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Wang Y, Riaz F, Wang W, Pu J, Liang Y, Wu Z, Pan S, Song J, Yang L, Zhang Y, Wu H, Han F, Tang J, Wang X. Functional significance of DNA methylation: epigenetic insights into Sjögren's syndrome. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1289492. [PMID: 38510251 PMCID: PMC10950951 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1289492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Sjögren's syndrome (SjS) is a systemic, highly diverse, and chronic autoimmune disease with a significant global prevalence. It is a complex condition that requires careful management and monitoring. Recent research indicates that epigenetic mechanisms contribute to the pathophysiology of SjS by modulating gene expression and genome stability. DNA methylation, a form of epigenetic modification, is the fundamental mechanism that modifies the expression of various genes by modifying the transcriptional availability of regulatory regions within the genome. In general, adding a methyl group to DNA is linked with the inhibition of genes because it changes the chromatin structure. DNA methylation changes the fate of multiple immune cells, such as it leads to the transition of naïve lymphocytes to effector lymphocytes. A lack of central epigenetic enzymes frequently results in abnormal immune activation. Alterations in epigenetic modifications within immune cells or salivary gland epithelial cells are frequently detected during the pathogenesis of SjS, representing a robust association with autoimmune responses. The analysis of genome methylation is a beneficial tool for establishing connections between epigenetic changes within different cell types and their association with SjS. In various studies related to SjS, most differentially methylated regions are in the human leukocyte antigen (HLA) locus. Notably, the demethylation of various sites in the genome is often observed in SjS patients. The most strongly linked differentially methylated regions in SjS patients are found within genes regulated by type I interferon. This demethylation process is partly related to B-cell infiltration and disease progression. In addition, DNA demethylation of the runt-related transcription factor (RUNX1) gene, lymphotoxin-α (LTA), and myxovirus resistance protein A (MxA) is associated with SjS. It may assist the early diagnosis of SjS by serving as a potential biomarker. Therefore, this review offers a detailed insight into the function of DNA methylation in SjS and helps researchers to identify potential biomarkers in diagnosis, prognosis, and therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanqing Wang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Farooq Riaz
- Center for Cancer Immunology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology (SIAT), Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Shenzhen, China
| | - Wei Wang
- Department of Radiology, Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jincheng Pu
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuanyuan Liang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhenzhen Wu
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Shengnan Pan
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiamin Song
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Lufei Yang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Youwei Zhang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Huihong Wu
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Fang Han
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jianping Tang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xuan Wang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
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Lin CMA, Isaacs JD, Cooles FAH. Role of IFN-α in Rheumatoid Arthritis. Curr Rheumatol Rep 2024; 26:37-52. [PMID: 38051494 PMCID: PMC10787895 DOI: 10.1007/s11926-023-01125-6] [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] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Type 1 interferons (IFN-I) are of increasing interest across a wide range of autoimmune rheumatic diseases. Historically, research into their role in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) has been relatively neglected, but recent work continues to highlight a potential contribution to RA pathophysiology. RECENT FINDINGS We emphasise the importance of disease stage when examining IFN-I in RA and provide an overview on how IFN-I may have a direct role on a variety of relevant cellular functions. We explore how clinical trajectory may be influenced by increased IFN-I signalling, and also, the limitations of scores composed of interferon response genes. Relevant environmental triggers and inheritable RA genetic risk relating to IFN-I signalling are explored with emphasis on intriguing data potentially linking IFN-I exposure, epigenetic changes, and disease relevant processes. Whilst these data cumulatively illustrate a likely role for IFN-I in RA, they also highlight the knowledge gaps, particularly in populations at risk for RA, and suggest directions for future research to both better understand IFN-I biology and inform targeted therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chung M A Lin
- Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
- Musculoskeletal Unit, Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - John D Isaacs
- Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
- Musculoskeletal Unit, Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Faye A H Cooles
- Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK.
- Musculoskeletal Unit, Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK.
