1
|
Zhang X, Greve PF, Minh TTN, Wubbolts R, Demir AY, Zaal EA, Berkers CR, Boes M, Stoorvogel W. Extracellular vesicles from seminal plasma interact with T cells in vitro and drive their differentiation into regulatory T-cells. J Extracell Vesicles 2024; 13:e12457. [PMID: 39007430 PMCID: PMC11247398 DOI: 10.1002/jev2.12457] [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: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Seminal plasma induces immune tolerance towards paternal allogenic antigens within the female reproductive tract and during foetal development. Recent evidence suggests a role for extracellular vesicles in seminal plasma (spEVs). We isolated spEVs from seminal plasma that was donated by vasectomized men, thereby excluding any contributions from the testis or epididymis. Previous analysis demonstrated that such isolated spEVs originate mainly from the prostate. Here we observed that when isolated fluorescently labelled spEVs were mixed with peripheral blood mononuclear cells, they were endocytosed predominantly by monocytes, and to a lesser extent also by T-cells. In a mixed lymphocyte reaction, T-cell proliferation was inhibited by spEVs. A direct effect of spEVs on T-cells was demonstrated when isolated T cells were activated by anti-CD3/CD28 coated beads. Again, spEVs interfered with T cell proliferation, as well as with the expression of CD25 and the release of IFN-γ, TNF, and IL-2. Moreover, spEVs stimulated the expression of Foxp3 and IL-10 by CD4+CD25+CD127- T cells, indicating differentiation into regulatory T-cells (Tregs). Prior treatment of spEVs with proteinase K revoked their effects on T-cells, indicating a requirement for surface-exposed spEV proteins. The adenosine A2A receptor-specific antagonist CPI-444 also reduced effects of spEVs on T-cells, consistent with the notion that the development of Tregs and their immune suppressive functions are under the influence of adenosine-A2A receptor signalling. We found that adenosine is highly enriched in spEVs and propose that spEVs are targeted to and endocytosed by T-cells, after which they may release their adenosine content into the lumen of endosomes, thus allowing endosome-localized A2A receptor signalling in spEVs targeted T-cells. Collectively, these data support the idea that spEVs can prime T cells directly for differentiation into Tregs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaogang Zhang
- Department of Biomolecular Health SciencesFaculty of Veterinary ScienceUtrecht UniversityUtrechtThe Netherlands
| | - Patrick F. Greve
- Department of Pediatrics and Center for Translational ImmunologyUniversity Medical Center UtrechtUtrecht UniversityUtrechtThe Netherlands
| | - Thi Tran Ngoc Minh
- Department of Biomolecular Health SciencesFaculty of Veterinary ScienceUtrecht UniversityUtrechtThe Netherlands
- Biomolecular Mass Spectrometry and Proteomics, Bijvoet Center for Biomolecular Research and Utrecht Institute of Pharmaceutical SciencesUtrecht UniversityUtrechtThe Netherlands
| | - Richard Wubbolts
- Department of Biomolecular Health SciencesFaculty of Veterinary ScienceUtrecht UniversityUtrechtThe Netherlands
| | - Ayşe Y. Demir
- Department of Clinical Chemistry and HematologyMeander Medical CentreAmersfoortThe Netherlands
| | - Esther A. Zaal
- Department of Biomolecular Health SciencesFaculty of Veterinary ScienceUtrecht UniversityUtrechtThe Netherlands
- Biomolecular Mass Spectrometry and Proteomics, Bijvoet Center for Biomolecular Research and Utrecht Institute of Pharmaceutical SciencesUtrecht UniversityUtrechtThe Netherlands
| | - Celia R. Berkers
- Department of Biomolecular Health SciencesFaculty of Veterinary ScienceUtrecht UniversityUtrechtThe Netherlands
- Biomolecular Mass Spectrometry and Proteomics, Bijvoet Center for Biomolecular Research and Utrecht Institute of Pharmaceutical SciencesUtrecht UniversityUtrechtThe Netherlands
| | - Marianne Boes
- Department of Pediatrics and Center for Translational ImmunologyUniversity Medical Center UtrechtUtrecht UniversityUtrechtThe Netherlands
| | - Willem Stoorvogel
- Department of Biomolecular Health SciencesFaculty of Veterinary ScienceUtrecht UniversityUtrechtThe Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Indihar DF, Jones JJ, Ochsenbauer C, Kappes JC. Highly Sensitive Analysis of Cervical Mucosal HIV-1 Infection Using Reporter Viruses Expressing Secreted Nanoluciferase. Methods Mol Biol 2024; 2807:299-323. [PMID: 38743237 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3862-0_21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
Ex vivo cervical tissue explant models offer a physiologically relevant approach for studying virus-host interactions that underlie mucosal HIV-1 transmission to women. However, the utility of cervical explant tissue (CET) models has been limited for both practical and technical reasons. These include assay variation, inadequate sensitivity for assessing HIV-1 infection and replication in tissue, and constraints imposed by the requirement for using multiple replica samples of CET to test each experimental variable and assay parameter. Here, we describe an experimental approach that employs secreted nanoluciferase (sNLuc) and current HIV-1 reporter virus technologies to overcome certain limitations of earlier ex vivo CET models. This method augments application of the CET model for investigating important questions involving mucosal HIV-1 transmission.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dana F Indihar
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Jennifer J Jones
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Christina Ochsenbauer
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - John C Kappes
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA.
- Birmingham VA Health Care System, Research Service, Birmingham, AL, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Karim QA, Archary D, Barré-Sinoussi F, Broliden K, Cabrera C, Chiodi F, Fidler SJ, Gengiah TN, Herrera C, Kharsany ABM, Liebenberg LJP, Mahomed S, Menu E, Moog C, Scarlatti G, Seddiki N, Sivro A, Cavarelli M. Women for science and science for women: Gaps, challenges and opportunities towards optimizing pre-exposure prophylaxis for HIV-1 prevention. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1055042. [PMID: 36561760 PMCID: PMC9763292 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1055042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2022] [Accepted: 11/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Preventing new HIV infections remains a global challenge. Young women continue to bear a disproportionate burden of infection. Oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), offers a novel women-initiated prevention technology and PrEP trials completed to date underscore the importance of their inclusion early in trials evaluating new HIV PrEP technologies. Data from completed topical and systemic PrEP trials highlight the role of gender specific physiological and social factors that impact PrEP uptake, adherence and efficacy. Here we review the past and current developments of HIV-1 prevention options for women with special focus on PrEP considering the diverse factors that can impact PrEP efficacy. Furthermore, we highlight the importance of inclusion of female scientists, clinicians, and community advocates in scientific efforts to further improve HIV prevention strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Quarraisha Abdool Karim
- Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA), Doris Duke Medical Research Institute (2Floor), Nelson R Mandela School of Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Derseree Archary
- Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA), Doris Duke Medical Research Institute (2Floor), Nelson R Mandela School of Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
- Department of Medical Microbiology, School of Laboratory Medicine and Medical Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | | | - Kristina Broliden
- Department of Medicine Solna, Division of Infectious Diseases, Karolinska Institutet, Department of Infectious Diseases, Karolinska University Hospital, Center for Molecular Medicine, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Cecilia Cabrera
- AIDS Research Institute IrsiCaixa, Institut de Recerca en Ciències de la Salut Germans Trias i Pujol (IGTP), Hospital Germans Trias i Pujol, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Francesca Chiodi
- Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Sarah J. Fidler
- Department of Infectious Disease, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London UK and Imperial College NIHR BRC, London, United Kingdom
| | - Tanuja N. Gengiah
- Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA), Doris Duke Medical Research Institute (2Floor), Nelson R Mandela School of Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Carolina Herrera
- Department of Infectious Disease, Section of Virology, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Ayesha B. M. Kharsany
- Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA), Doris Duke Medical Research Institute (2Floor), Nelson R Mandela School of Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
- Department of Medical Microbiology, School of Laboratory Medicine and Medical Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Lenine J. P. Liebenberg
- Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA), Doris Duke Medical Research Institute (2Floor), Nelson R Mandela School of Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
