L Muñoz
- Servicio de Microbiología, Hospital Universitario de Salamanca, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Salamanca (IBSAL), Universidad de Salamanca (USAL), Salamanca, Spain
| | - A López-Bernús
- Servicio de Medicina Interna, Hospital Universitario de Salamanca, IBSAL, Salamanca, Spain
| | - E López-Sánchez
- Servicio de Medicina Interna, Hospital Universitario de Salamanca, IBSAL, Salamanca, Spain
| | - D González-Calle
- Servicio de Cardiología, Hospital Universitario de Salamanca, IBSAL, USAL, CIBERCV, Salamanca, Spain
| | - P L Sánchez
- Servicio de Cardiología, Hospital Universitario de Salamanca, IBSAL, USAL, CIBERCV, Salamanca, Spain
| | - O Compán-Fernández
- Servicio de Reumatología, Hospital Universitario de Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
| | - M González
- Laboratorio de HLA-Biología Molecular, Servicio de Hematología, Hospital Universitario de Salamanca, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Salamanca (IBSAL), CIBERONC, Centro de Investigación del Cáncer (CIC) and Universidad de Salamanca (USAL), Salamanca, Spain
| | - R García-Sanz
- Laboratorio de HLA-Biología Molecular, Servicio de Hematología, Hospital Universitario de Salamanca, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Salamanca (IBSAL), CIBERONC, Centro de Investigación del Cáncer (CIC) and Universidad de Salamanca (USAL), Salamanca, Spain
| | - F Boix
- Laboratorio de HLA-Biología Molecular, Servicio de Hematología, Hospital Universitario de Salamanca, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Salamanca (IBSAL), CIBERONC, Centro de Investigación del Cáncer (CIC) and Universidad de Salamanca (USAL), Salamanca, Spain
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3
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Karami N, Barani S, Fani M, Meri S, Shafiei R, Kalantar K. The effects of killer cell immunoglobulin-like receptor (KIR) genes on susceptibility to severe COVID-19 in the Iranian population. BMC Immunol 2024; 25:38. [PMID: 38943065 PMCID: PMC11212229 DOI: 10.1186/s12865-024-00631-1] [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] [Received: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2024] [Indexed: 07/01/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Variations in the innate and adaptive immune response systems are linked to variations in the severity of COVID-19. Natural killer cell (NK) function is regulated by sophisticated receptor system including Killer-cell immunoglobulin-like receptor (KIR) family. We aimed to investigate the impact of possessing certain KIR genes and genotypes on COVID19 severity in Iranians. KIR genotyping was performed on 394 age/sex matched Iranians with no underlying conditions who developed mild and severe COVID- 19. The presence and/or absence of 11 KIR genes were determined using the PCR with sequence specific primers (PCR-SSP). RESULTS Patients with mild symptoms had higher frequency ofKIR2DS1 (p = 0.004) and KIR2DS2 (p = 0.017) genes compared to those with severe disease. While KIR3DL3 and deleted variant of KIR2DS4 occurred more frequently in patients who developed a severe form of the disease. In this study, a significant increase of and B haplotype was observed in the Mild group compared to the Severe group (respectively, p = 0.002 and p = 0.02). Also, the prevalence of haplotype A was significantly higher in the Severe group than in the Mild group (p = 0.02). CONCLUSIONS These results suggest that the KIR2DS1, KIR2DS, and B haplotype maybe have a protective effect against COVID-19 severity. The results also suggest the inhibitory gene KIR2DL3 and haplotype A are risk factors for the severity of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Narges Karami
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, 71348-45794, Iran
| | - Shaghik Barani
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, 71348-45794, Iran
- Infection and Immunity Program and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Mona Fani
- Vector-borne Diseases Research Center, North Khorasan University of Medical Sciences, Bojnurd, Iran
| | - Seppo Meri
- Department of Bacteriology & Immunology and Translational immunology Research Program, University of Helsinki Diagnostic Center, Helsinki University Central Hospital, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Reza Shafiei
- Vector-borne Diseases Research Center, North Khorasan University of Medical Sciences, Bojnurd, Iran.
| | - Kurosh Kalantar
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, 71348-45794, Iran.
- Department of Bacteriology & Immunology and Translational immunology Research Program, University of Helsinki Diagnostic Center, Helsinki University Central Hospital, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.
- Autoimmune Diseases Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
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4
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Vajdi M, Karimi A, Hassanizadeh S, Farhangi MA, Bagherniya M, Askari G, Roufogalis BD, Davies NM, Sahebkar A. Effect of polyphenols against complications of COVID-19: current evidence and potential efficacy. Pharmacol Rep 2024; 76:307-327. [PMID: 38498260 DOI: 10.1007/s43440-024-00585-6] [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] [Received: 09/23/2023] [Revised: 03/01/2024] [Accepted: 03/03/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic that started in 2019 and resulted in significant morbidity and mortality continues to be a significant global health challenge, characterized by inflammation, oxidative stress, and immune system dysfunction.. Developing therapies for preventing or treating COVID-19 remains an important goal for pharmacology and drug development research. Polyphenols are effective against various viral infections and can be extracted and isolated from plants without losing their therapeutic potential. Researchers have developed methods for separating and isolating polyphenols from complex matrices. Polyphenols are effective in treating common viral infections, including COVID-19, and can also boost immunity. Polyphenolic-based antiviral medications can mitigate SARS-CoV-2 enzymes vital to virus replication and infection. Individual polyphenolic triterpenoids, flavonoids, anthraquinonoids, and tannins may also inhibit the SARS-CoV-2 protease. Polyphenol pharmacophore structures identified to date can explain their action and lead to the design of novel anti-COVID-19 compounds. Polyphenol-containing mixtures offer the advantages of a well-recognized safety profile with few known severe side effects. However, studies to date are limited, and further animal studies and randomized controlled trials are needed in future studies. The purpose of this study was to review and present the latest findings on the therapeutic impact of plant-derived polyphenols on COVID-19 infection and its complications. Exploring alternative approaches to traditional therapies could aid in developing novel drugs and remedies against coronavirus infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahdi Vajdi
- Department of Community Nutrition, School of Nutrition and Food Science, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Arash Karimi
- Traditional Medicine and Hydrotherapy Research Center, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran
| | - Shirin Hassanizadeh
- Department of Community Nutrition, School of Nutrition and Food Science, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Mahdieh Abbasalizad Farhangi
- Department of Community Nutrition, Faculty of Nutrition and Food Science, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mohammad Bagherniya
- Department of Community Nutrition, Food Security Research Center, School of Nutrition and Food Science, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
- Anesthesia and Critical Care Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Gholamreza Askari
- Department of Community Nutrition, Food Security Research Center, School of Nutrition and Food Science, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
- Anesthesia and Critical Care Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Basil D Roufogalis
- Discipline of Pharmacology, School of Medical Sciences, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW, Australia
| | - Neal M Davies
- Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, T6G 2P5, Canada
| | - Amirhossein Sahebkar
- Biotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
- Applied Biomedical Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
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5
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Teshnizi SH, Mirzazadeh S, Mashhadi N, Meri S, Kabelitz D, Kalantar K. Association study between killer immunoglobulin-like receptor polymorphisms and susceptibility to COVID-19 disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Immunol Res 2024; 72:175-184. [PMID: 37874432 DOI: 10.1007/s12026-023-09428-7] [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] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/25/2023]
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is a known virus that leads to a respiratory disease called coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19). Natural killer (NK) cells, as members of innate immunity, possess crucial roles in restricting viral infections, including COVID-19. Their functions and development depend on receiving signals through various receptors, of which killer cell immunoglobulin-like receptors (KIRs) belong to the most effective ones. Different studies investigated the association between KIR gene content and susceptibility to COVID-19. Since previous studies have yielded contradictory results, we designed this meta-analysis study to draw comprehensive conclusions about COVID-19 risk and KIR gene association. According to PRISMA guidelines, a systematic search was performed in the electronic databases to find all studies investigating KIR gene contents in COVID-19 patients before March 2023. Any association between KIR genes and COVID-19 risk was determined by calculating pooled odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI). After applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 1673 COVID-19 patients and 1526 healthy controls from eight studies were included in this meta-analysis. As the main results, we observed a positive association between the 2DL3 (OR = 1.48, 95% CI = 1.17-1.88, P < 0.001) and susceptibility to COVID-19 and a negative association between the 2DP1 and the risk for COVID-19 (OR = 0.48, 95% CI = 0.23-0.99, P = 0.049). This meta-analysis demonstrated that KIR2DL3, as a member of iKIRs, might be associated with an increased risk of COVID-19 disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sara Mirzazadeh
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, PO Box: 71345-1798, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Niloofar Mashhadi
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, PO Box: 71345-1798, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Seppo Meri
- Department of Bacteriology and Immunology and the Translational Immunology Research Program (TRIMM), The University of Helsinki and HUSLAB, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Dieter Kabelitz
- Institute of Immunology, Christian-Albrechts University of Kiel and University Hospital Schleswig, Holstein Campus Kiel, 24105, Kiel, Germany
| | - Kurosh Kalantar
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, PO Box: 71345-1798, Shiraz, Iran.
- Department of Bacteriology and Immunology and the Translational Immunology Research Program (TRIMM), The University of Helsinki and HUSLAB, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland.