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Xian W, Liu B, Li J, Yang Y, Hong S, Xiao H, Wu D, Li Y. Graves' disease and systemic lupus erythematosus: a Mendelian randomization study. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1273358. [PMID: 38352885 PMCID: PMC10863043 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1273358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Previous observational studies have established a correlation between Graves' disease(GD) and systemic lupus erythematosus(SLE). However, whether a causal relationship exists between these two diseases remains unknown.We utilized Mendelian randomization to infer the causal association between GD and SLE. Methods This study employed GWAS summary statistics of GD and SLE in individuals of Asian descent. The random effect inverse variance weighted (IVW) method was utilized to aggregate the causal effect estimates of all SNPs. Cochran's Q values were computed to evaluate the heterogeneity among instrumental variables. Sensitivity analyses such as MR-Egger method, median weighting method, leave-one-out method, and MR-PRESSO method were used to test whether there was horizontal pleiotropy of instrumental variables. Results Our study found genetically predicted GD may increase risk of SLE (OR=1.17, 95% CI 0.99-1.40, p=0.069). Additionally, genetically predicted SLE elevated the risk of developing GD by 15% (OR=1.15, 95% CI 1.05-1.27, p= 0.004). After correcting for possible horizontal pleiotropy by excluding outlier SNPs, the results suggested that GD increased the risk of SLE (OR=1.27, 95% CI 1.09-1.48, p =0.018), while SLE also increased the risk of developing GD (OR=1.13, 95% CI 1.05-1.22, p =0.003). Conclusion The findings of the study indicate that there may be a correlation between GD and SLE, with each potentially increasing the risk of the other. These results have important implications for the screening and treatment of patients with co-morbidities in clinical settings, as well as for further research into the molecular mechanisms underlying the relationship between GD and SLE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Xian
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Department of Pediatric Allergy, Immunology & Rheumatology, Guangzhou Women and Children’s Medical Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Boyuan Liu
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Jinjian Li
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yuxin Yang
- Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Shubin Hong
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Haipeng Xiao
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Dide Wu
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yanbing Li
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
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Gravand A, Alesaeidi S, Khoshbakht S, Saghaei M, Kenarangi T, Mosallaei M, Soosanabadi M. Demethylation of CDKN2A in systemic lupus erythematosus and rheumatoid arthritis: a blood biomarker for diagnosis and assessment of disease activity. Clin Rheumatol 2023; 42:3387-3395. [PMID: 37597101 DOI: 10.1007/s10067-023-06736-z] [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: 05/04/2023] [Revised: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/21/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION/OBJECTIVES Considering the phenotypic and serological heterogeneity of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA), significant challenges may intervene with the precise diagnosis. In this regard, numerous studies have shown that changes in DNA methylation levels can be used to distinguish between healthy individuals and those with SLE and RA, as well as to predict disease activity and prognosis. METHODS In the current study, we evaluated quantitative methylation level of CDKN2A promoter in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of SLE and RA patients, and healthy controls by methylation-quantification of endonuclease-resistant DNA (MethyQESD), a bisulfite conversion-independent method. RESULTS Our findings revealed an excessive hypomethylation of CDKN2A in SLE and RA patients compared to healthy individuals (P < 0.001). Besides, by determining efficient cutoff value, the specificity of CDKN2A for correct diagnosis of healthy subjects was measured to be 77.30% and the sensitivity for SLE and RA diagnosis were 81.33%, and 72%, respectively. Furthermore, CDKN2A methylation level was shown to be positively associated with C3 and C4 levels and negatively associated with anti‑dsDNA concentration (P < 0.001). Moreover, a statistically significant difference in the DNA methylation levels of CDKN2A promoter was identified between SLE cases with age of ≤ 18 and patients with > 18 years of age (P = 0.025). CONCLUSION Our findings demonstrated that CDKN2A methylation levels in PBMCs of SLE and RA patients could be used as a promising diagnostic biomarker. The significant association between hypomethylation of CDKN2A promoter and disease activity factors in SLE patients, is suggesting that CDKN2A hypomethylation could be used as an alternative biomarker for assessment of disease activity. Key Points • Several studies have reported increased expression of CDKN2A in SLE and RA suggesting that it may be involved in the pathogenesis of these disorders. • CDKN2A hypomethylation has been implicated in different autoimmune diseases. • Our findings demonstrated that CDKN2A methylation levels in PBMCs of SLE and RA patients could be used as a promising diagnostic and prognostic biomarker.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdollah Gravand
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Sciences, Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Samira Alesaeidi
- Department of Internal Medicine and Rheumatology, Rheumatology Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shahrouz Khoshbakht
- Student Research Committee, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Science, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mozhdeh Saghaei
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Taiebe Kenarangi
- Student Research Committee, Faculty of Statistics, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Science, Tehran, Iran
| | - Meysam Mosallaei
- Personalized Medicine and Genometabolomics Research Center, Hope Generation Foundation, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohsen Soosanabadi
- Department of Medical Genetics, Semnan University of Medical Sciences, Semnan, Iran.