- Department of Medical Microbiology, School of Laboratory Medicine and Medical Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Sharana Mahomed
- Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA), Doris Duke Medical Research Institute (2Floor), Nelson R Mandela School of Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Elisabeth Menu
- Université Paris-Saclay, Inserm, CEA, Center for Immunology of Viral, Auto-immune, Hematological and Bacterial diseases (IMVA-HB/IDMIT), Fontenay-aux-Roses & Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
- MISTIC Group, Department of Virology, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
| | - Christiane Moog
- Laboratoire d’ImmunoRhumatologie Moléculaire, Institut national de la santé et de la recherche médicale (INSERM) UMR_S 1109, Institut thématique interdisciplinaire (ITI) de Médecine de Précision de Strasbourg, Transplantex NG, Faculté de Médecine, Fédération Hospitalo-Universitaire OMICARE, Fédération de Médecine Translationnelle de Strasbourg (FMTS), Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Gabriella Scarlatti
- Viral Evolution and Transmission Unit, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Nabila Seddiki
- Université Paris-Saclay, Inserm, CEA, Center for Immunology of Viral, Auto-immune, Hematological and Bacterial diseases (IMVA-HB/IDMIT), Fontenay-aux-Roses & Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
| | - Aida Sivro
- Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA), Doris Duke Medical Research Institute (2Floor), Nelson R Mandela School of Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
- Department of Medical Microbiology, School of Laboratory Medicine and Medical Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
- JC Wilt Infectious Disease Research Centre, National Microbiology Laboratory, Public Health Agency of Canada, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Mariangela Cavarelli
- Université Paris-Saclay, Inserm, CEA, Center for Immunology of Viral, Auto-immune, Hematological and Bacterial diseases (IMVA-HB/IDMIT), Fontenay-aux-Roses & Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Hughes SM, Levy CN, Calienes FL, Martinez KA, Selke S, Tapia K, Chohan BH, Oluoch L, Kiptinness C, Wald A, Ghosh M, Hardy L, Ngure K, Mugo NR, Hladik F, Roxby AC. Starting to have sexual intercourse is associated with increases in cervicovaginal immune mediators in young women: a prospective study and meta-analysis. eLife 2022; 11:e78565. [PMID: 36281966 PMCID: PMC9596159 DOI: 10.7554/elife.78565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) are at high risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). It is unknown whether beginning to have sexual intercourse results in changes to immune mediators in the cervicovaginal tract that contribute to this risk. Methods We collected cervicovaginal lavages from Kenyan AGYW in the months before and after first penile-vaginal sexual intercourse and measured the concentrations of 20 immune mediators. We compared concentrations pre- and post-first sex using mixed effect models. We additionally performed a systematic review to identify similar studies and combined them with our results by meta-analysis of individual participant data. Results We included 180 samples from 95 AGYW, with 44% providing only pre-first sex samples, 35% matched pre and post, and 21% only post. We consistently detected 19/20 immune mediators, all of which increased post-first sex (p<0.05 for 13/19; Holm-Bonferroni-adjusted p<0.05 for IL-1β, IL-2, and CXCL8). Effects remained similar after excluding samples with STIs and high Nugent scores. Concentrations increased cumulatively over time after date of first sex, with an estimated doubling time of about 5 months.Our systematic review identified two eligible studies, one of 93 Belgian participants, and the other of 18 American participants. Nine immune mediators were measured in at least two-thirds of studies. Meta-analysis confirmed higher levels post-first sex for 8/9 immune mediators (p<0.05 for six mediators, most prominently IL-1α, IL-1β, and CXCL8). Conclusions Cervicovaginal immune mediator concentrations were higher in women who reported that they started sexual activity. Results were consistent across three studies conducted on three different continents. Funding This research was funded by R01 HD091996-01 (ACR), by P01 AI 030731-25 (Project 1) (AW), R01 AI116292 (FH), R03 AI154366 (FH) and by the Center for AIDS Research (CFAR) of the University of Washington/Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center AI027757.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sean M Hughes
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of WashingtonSeattleUnited States
| | - Claire N Levy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of WashingtonSeattleUnited States
| | - Fernanda L Calienes
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research CenterSeattleUnited States
| | - Katie A Martinez
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of WashingtonSeattleUnited States
| | - Stacy Selke
- Department of Laboratory Medicine & Pathology, University of WashingtonSeattleUnited States
| | - Kenneth Tapia
- Department of Global Health, University of WashingtonSeattleUnited States
| | - Bhavna H Chohan
- Department of Global Health, University of WashingtonSeattleUnited States
- Centre for Virus Research, Kenya Medical Research InstituteNairobiKenya
| | - Lynda Oluoch
- Centre for Clinical Research, Kenya Medical Research InstituteNairobiKenya
| | | | - Anna Wald
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research CenterSeattleUnited States
- Department of Laboratory Medicine & Pathology, University of WashingtonSeattleUnited States
- Department of Medicine, University of WashingtonSeattleUnited States
- Department of Epidemiology, University of WashingtonSeattleUnited States
| | - Mimi Ghosh
- Department of Epidemiology, Milken Institute School of Public Health, The George Washington UniversityWashingtonUnited States
| | - Liselotte Hardy
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Unit of Tropical Bacteriology, Institute of Tropical MedicineAntwerpBelgium
| | - Kenneth Ngure
- Department of Global Health, University of WashingtonSeattleUnited States
- Department of Community Health, Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and TechnologyNairobiKenya
| | - Nelly R Mugo
- Department of Global Health, University of WashingtonSeattleUnited States
- Centre for Clinical Research, Kenya Medical Research InstituteNairobiKenya
| | - Florian Hladik
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of WashingtonSeattleUnited States
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research CenterSeattleUnited States
- Department of Medicine, University of WashingtonSeattleUnited States
| | - Alison C Roxby
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research CenterSeattleUnited States
- Department of Global Health, University of WashingtonSeattleUnited States
- Department of Medicine, University of WashingtonSeattleUnited States
- Department of Epidemiology, University of WashingtonSeattleUnited States
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Fulcher JA, Li F, Tobin NH, Zabih S, Elliott J, Clark JL, D'Aquila R, Mustanski B, Kipke MD, Shoptaw S, Gorbach PM, Aldrovandi GM. Gut dysbiosis and inflammatory blood markers precede HIV with limited changes after early seroconversion. EBioMedicine 2022; 84:104286. [PMID: 36179550 PMCID: PMC9520213 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2022.104286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2022] [Revised: 09/07/2022] [Accepted: 09/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alterations in the gut microbiome have been associated with HIV infection, but the relative impact of HIV versus other factors on the gut microbiome has been difficult to determine in cross-sectional studies. METHODS To address this, we examined the gut microbiome, serum metabolome, and cytokines longitudinally within 27 individuals before and during acute HIV using samples collected from several ongoing cohort studies. Matched control participants (n=28) from the same cohort studies without HIV but at similar behavioral risk were used for comparison. FINDINGS We identified few changes in the microbiome during acute HIV infection, but did find alterations in serum metabolites involving secondary bile acid (lithocholate sulfate, glycocholenate sulfate) and amino acid metabolism (3-methyl-2-oxovalerate, serine, cysteine, N-acetylputrescine). Greater microbiome differences, including decreased Bacteroides spp and increased Megasphaera elsdenii, were seen when comparing pre-HIV infection visits to matched at-risk controls. Those who acquired HIV also had elevated inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, B cell activating factor, IL-8) and bioactive lipids (palmitoyl-sphingosine-phosphoethanolamide and glycerophosphoinositol) prior to HIV acquisition compared to matched controls. INTERPRETATION Longitudinal sampling identified pre-existing microbiome differences in participants with acute HIV compared to matched control participants observed over the same period. These data highlight the importance of increasing understanding of the role of the microbiome in HIV susceptibility. FUNDING This work was supported by NIH/NIAID (K08AI124979; P30AI117943), NIH/NIDA (U01DA036267; U01DA036939; U01DA036926; U24DA044554), and NIH/NIMH (P30MH058107; R34MH105272).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer A Fulcher
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, CA 90073, USA.