- Autoimmune Diseases Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
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6
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Xu T, Chen Y, Zhan W, Chung KF, Qiu Z, Huang K, Chen R, Xie J, Wang G, Zhang M, Wang X, Yao H, Liao X, Zhang Y, Zhang G, Zhang W, Sun D, Zhu J, Jiang S, Feng J, Zhao J, Sun G, Huang H, Zhang J, Wang L, Wu F, Li S, Xu P, Chi C, Chen P, Jiang M, He W, Huang L, Luo W, Li S, Zhong N, Lai K. Profiles of Cough and Associated Risk Factors in Nonhospitalized Individuals With SARS-CoV-2 Omicron Variant Infection: Cross-Sectional Online Survey in China. JMIR Public Health Surveill 2024; 10:e47453. [PMID: 38315527 PMCID: PMC10877488 DOI: 10.2196/47453] [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] [Received: 03/21/2023] [Revised: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 02/07/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cough is a common symptom during and after COVID-19 infection; however, few studies have described the cough profiles of COVID-19. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence, severity, and associated risk factors of severe and persistent cough in individuals with COVID-19 during the latest wave of the Omicron variant in China. METHODS In this nationwide cross-sectional study, we collected information of the characteristics of cough from individuals with infection of the SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant using an online questionnaire sent between December 31, 2022, and January 11, 2023. RESULTS There were 11,718 (n=7978, 68.1% female) nonhospitalized responders, with a median age of 37 (IQR 30-47) years who responded at a median of 16 (IQR 12-20) days from infection onset to the time of the survey. Cough was the most common symptom, occurring in 91.7% of participants, followed by fever, fatigue, and nasal congestion (68.8%-87.4%). The median cough visual analog scale (VAS) score was 70 (IQR 50-80) mm. Being female (odds ratio [OR] 1.31, 95% CI 1.20-1.43), having a COVID-19 vaccination history (OR 1.71, 95% CI 1.37-2.12), current smoking (OR 0.48, 95% CI 0.41-0.58), chronic cough (OR 2.04, 95% CI 1.69-2.45), coronary heart disease (OR 1.71, 95% CI 1.17-2.52), asthma (OR 1.22, 95% CI 1.02-1.46), and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) (OR 1.21, 95% CI 1.01-1.45) were independent factors for severe cough (VAS>70, 37.4%). Among all respondents, 35.0% indicated having a productive cough, which was associated with risk factors of being female (OR 1.44, 95% CI 1.31-1.57), having asthma (OR 1.84, 95% CI 1.52-2.22), chronic cough (OR 1.44, 95% CI 1.19-1.74), and GERD (OR 1.22, 95% CI 1.01-1.47). Persistent cough (>3 weeks) occurred in 13.0% of individuals, which was associated with the risk factors of having diabetes (OR 2.24, 95% CI 1.30-3.85), asthma (OR 1.70, 95% CI 1.11-2.62), and chronic cough (OR 1.97, 95% CI 1.32-2.94). CONCLUSIONS Cough is the most common symptom in nonhospitalized individuals with Omicron SARS-CoV-2 variant infection. Being female, having asthma, chronic cough, GERD, coronary heart disease, diabetes, and a COVID-19 vaccination history emerged as independent factors associated with severe cough, productive cough, and persistent cough.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tingting Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuehan Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wenzhi Zhan
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Kian Fan Chung
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Royal Brompton and Harefield Hospital, London, United Kingdom
- Experimental Studies Unit, National Heart & Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Zhongmin Qiu
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, School of Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Kewu Huang
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Ruchong Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiaxing Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Gang Wang
- West China School of Medicine, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Min Zhang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xuefen Wang
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, The First Affliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Hongmei Yao
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Guizhou Provincial People's Hospital, Guiyang, Guizhou, China
| | - Xiuqing Liao
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Fuling Center Hospital of Chongqing, Chongqing, China
| | - Yunhui Zhang
- The First People's Hospital of Yunnan Province, Kunming, China
| | - Guojun Zhang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Dejun Sun
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region People's Hospital, Hohhot, China
| | - Jia Zhu
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Jiangsu Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Shujuan Jiang
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Juntao Feng
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jianping Zhao
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College of Hua Zhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Gengyun Sun
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Medical University of Anhui, Hefei, China
| | - Huaqiong Huang
- Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease of Zhejiang Province, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jianyong Zhang
- The Second Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Lingwei Wang
- Shenzhen People's Hospital, Shenzhen Institute of Respiratory Diseases, Shenzhen, China
| | - Feng Wu
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Huizhou Third People's Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Huizhou, China
| | - Suyun Li
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Pusheng Xu
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chunhua Chi
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Ping Chen
- General Hospital of Northern Theater Command, Shenyang, China
| | - Mei Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wen He
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lianrong Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wei Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shiyue Li
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Nanshan Zhong
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Kefang Lai
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
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Letafati A, Ardekani OS, Naderisemiromi M, Norouzi M, Shafiei M, Nik S, Mozhgani SH. Unraveling the dynamic mechanisms of natural killer cells in viral infections: insights and implications. Virol J 2024; 21:18. [PMID: 38216935 PMCID: PMC10785350 DOI: 10.1186/s12985-024-02287-0] [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] [Received: 08/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Viruses pose a constant threat to human well-being, necessitating the immune system to develop robust defenses. Natural killer (NK) cells, which play a crucial role in the immune system, have become recognized as vital participants in protecting the body against viral infections. These remarkable innate immune cells possess the unique ability to directly recognize and eliminate infected cells, thereby contributing to the early control and containment of viral pathogens. However, recent research has uncovered an intriguing phenomenon: the alteration of NK cells during viral infections. In addition to their well-established role in antiviral defense, NK cells undergo dynamic changes in their phenotype, function, and regulatory mechanisms upon encountering viral pathogens. These alterations can significantly impact the effectiveness of NK cell responses during viral infections. This review explores the multifaceted role of NK cells in antiviral immunity, highlighting their conventional effector functions as well as the emerging concept of NK cell alteration in the context of viral infections. Understanding the intricate interplay between NK cells and viral infections is crucial for advancing our knowledge of antiviral immune responses and could offer valuable information for the creation of innovative therapeutic approaches to combat viral diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arash Letafati
- Department of Virology, Faculty of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Research Center for Clinical Virology, Tehran University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
| | - Omid Salahi Ardekani
- Research Center for Clinical Virology, Tehran University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mina Naderisemiromi
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Mehdi Norouzi
- Department of Virology, Faculty of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Research Center for Clinical Virology, Tehran University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Soheil Nik
- School of Medicine, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Alborz, Iran
| | - Sayed-Hamidreza Mozhgani
- Research Center for Clinical Virology, Tehran University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran.
- Department of Microbiology and Virology, School of Medicine, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran.
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8
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Farias TD, Brugiapaglia S, Croci S, Magistroni P, Curcio C, Zguro K, Fallerini C, Fava F, Pettini F, Kichula KM, Pollock NR, Font-Porterias N, Palmer WH, Marin WM, Baldassarri M, Bruttini M, Hollenbach JA, Hendricks AE, Meloni I, Novelli F, Renieri A, Furini S, Norman PJ, Amoroso A. HLA-DPB1*13:01 associates with enhanced, and KIR2DS4*001 with diminished protection from developing severe COVID-19. HLA 2024; 103:e15251. [PMID: 37850268 PMCID: PMC10873037 DOI: 10.1111/tan.15251] [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: 01/04/2023] [Revised: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/19/2023]
Abstract
Extreme polymorphism of HLA and killer-cell immunoglobulin-like receptors (KIR) differentiates immune responses across individuals. Additional to T cell receptor interactions, subsets of HLA class I act as ligands for inhibitory and activating KIR, allowing natural killer (NK) cells to detect and kill infected cells. We investigated the impact of HLA and KIR polymorphism on the severity of COVID-19. High resolution HLA class I and II and KIR genotypes were determined from 403 non-hospitalized and 1575 hospitalized SARS-CoV-2 infected patients from Italy collected in 2020. We observed that possession of the activating KIR2DS4*001 allotype is associated with severe disease, requiring hospitalization (OR = 1.48, 95% CI 1.20-1.85, pc = 0.017), and this effect is greater in individuals homozygous for KIR2DS4*001 (OR = 3.74, 95% CI 1.75-9.29, pc = 0.003). We also observed the HLA class II allotype, HLA-DPB1*13:01 protects SARS-CoV-2 infected patients from severe disease (OR = 0.49, 95% CI 0.33-0.74, pc = 0.019). These association analyses were replicated using logistic regression with sex and age as covariates. Autoantibodies against IFN-α associated with COVID-19 severity were detected in 26% of 156 hospitalized patients tested. HLA-C*08:02 was more frequent in patients with IFN-α autoantibodies than those without, and KIR3DL1*01502 was only present in patients lacking IFN-α antibodies. These findings suggest that KIR and HLA polymorphism is integral in determining the clinical outcome following SARS-CoV-2 infection, by influencing the course both of innate and adaptive immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ticiana D.J. Farias
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, 80045, USA
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, 80045, USA
| | - Silvia Brugiapaglia
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, 10126, Italy
- Laboratory of Tumor Immunology Center for Experimental Research and Medical Studies, Città della Salute e della Scienza di Torino, Turin, 10126, Italy
| | - Susanna Croci
- Medical Genetics, University of Siena, Siena, 53100, Italy
- Med Biotech Hub and Competence Center, Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, 53100, Italy
| | - Paola Magistroni
- Immunogenetics and Transplant Biology, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria, Città della Salute e della Scienza di Torino, Turin, 10126, Italy
| | - Claudia Curcio
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, 10126, Italy
- Laboratory of Tumor Immunology Center for Experimental Research and Medical Studies, Città della Salute e della Scienza di Torino, Turin, 10126, Italy
| | - Kristina Zguro
- Med Biotech Hub and Competence Center, Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, 53100, Italy
| | - Chiara Fallerini
- Medical Genetics, University of Siena, Siena, 53100, Italy
- Med Biotech Hub and Competence Center, Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, 53100, Italy
| | - Francesca Fava
- Medical Genetics, University of Siena, Siena, 53100, Italy