- Abnormal Uterine Bleeding Research Center, Semnan University of Medical Sciences, Semnan, Iran.
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Nag S, Mitra O, Tripathi G, Samanta S, Bhattacharya B, Chandane P, Mohanto S, Sundararajan V, Malik S, Rustagi S, Adhikari S, Mohanty A, León‐Figueroa DA, Rodriguez‐Morales AJ, Barboza JJ, Sah R. Exploring the theranostic potentials of miRNA and epigenetic networks in autoimmune diseases: A comprehensive review. Immun Inflamm Dis 2023; 11:e1121. [PMID: 38156400 PMCID: PMC10755504 DOI: 10.1002/iid3.1121] [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: 04/27/2023] [Revised: 11/05/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/30/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Autoimmune diseases (AD) are severe pathophysiological ailments that are stimulated by an exaggerated immunogenic response towards self-antigens, which can cause systemic or site-specific organ damage. An array of complex genetic and epigenetic facets majorly contributes to the progression of AD, thus providing significant insight into the regulatory mechanism of microRNA (miRNA). miRNAs are short, non-coding RNAs that have been identified as essential contributors to the post-transcriptional regulation of host genome expression and as crucial regulators of a myriad of biological processes such as immune homeostasis, T helper cell differentiation, central and peripheral tolerance, and immune cell development. AIMS This article tends to deliberate and conceptualize the brief pathogenesis and pertinent epigenetic regulatory mechanism as well as miRNA networks majorly affecting five different ADs namely rheumatoid arthritis (RA), type 1 diabetes, multiple sclerosis (MS), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and inflammatory bowel disorder (IBD) thereby providing novel miRNA-based theranostic interventions. RESULTS & DISCUSSION Pertaining to the differential expression of miRNA attributed in target tissues and cellular bodies of innate and adaptive immunity, a paradigm of scientific expeditions suggests an optimistic correlation between immunogenic dysfunction and miRNA alterations. CONCLUSION Therefore, it is not astonishing that dysregulations in miRNA expression patterns are now recognized in a wide spectrum of disorders, establishing themselves as potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets. Owing to its theranostic potencies, miRNA targets have been widely utilized in the development of biosensors and other therapeutic molecules originating from the same.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sagnik Nag
- Department of Bio‐SciencesSchool of Bio‐Sciences & Technology, Vellore Institute of TechnologyVelloreTamil NaduIndia
- Integrative Multiomics LabSchool of Bio‐Sciences & Technology, Vellore Institute of TechnologyVelloreTamil NaduIndia
| | - Oishi Mitra
- Department of Bio‐SciencesSchool of Bio‐Sciences & Technology, Vellore Institute of TechnologyVelloreTamil NaduIndia
- Integrative Multiomics LabSchool of Bio‐Sciences & Technology, Vellore Institute of TechnologyVelloreTamil NaduIndia
| | - Garima Tripathi
- Department of Bio‐SciencesSchool of Bio‐Sciences & Technology, Vellore Institute of TechnologyVelloreTamil NaduIndia
| | - Souvik Samanta
- Department of Bio‐SciencesSchool of Bio‐Sciences & Technology, Vellore Institute of TechnologyVelloreTamil NaduIndia
| | - Bikramjit Bhattacharya
- Integrative Multiomics LabSchool of Bio‐Sciences & Technology, Vellore Institute of TechnologyVelloreTamil NaduIndia
- Department of Applied MicrobiologyVellore Institute of Technology (VIT)Tamil NaduIndia
| | - Priti Chandane
- Department of BiochemistrySchool of Life SciencesUniversity of HyderabadHyderabadTelanganaIndia
| | - Sourav Mohanto
- Department of PharmaceuticsYenepoya Pharmacy College & Research CentreYenepoya (Deemed to be University)MangaluruKarnatakaIndia
| | - Vino Sundararajan
- Integrative Multiomics LabSchool of Bio‐Sciences & Technology, Vellore Institute of TechnologyVelloreTamil NaduIndia
| | - Sumira Malik
- Amity Institute of BiotechnologyAmity University JharkhandRanchiJharkhandIndia
- University Centre for Research and DevelopmentUniversity of Biotechnology, Chandigarh University, GharuanMohaliPunjab
| | - Sarvesh Rustagi
- School of Applied and Life SciencesUttaranchal UniversityDehradunUttarakhandIndia
| | | | - Aroop Mohanty
- Department of Clinical MicrobiologyAll India Institute of Medical SciencesGorakhpurUttar PradeshIndia
| | | | - Alfonso J. Rodriguez‐Morales
- Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of MedicineUniversidad Científica del SurLimaPeru
- Gilbert and Rose‐Marie Chagoury School of MedicineLebanese American UniversityBeirutLebanon
| | | | - Ranjit Sah
- Department of Clinical MicrobiologyInstitute of Medicine, Tribhuvan University Teaching HospitalKathmanduNepal
- Department of Clinical MicrobiologyDr. D. Y. Patil Medical College, Hospital and Research Centre, Dr. D. Y. Patil VidyapeethPuneIndia
- Department of Public Health DentistryDr. D.Y. Patil Dental College and Hospital, Dr. D.Y. Patil VidyapeethPuneMaharashtraIndia