| | - Fan Li
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Pediatrics, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Nicole H Tobin
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Pediatrics, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Sara Zabih
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Pediatrics, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Julie Elliott
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Jesse L Clark
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Richard D'Aquila
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Brian Mustanski
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA; Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Michele D Kipke
- Children's Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90027, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Keck School of Medicine at the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90027, USA
| | - Steven Shoptaw
- Department of Family Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Pamina M Gorbach
- Department of Epidemiology, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Grace M Aldrovandi
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Pediatrics, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Rodríguez‐Izquierdo I, Sepúlveda‐Crespo D, Lasso JM, Resino S, Muñoz‐Fernández MÁ. Baseline and time-updated factors in preclinical development of anionic dendrimers as successful anti-HIV-1 vaginal microbicides. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS. NANOMEDICINE AND NANOBIOTECHNOLOGY 2022; 14:e1774. [PMID: 35018739 PMCID: PMC9285063 DOI: 10.1002/wnan.1774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2021] [Revised: 12/05/2021] [Accepted: 12/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Although a wide variety of topical microbicides provide promising in vitro and in vivo efficacy, most of them failed to prevent sexual transmission of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) in human clinical trials. In vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo models must be optimized, considering the knowledge acquired from unsuccessful and successful clinical trials to improve the current gaps and the preclinical development protocols. To date, dendrimers are the only nanotool that has advanced to human clinical trials as topical microbicides to prevent HIV-1 transmission. This fact demonstrates the importance and the potential of these molecules as microbicides. Polyanionic dendrimers are highly branched nanocompounds with potent activity against HIV-1 that disturb HIV-1 entry. Herein, the most significant advancements in topical microbicide development, trying to mimic the real-life conditions as closely as possible, are discussed. This review also provides the preclinical assays that anionic dendrimers have passed as microbicides because they can improve current antiviral treatments' efficacy. This article is categorized under: Nanotechnology Approaches to Biology > Nanoscale Systems in Biology Therapeutic Approaches and Drug Discovery > Nanomedicine for Infectious Disease Toxicology and Regulatory Issues in Nanomedicine > Regulatory and Policy Issues in Nanomedicine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Daniel Sepúlveda‐Crespo
- Unidad de Infección Viral e Inmunidad, Centro Nacional de MicrobiologíaInstituto de Salud Carlos IIIMadridSpain
| | | | - Salvador Resino
- Unidad de Infección Viral e Inmunidad, Centro Nacional de MicrobiologíaInstituto de Salud Carlos IIIMadridSpain
| | - Ma Ángeles Muñoz‐Fernández
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Gregorio Marañón (IiSGM)MadridSpain
- Spanish HIV HGM BioBankMadridSpain
- Section of Immunology, Laboratorio InmunoBiología MolecularHospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón (HGUGM)MadridSpain
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Jewanraj J, Ngcapu S, Liebenberg LJP. Semen: A modulator of female genital tract inflammation and a vector for HIV-1 transmission. Am J Reprod Immunol 2021; 86:e13478. [PMID: 34077596 PMCID: PMC9286343 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2021] [Revised: 05/07/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
In order to establish productive infection in women, HIV must transverse the vaginal epithelium and gain access to local target cells. Genital inflammation contributes to the availability of HIV susceptible cells at the female genital mucosa and is associated with higher HIV transmission rates in women. Factors that contribute to genital inflammation may subsequently increase the risk of HIV infection in women. Semen is a highly immunomodulatory fluid containing several bioactive molecules with the potential to influence inflammation and immune activation at the female genital tract. In addition to its role as a vector for HIV transmission, semen induces profound mucosal changes to prime the female reproductive tract for conception. Still, most studies of mucosal immunity are conducted in the absence of semen or without considering its immune impact on the female genital tract. This review discusses the various mechanisms by which semen exposure may influence female genital inflammation and highlights the importance of routine screening for semen biomarkers in vaginal specimens to account for its impact on genital inflammation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Janine Jewanraj
- Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA)DurbanSouth Africa
- Department of Medical MicrobiologyUniversity of KwaZulu‐NatalDurbanSouth Africa
| | - Sinaye Ngcapu
- Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA)DurbanSouth Africa
- Department of Medical MicrobiologyUniversity of KwaZulu‐NatalDurbanSouth Africa
| | - Lenine J. P. Liebenberg
- Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA)DurbanSouth Africa
- Department of Medical MicrobiologyUniversity of KwaZulu‐NatalDurbanSouth Africa
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Leukocytospermia induces intraepithelial recruitment of dendritic cells and increases SIV replication in colorectal tissue explants. Commun Biol 2021; 4:861. [PMID: 34253821 PMCID: PMC8275775 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-021-02383-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2020] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Mucosal exposure to infected semen accounts for the majority of HIV-1 transmission events, with rectal intercourse being the route with the highest estimated risk of transmission. Yet, the impact of semen inflammation on colorectal HIV-1 transmission has never been addressed. Here we use cynomolgus macaques colorectal tissue explants to explore the effect of leukocytospermia, indicative of male genital tract inflammation, on SIVmac251 infection. We show that leukocytospermic seminal plasma (LSP) has significantly higher concentration of a number of pro-inflammatory molecules compared to normal seminal plasma (NSP). In virus-exposed explants, LSP enhance SIV infection more efficiently than NSP, being the increased viral replication linked to the level of inflammatory and immunomodulatory cytokines. Moreover, LSP induce leukocyte accumulation on the apical side of the colorectal lamina propria and the recruitment of a higher number of intraepithelial dendritic cells than with NSP. These results suggest that the outcome of mucosal HIV-1 infection is influenced by the inflammatory state of the semen donor, and provide further insights into mucosal SIV/HIV-1 pathogenesis.