- Med Biotech Hub and Competence Center, Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, 53100, Italy
- Genetica Medica, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Senese, Siena, 53100, Italy
| | - Francesco Pettini
- Med Biotech Hub and Competence Center, Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, 53100, Italy
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Siena, 53100, Italy
| | - Katherine M. Kichula
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, 80045, USA
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, 80045, USA
| | - Nicholas R. Pollock
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, 80045, USA
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, 80045, USA
| | - Neus Font-Porterias
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, 80045, USA
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, 80045, USA
| | - William H. Palmer
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, 80045, USA
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, 80045, USA
| | - Wesley M. Marin
- UCSF Weill Institute for Neurosciences, Department of Neurology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, 94158, USA
| | - Margherita Baldassarri
- Medical Genetics, University of Siena, Siena, 53100, Italy
- Med Biotech Hub and Competence Center, Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, 53100, Italy
| | - Mirella Bruttini
- Medical Genetics, University of Siena, Siena, 53100, Italy
- Med Biotech Hub and Competence Center, Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, 53100, Italy
- Genetica Medica, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Senese, Siena, 53100, Italy
| | - Jill A. Hollenbach
- UCSF Weill Institute for Neurosciences, Department of Neurology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, 94158, USA
| | - Audrey E. Hendricks
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, 80045, USA
- Department of Mathematical and Statistical Sciences, and Department of Biomedical Informatics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, 80045, USA
| | - Ilaria Meloni
- Medical Genetics, University of Siena, Siena, 53100, Italy
- Med Biotech Hub and Competence Center, Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, 53100, Italy
| | - Francesco Novelli
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, 10126, Italy
- Laboratory of Tumor Immunology Center for Experimental Research and Medical Studies, Città della Salute e della Scienza di Torino, Turin, 10126, Italy
- Molecular Biotechnology Center, University of Turin, Turin, 10126, Italy
| | | | - Alessandra Renieri
- Medical Genetics, University of Siena, Siena, 53100, Italy
- Med Biotech Hub and Competence Center, Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, 53100, Italy
- Genetica Medica, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Senese, Siena, 53100, Italy
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Siena, 53100, Italy
| | - Simone Furini
- Med Biotech Hub and Competence Center, Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, 53100, Italy
| | - Paul J. Norman
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, 80045, USA
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, 80045, USA
| | - Antonio Amoroso
- Immunogenetics and Transplant Biology, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria, Città della Salute e della Scienza di Torino, Turin, 10126, Italy
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, 10126, Italy
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9
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Bjorgen JC, Dick JK, Cromarty R, Hart GT, Rhein J. NK cell subsets and dysfunction during viral infection: a new avenue for therapeutics? Front Immunol 2023; 14:1267774. [PMID: 37928543 PMCID: PMC10620977 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1267774] [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: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
In the setting of viral challenge, natural killer (NK) cells play an important role as an early immune responder against infection. During this response, significant changes in the NK cell population occur, particularly in terms of their frequency, location, and subtype prevalence. In this review, changes in the NK cell repertoire associated with several pathogenic viral infections are summarized, with a particular focus placed on changes that contribute to NK cell dysregulation in these settings. This dysregulation, in turn, can contribute to host pathology either by causing NK cells to be hyperresponsive or hyporesponsive. Hyperresponsive NK cells mediate significant host cell death and contribute to generating a hyperinflammatory environment. Hyporesponsive NK cell populations shift toward exhaustion and often fail to limit viral pathogenesis, possibly enabling viral persistence. Several emerging therapeutic approaches aimed at addressing NK cell dysregulation have arisen in the last three decades in the setting of cancer and may prove to hold promise in treating viral diseases. However, the application of such therapeutics to treat viral infections remains critically underexplored. This review briefly explores several therapeutic approaches, including the administration of TGF-β inhibitors, immune checkpoint inhibitors, adoptive NK cell therapies, CAR NK cells, and NK cell engagers among other therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob C. Bjorgen
- Division of Infectious Diseases and International Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | - Jenna K. Dick
- Division of Infectious Diseases and International Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
- Center for Immunology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | - Ross Cromarty
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | - Geoffrey T. Hart
- Division of Infectious Diseases and International Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
- Center for Immunology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | - Joshua Rhein
- Division of Infectious Diseases and International Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
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10
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Lee MJ, Blish CA. Defining the role of natural killer cells in COVID-19. Nat Immunol 2023; 24:1628-1638. [PMID: 37460639 PMCID: PMC10538371 DOI: 10.1038/s41590-023-01560-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/20/2023]
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells are critical effectors of antiviral immunity. Researchers have therefore sought to characterize the NK cell response to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and the virus that causes it, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). The NK cells of patients with severe COVID-19 undergo extensive phenotypic and functional changes. For example, the NK cells from critically ill patients with COVID-19 are highly activated and exhausted, with poor cytotoxic function and cytokine production upon stimulation. The NK cell response to SARS-CoV-2 is also modulated by changes induced in virally infected cells, including the ability of a viral peptide to bind HLA-E, preventing NK cells from receiving inhibitory signals, and the downregulation of major histocompatibility complex class I and ligands for the activating receptor NKG2D. These changes have important implications for the ability of infected cells to escape NK cell killing. The implications of these findings for antibody-dependent NK cell activity in COVID-19 are also reviewed. Despite these advances in the understanding of the NK cell response to SARS-CoV-2, there remain critical gaps in our current understanding and a wealth of avenues for future research on this topic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madeline J Lee
- Stanford Immunology Program, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Catherine A Blish
- Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA.
- Chan Zuckerberg Biohub, San Francisco, CA, USA.
- Stanford Medical Scientist Training Program, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA.
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11
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Razizadeh MH, Zafarani A, Taghavi-Farahabadi M, Khorramdelazad H, Minaeian S, Mahmoudi M. Natural killer cells and their exosomes in viral infections and related therapeutic approaches: where are we? Cell Commun Signal 2023; 21:261. [PMID: 37749597 PMCID: PMC10519079 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-023-01266-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Innate immunity is the first line of the host immune system to fight against infections. Natural killer cells are the innate immunity lymphocytes responsible for fighting against virus-infected and cancerous cells. They have various mechanisms to suppress viral infections. On the other hand, viruses have evolved to utilize different ways to evade NK cell-mediated responses. Viruses can balance the response by regulating the cytokine release pattern and changing the proportion of activating and inhibitory receptors on the surface of NK cells. Exosomes are a subtype of extracellular vesicles that are involved in intercellular communication. Most cell populations can release these nano-sized vesicles, and it was shown that these vesicles produce identical outcomes to the originating cell from which they are released. In recent years, the role of NK cell-derived exosomes in various diseases including viral infections has been highlighted, drawing attention to utilizing the therapeutic potential of these nanoparticles. In this article, the role of NK cells in various viral infections and the mechanisms used by viruses to evade these important immune system cells are initially examined. Subsequently, the role of NK cell exosomes in controlling various viral infections is discussed. Finally, the current position of these cells in the treatment of viral infections and the therapeutic potential of their exosomes are reviewed. Video Abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Hossein Razizadeh
- Department of Virology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Antimicrobial Resistance Research Center, Institute of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Alireza Zafarani
- Department of Hematology and Blood Banking, Faculty of Allied Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahsa Taghavi-Farahabadi
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hossein Khorramdelazad
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran
| | - Sara Minaeian
- Antimicrobial Resistance Research Center, Institute of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Mohammad Mahmoudi
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
- Immunology Research Center, Institute of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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12
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Pisano F, Cannas B, Fanni A, Pasella M, Canetto B, Giglio SR, Mocci S, Chessa L, Perra A, Littera R. Decision trees for early prediction of inadequate immune response to coronavirus infections: a pilot study on COVID-19. Front Med (Lausanne) 2023; 10:1230733. [PMID: 37601789 PMCID: PMC10433226 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2023.1230733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Few artificial intelligence models exist to predict severe forms of COVID-19. Most rely on post-infection laboratory data, hindering early treatment for high-risk individuals. Methods This study developed a machine learning model to predict inherent risk of severe symptoms after contracting SARS-CoV-2. Using a Decision Tree trained on 153 Alpha variant patients, demographic, clinical and immunogenetic markers were considered. Model performance was assessed on Alpha and Delta variant datasets. Key risk factors included age, gender, absence of KIR2DS2 gene (alone or with HLA-C C1 group alleles), presence of 14-bp polymorphism in HLA-G gene, presence of KIR2DS5 gene, and presence of KIR telomeric region A/A. Results The model achieved 83.01% accuracy for Alpha variant and 78.57% for Delta variant, with True Positive Rates of 80.82 and 77.78%, and True Negative Rates of 85.00% and 79.17%, respectively. The model showed high sensitivity in identifying individuals at risk. Discussion The present study demonstrates the potential of AI algorithms, combined with demographic, epidemiologic, and immunogenetic data, in identifying individuals at high risk of severe COVID-19 and facilitating early treatment. Further studies are required for routine clinical integration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabio Pisano
- Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Barbara Cannas
- Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Alessandra Fanni
- Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Manuela Pasella
- Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | | | - Sabrina Rita Giglio
- Medical Genetics, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
- AART-ODV (Association for the Advancement of Research on Transplantation), Cagliari, Italy