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Lafontaine N, Wilson SG, Walsh JP. DNA Methylation in Autoimmune Thyroid Disease. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2023; 108:604-613. [PMID: 36420742 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgac664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2022] [Revised: 11/02/2022] [Accepted: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Graves disease and Hashimoto disease form part of the spectrum of autoimmune thyroid disease (AITD), to which genetic and environmental factors are recognized contributors. Epigenetics provides a potential link between environmental influences, gene expression, and thyroid autoimmunity. DNA methylation (DNAm) is the best studied epigenetic process, and global hypomethylation of leukocyte DNA is reported in several autoimmune disorders. This review summarizes the current understanding of DNAm in AITD. Targeted DNAm studies of blood samples from AITD patients have reported differential DNAm in the promoter regions of several genes implicated in AITD, including TNF, IFNG, IL2RA, IL6, ICAM1, and PTPN22. In many cases, however, the findings await replication and are unsupported by functional studies to support causal roles in AITD pathogenesis. Furthermore, thyroid hormones affect DNAm, and in many studies confounding by reverse causation has not been considered. Recent studies have shown that DNAm patterns in candidate genes including ITGA6, PRKAA2, and DAPK1 differ between AITD patients from regions with different iodine status, providing a potential mechanism for associations between iodine and AITD. Research focus in the field is moving from candidate gene studies to an epigenome-wide approach. Genome-wide methylation studies of AITD patients have demonstrated multiple differentially methylated positions, including some in immunoregulatory genes such as NOTCH1, HLA-DRB1, TNF, and ICAM1. Large, epigenome-wide studies are required to elucidate the pathophysiological role of DNAm in AITD, with the potential to provide novel diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers as well as therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Lafontaine
- Department of Endocrinology & Diabetes, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Nedlands, Western Australia 6009, Australia
- Medical School, University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia 6009, Australia
| | - Scott G Wilson
- Department of Endocrinology & Diabetes, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Nedlands, Western Australia 6009, Australia
- School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia 6009, Australia
| | - John P Walsh
- Department of Endocrinology & Diabetes, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Nedlands, Western Australia 6009, Australia
- Medical School, University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia 6009, Australia
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Differential CpG DNA methylation of peripheral B cells, CD4 + T cells, and salivary gland tissues in IgG4-related disease. Arthritis Res Ther 2023; 25:4. [PMID: 36609529 PMCID: PMC9824958 DOI: 10.1186/s13075-022-02978-5] [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: 06/16/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Immunoglobulin-G4-related disease (IgG4-RD) is a distinct systemic autoimmune-mediated disease manifesting as chronic inflammation and tissue fibrosis. Since the role of DNA methylation in the pathogenesis of IgG4-RD is still unclear, we conduct this study to investigate epigenetic modifications in IgG4-RD. METHODS A genome-wide DNA methylation study was conducted with B cells, CD4+ T cells, and salivary gland tissues from IgG4-RD patients and matched controls by using the Illumina HumanMethylation 850K BeadChip. We further performed pyrosequencing and immunohistochemistry assays to validate the methylation status of some targets of interest. RESULTS We identified differentially methylated CpG sites including 44 hypomethylated and 166 hypermethylated differentially methylated probes (DMPs) in B cells and 260 hypomethylated and 112 hypermethylated DMPs in CD4+ T cells from 10 IgG4-RD patients compared with 10 healthy controls. We also identified 36945 hypomethylated and 78380 hypermethylated DMPs in salivary gland tissues of 4 IgG4-RD patients compared with 4 controls. DPM2 (cg21181453), IQCK (cg10266221), and ABCC13 (cg05699681, cg04985582) were hypermethylated and MBP (cg18455083) was hypomethylated in B cells, CD4+ T cells, and salivary gland tissues of IgG4-RD patients. We also observed the hypomethylated HLA-DQB2 in CD4+ T cells from IgG4-RD patients. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis of DMPs in salivary gland tissues of IgG4-RD patients revealed enrichment of pathways involved in the regulation of immune cell responses and fibrosis. CONCLUSION This is the first DNA methylation study in peripheral B cells, CD4+ T cells, and salivary gland tissues from IgG4-RD patients. Our findings highlighted the role of epigenetic modification of DNA methylation and identified several genes and pathways possibly involved in IgG4-RD pathogenesis.