Collapse
|
9
|
Jewanraj J, Ngcapu S, Osman F, Mtshali A, Singh R, Mansoor LE, Abdool Karim SS, Abdool Karim Q, Passmore JAS, Liebenberg LJP. The Impact of Semen Exposure on the Immune and Microbial Environments of the Female Genital Tract. FRONTIERS IN REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2020; 2:566559. [PMID: 36304709 PMCID: PMC9580648 DOI: 10.3389/frph.2020.566559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2020] [Accepted: 10/16/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Semen induces an immune response at the female genital tract (FGT) to promote conception. It is also the primary vector for HIV transmission to women during condomless sex. Since genital inflammation and immune activation increase HIV susceptibility in women, semen-induced alterations at the FGT may have implications for HIV risk. Here we investigated the impact of semen exposure, as measured by self-reported condom use and Y-chromosome DNA (YcDNA) detection, on biomarkers of female genital inflammation associated with HIV acquisition. Methods: Stored genital specimens were collected biannually (mean 5 visits) from 153 HIV-negative women participating in the CAPRISA 008 tenofovir gel open-label extension trial. YcDNA was detected in cervicovaginal lavage (CVL) pellets by RT-PCR and served as a biomarker of semen exposure within 15 days of genital sampling. Protein concentrations were measured in CVL supernatants by multiplexed ELISA, and the frequency of activated CD4+CCR5+ HIV targets was assessed on cytobrush-derived specimens by flow cytometry. Common sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and bacterial vaginosis (BV)-associated bacteria were measured by PCR. Multivariable linear mixed models were used to assess the relationship between YcDNA detection and biomarkers of inflammation over time. Results: YcDNA was detected at least once in 69% (106/153) of women during the trial (median 2, range 1-5 visits), and was associated with marital status, cohabitation, the frequency of vaginal sex, and Nugent Score. YcDNA detection but not self-reported condom use was associated with elevated concentrations of several cytokines: IL-12p70, IL-10, IFN-γ, IL-13, IP-10, MIG, IL-7, PDGF-BB, SCF, VEGF, β-NGF, and biomarkers of epithelial barrier integrity: MMP-2 and TIMP-4; and with reduced concentrations of IL-18 and MIF. YcDNA detection was not associated with alterations in immune cell frequencies but was related to increased detection of P. bivia (OR = 1.970; CI 1.309-2.965; P = 0.001) at the FGT. Conclusion: YcDNA detection but not self-reported condom use was associated with alterations in cervicovaginal cytokines, BV-associated bacteria, and matrix metalloproteinases, and may have implications for HIV susceptibility in women. This study highlights the discrepancies related to self-reported condom use and the need for routine screening for biomarkers of semen exposure in studies of mucosal immunity to HIV and other STIs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Janine Jewanraj
- Center for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA), Durban, South Africa
- Department of Medical Microbiology, School of Laboratory Medicine and Medical Science, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Sinaye Ngcapu
- Center for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA), Durban, South Africa
- Department of Medical Microbiology, School of Laboratory Medicine and Medical Science, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Farzana Osman
- Center for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA), Durban, South Africa
| | - Andile Mtshali
- Center for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA), Durban, South Africa
- Department of Medical Microbiology, School of Laboratory Medicine and Medical Science, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Ravesh Singh
- Department of Medical Microbiology, School of Laboratory Medicine and Medical Science, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
- Department of Microbiology, National Health Laboratory Services, KwaZulu-Natal Academic Complex, Inkosi Albert Luthuli Central Hospital, Durban, South Africa
| | - Leila E. Mansoor
- Center for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA), Durban, South Africa
- School of Nursing and Public Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Salim S. Abdool Karim
- Center for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA), Durban, South Africa
- Department of Epidemiology, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Quarraisha Abdool Karim
- Center for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA), Durban, South Africa
- Department of Epidemiology, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Jo-Ann S. Passmore
- Center for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA), Durban, South Africa
- Institute of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Medicine (IDM), University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- National Health Laboratory Services, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Lenine J. P. Liebenberg
- Center for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA), Durban, South Africa
- Department of Medical Microbiology, School of Laboratory Medicine and Medical Science, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Marques de Menezes EG, Jang K, George AF, Nyegaard M, Neidleman J, Inglis HC, Danesh A, Deng X, Afshari A, Kim YH, Billaud JN, Marson K, Pilcher CD, Pillai SK, Norris PJ, Roan NR. Seminal Plasma-Derived Extracellular-Vesicle Fractions from HIV-Infected Men Exhibit Unique MicroRNA Signatures and Induce a Proinflammatory Response in Cells Isolated from the Female Reproductive Tract. J Virol 2020; 94:e00525-20. [PMID: 32434889 PMCID: PMC7394899 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.00525-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2020] [Accepted: 05/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The continuing spread of HIV/AIDS is predominantly fueled by sexual exposure to HIV-contaminated semen. Seminal plasma (SP), the liquid portion of semen, harbors a variety of factors that may favor HIV transmission by facilitating viral entry into host cells, eliciting the production of proinflammatory cytokines, and enhancing the translocation of HIV across the genital epithelium. One important and abundant class of factors in SP is extracellular vesicles (EVs), which, in general, are important intercellular signal transducers. Although numerous studies have characterized blood plasma-derived EVs from both uninfected and HIV-infected individuals, little is known about the properties of EVs from the semen of HIV-infected individuals. We report here that fractionated SP enriched for EVs from HIV-infected men induces potent transcriptional responses in epithelial and stromal cells that interface with the luminal contents of the female reproductive tract. Semen EV fractions from acutely infected individuals induced a more proinflammatory signature than those from uninfected individuals. This was not associated with any observable differences in the surface phenotypes of the vesicles. However, microRNA (miRNA) expression profiling analysis revealed that EV fractions from infected individuals exhibit a broader and more diverse profile than those from uninfected individuals. Taken together, our data suggest that SP EVs from HIV-infected individuals exhibit unique miRNA signatures and exert potent proinflammatory transcriptional changes in cells of the female reproductive tract, which may facilitate HIV transmission.IMPORTANCE Seminal plasma (SP), the major vehicle for HIV, can modulate HIV transmission risk through a variety of mechanisms. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are extremely abundant in semen, and because they play a key role in intercellular communication pathways and immune regulation, they may impact the likelihood of HIV transmission. However, little is known about the properties and signaling effects of SP-derived EVs in the context of HIV transmission. Here, we conduct a phenotypic, transcriptomic, and functional characterization of SP and SP-derived EVs from uninfected and HIV-infected men. We find that both SP and its associated EVs elicit potent proinflammatory transcriptional responses in cells that line the genital tract. EVs from HIV-infected men exhibit a more diverse repertoire of miRNAs than EVs from uninfected men. Our findings suggest that EVs from the semen of HIV-infected men may significantly impact the likelihood of HIV transmission through multiple mechanisms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Erika G Marques de Menezes
- Vitalant Research Institute, San Francisco, California, USA
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Karen Jang
- Gladstone Institute of Virology and Immunology, San Francisco, California, USA
- Department of Urology, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Ashley F George
- Gladstone Institute of Virology and Immunology, San Francisco, California, USA
- Department of Urology, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Mette Nyegaard
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Jason Neidleman
- Gladstone Institute of Virology and Immunology, San Francisco, California, USA
- Department of Urology, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | | | - Ali Danesh
- Vitalant Research Institute, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Xutao Deng
- Vitalant Research Institute, San Francisco, California, USA
| | | | - Young H Kim
- Agilent Technologies, Inc., Santa Clara, California, USA
| | | | - Kara Marson
- Division of HIV, Infectious Diseases and Global Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Christopher D Pilcher
- Division of HIV, Infectious Diseases and Global Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Satish K Pillai
- Vitalant Research Institute, San Francisco, California, USA
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Philip J Norris
- Vitalant Research Institute, San Francisco, California, USA
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Nadia R Roan
- Gladstone Institute of Virology and Immunology, San Francisco, California, USA
- Department of Urology, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Johnson J, Flores MG, Rosa J, Han C, Salvi AM, DeMali KA, Jagnow JR, Sparks A, Haim H. The High Content of Fructose in Human Semen Competitively Inhibits Broad and Potent Antivirals That Target High-Mannose Glycans. J Virol 2020; 94:e01749-19. [PMID: 32102878 PMCID: PMC7163146 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.01749-19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2019] [Accepted: 02/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Semen is the primary transmission vehicle for various pathogenic viruses. Initial steps of transmission, including cell attachment and entry, likely occur in the presence of semen. However, the unstable nature of human seminal plasma and its toxic effects on cells in culture limit the ability to study in vitro virus infection and inhibition in this medium. We found that whole semen significantly reduces the potency of antibodies and microbicides that target glycans on the envelope glycoproteins (Envs) of HIV-1. The extraordinarily high concentration of the monosaccharide fructose in semen contributes significantly to the effect by competitively inhibiting the binding of ligands to α1,2-linked mannose residues on Env. Infection and inhibition in whole human seminal plasma are accurately mimicked by a stable synthetic simulant of seminal fluid that we formulated. Our findings indicate that, in addition to the protein content of biological secretions, their small-solute composition impacts the potency of antiviral microbicides and mucosal antibodies.IMPORTANCE Biological secretions allow viruses to spread between individuals. Each type of secretion has a unique composition of proteins, salts, and sugars, which can affect the infectivity potential of the virus and inhibition of this process. Here, we describe HIV-1 infection and inhibition in whole human seminal plasma and a synthetic simulant that we formulated. We discovered that the sugar fructose in semen decreases the activity of a broad and potent class of antiviral agents that target mannose sugars on the envelope protein of HIV-1. This effect of semen fructose likely reduces the efficacy of such inhibitors to prevent the sexual transmission of HIV-1. Our findings suggest that the preclinical evaluation of microbicides and vaccine-elicited antibodies will be improved by their in vitro assessment in synthetic formulations that simulate the effects of semen on HIV-1 infection and inhibition.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jacklyn Johnson
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
| | - Manuel G Flores
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
| | - John Rosa
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
| | - Changze Han
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
| | - Alicia M Salvi
- Department of Biochemistry, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
| | - Kris A DeMali
- Department of Biochemistry, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
| | - Jennifer R Jagnow