- Medical Genetics, R. Binaghi Hospital, Local Public Health and Social Care Unit (ASSL) of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
- Centre for Research University Services (CeSAR, Centro Servizi di Ateneo per la Ricerca), University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Monserrato, Italy
| | - Stefano Mocci
- Medical Genetics, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
- Centre for Research University Services (CeSAR, Centro Servizi di Ateneo per la Ricerca), University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Monserrato, Italy
| | - Luchino Chessa
- AART-ODV (Association for the Advancement of Research on Transplantation), Cagliari, Italy
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
- Liver Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Andrea Perra
- AART-ODV (Association for the Advancement of Research on Transplantation), Cagliari, Italy
- Unit of Oncology and Molecular Pathology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Roberto Littera
- AART-ODV (Association for the Advancement of Research on Transplantation), Cagliari, Italy
- Medical Genetics, R. Binaghi Hospital, Local Public Health and Social Care Unit (ASSL) of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
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13
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Mocci S, Littera R, Chessa L, Campagna M, Melis M, Ottelio CM, Piras IS, Lai S, Firinu D, Tranquilli S, Mascia A, Vacca M, Schirru D, Lecca LI, Rassu S, Cannas F, Sanna C, Carta MG, Sedda F, Giuressi E, Cipri S, Miglianti M, Perra A, Giglio S. A review of the main genetic factors influencing the course of COVID-19 in Sardinia: the role of human leukocyte antigen-G. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1138559. [PMID: 37342325 PMCID: PMC10277491 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1138559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction A large number of risk and protective factors have been identified during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic which may influence the outcome of COVID-19. Among these, recent studies have explored the role of HLA-G molecules and their immunomodulatory effects in COVID-19, but there are very few reports exploring the genetic basis of these manifestations. The present study aims to investigate how host genetic factors, including HLA-G gene polymorphisms and sHLA-G, can affect SARS-CoV-2 infection. Materials and Methods We compared the immune-genetic and phenotypic characteristics between COVID-19 patients (n = 381) with varying degrees of severity of the disease and 420 healthy controls from Sardinia (Italy). Results HLA-G locus analysis showed that the extended haplotype HLA-G*01:01:01:01/UTR-1 was more prevalent in both COVID-19 patients and controls. In particular, this extended haplotype was more common among patients with mild symptoms than those with severe symptoms [22.7% vs 15.7%, OR = 0.634 (95% CI 0.440 - 0.913); P = 0.016]. Furthermore, the most significant HLA-G 3'UTR polymorphism (rs371194629) shows that the HLA-G 3'UTR Del/Del genotype frequency decreases gradually from 27.6% in paucisymptomatic patients to 15.9% in patients with severe symptoms (X2 = 7.095, P = 0.029), reaching the lowest frequency (7.0%) in ICU patients (X2 = 11.257, P = 0.004). However, no significant differences were observed for the soluble HLA-G levels in patients and controls. Finally, we showed that SARS-CoV-2 infection in the Sardinian population is also influenced by other genetic factors such as β-thalassemia trait (rs11549407C>T in the HBB gene), KIR2DS2/HLA-C C1+ group combination and the HLA-B*58:01, C*07:01, DRB1*03:01 haplotype which exert a protective effect [P = 0.005, P = 0.001 and P = 0.026 respectively]. Conversely, the Neanderthal LZTFL1 gene variant (rs35044562A>G) shows a detrimental consequence on the disease course [P = 0.001]. However, by using a logistic regression model, HLA-G 3'UTR Del/Del genotype was independent from the other significant variables [ORM = 0.4 (95% CI 0.2 - 0.7), PM = 6.5 x 10-4]. Conclusion Our results reveal novel genetic variants which could potentially serve as biomarkers for disease prognosis and treatment, highlighting the importance of considering genetic factors in the management of COVID-19 patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Mocci
- Medical Genetics, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
- AART-ODV (Association for the Advancement of Research on Transplantation), Cagliari, Italy
| | - Roberto Littera
- AART-ODV (Association for the Advancement of Research on Transplantation), Cagliari, Italy
- Medical Genetics, R. Binaghi Hospital, Local Public Health and Social Care Unit (ASSL) of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Luchino Chessa
- AART-ODV (Association for the Advancement of Research on Transplantation), Cagliari, Italy
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
- Liver Unit, University Hospital, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Marcello Campagna
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Maurizio Melis
- AART-ODV (Association for the Advancement of Research on Transplantation), Cagliari, Italy
| | - Carla Maria Ottelio
- Anesthesia and Intensive Care Unit, R. Binaghi Hospital, Local Public Health and Social Care Unit (ASSL) of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Ignazio S. Piras
- Neurogenomics Division, Translational Genomics Research Institute (TGen), Phoenix, AZ, United States
| | - Sara Lai
- Medical Genetics, R. Binaghi Hospital, Local Public Health and Social Care Unit (ASSL) of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Davide Firinu
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Stefania Tranquilli
- Medical Genetics, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Alessia Mascia
- Medical Genetics, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Monica Vacca
- Medical Genetics, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Daniele Schirru
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Luigi Isaia Lecca
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Stefania Rassu
- Medical Genetics, R. Binaghi Hospital, Local Public Health and Social Care Unit (ASSL) of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Federica Cannas
- Medical Genetics, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Celeste Sanna
- Medical Genetics, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Mauro Giovanni Carta
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Francesca Sedda
- Section of Pathology, Oncology and Molecular Pathology Unit, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Erika Giuressi
- Medical Genetics, R. Binaghi Hospital, Local Public Health and Social Care Unit (ASSL) of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Selene Cipri
- GeneMos-APS (Association for Social Advancement), Reggio Calabria, Italy
| | - Michela Miglianti
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Andrea Perra
- AART-ODV (Association for the Advancement of Research on Transplantation), Cagliari, Italy
- Section of Pathology, Oncology and Molecular Pathology Unit, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Sabrina Giglio
- Medical Genetics, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
- Medical Genetics, R. Binaghi Hospital, Local Public Health and Social Care Unit (ASSL) of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
- Centre for Research University Services (CeSAR, Centro Servizi di Ateneo per la Ricerca), University of Cagliari, Monserrato, Italy
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14
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Perce-da-Silva DDS, Joaquim TE, Aleixo ALQDC, Motta JPR, Lima-Junior JDC, Ribeiro-Alves M, de Oliveira-Ferreira J, Porto LCDMS, Banic DM, Amendoeira MRR. Influence of killer immunoglobulin-like receptors genes on the recurrence rate of ocular toxoplasmosis in Brazil. Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz 2023; 118:e220203. [PMID: 37018796 PMCID: PMC10065411 DOI: 10.1590/0074-02760220203] [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: 08/31/2022] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recurrence is a hallmark of ocular toxoplasmosis (OT), and conditions that influence its occurrence remain a challenge. Natural killer cells (NK) are effectors cells whose primary is cytotoxic function against many parasites, including Toxoplasma gondii. Among the NK cell receptors, immunoglobulin-like receptors (KIR) deserve attention due to their high polymorphism. OBJECTIVES This study aimed to analyse the influence of KIR gene polymorphism in the course of OT infection and its association with recurrences after an active episode. METHODS Ninety-six patients from the Ophthalmologic Clinic of the National Institute of Infectology Evandro Chagas were followed for up to five years. After DNA extraction, genotyping of the patients was performed by polymerase chain reaction sequence-specific oligonucleotide (PCR-SSO) utilising Luminex equipment for reading. During follow-up, 60.4% had a recurrence. FINDINGS We identified 25 KIR genotypes and found a higher frequency of genotype 1 (31.7%) with worldwide distribution. We note that the KIR2DL2 inhibitor gene and the gene activator KIR2DS2 were more frequent in patients without recurrence. Additionally, we observed that individuals who carry these genes progressed recurrence episodes slowly compared to individuals who do not carry these genes. MAIN CONCLUSIONS The KIR2DL2 and KIR2DS2 are associated as possible protection markers against ocular toxoplasmosis recurrence (OTR).
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Affiliation(s)
- Daiana de Souza Perce-da-Silva
- Fundação Oswaldo Cruz-Fiocruz, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Laboratório de Imunologia Clínica, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brasil
- Centro Universitário Arthur Sá Earp Neto, Faculdade de Medicina de Petrópolis, Laboratório de Imunologia Básica e Aplicada, Petrópolis, RJ, Brasil
- + Corresponding authors: /
| | - Thays Euzebio Joaquim
- Fundação Oswaldo Cruz-Fiocruz, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Laboratório de Toxoplasmose e outras Protozooses, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brasil
| | - Ana Luisa Quintella do Couto Aleixo
- Fundação Oswaldo Cruz-Fiocruz, Instituto Nacional de Infectologia Evandro Chagas, Laboratório de Pesquisa Clínica em Oftalmologia Infecciosa, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brasil
| | | | - Josué da Costa Lima-Junior
- Fundação Oswaldo Cruz-Fiocruz, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Laboratório de Imunoparasitologia, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brasil
| | - Marcelo Ribeiro-Alves
- Fundação Oswaldo Cruz-Fiocruz, Instituto Nacional de Infectologia Evandro Chagas, Centro de Pesquisa Clínica HIV/AIDS, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brasil
| | - Joseli de Oliveira-Ferreira
- Fundação Oswaldo Cruz-Fiocruz, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Laboratório de Imunoparasitologia, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brasil
| | | | - Dalma Maria Banic
- Fundação Oswaldo Cruz-Fiocruz, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Laboratório de Imunologia Clínica, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brasil
| | - Maria Regina Reis Amendoeira
- Fundação Oswaldo Cruz-Fiocruz, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Laboratório de Toxoplasmose e outras Protozooses, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brasil
- + Corresponding authors: /
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15
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Rascle P, Woolley G, Jost S, Manickam C, Reeves RK. NK cell education: Physiological and pathological influences. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1087155. [PMID: 36742337 PMCID: PMC9896005 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1087155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells represent a critical defense against viral infections and cancers. NK cells require integration of activating and inhibitory NK cell receptors to detect target cells and the balance of these NK cell inputs defines the global NK cell response. The sensitivity of the response is largely defined by interactions between self-major histocompatibility complex class I (MHC-I) molecules and specific inhibitory NK cell receptors, so-called NK cell education. Thus, NK cell education is a crucial process to generate tuned effector NK cell responses in different diseases. In this review, we discuss the relationship between NK cell education and physiologic factors (type of self-MHC-I, self-MHC-I allelic variants, variant of the self-MHC-I-binding peptides, cytokine effects and inhibitory KIR expression) underlying NK cell education profiles (effector function or metabolism). Additionally, we describe the broad-spectrum of effector educated NK cell functions on different pathologies (such as HIV-1, CMV and tumors, among others).