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Rasking L, Roelens C, Sprangers B, Thienpont B, Nawrot TS, De Vusser K. Lupus, DNA Methylation, and Air Pollution: A Malicious Triad. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:15050. [PMID: 36429769 PMCID: PMC9690025 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192215050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2022] [Revised: 11/10/2022] [Accepted: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The pathogenesis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) remains elusive to this day; however, genetic, epigenetic, and environmental factors have been implicated to be involved in disease pathogenesis. Recently, it was demonstrated that in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients, interferon-regulated genes are hypomethylated in naïve CD4+ T cells, CD19+ B lymphocytes, and CD14+ monocytes. This suggests that interferon-regulated genes may have been epigenetically poised in SLE patients for rapid expression upon stimulation by different environmental factors. Additionally, environmental studies have identified DNA (hypo)methylation changes as a potential mechanism of environmentally induced health effects in utero, during childhood and in adults. Finally, epidemiologic studies have firmly established air pollution as a crucial SLE risk factor, as studies showed an association between fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and traditional SLE biomarkers related to disease flare, hospital admissions, and an increased SLEDAI score. In this review, the relationship between aberrant epigenetic regulation, the environment, and the development of SLE will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leen Rasking
- Centre for Environmental Sciences, Hasselt University, 3590 Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Céline Roelens
- Depatment of Nephrology and Kidney Transplantation, University Hospital Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Ben Sprangers
- Depatment of Nephrology and Kidney Transplantation, University Hospital Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Leuven University, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Bernard Thienpont
- Department of Human Genetics, Leuven University, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Tim S. Nawrot
- Centre for Environmental Sciences, Hasselt University, 3590 Diepenbeek, Belgium
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Environment and Health Unit, Leuven University, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Katrien De Vusser
- Depatment of Nephrology and Kidney Transplantation, University Hospital Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Leuven University, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
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Epigenetic regulation of B cells and its role in autoimmune pathogenesis. Cell Mol Immunol 2022; 19:1215-1234. [PMID: 36220996 PMCID: PMC9622816 DOI: 10.1038/s41423-022-00933-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2022] [Accepted: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
B cells play a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases. Although previous studies have shown many genetic polymorphisms associated with B-cell activation in patients with various autoimmune disorders, progress in epigenetic research has revealed new mechanisms leading to B-cell hyperactivation. Epigenetic mechanisms, including those involving histone modifications, DNA methylation, and noncoding RNAs, regulate B-cell responses, and their dysregulation can contribute to the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases. Patients with autoimmune diseases show epigenetic alterations that lead to the initiation and perpetuation of autoimmune inflammation. Moreover, many clinical and animal model studies have shown the promising potential of epigenetic therapies for patients. In this review, we present an up-to-date overview of epigenetic mechanisms with a focus on their roles in regulating functional B-cell subsets. Furthermore, we discuss epigenetic dysregulation in B cells and highlight its contribution to the development of autoimmune diseases. Based on clinical and preclinical evidence, we discuss novel epigenetic biomarkers and therapies for patients with autoimmune disorders.