- In Vitro Fertilization and Reproductive Testing Laboratory, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
| | - Amy Sparks
- In Vitro Fertilization and Reproductive Testing Laboratory, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
| | - Hillel Haim
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Le Tortorec A, Matusali G, Mahé D, Aubry F, Mazaud-Guittot S, Houzet L, Dejucq-Rainsford N. From Ancient to Emerging Infections: The Odyssey of Viruses in the Male Genital Tract. Physiol Rev 2020; 100:1349-1414. [PMID: 32031468 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00021.2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The male genital tract (MGT) is the target of a number of viral infections that can have deleterious consequences at the individual, offspring, and population levels. These consequences include infertility, cancers of male organs, transmission to the embryo/fetal development abnormalities, and sexual dissemination of major viral pathogens such as human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and hepatitis B virus. Lately, two emerging viruses, Zika and Ebola, have additionally revealed that the human MGT can constitute a reservoir for viruses cleared from peripheral circulation by the immune system, leading to their sexual transmission by cured men. This represents a concern for future epidemics and further underlines the need for a better understanding of the interplay between viruses and the MGT. We review here how viruses, from ancient viruses that integrated the germline during evolution through old viruses (e.g., papillomaviruses originating from Neanderthals) and more modern sexually transmitted infections (e.g., simian zoonotic HIV) to emerging viruses (e.g., Ebola and Zika) take advantage of genital tract colonization for horizontal dissemination, viral persistence, vertical transmission, and endogenization. The MGT immune responses to viruses and the impact of these infections are discussed. We summarize the latest data regarding the sources of viruses in semen and the complex role of this body fluid in sexual transmission. Finally, we introduce key animal findings that are relevant for our understanding of viral infection and persistence in the human MGT and suggest future research directions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Le Tortorec
- University of Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de recherche en santé, environnement et travail)-UMR_S1085, Rennes, France
| | - Giulia Matusali
- University of Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de recherche en santé, environnement et travail)-UMR_S1085, Rennes, France
| | - Dominique Mahé
- University of Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de recherche en santé, environnement et travail)-UMR_S1085, Rennes, France
| | - Florence Aubry
- University of Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de recherche en santé, environnement et travail)-UMR_S1085, Rennes, France
| | - Séverine Mazaud-Guittot
- University of Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de recherche en santé, environnement et travail)-UMR_S1085, Rennes, France
| | - Laurent Houzet
- University of Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de recherche en santé, environnement et travail)-UMR_S1085, Rennes, France
| | - Nathalie Dejucq-Rainsford
- University of Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de recherche en santé, environnement et travail)-UMR_S1085, Rennes, France
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Fernandez-Fuertes B, Sánchez JM, Bagés-Arnal S, McDonald M, Yeste M, Lonergan P. Species-specific and collection method-dependent differences in endometrial susceptibility to seminal plasma-induced RNA degradation. Sci Rep 2019; 9:15072. [PMID: 31636362 PMCID: PMC6803643 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-51413-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2019] [Accepted: 10/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to determine the effect of bull seminal plasma (SP) and sperm on endometrial function. Bovine endometrial explants were incubated with: ejaculated sperm with or without SP, epididymal sperm, or SP alone. Neither ejaculated nor epididymal sperm induced differential expression of IL1A, IL1B, IL6, IL8, PTGES2, TNFA, and LIF. Interestingly, SP had a detrimental effect on endometrial RNA integrity. Addition of an RNase inactivation reagent to SP blocked this effect, evidencing a role for a SP-RNase. Because bulls deposit the ejaculate in the vagina, we hypothesized that the bovine endometrium is more sensitive to SP-RNase than vaginal and cervical tissues (which come into contact with SP during mating), or to endometrium from intrauterine ejaculators (such as the horse). In addition, due to differences in SP-RNase abundance depending on SP collection method (i.e., with an artificial vagina, AV, or by electroejaculation, EE), this effect was also tested. Bull SP, collected by AV, degrades RNA of mare endometrium, and bovine vagina, cervix and endometrium. However, stallion SP or bull SP collected by EE did not elicit this effect. Thus, results do not support a role for SP in modulating endometrial function to establish pregnancy in cattle.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Beatriz Fernandez-Fuertes
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, Girona, Spain.
| | - José María Sánchez
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Sandra Bagés-Arnal
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Michael McDonald
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Marc Yeste
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, Girona, Spain
| | - Pat Lonergan
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin, Ireland
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Vojtech L, Zhang M, Davé V, Levy C, Hughes SM, Wang R, Calienes F, Prlic M, Nance E, Hladik F. Extracellular vesicles in human semen modulate antigen-presenting cell function and decrease downstream antiviral T cell responses. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0223901. [PMID: 31622420 PMCID: PMC6797208 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0223901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2019] [Accepted: 10/01/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Human semen contains trillions of extracellular vesicles (SEV) similar in size to sexually transmitted viruses and loaded with potentially bioactive miRNAs, proteins and lipids. SEV were shown to inhibit HIV and Zika virus infectivity, but whether SEV are able also to affect subsequent immune responses is unknown. We found that SEV efficiently bound to and entered antigen-presenting cells (APC) and thus we set out to further dissect the impact of SEV on APC function and the impact on downstream T cell responses. In an APC–T cell co-culture system, SEV exposure to APC alone markedly reduced antigen-specific cytokine production, degranulation and cytotoxicity by antigen-specific memory CD8+ T cells. In contrast, inhibition of CD4+ T cell responses required both APC and T cell exposure to SEV. Surprisingly, SEV did not alter MHC or co-stimulatory receptor expression on APCs, but caused APCs to upregulate indoleamine 2,3 deoxygenase, an enzyme known to indirectly inhibit T cells. Thus, SEV reduce the ability of APCs to activate T cells. We propose here that these immune-inhibitory properties of SEV may be intended to prevent immune responses against semen-derived antigens, but can be hi-jacked by genitally acquired viral infections to compromise adaptive cellular immunity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lucia Vojtech
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- * E-mail: (LV); (FH)
| | - Mengying Zhang
- Molecular Engineering and Sciences Institute, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Veronica Davé
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Claire Levy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Sean M. Hughes
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Ruofan Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Fernanda Calienes
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Martin Prlic
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- Department of Immunology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Elizabeth Nance
- Molecular Engineering and Sciences Institute, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Florian Hladik
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- Department of Medicine, Division of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- * E-mail: (LV); (FH)
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Selva KJ, Juno JA, Worley MJ, Chung AW, Tachedjian G, Kent SJ, Parsons MS. Short Communication: Effect of Seminal Plasma on Functions of Monocytes and Granulocytes. AIDS Res Hum Retroviruses 2019; 35:553-556. [PMID: 31037950 DOI: 10.1089/aid.2018.0219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Most HIV-1 transmissions occur at mucosae and involve exposure to semen. Semen contains immunomodulatory factors, which inhibit anti-HIV-1 natural killer cell and T cell responses. We demonstrate high concentrations (1:2 dilution) of seminal plasma (SP) inhibit monocyte phagocytosis and anti-HIV-1 Fc-dependent functions of both neutrophils and monocytes. In addition, slightly lower SP concentrations (1:2-1:10 dilutions) inhibit granulocyte phagocytosis and oxidative burst of both monocytes and granulocytes. These observations may have implications for HIV-1 infectivity after mucosal exposure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kevin J. Selva
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Jennifer A. Juno
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Matthew J. Worley
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Amy W. Chung
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Gilda Tachedjian
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
- Disease Elimination Program, Life Sciences Discipline, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Microbiology, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - Stephen J. Kent
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre and Department of Infectious Diseases, Alfred Health, Monash University Central Clinical School, Melbourne, Australia
- ARC Centre of Excellence in Convergent Bio-Nano Science and Technology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
| | - Matthew S. Parsons
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Herrera C. The Pre-clinical Toolbox of Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics: in vitro and ex vivo Models. Front Pharmacol 2019; 10:578. [PMID: 31178736 PMCID: PMC6543330 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2019.00578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2019] [Accepted: 05/06/2019] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Prevention strategies against sexual transmission of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) are essential to curb the rate of new infections. In the absence of a correlate of protection against HIV infection, pre-clinical evaluation is fundamental to facilitate and accelerate prioritization of prevention candidates and their formulations in a rapidly evolving clinical landscape. Characterization of pharmacokinetic (PK) and pharmacodynamic (PD) properties for candidate inhibitors is the main objective of pre-clinical evaluation. in vitro and ex vivo systems for pharmacological assessment allow experimental flexibility and adaptability at a relatively low cost without raising as significant ethical concerns as in vivo models. Applications and limitations of pre-clinical PK/PD models and future alternatives are reviewed in the context of HIV prevention.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Herrera
- Section of Virology, Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Ouattara LA, Anderson SM, Doncel GF. Seminal exosomes and HIV-1 transmission. Andrologia 2019; 50:e13220. [PMID: 30569645 PMCID: PMC6378409 DOI: 10.1111/and.13220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2018] [Revised: 11/16/2018] [Accepted: 11/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Exosomes are endosomal‐derived membrane‐confined nanovesicles secreted by many (if not all) cell types and isolated from every human bodily fluid examined up to now including plasma, semen, vaginal secretions and breast milk. Exosomes are thought to represent a new player in cell‐to‐cell communication pathways and immune regulation, and be involved in many physiological and pathological processes. Susceptibility to HIV‐1 infection can be impacted by exosomes, while HIV‐1 pathogenesis can alter exosomal function and composition. Exosomes isolated from semen and vaginal fluid of healthy individuals can inhibit HIV‐1 infection and/or potently block viral transfer in vitro. However, the role of exosomes in HIV‐1 transmission and progression is not fully understood yet and some studies show conflicting results, mainly for exosomes isolated from plasma and breast milk. Determining the composition of exosomes from infected donors and studying their interaction with HIV‐1 in vitro compared to exosomes isolated from uninfected donors will provide insights into the role exosomes play in HIV‐1 transmission during sexual intercourse and breastfeeding.