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Affiliation(s)
- Philippe Rascle
- Division of Innate and Comparative Immunology, Center for Human Systems Immunology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, United States
- Department of Surgery, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, United States
| | - Griffin Woolley
- Division of Innate and Comparative Immunology, Center for Human Systems Immunology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, United States
- Department of Surgery, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, United States
| | - Stephanie Jost
- Division of Innate and Comparative Immunology, Center for Human Systems Immunology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, United States
- Department of Surgery, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, United States
| | - Cordelia Manickam
- Division of Innate and Comparative Immunology, Center for Human Systems Immunology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, United States
- Department of Surgery, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, United States
| | - R. Keith Reeves
- Division of Innate and Comparative Immunology, Center for Human Systems Immunology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, United States
- Department of Surgery, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, United States
- Center for Virology and Vaccine Research, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
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16
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Alhajjat AM, Redden CR, Langereis M, Papastefan ST, Ito JA, Ott KC, Turner LE, Kang HK, Shaaban AF. CD4 and IL-2 mediated NK cell responses after COVID-19 infection and mRNA vaccination in adults. Immunobiology 2023; 228:152304. [PMID: 36508885 PMCID: PMC9683520 DOI: 10.1016/j.imbio.2022.152304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2022] [Revised: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 11/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
A detailed understanding of protective immunity against SARS-CoV-2 is incredibly important in fighting the pandemic. Central to protective immunity is the ability of the immune system to recall previous exposures. Although antibody and T cell immunity have gained considerable attention, the contribution of the NK cell compartment to immune recall and protection from SARS-CoV-2 has not been explored. In this study, we investigate the NK cell responses to stimulation with SARS-CoV-2 in previously exposed and non-exposed individuals. We show that NK cells demonstrate an enhanced CD4+ T cell dependent response when re-exposed to SARS-CoV-2 antigen. The enhanced response is dependent on T cells and correlates with the number of SARS-CoV-2 specific CD4 T cells. We find that IL-2 is a critical mediator of NK cell function. These findings suggest that NK cells contribute to the protective responses against SARS-CoV-2 through a cooperation with antigen-specific CD4 T cells and have significant implications on our understanding of protective immunity in SARS-CoV-2.
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17
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Ligotti ME, Aiello A, Accardi G, Calabrò A, Ciaccio M, Colomba C, Di Bona D, Lo Sasso B, Pojero F, Tuttolomondo A, Caruso C, Candore G, Duro G. Distribution of KIR Genes and Their HLA Ligands in Different Viral Infectious Diseases: Frequency Study in Sicilian Population. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232415466. [PMID: 36555106 PMCID: PMC9779783 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232415466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2022] [Revised: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells play a role in defence against viral infections by killing infected cells or by producing cytokines and interacting with adaptive immune cells. Killer immunoglobulin-like receptors (KIRs) regulate the activation of NK cells through their interaction with human leucocyte antigens (HLA). Ninety-six Sicilian patients positive to Human Immunodeficiency Virus-1 (HIV) and ninety-two Sicilian patients positive to SARS-CoV-2 were genotyped for KIRs and their HLA ligands. We also included fifty-six Sicilian patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB) already recruited in our previous study. The aim of this study was to compare the distribution of KIR-HLA genes/groups of these three different infected populations with healthy Sicilian donors from the literature. We showed that the inhibitory KIR3DL1 gene and the KIR3DL1/HLA-B Bw4 pairing were more prevalent in individual CHB. At the same time, the frequency of HLA-C2 was increased in CHB compared to other groups. In contrast, the HLA-C1 ligand seems to have no contribution to CHB progression whereas it was significantly higher in COVID-19 and HIV-positive than healthy controls. These results suggest that specific KIR-HLA combinations can predict the outcome/susceptibility of these viral infections and allows to plan successful customized therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mattia Emanuela Ligotti
- Laboratory of Immunopathology and Immunosenescence, Department of Biomedicine, Neurosciences and Advanced Diagnostics, University of Palermo, 90134 Palermo, Italy
| | - Anna Aiello
- Laboratory of Immunopathology and Immunosenescence, Department of Biomedicine, Neurosciences and Advanced Diagnostics, University of Palermo, 90134 Palermo, Italy
| | - Giulia Accardi
- Laboratory of Immunopathology and Immunosenescence, Department of Biomedicine, Neurosciences and Advanced Diagnostics, University of Palermo, 90134 Palermo, Italy
- Correspondence:
| | - Anna Calabrò
- Laboratory of Immunopathology and Immunosenescence, Department of Biomedicine, Neurosciences and Advanced Diagnostics, University of Palermo, 90134 Palermo, Italy
| | - Marcello Ciaccio
- Section of Clinical Biochemistry and Clinical Molecular Medicine, Department of Biomedicine, Neuroscience and Advanced Diagnostics, University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy
| | - Claudia Colomba
- Department of Health Promotion, Maternal and Infant Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy
| | - Danilo Di Bona
- Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantation, University of Bari Aldo Moro, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Bruna Lo Sasso
- Section of Clinical Biochemistry and Clinical Molecular Medicine, Department of Biomedicine, Neuroscience and Advanced Diagnostics, University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy
| | - Fanny Pojero
- Laboratory of Immunopathology and Immunosenescence, Department of Biomedicine, Neurosciences and Advanced Diagnostics, University of Palermo, 90134 Palermo, Italy
| | - Antonino Tuttolomondo
- Department of Health Promotion, Maternal and Infant Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy
| | - Calogero Caruso
- Laboratory of Immunopathology and Immunosenescence, Department of Biomedicine, Neurosciences and Advanced Diagnostics, University of Palermo, 90134 Palermo, Italy
| | - Giuseppina Candore
- Laboratory of Immunopathology and Immunosenescence, Department of Biomedicine, Neurosciences and Advanced Diagnostics, University of Palermo, 90134 Palermo, Italy
| | - Giovanni Duro
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council of Italy, 90146 Palermo, Italy
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18
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Studying the Interactions of U24 from HHV-6 in Order to Further Elucidate Its Potential Role in MS. Viruses 2022; 14:v14112384. [PMID: 36366483 PMCID: PMC9696605 DOI: 10.3390/v14112384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2022] [Revised: 10/27/2022] [Accepted: 10/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
A number of studies have suggested that human herpesvirus 6A (HHV-6A) may play a role in multiple sclerosis (MS). Three possible hypotheses have been investigated: (1) U24 from HHV-6A (U24-6A) mimics myelin basic protein (MBP) through analogous phosphorylation and interaction with Fyn-SH3; (2) U24-6A affects endocytic recycling by binding human neural precursor cell (NPC) expressed developmentally down-regulated protein 4-like WW3* domain (hNedd4L-WW3*); and (3) MS patients who express Killer Cell Immunoglobulin Like Receptor 2DL2 (KIR2DL2) on natural killer (NK) cells are more susceptible to HHV-6 infection. In this contribution, we examined the validity of these propositions by investigating the interactions of U24 from HHV-6B (U24-6B), a variant less commonly linked to MS, with Fyn-SH3 and hNedd4L-WW3* using heteronuclear single quantum coherence (HSQC) nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) titrations and isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC). In addition, the importance of phosphorylation and the specific role of U24 in NK cell activation in MS patients were examined. Overall, the findings allowed us to shed light into the models linking HHV-6 to MS and the involvement of U24.
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19
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Loi E, Moi L, Cabras P, Arduino G, Costanzo G, Del Giacco S, Erlich HA, Firinu D, Caddori A, Zavattari P. HLA-C dysregulation as a possible mechanism of immune evasion in SARS-CoV-2 and other RNA-virus infections. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1011829. [PMID: 36325330 PMCID: PMC9618630 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1011829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
One of the mechanisms by which viruses can evade the host’s immune system is to modify the host’s DNA methylation pattern. This work aims to investigate the DNA methylation and gene expression profile of COVID-19 patients, divided into symptomatic and asymptomatic, and healthy controls, focusing on genes involved in the immune response. In this study, changes in the methylome of COVID-19 patients’ upper airways cells, the first barrier against respiratory infections and the first cells presenting viral antigens, are shown for the first time. Our results showed alterations in the methylation pattern of genes encoding proteins implicated in the response against pathogens, in particular the HLA-C gene, also important for the T-cell mediated memory response. HLA-C expression significantly decreases in COVID-19 patients, especially in those with a more severe prognosis and without other possibly confounding co-morbidities. Moreover, our bionformatic analysis revealed that the identified methylation alteration overlaps with enhancers regulating HLA-C expression, suggesting an additional mechanism exploited by SARS-CoV-2 to inhibit this fundamental player in the host’s immune response. HLA-C could therefore represent both a prognostic marker and an excellent therapeutic target, also suggesting a preventive intervention that conjugate a virus-specific antigenic stimulation with an adjuvant increasing the T-cell mediated memory response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleonora Loi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Unit of Biology and Genetics, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Loredana Moi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Unit of Biology and Genetics, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Paola Cabras
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital SS. Trinità, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Giulia Arduino
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital SS. Trinità, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Giulia Costanzo
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Stefano Del Giacco
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Henry A. Erlich
- Department of Genetics and Genomics, Children’s Hospital Oakland Research Institute, Oakland, CA, United States
| | - Davide Firinu
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Aldo Caddori
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital SS. Trinità, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Patrizia Zavattari
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Unit of Biology and Genetics, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
- *Correspondence: Patrizia Zavattari,
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20
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Radandish M, Esmaeil N, Khorvash F, Andalib A. Diagnostic Value of Natural Killer Cells, CD56+ CD16+ Natural Killer Cells, NLRP3, and Lactate Dehydrogenase in Severe/Critical COVID-19: A Prospective Longitudinal Study According to the Severe/Critical COVID-19 Definitions. Viral Immunol 2022; 35:616-628. [PMID: 36099205 DOI: 10.1089/vim.2022.0060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Innate immunity, as the first line of defense of our immune system, plays a crucial role in defending against SARS-CoV-2 infection and also its immunopathogenesis. We aim to investigate the immune status of natural killer (NK) cells, natural killer T (NKT) cells, and NLRP3 gene expression in COVID-19 patient blood samples. The immunophenotype of NK cell subsets and NKT cells was detected by flow cytometry and the expression of NLRP3 gene assessed by reverse transcriptase real-time polymerase chain reaction in 44 COVID-19 patients and 20 healthy individuals. The percentage of most of NK cell subpopulation and NKT cells was significantly decreased in COVID-19 patients. The percentage of CD56dim CD16- NK cell subsets, and NLRP3 gene expression increased. The percentage of total NK cells, CD56+ CD16+ NK cells, and NLRP3 gene expression had acceptable sensitivity and specificity for assisting diagnosis of severe/critical COVID-19. O2 saturation% and lactate dehydrogenase levels showed valuable diagnostic value to identify critical cases. The declined NK and NKT cells in COVID-19 patients and enhanced NLRP3 gene expression were associated with disease severity. Total NK cells, CD56+ CD16+ NK cells, and NLRP3 gene expression might be used as meaningful indicators for assisting diagnosis of severe/critical COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maedeh Radandish
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Nafiseh Esmaeil
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran.,Research Institute for Primordial Prevention of Non-Communicable Disease, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Farzin Khorvash
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, Nosocomial Infections Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Alireza Andalib
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
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21
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Di Vito C, Calcaterra F, Coianiz N, Terzoli S, Voza A, Mikulak J, Della Bella S, Mavilio D. Natural Killer Cells in SARS-CoV-2 Infection: Pathophysiology and Therapeutic Implications. Front Immunol 2022; 13:888248. [PMID: 35844604 PMCID: PMC9279859 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.888248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Accepted: 06/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural Killer (NK) cells are lymphocytes of the innate immunity that play a crucial role in the control of viral infections in the absence of a prior antigen sensitization. Indeed, they display rapid effector functions against target cells with the capability of direct cell killing and antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity. Furthermore, NK cells are endowed with immune-modulatory functions innate and adaptive immune responses via the secretion of chemokines/cytokines and by undertaking synergic crosstalks with other innate immune cells, including monocyte/macrophages, dendritic cells and neutrophils. Recently, the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), has spread globally. Although the specific role of NK cells in COVID-19 pathophysiology still need to be explored, mounting evidence indicates that NK cell tissue distribution and effector functions could be affected by SARS-CoV-2 infection and that a prompt NK cell response could determine a good clinical outcome in COVID-19 patients. In this review, we give a comprehensive overview of how SARS-CoV-2 infection interferes with NK cell antiviral effectiveness and their crosstalk with other innate immune cells. We also provide a detailed characterization of the specific NK cell subsets in relation to COVID-19 patient severity generated from publicly available single cell RNA sequencing datasets. Finally, we summarize the possible NK cell-based therapeutic approaches against SARS-CoV-2 infection and the ongoing clinical trials updated at the time of submission of this review. We will also discuss how a deep understanding of NK cell responses could open new possibilities for the treatment and prevention of SARS-CoV-2 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clara Di Vito
- Unit of Clinical and Experimental Immunology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Milan, Italy
- *Correspondence: Domenico Mavilio, ; Clara Di Vito,
| | - Francesca Calcaterra
- Unit of Clinical and Experimental Immunology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Milan, Italy
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies and Translational Medicine (BioMeTra) , University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Nicolò Coianiz
- Unit of Clinical and Experimental Immunology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Sara Terzoli
- Unit of Clinical and Experimental Immunology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Milan, Italy
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Milan, Italy
| | - Antonio Voza
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Milan, Italy
- Emergency Medicine Unit, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Joanna Mikulak
- Unit of Clinical and Experimental Immunology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Silvia Della Bella
- Unit of Clinical and Experimental Immunology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Milan, Italy
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies and Translational Medicine (BioMeTra) , University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Domenico Mavilio
- Unit of Clinical and Experimental Immunology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Milan, Italy
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies and Translational Medicine (BioMeTra) , University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- *Correspondence: Domenico Mavilio, ; Clara Di Vito,
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22
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Abstract
At the end of 2019, an outbreak of a severe respiratory disease occurred in Wuhan China, and an increase in cases of unknown pneumonia was alerted. In January 2020, a new coronavirus named SARS-CoV-2 was identified as the cause. The virus spreads primarily through the respiratory tract, and lymphopenia and cytokine storms have been observed in severely ill patients. This suggests the existence of an immune dysregulation as an accompanying event during a serious illness caused by this virus. Natural killer (NK) cells are innate immune responders, critical for virus shedding and immunomodulation. Despite its importance in viral infections, the contribution of NK cells in the fight against SARS-CoV-2 has yet to be deciphered. Different studies in patients with COVID-19 suggest a significant reduction in the number and function of NK cells due to their exhaustion. In this review, we summarize the current understanding of how NK cells respond to SARS-CoV-2 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janet Gallardo-Zapata
- Laboratorio de investigación en Inmunología y Proteómica, Hospital Infantil de México Federico Gomez, Mexico City, Mexico.,Posgrado de Doctorado en Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Carmen Maldonado-Bernal
- Laboratorio de investigación en Inmunología y Proteómica, Hospital Infantil de México Federico Gomez, Mexico City, Mexico
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23
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Mocci S, Littera R, Tranquilli S, Provenzano A, Mascia A, Cannas F, Lai S, Giuressi E, Chessa L, Angioni G, Campagna M, Firinu D, Del Zompo M, La Nasa G, Perra A, Giglio S. A Protective HLA Extended Haplotype Outweighs the Major COVID-19 Risk Factor Inherited From Neanderthals in the Sardinian Population. Front Immunol 2022; 13:891147. [PMID: 35514995 PMCID: PMC9063452 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.891147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Sardinia has one of the lowest incidences of hospitalization and related mortality in Europe and yet a very high frequency of the Neanderthal risk locus variant on chromosome 3 (rs35044562), considered to be a major risk factor for a severe SARS-CoV-2 disease course. We evaluated 358 SARS-CoV-2 patients and 314 healthy Sardinian controls. One hundred and twenty patients were asymptomatic, 90 were pauci-symptomatic, 108 presented a moderate disease course and 40 were severely ill. All patients were analyzed for the Neanderthal-derived genetic variants reported as being protective (rs1156361) or causative (rs35044562) for severe illness. The β°39 C>T Thalassemia variant (rs11549407), HLA haplotypes, KIR genes, KIRs and their HLA class I ligand combinations were also investigated. Our findings revealed an increased risk for severe disease in Sardinian patients carrying the rs35044562 high risk variant [OR 5.32 (95% CI 2.53 - 12.01), p = 0.000]. Conversely, the protective effect of the HLA-A*02:01, B*18:01, DRB*03:01 three-loci extended haplotype in the Sardinian population was shown to efficiently contrast the high risk of a severe and devastating outcome of the infection predicted for carriers of the Neanderthal locus [OR 15.47 (95% CI 5.8 - 41.0), p < 0.0001]. This result suggests that the balance between risk and protective immunogenetic factors plays an important role in the evolution of COVID-19. A better understanding of these mechanisms may well turn out to be the biggest advantage in the race for the development of more efficient drugs and vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Mocci
- Medical Genetics Unit, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Roberto Littera
- Medical Genetics Unit, R. Binaghi Hospital, Local Public Health and Social Care Unit (ASSL) of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy.,Association for the Advancement of Research on Transplantation O.d.V., Non Profit Organisation, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Stefania Tranquilli
- Medical Genetics Unit, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Aldesia Provenzano
- Medical Genetics Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Alessia Mascia
- Medical Genetics Unit, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Federica Cannas
- Medical Genetics Unit, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Sara Lai
- Medical Genetics Unit, R. Binaghi Hospital, Local Public Health and Social Care Unit (ASSL) of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Erika Giuressi
- Medical Genetics Unit, R. Binaghi Hospital, Local Public Health and Social Care Unit (ASSL) of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Luchino Chessa
- Association for the Advancement of Research on Transplantation O.d.V., Non Profit Organisation, Cagliari, Italy.,Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy.,Liver Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Goffredo Angioni
- Structure of Infectious Diseases Unit, SS Trinità Hospital, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Marcello Campagna
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Davide Firinu
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Maria Del Zompo
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Giorgio La Nasa
- Hematology Unit, Businco Hospital, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Andrea Perra
- Association for the Advancement of Research on Transplantation O.d.V., Non Profit Organisation, Cagliari, Italy.,Unit of Oncology and Molecular Pathology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Monserrato, Italy
| | - Sabrina Giglio
- Medical Genetics Unit, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy.,Medical Genetics Unit, R. Binaghi Hospital, Local Public Health and Social Care Unit (ASSL) of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy.,Centre for Research University Services (CeSAR, Centro Servizi di Ateneo per la Ricerca), University of Cagliari, Monserrato, Italy
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24
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Exploring the Utility of NK Cells in COVID-19. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10051002. [PMID: 35625739 PMCID: PMC9138257 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10051002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2022] [Revised: 04/22/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) can manifest as acute respiratory distress syndrome and is associated with substantial morbidity and mortality. Extensive data now indicate that immune responses to SARS-CoV-2 infection determine the COVID-19 disease course. A wide range of immunomodulatory agents have been tested for the treatment of COVID-19. Natural killer (NK) cells play an important role in antiviral innate immunity, and anti-SARS-CoV-2 activity and antifibrotic activity are particularly critical for COVID-19 control. Notably, SARS-CoV-2 clearance rate, antibody response, and disease progression in COVID-19 correlate with NK cell status, and NK cell dysfunction is linked with increased SARS-CoV-2 susceptibility. Thus, NK cells function as the key element in the switch from effective to harmful immune responses in COVID-19. However, dysregulation of NK cells has been observed in COVID-19 patients, exhibiting depletion and dysfunction, which correlate with COVID-19 severity; this dysregulation perhaps contributes to disease progression. Given these findings, NK-cell-based therapies with anti-SARS-CoV-2 activity, antifibrotic activity, and strong safety profiles for cancers may encourage the rapid application of functional NK cells as a potential therapeutic strategy to eliminate SARS-CoV-2-infected cells at an early stage, facilitate immune–immune cell interactions, and favor inflammatory processes that prevent and/or reverse over-inflammation and inhibit fibrosis progression, thereby helping in the fight against COVID-19. However, our understanding of the role of NK cells in COVID-19 remains incomplete, and further research on the involvement of NK cells in the pathogenesis of COVID-19 is needed. The rationale of NK-cell-based therapies for COVID-19 has to be based on the timing of therapeutic interventions and disease severity, which may be determined by the balance between beneficial antiviral and potential detrimental pathologic actions. NK cells would be more effective early in SARS-CoV-2 infection and prevent the progression of COVID-19. Immunomodulation by NK cells towards regulatory functions could be useful as an adjunct therapy to prevent the progression of COVID-19.