Collapse
|
18
|
Modulation of the CCR5 Receptor/Ligand Axis by Seminal Plasma and the Utility of In Vitro versus In Vivo Models. J Virol 2019; 93:JVI.00242-19. [PMID: 30867307 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.00242-19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2019] [Accepted: 03/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Sexual HIV-1 transmission occurs primarily in the presence of semen. Although data from macaque studies suggest that CCR5+ CD4+ T cells are initial targets for HIV-1 infection, the impact of semen on T cell CCR5 expression and ligand production remains inconclusive. To determine if semen modulates the lymphocyte CCR5 receptor/ligand axis, primary human T cell CCR5 expression and natural killer (NK) cell anti-HIV-1 antibody-dependent beta chemokine production was assessed following seminal plasma (SP) exposure. Purified T cells produce sufficient quantities of RANTES to result in a significant decline in CCR5bright T cell frequency following 16 h of SP exposure (P = 0.03). Meanwhile, NK cells retain the capacity to produce limited amounts of MIP-1α/MIP-1β in response to anti-HIV-1 antibody-dependent stimulation (median, 9.5% MIP-1α+ and/or MIP-1β+), despite the immunosuppressive nature of SP. Although these in vitro experiments suggest that SP-induced CCR5 ligand production results in the loss of surface CCR5 expression on CD4+ T cells, the in vivo implications are unclear. We therefore vaginally exposed five pigtail macaques to SP and found that such exposure resulted in an increase in CCR5+ HIV-1 target cells in three of the animals. The in vivo data support a growing body of evidence suggesting that semen exposure recruits target cells to the vagina that are highly susceptible to HIV-1 infection, which has important implications for HIV-1 transmission and vaccine design.IMPORTANCE The majority of HIV-1 vaccine studies do not take into consideration the impact that semen exposure might have on the mucosal immune system. In this study, we demonstrate that seminal plasma (SP) exposure can alter CCR5 expression on T cells. Importantly, in vitro studies of T cells in culture cannot replicate the conditions under which immune cells might be recruited to the genital mucosa in vivo, leading to potentially erroneous conclusions about the impact of semen on mucosal HIV-1 susceptibility.
Collapse
|
19
|
Brief Report: Recent Methamphetamine Use Is Associated With Increased Rectal Mucosal Inflammatory Cytokines, Regardless of HIV-1 Serostatus. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2019; 78:119-123. [PMID: 29419567 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000001643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Methamphetamine use increases the risk of HIV-1 infection among seronegative users and can exacerbate disease progression in HIV-positive users. The biological mechanisms underlying these associations remain unclear. In this cross-sectional pilot study, we examine the associations between recent methamphetamine use and inflammation in the rectal mucosa and peripheral blood compartments in HIV-1 seropositive and seronegative men who have sex with men. METHODS HIV-seronegative and HIV-seropositive men who have sex with men participants were enrolled (N = 24). Recent methamphetamine use was determined by urine drug screen. Cytokines were quantified using multiplex arrays from collected plasma and rectal sponge samples, and peripheral blood T-cell activation was assessed by flow cytometry. RESULTS Methamphetamine use was associated with consistently increased rectal inflammatory cytokines, specifically interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor-alpha, regardless of HIV-1 serostatus in this pilot study. This association was significant after adjusting for age, HIV-serostatus, and receptive anal intercourse frequency using regression analysis. Similar increases were not uniformly observed in peripheral blood. CONCLUSIONS Methamphetamine use is associated with increased local mucosal inflammatory cytokine production. These findings may help explain the increased HIV-1 risk seen in methamphetamine users and contribute to increased inflammation among HIV-seropositive users.
Collapse
|
20
|
The contraceptive medroxyprogesterone acetate, unlike norethisterone, directly increases R5 HIV-1 infection in human cervical explant tissue at physiologically relevant concentrations. Sci Rep 2019; 9:4334. [PMID: 30867477 PMCID: PMC6416361 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-40756-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2018] [Accepted: 02/19/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The intramuscular progestin-only injectable contraceptive, depo-medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA-IM), is more widely used in Sub-Saharan Africa than another injectable contraceptive, norethisterone enanthate (NET-EN). Epidemiological data show a significant 1.4-fold increased risk of HIV-1 acquisition for DMPA-IM usage, while no such association is shown from limited data for NET-EN. We show that MPA, unlike NET, significantly increases R5-tropic but not X4-tropic HIV-1 replication ex vivo in human endocervical and ectocervical explant tissue from pre-menopausal donors, at physiologically relevant doses. Results support a mechanism whereby MPA, unlike NET, acts via the glucocorticoid receptor (GR) to increase HIV-1 replication in cervical tissue by increasing the relative frequency of CD4+ T cells and activated monocytes. We show that MPA, unlike NET, increases mRNA expression of the CD4 HIV-1 receptor and CCR5 but not CXCR4 chemokine receptors, via the GR. However, increased density of CD4 on CD3+ cells was not observed with MPA by flow cytometry of digested tissue. Results suggest that DMPA-IM may increase HIV-1 acquisition in vivo at least in part via direct effects on cervical tissue to increase founder R5-tropic HIV-1 replication. Our findings support differential biological mechanisms and disaggregation of DMPA-IM and NET-EN regarding HIV-1 acquisition risk category for use in high risk areas.
Collapse
|
21
|
Månberg A, Bradley F, Qundos U, Guthrie BL, Birse K, Noël-Romas L, Lindskog C, Bosire R, Kiarie J, Farquhar C, Burgener AD, Nilsson P, Broliden K. A High-throughput Bead-based Affinity Assay Enables Analysis of Genital Protein Signatures in Women At Risk of HIV Infection. Mol Cell Proteomics 2019; 18:461-476. [PMID: 30504243 PMCID: PMC6398207 DOI: 10.1074/mcp.ra118.000757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2018] [Revised: 11/29/2018] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Women at high risk of HIV infection, including sex workers and those with active genital inflammation, have molecular signatures of immune activation and epithelial barrier remodeling in samples of their genital mucosa. These alterations in the local immunological milieu are likely to impact HIV susceptibility. We here analyze host genital protein signatures in HIV uninfected women, with high frequency of condom use, living in HIV-serodiscordant relationships. Cervicovaginal secretions from women living in HIV-serodiscordant relationships (n = 62) were collected at three time points over 12 months. Women living in HIV-negative seroconcordant relationships (controls, n = 25) were sampled at one time point. All study subjects were examined for demographic parameters associated with susceptibility to HIV infection. The cervicovaginal samples were analyzed using a high-throughput bead-based affinity assay. Proteins involved in epithelial barrier function and inflammation were increased in HIV-serodiscordant women. By combining several methods of analysis, a total of five proteins (CAPG, KLK10, SPRR3, elafin/PI3, CSTB) were consistently associated with this study group. Proteins analyzed using the affinity set-up were further validated by label-free tandem mass spectrometry in a partially overlapping cohort with concordant results. Women living in HIV-serodiscordant relationships thus had elevated levels of proteins involved in epithelial barrier function and inflammation despite low prevalence of sexually transmitted infections and a high frequency of safe sex practices. The identified proteins are important markers to follow during assessment of mucosal HIV susceptibility factors and a high-throughput bead-based affinity set-up could be a suitable method for such evaluation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Månberg
- From the ‡Affinity Proteomics, SciLifeLab, Department of Protein Science, KTH - Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Frideborg Bradley
- §Department of Medicine Solna, Unit of Infectious Diseases, Center for Molecular Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden;
| | - Ulrika Qundos
- From the ‡Affinity Proteomics, SciLifeLab, Department of Protein Science, KTH - Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Brandon L Guthrie
- ¶Department of Global Health and Department of Epidemiology Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
| | - Kenzie Birse
- ‖Department of Medical Microbiology, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
- **National HIV and Retrovirology Labs, JC Wilt Infectious Disease Centre, Public Health Agency of Canada, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Laura Noël-Romas
- ‖Department of Medical Microbiology, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
- **National HIV and Retrovirology Labs, JC Wilt Infectious Disease Centre, Public Health Agency of Canada, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Cecilia Lindskog
- ‡‡SciLifeLab, Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Rose Bosire
- §§Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - James Kiarie
- ¶¶Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Carey Farquhar
- ‖‖Department of Medicine, Global Health, and Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
| | - Adam D Burgener
- §Department of Medicine Solna, Unit of Infectious Diseases, Center for Molecular Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- ‖Department of Medical Microbiology, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
- **National HIV and Retrovirology Labs, JC Wilt Infectious Disease Centre, Public Health Agency of Canada, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Peter Nilsson
- From the ‡Affinity Proteomics, SciLifeLab, Department of Protein Science, KTH - Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Kristina Broliden
- §Department of Medicine Solna, Unit of Infectious Diseases, Center for Molecular Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Introini A, Vanpouille C, Fitzgerald W, Broliden K, Margolis L. Ex Vivo Infection of Human Lymphoid Tissue and Female Genital Mucosa with Human Immunodeficiency Virus 1 and Histoculture. J Vis Exp 2018. [PMID: 30371673 DOI: 10.3791/57013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Histocultures allow studying intercellular interactions within human tissues, and they can be employed to model host-pathogen interactions under controlled laboratory conditions. Ex vivo infection of human tissues with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), among other viruses, has been successfully used to investigate early disease pathogenesis, as well as a platform to test the efficacy and toxicity of antiviral drugs. In the present protocol, we explain how to process and infect with HIV-1 tissue explants from human tonsils and cervical mucosae, and maintain them in culture on top of gelatin sponges at the liquid-air interface for about two weeks. This non-polarized culture setting maximizes access to nutrients in culture medium and oxygen, although progressive loss of tissue integrity and functional architectures remains its main limitation. This method allows monitoring HIV-1 replication and pathogenesis using several techniques, including immunoassays, qPCR, and flow cytometry. Of importance, the physiologic variability between tissue donors, as well as between explants from different areas of the same specimen, may significantly affect experimental results. To ensure result reproducibility, it is critical to use an adequate number of explants, technical replicates, and donor-matched control conditions to normalize the results of the experimental treatments when compiling data from multiple experiments (i.e., conducted using tissue from different donors) for statistical analysis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Introini
- Department of Medicine Solna, Center for Molecular Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital, Karolinska Institutet; Section of Intercellular Interactions, Eunice Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health;
| | - Christophe Vanpouille
- Section of Intercellular Interactions, Eunice Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health
| | - Wendy Fitzgerald
- Section of Intercellular Interactions, Eunice Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health
| | - Kristina Broliden
- Department of Medicine Solna, Center for Molecular Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital, Karolinska Institutet
| | - Leonid Margolis
- Section of Intercellular Interactions, Eunice Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Zalenskaya IA, Chandra N, Yousefieh N, Fang X, Adedipe OE, Jackson SS, Anderson SM, Mauck CK, Schwartz JL, Thurman AR, Doncel GF. Use of contraceptive depot medroxyprogesterone acetate is associated with impaired cervicovaginal mucosal integrity. J Clin Invest 2018; 128:4622-4638. [PMID: 30222141 DOI: 10.1172/jci120583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2018] [Accepted: 07/31/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Injectable depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA) is one of the most popular contraception methods in areas of high HIV seroprevalence. Evidence is accumulating that use of DMPA might be associated with an increased risk of HIV-1 acquisition by women; however, mechanisms of this association are not completely understood. The goal of this study was to gain insight into mechanisms underlying the possible link between use of DMPA and risk of HIV-1 acquisition, exploring transcription profiling of ectocervical tissues. METHODS Healthy women received either DMPA (n = 31) or combined oral contraceptive (COC), which has not been linked to an increased risk of HIV acquisition (n = 32). We conducted a comparative microarray-based whole-genome transcriptome profiling of human ectocervical tissues before and after 6 weeks of hormonal contraception use. RESULTS The analysis identified that expression of 235 and 76 genes was significantly altered after DMPA and COC use, respectively. The most striking effect of DMPA, but not COC, was significantly altered expression (mostly downregulation) of many genes strategically involved in the maintenance of mucosal barrier function; the alterations, as indicated by Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA), were most likely due to the DMPA-induced estrogen deficiency. Furthermore, IPA predicted that transcriptome alterations related to ectocervical immune responses were in general compatible with an immunosuppressive effect of DMPA, but, in some women, also with an inflammatory-like response. CONCLUSION Our results suggest that impairment of cervicovaginal mucosal integrity in response to DMPA administration is an important mechanism contributing to the potential increased risk of HIV-1 acquisition in DMPA users. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01421368. FUNDING This study was supported by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) under Cooperative Agreement GPO-A-00-08-00005-00.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Neelima Chandra
- CONRAD, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, Virginia, USA
| | | | - Xi Fang
- CONRAD, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, Virginia, USA
| | | | | | | | | | - Jill L Schwartz
- CONRAD, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Arlington, Virginia, USA
| | | | - Gustavo F Doncel
- CONRAD, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, Virginia, USA.,CONRAD, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Arlington, Virginia, USA
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Röcker A, Roan NR, Yadav JK, Fändrich M, Münch J. Structure, function and antagonism of semen amyloids. Chem Commun (Camb) 2018; 54:7557-7569. [PMID: 29873340 DOI: 10.1039/c8cc01491d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Amyloid fibrils are linear polypeptide aggregates with a cross-β structure. These fibrils are best known for their association with neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's or Parkinson's, but they may also be used by living organisms as functional units, e.g. in the synthesis of melanin or in the formation of bacterial biofilms. About a decade ago, in a search for semen factors that modulate infection by HIV-1 (a sexually transmitted virus and the causative agent of the acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS)), it was demonstrated that semen harbors amyloid fibrils capable of markedly increasing HIV infection rates. This discovery not only created novel opportunities to prevent sexual HIV-1 transmission but also stimulated research to unravel the natural role of these factors. We discuss here the identification of these intriguing structures, their molecular properties, and their effects on both sexually transmitted diseases and reproductive health. Moreover, we review strategies to antagonize semen amyloid to prevent sexual transmission of viruses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Annika Röcker