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25
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Maruthamuthu S, Rajalingam K, Kaur N, Morvan MG, Soto J, Lee N, Kong D, Hu Z, Reyes K, Ng D, Butte AJ, Chiu C, Rajalingam R. Individualized Constellation of Killer Cell Immunoglobulin-Like Receptors and Cognate HLA Class I Ligands that Controls Natural Killer Cell Antiviral Immunity Predisposes COVID-19. Front Genet 2022; 13:845474. [PMID: 35273641 PMCID: PMC8902362 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.845474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2021] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection causes coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) in some individuals, while the majority remain asymptomatic. Natural killer (NK) cells play an essential role in antiviral defense. NK cell maturation and function are regulated mainly by highly polymorphic killer cell immunoglobulin-like receptors (KIR) and cognate HLA class I ligands. Herein, we tested our hypothesis that the individualized KIR and HLA class I ligand combinations that control NK cell function determine the outcome of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Methods: We characterized KIR and HLA genes in 200 patients hospitalized for COVID-19 and 195 healthy general population controls. Results: The KIR3DL1+HLA-Bw4+ [Odds ratio (OR) = 0.65, p = 0.03] and KIR3DL2+HLA-A3/11+ (OR = 0.6, p = 0.02) combinations were encountered at significantly lower frequency in COVID-19 patients than in the controls. Notably, 40% of the patients lacked both of these KIR+HLA+ combinations compared to 24.6% of the controls (OR = 2.04, p = 0.001). Additionally, activating receptors KIR2DS1+KIR2DS5+ are more frequent in patients with severe COVID-19 than patients with mild disease (OR = 1.8, p = 0.05). Individuals carrying KIR2DS1+KIR2DS5+ genes but missing either KIR3DL1+HLA-Bw4+ combination (OR = 1.73, p = 0.04) or KIR3DL2+HLA-A3/11+ combination (OR = 1.75, p = 0.02) or both KIR3DL1+HLA-Bw4+ and KIR2DL2+HLA-A3/11+ combinations (OR = 1.63, p = 0.03) were more frequent in the COVID-19 cohort compared to controls. Conclusions: The absence of KIR3DL1+HLA-Bw4+ and KIR3DL2+HLA-A3/11+ combinations presumably yields inadequate NK cell maturation and reduces anti-SARS-CoV-2 defense, causing COVID-19. An increased frequency of KIR2DS1+KIR2DS5+ in severe COVID-19 patients suggests vigorous NK cell response triggered via these activating receptors and subsequent production of exuberant inflammatory cytokines responsible for severe COVID-19. Our results demonstrate that specific KIR-HLA combinations that control NK cell maturation and function are underlying immunogenetic variables that determine the dual role of NK cells in mediating beneficial antiviral and detrimental pathologic action. These findings offer a framework for developing potential host genetic biomarkers to distinguish individuals prone to COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stalinraja Maruthamuthu
- Immunogenetics and Transplantation Laboratory, Department of Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Karan Rajalingam
- Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL, United States
| | - Navchetan Kaur
- Bakar Computational Health Sciences Institute, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States.,Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Maelig G Morvan
- Immunogenetics and Transplantation Laboratory, Department of Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Jair Soto
- Immunogenetics and Transplantation Laboratory, Department of Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Nancy Lee
- Immunogenetics and Transplantation Laboratory, Department of Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Denice Kong
- Immunogenetics and Transplantation Laboratory, Department of Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Zicheng Hu
- Bakar Computational Health Sciences Institute, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States.,Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Kevin Reyes
- UCSF-Abbott Viral Diagnostics and Discovery Center, Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States.,Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Dianna Ng
- Department of Pathology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States.,Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Atul J Butte
- Bakar Computational Health Sciences Institute, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States.,Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Charles Chiu
- UCSF-Abbott Viral Diagnostics and Discovery Center, Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States.,Department of Pathology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States.,Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Raja Rajalingam
- Immunogenetics and Transplantation Laboratory, Department of Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
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26
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Innate Immune Response in SARS-CoV-2 Infection. Microorganisms 2022; 10:microorganisms10030501. [PMID: 35336077 PMCID: PMC8950297 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10030501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2021] [Revised: 02/21/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
An efficient host immune response is crucial in controlling viral infections. Despite most studies focused on the implication of T and B cell response in COVID-19 (Corona Virus Disease-19) patients or in their activation after vaccination against SARS-CoV-2, host innate immune response has raised even more interest as well. In fact, innate immunity, including Natural Killer (NK) cells, monocytes/macrophages and neutrophils, represent the first line of defense against the virus and it is essential to determine the correct activation of an efficient and specific acquired immune response. In this perspective, we will report an overview on the main findings concerning SARS-CoV-2 interaction with innate host immune system, in correlation with pathogenesis and viral immune escape mechanisms.
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27
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Chakraborty C, Sharma AR, Bhattacharya M, Lee SS. A Detailed Overview of Immune Escape, Antibody Escape, Partial Vaccine Escape of SARS-CoV-2 and Their Emerging Variants With Escape Mutations. Front Immunol 2022; 13:801522. [PMID: 35222380 PMCID: PMC8863680 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.801522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The infective SARS-CoV-2 is more prone to immune escape. Presently, the significant variants of SARS-CoV-2 are emerging in due course of time with substantial mutations, having the immune escape property. Simultaneously, the vaccination drive against this virus is in progress worldwide. However, vaccine evasion has been noted by some of the newly emerging variants. Our review provides an overview of the emerging variants' immune escape and vaccine escape ability. We have illustrated a broad view related to viral evolution, variants, and immune escape ability. Subsequently, different immune escape approaches of SARS-CoV-2 have been discussed. Different innate immune escape strategies adopted by the SARS-CoV-2 has been discussed like, IFN-I production dysregulation, cytokines related immune escape, immune escape associated with dendritic cell function and macrophages, natural killer cells and neutrophils related immune escape, PRRs associated immune evasion, and NLRP3 inflammasome associated immune evasion. Simultaneously we have discussed the significant mutations related to emerging variants and immune escape, such as mutations in the RBD region (N439K, L452R, E484K, N501Y, K444R) and other parts (D614G, P681R) of the S-glycoprotein. Mutations in other locations such as NSP1, NSP3, NSP6, ORF3, and ORF8 have also been discussed. Finally, we have illustrated the emerging variants' partial vaccine (BioNTech/Pfizer mRNA/Oxford-AstraZeneca/BBIBP-CorV/ZF2001/Moderna mRNA/Johnson & Johnson vaccine) escape ability. This review will help gain in-depth knowledge related to immune escape, antibody escape, and partial vaccine escape ability of the virus and assist in controlling the current pandemic and prepare for the next.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiranjib Chakraborty
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Life Science and Biotechnology, Adamas University, Kolkata, India
| | - Ashish Ranjan Sharma
- Institute for Skeletal Aging and Orthopedic Surgery, Hallym University-Chuncheon Sacred Heart Hospital, Chuncheon-si, South Korea
| | | | - Sang-Soo Lee
- Institute for Skeletal Aging and Orthopedic Surgery, Hallym University-Chuncheon Sacred Heart Hospital, Chuncheon-si, South Korea
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28
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Hovhannisyan A, Madelian V, Avagyan S, Nazaretyan M, Hyussyan A, Sirunyan A, Arakelyan R, Manukyan Z, Yepiskoposyan L, Mayilyan KR, Jordan F. HLA-C*04:01 Affects HLA Class I Heterozygosity and Predicted Affinity to SARS-CoV-2 Peptides, and in Combination With Age and Sex of Armenian Patients Contributes to COVID-19 Severity. Front Immunol 2022; 13:769900. [PMID: 35185875 PMCID: PMC8850920 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.769900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2021] [Accepted: 01/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The novel SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus infection has become a global health concern, causing the COVID-19 pandemic. The disease symptoms and outcomes depend on the host immunity, in which the human leukocyte antigen (HLA) molecules play a distinct role. The HLA alleles have an inter-population variability, and understanding their link to the COVID-19 in an ethnically distinct population may contribute to personalized medicine. The present study aimed at detecting associations between common HLA alleles and COVID-19 susceptibility and severity in Armenians. In 299 COVID-19 patients (75 asymptomatic, 102 mild/moderate, 122 severe), the association between disease severity and classic HLA-I and II loci was examined. We found that the advanced age, male sex of patients, and sex and age interaction significantly contributed to the severity of the disease. We observed that an age-dependent effect of HLA-B*51:01 carriage [odds ratio (OR)=0.48 (0.28-0.80), Pbonf <0.036] is protective against severe COVID-19. Contrary, the HLA-C*04:01 allele, in a dose-dependent manner, was associated with a significant increase in the disease severity [OR (95% CI) =1.73 (1.20-2.49), Pbonf <0.021] and an advancing age (P<0.013). The link between HLA-C*04:01 and age was secondary to a stronger association between HLA-C*04:01 and disease severity. However, HLA-C*04:01 exerted a sex-dependent differential distribution between clinical subgroups [females: P<0.0012; males: P=0.48]. The comparison of HLA-C*04:01 frequency between subgroups and 2,781 Armenian controls revealed a significant incidence of HLA-C*04:01 deficiency in asymptomatic COVID-19. HLA-C*04:01 homozygous genotype in patients blueprinted a decrease in heterozygosity of HLA-B and HLA class-I loci. In HLA-C*04:01 carriers, these changes translated to the SARS-CoV-2 peptide presentation predicted inefficacy by HLA-C and HLA class-I molecules, simultaneously enhancing the appropriate HLA-B potency. In patients with clinical manifestation, due to the high prevalence of HLA-C*04:01, these effects provided a decrease of the HLA class-I heterozygosity and an ability to recognize SARS-CoV-2 peptides. Based on our observations, we developed a prediction model involving demographic variables and HLA-C*04:01 allele for the identification of potential cases with the risk of hospitalization (the area under the curve (AUC) = 86.2%) or severe COVID-19 (AUC =71%).