- Institute of Molecular Virology, Ulm University Medical Center, 89081 Ulm, Germany.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
25
|
Bradley F, Birse K, Hasselrot K, Noël-Romas L, Introini A, Wefer H, Seifert M, Engstrand L, Tjernlund A, Broliden K, Burgener AD. The vaginal microbiome amplifies sex hormone-associated cyclic changes in cervicovaginal inflammation and epithelial barrier disruption. Am J Reprod Immunol 2018; 80:e12863. [PMID: 29709092 DOI: 10.1111/aji.12863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2018] [Accepted: 03/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM Susceptibility to HIV is associated with the menstrual cycle and vaginal microbiome, but their collective impact on vaginal inflammation remains unclear. Here, we characterized the cervicovaginal proteome, inflammation, and microbiome community structure and function during the menstrual cycle. METHOD OF STUDY Cervicovaginal secretions were collected from regularly cycling women (n = 16) at median day 10, 16, and 24 of each menstrual cycle and analyzed by mass spectrometry, 16S rRNA gene sequencing, and a multiplex bead array immunoassay. Follicular, ovulatory, and luteal phases were defined by serum sex hormone levels. RESULTS Ovulation showed the largest mucosal proteome changes, where 30% and 19% of the 406 human proteins identified differed compared to the luteal and follicular phases, respectively. Neutrophil/leukocyte migration pathways were lowest during ovulation and peaked in the luteal phase, while antimicrobial and epithelial barrier promoting proteins were highest during ovulation. Vaginal microbial community structure and function did not vary significantly during the menstrual cycle, with the majority consistently Lactobacillus-dominant (63%) or non-Lactobacillus-dominant (25%). Fluctuations in the epithelial barrier protein RPTN between the ovulatory and luteal phase were amplified in women with Gardnerella vaginalis and anaerobic bacteria and reduced when Lactobacillus was dominant. CONCLUSION This small study demonstrates that sex hormones modulate neutrophil/leukocyte inflammation, barrier function, and antimicrobial pathways in the female genital tract with the strongest changes occurring during ovulation. The data further suggest a microbiome context for hormone-driven changes in vaginal immunity which may have implications for HIV susceptibility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Frideborg Bradley
- Department of Medicine Solna, Unit of Infectious Diseases, Center for Molecular Medicine, Karolinska Institutet Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Kenzie Birse
- Department of Medical Microbiology, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada.,National HIV and Retrovirology Labs, JC Wilt Infectious Disease Centre, Public Health Agency of Canada, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Klara Hasselrot
- Department of Medicine Solna, Unit of Infectious Diseases, Center for Molecular Medicine, Karolinska Institutet Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Gynaecology, Danderyds Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Laura Noël-Romas
- Department of Medical Microbiology, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada.,National HIV and Retrovirology Labs, JC Wilt Infectious Disease Centre, Public Health Agency of Canada, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Andrea Introini
- Department of Medicine Solna, Unit of Infectious Diseases, Center for Molecular Medicine, Karolinska Institutet Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Hugo Wefer
- Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Science for Life Laboratory, Clinical Genomics Facility, Solna, Sweden
| | - Maike Seifert
- Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Science for Life Laboratory, Clinical Genomics Facility, Solna, Sweden
| | - Lars Engstrand
- Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Science for Life Laboratory, Clinical Genomics Facility, Solna, Sweden
| | - Annelie Tjernlund
- Department of Medicine Solna, Unit of Infectious Diseases, Center for Molecular Medicine, Karolinska Institutet Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Kristina Broliden
- Department of Medicine Solna, Unit of Infectious Diseases, Center for Molecular Medicine, Karolinska Institutet Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Adam D Burgener
- Department of Medicine Solna, Unit of Infectious Diseases, Center for Molecular Medicine, Karolinska Institutet Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Medical Microbiology, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada.,National HIV and Retrovirology Labs, JC Wilt Infectious Disease Centre, Public Health Agency of Canada, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Generation of a Dual-Target, Safe, Inexpensive Microbicide that Protects Against HIV-1 and HSV-2 Disease. Sci Rep 2018; 8:2786. [PMID: 29434285 PMCID: PMC5809452 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-21134-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2017] [Accepted: 01/22/2018] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
HSV-2 infection is a significant health problem and a major co-morbidity factor for HIV-1 acquisition, increasing risk of infection 2-4 fold. Condom based prevention strategies for HSV-2 and HIV-1 have not been effective at stopping the HIV-1 pandemic, indicating that alternative prevention strategies need to be investigated. We have previously developed an inexpensive HIV-1 specific microbicide that utilizes the S-layer mediated display capabilities of Caulobacter crescentus, and have shown that recombinant C. crescentus displaying HIV entry blocking proteins are able to provide significant protection from HIV-1 infection in vitro. Here we demonstrate that recombinant C. crescentus are safe for topical application and describe 5 new recombinant C. crescentus that provide protection from HIV-1 infection in vitro. Further, we demonstrate protection from disease following intravaginal infection with HSV-2 in a murine model using C. crescentus expressing the anti-viral lectins Cyanovirin-N and Griffithsin, as well as α-1-antitrypsin and indolicidin. Interestingly, C. crescentus alone significantly reduced HSV-2 replication in vaginal lavage fluid. Protection from HSV-2 disease was strongly associated with early cytokine production in the vaginal tract. Our data support the potential for a dual-target microbicide that can protect against both HIV-1 and HSV-2, which could have an enormous impact on public health.
Collapse
|
27
|
Chen J, Ren R, Yu F, Wang C, Zhang X, Li W, Tan S, Jiang S, Liu S, Li L. A Degraded Fragment of HIV-1 Gp120 in Rat Hepatocytes Forms Fibrils and Enhances HIV-1 Infection. Biophys J 2017; 113:1425-1439. [PMID: 28978437 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpj.2017.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2017] [Revised: 07/03/2017] [Accepted: 08/04/2017] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Identification of the host or viral factors that enhance HIV infection is critical for preventing sexual transmission of HIV. Amyloid fibrils derived from human semen, including semen-derived enhancer of virus infection and semenogelins, enhance HIV-1 infection dramatically in vitro. In this study, we reported that a short-degraded peptide fragment 1 (DPF1) derived from native HIV-1 envelope protein gp120-loaded rat hepatocytes, formed fibrils by self-assembly and thus enhanced HIV-1 infection by promoting the binding of HIV-1 to target cells. Furthermore, DPF1-formed fibrils might be used as a crossing seed to accelerate the formation of semen-derived enhancer of virus infection and semenogelin fibrils. It will be helpful to clarify the viral factors that affect HIV-1 infection. DPF1 as an analog of gp120 containing the critical residues for CD4 binding might be useful for designing of HIV vaccines and developing HIV entry inhibitors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jinquan Chen
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Drug Research for Emerging Virus Prevention and Treatment, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China; Jiangsu Protein Drug Engineering Laboratory, Jiangsu Food and Pharmaceutical Science College, Huai'an, China
| | - Ruxia Ren
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Drug Research for Emerging Virus Prevention and Treatment, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Fei Yu
- College of Life Sciences, Agricultural University of Hebei, Baoding, China; Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology of MOE/MOH, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chunyan Wang
- Center for Clinical Laboratory, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xuanxuan Zhang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Drug Research for Emerging Virus Prevention and Treatment, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wenjuan Li
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Drug Research for Emerging Virus Prevention and Treatment, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Suiyi Tan
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Drug Research for Emerging Virus Prevention and Treatment, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shibo Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology of MOE/MOH, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; Lindsley F. Kimball Research Institute, New York Blood Center, New York, New York
| | - Shuwen Liu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Drug Research for Emerging Virus Prevention and Treatment, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Lin Li
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Drug Research for Emerging Virus Prevention and Treatment, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Introini A, Boström S, Bradley F, Gibbs A, Glaessgen A, Tjernlund A, Broliden K. Correction: Seminal plasma induces inflammation and enhances HIV-1 replication in human cervical tissue explants. PLoS Pathog 2017; 13:e1006492. [PMID: 28700681 PMCID: PMC5507456 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1006492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
[This corrects the article DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1006402.].
Collapse
|