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Affiliation(s)
- Anahit Hovhannisyan
- Institute of Molecular Biology, National Academy of Sciences, Yerevan, Armenia
- Russian-Armenian University, Yerevan, Armenia
| | - Vergine Madelian
- Armenian Bone Marrow Donor Registry Charitable Trust, Yerevan, Armenia
| | - Sevak Avagyan
- Armenian Bone Marrow Donor Registry Charitable Trust, Yerevan, Armenia
| | - Mihran Nazaretyan
- Armenian Bone Marrow Donor Registry Charitable Trust, Yerevan, Armenia
| | - Armine Hyussyan
- Armenian Bone Marrow Donor Registry Charitable Trust, Yerevan, Armenia
| | - Alina Sirunyan
- Armenian Bone Marrow Donor Registry Charitable Trust, Yerevan, Armenia
| | | | | | | | - Karine R. Mayilyan
- Institute of Molecular Biology, National Academy of Sciences, Yerevan, Armenia
| | - Frieda Jordan
- Armenian Bone Marrow Donor Registry Charitable Trust, Yerevan, Armenia
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A Rare STXBP2 Mutation in Severe COVID-19 and Secondary Cytokine Storm Syndrome. Life (Basel) 2022; 12:life12020149. [PMID: 35207437 PMCID: PMC8877603 DOI: 10.3390/life12020149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2021] [Revised: 01/17/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Primary (familial) hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (pHLH) is a potentially lethal syndrome of infancy, caused by genetic defects in natural killer (NK) cell and CD8 T cell cytotoxicity, leading to hyperinflammation, elevated cytokine levels, and a disorganized immune response resulting in multi-organ system failure and frequently death. Secondary HLH (sHLH) can be triggered in the setting of malignances, diseases of chronic immune system activation, or by infectious etiologies. While pHLH is usually a result of homozygous gene mutations, monoallelic hypomorphic and dominant-negative mutations in pHLH genes have been implicated in sHLH. Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has been an omnipresent viral infection since its arrival, and severe cases can present with cytokine storm and have clinical features and laboratory findings consistent with sHLH. Herein, we report an adolescent with severe COVID-19, decreased NK cell function, and features of sHLH. Her genetic evaluation identified a monoallelic missense mutation in the pHLH gene STXBP2, and NK cell assays of her blood showed decreased cytolysis and degranulation ex vivo. Methods: Patient data was extracted through an electronic medical record review. Using a lentiviral approach, the patient’s STXBP2 mutation and wild-type (WT) STXBP2 were separately transduced into the NK-92 human NK cell line. The WT and mutant STXBP2 transduced NK-92 cells were stimulated with NK-sensitive K562 erythroleukemia target cells in vitro, and NK cell degranulation and cytolysis were measured via CD107a expression and Live/Dead near-IR dye, respectively. Results: Compared to WT STXBP2, the patient’s STXBP2 mutation caused significantly decreased NK cell cytolysis and associated degranulation in vitro. Conclusion: These findings add weight to the hypothesis that some severe cases of COVID-19 may be accompanied by sHLH and hyperinflammation, especially in the setting of heterozygous pHLH genetic mutations. This has implications both diagnostically and therapeutically for severe COVID-19.
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30
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Exploring the Role of Innate Lymphocytes in the Immune System of Bats and Virus-Host Interactions. Viruses 2022; 14:v14010150. [PMID: 35062356 PMCID: PMC8781337 DOI: 10.3390/v14010150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2021] [Revised: 01/10/2022] [Accepted: 01/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Bats are reservoirs of a large number of viruses of global public health significance, including the ancestral virus for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and the causative agent of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Although bats are natural carriers of multiple pathogenic viruses, they rarely display signs of disease. Recent insights suggest that bats have a more balanced host defense and tolerance system to viral infections that may be linked to the evolutionary adaptation to powered flight. Therefore, a deeper understanding of bat immune system may provide intervention strategies to prevent zoonotic disease transmission and to identify new therapeutic targets. Similar to other eutherian mammals, bats have both innate and adaptive immune systems that have evolved to detect and respond to invading pathogens. Bridging these two systems are innate lymphocytes, which are highly abundant within circulation and barrier tissues. These cells share the characteristics of both innate and adaptive immune cells and are poised to mount rapid effector responses. They are ideally suited as the first line of defense against early stages of viral infections. Here, we will focus on the current knowledge of innate lymphocytes in bats, their function, and their potential role in host–pathogen interactions. Moreover, given that studies into bat immune systems are often hindered by a lack of bat-specific research tools, we will discuss strategies that may aid future research in bat immunity, including the potential use of organoid models to delineate the interplay between innate lymphocytes, bat viruses, and host tolerance.
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31
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Casado JL, Moraga E, Vizcarra P, Velasco H, Martín-Hondarza A, Haemmerle J, Gómez S, Quereda C, Vallejo A. Expansion of CD56 dimCD16 neg NK Cell Subset and Increased Inhibitory KIRs in Hospitalized COVID-19 Patients. Viruses 2021; 14:v14010046. [PMID: 35062250 PMCID: PMC8780522 DOI: 10.3390/v14010046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2021] [Revised: 12/17/2021] [Accepted: 12/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) infection induces elevated levels of inflammatory cytokines, which are mainly produced by the innate response to the virus. The role of NK cells, which are potent producers of IFN-γ and cytotoxicity, has not been sufficiently studied in the setting of SARS-CoV-2 infection. We confirmed a different distribution of NK cell subsets in hospitalized COVID-19 patients despite their NK cell deficiency. The impairment of this innate defense is mainly focused on the cytotoxic capacity of the CD56dim NK cells. On the one hand, we found an expansion of the CD56dimCD16neg NK subset, lower cytotoxic capacities, and high frequencies of inhibitory 2DL1 and 2DL1/S1 KIR receptors in COVID-19 patients. On the other hand, the depletion of CD56dimCD16dim/bright NK cell subsets, high cytotoxic capacities, and high frequencies of inhibitory 2DL1 KIR receptors were found in COVID-19 patients. In contrast, no differences in the distribution of CD56bright NK cell subsets were found in this study. These alterations in the distribution and phenotype of NK cells might enhance the impairment of this crucial innate line of defense during COVID-19 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- José L. Casado
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Ramón y Cajal Institute for Health Research (IRyCIS), University Hospital Ramón y Cajal, 28034 Madrid, Spain; (E.M.); (P.V.); (H.V.); (A.M.-H.); (S.G.); (C.Q.)
- Correspondence: (J.L.C.); (A.V.)
| | - Elisa Moraga
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Ramón y Cajal Institute for Health Research (IRyCIS), University Hospital Ramón y Cajal, 28034 Madrid, Spain; (E.M.); (P.V.); (H.V.); (A.M.-H.); (S.G.); (C.Q.)
- Laboratory of Immunovirology, Ramón y Cajal Institute for Health Research, University Hospital Ramón y Cajal, 28034 Madrid, Spain
| | - Pilar Vizcarra
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Ramón y Cajal Institute for Health Research (IRyCIS), University Hospital Ramón y Cajal, 28034 Madrid, Spain; (E.M.); (P.V.); (H.V.); (A.M.-H.); (S.G.); (C.Q.)
| | - Héctor Velasco
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Ramón y Cajal Institute for Health Research (IRyCIS), University Hospital Ramón y Cajal, 28034 Madrid, Spain; (E.M.); (P.V.); (H.V.); (A.M.-H.); (S.G.); (C.Q.)
- Laboratory of Immunovirology, Ramón y Cajal Institute for Health Research, University Hospital Ramón y Cajal, 28034 Madrid, Spain
| | - Adrián Martín-Hondarza
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Ramón y Cajal Institute for Health Research (IRyCIS), University Hospital Ramón y Cajal, 28034 Madrid, Spain; (E.M.); (P.V.); (H.V.); (A.M.-H.); (S.G.); (C.Q.)
- Laboratory of Immunovirology, Ramón y Cajal Institute for Health Research, University Hospital Ramón y Cajal, 28034 Madrid, Spain
| | - Johannes Haemmerle
- Department of Prevention of Occupational Risks, University Hospital Ramón y Cajal, 28034 Madrid, Spain;
| | - Sandra Gómez
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Ramón y Cajal Institute for Health Research (IRyCIS), University Hospital Ramón y Cajal, 28034 Madrid, Spain; (E.M.); (P.V.); (H.V.); (A.M.-H.); (S.G.); (C.Q.)
| | - Carmen Quereda
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Ramón y Cajal Institute for Health Research (IRyCIS), University Hospital Ramón y Cajal, 28034 Madrid, Spain; (E.M.); (P.V.); (H.V.); (A.M.-H.); (S.G.); (C.Q.)
| | - Alejandro Vallejo
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Ramón y Cajal Institute for Health Research (IRyCIS), University Hospital Ramón y Cajal, 28034 Madrid, Spain; (E.M.); (P.V.); (H.V.); (A.M.-H.); (S.G.); (C.Q.)
- Laboratory of Immunovirology, Ramón y Cajal Institute for Health Research, University Hospital Ramón y Cajal, 28034 Madrid, Spain
- Correspondence: (J.L.C.); (A.V.)
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32
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Vollmers S, Lobermeyer A, Körner C. The New Kid on the Block: HLA-C, a Key Regulator of Natural Killer Cells in Viral Immunity. Cells 2021; 10:cells10113108. [PMID: 34831331 PMCID: PMC8620871 DOI: 10.3390/cells10113108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2021] [Revised: 11/04/2021] [Accepted: 11/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
The human leukocyte antigen system (HLA) is a cluster of highly polymorphic genes essential for the proper function of the immune system, and it has been associated with a wide range of diseases. HLA class I molecules present intracellular host- and pathogen-derived peptides to effector cells of the immune system, inducing immune tolerance in healthy conditions or triggering effective immune responses in pathological situations. HLA-C is the most recently evolved HLA class I molecule, only present in humans and great apes. Differentiating from its older siblings, HLA-A and HLA-B, HLA-C exhibits distinctive features in its expression and interaction partners. HLA-C serves as a natural ligand for multiple members of the killer-cell immunoglobulin-like receptor (KIR) family, which are predominately expressed by natural killer (NK) cells. NK cells are crucial for the early control of viral infections and accumulating evidence indicates that interactions between HLA-C and its respective KIR receptors determine the outcome and progression of viral infections. In this review, we focus on the unique role of HLA-C in regulating NK cell functions and its consequences in the setting of viral infections.
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