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Zhang R, Chang C, Jin Y, Xu L, Jiang P, Wei K, Xu L, Guo S, Sun S, He D. Identification of DNA methylation-regulated differentially expressed genes in RA by integrated analysis of DNA methylation and RNA-Seq data. J Transl Med 2022; 20:481. [PMID: 36273177 PMCID: PMC9588210 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-022-03664-5] [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: 05/05/2022] [Accepted: 09/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To identify novel DNA methylation-regulated differentially expressed genes (MeDEGs) in RA by integrated analysis of DNA methylation and RNA-Seq data. METHODS The transcription and DNA methylation profiles of 9 RA and 15 OA synovial tissue were generated by RNA-Seq and Illumina 850K DNA methylation BeadChip. Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) and Weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) were used to analyze methylation-regulated expressed genes by R software. The differentially expressed genes (DEGs), differentially methylated probes (DMPs), differentially methylated genes (DMGs) were analyzed by DESeq and ChAMP R package. The functional correlation of MeDEGs was analyzed by Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG). The protein-protein interaction (PPI) network of MeDEGs was constructed by STRING and Reactome FI Cytoscape Plugin. Correlation analysis between methylation level and mRNA expression was conducted with R software. RESULTS A total of 17,736 genes, 25,578 methylated genes and 755,852 methylation probes were detected. A total of 16,421 methylation-regulated expressed genes were obtained. The GSEA showed that these genes are associated with activation of immune response, adaptive immune response, Inflammatory response in C5 (ontology gene sets). For KEGG analysis, these genes are associated with rheumatoid arthritis, NF-kappa B signaling pathway, T cell receptor signaling pathway. The WGCNA showed that the turquoise module exhibited the strongest correlation with RA (R = 0.78, P = 1.27 × 10- 05), 660 genes were screened in the turquoise module. A total of 707 MeDEGs were obtained. GO analysis showed that MeDEGs were enriched in signal transduction, cell adhesion for BP, enriched in plasma membrane, integral component of membrane for CC, and enriched in identical protein binding, calcium ion binding for MF. The KEGG pathway analysis showed that the MeDEGs were enriched in calcium signaling pathway, T cell receptor signaling pathway, NF-kappa B signaling pathway, Rheumatoid arthritis. The PPI network containing 706 nodes and 882 edges, and the enrichment p value < 1.0 × 10- 16. With Cytoscape, based on the range of more than 10 genes, a total of 8 modules were screened out. Spearman correlation analysis showed RGS1(cg10718027), RGS1(cg02586212), RGS1(cg10861751) were significantly correlated with RA. CONCLUSIONS RGS1 can be used as novel methylated biomarkers for RA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Runrun Zhang
- Department of Rheumatology, Shanghai Guanghua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Department of Rheumatology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shandong, University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Cen Chang
- Department of Rheumatology, Shanghai Guanghua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Arthritis Institute of Integrated Traditional and Western Medicine, Shanghai Chinese Medicine Research Institute, Shanghai, China
| | - Yehua Jin
- Department of Rheumatology, Shanghai Guanghua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - LingXia Xu
- Department of Rheumatology, Shanghai Guanghua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Ping Jiang
- Department of Rheumatology, Shanghai Guanghua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Kai Wei
- Department of Rheumatology, Shanghai Guanghua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Linshuai Xu
- Department of Rheumatology, Shanghai Guanghua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Shicheng Guo
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA.
| | - Songtao Sun
- Department of Orthopaedics, Shanghai Guanghua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Dongyi He
- Department of Rheumatology, Shanghai Guanghua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China. .,Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China. .,Arthritis Institute of Integrated Traditional and Western Medicine, Shanghai Chinese Medicine Research Institute, Shanghai, China.
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11
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Lee Y, Riskedal E, Kalleberg KT, Istre M, Lind A, Lund-Johansen F, Reiakvam O, Søraas AVL, Harris JR, Dahl JA, Hadley CL, Jugessur A. EWAS of post-COVID-19 patients shows methylation differences in the immune-response associated gene, IFI44L, three months after COVID-19 infection. Sci Rep 2022; 12:11478. [PMID: 35798818 PMCID: PMC9261254 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-15467-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2021] [Accepted: 06/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Although substantial progress has been made in managing COVID-19, it is still difficult to predict a patient’s prognosis. We explored the epigenetic signatures of COVID-19 in peripheral blood using data from an ongoing prospective observational study of COVID-19 called the Norwegian Corona Cohort Study. A series of EWASs were performed to compare the DNA methylation profiles between COVID-19 cases and controls three months post-infection. We also investigated differences associated with severity and long-COVID. Three CpGs—cg22399236, cg03607951, and cg09829636—were significantly hypomethylated (FDR < 0.05) in COVID-19 positive individuals. cg03607951 is located in IFI44L which is involved in innate response to viral infection and several systemic autoimmune diseases. cg09829636 is located in ANKRD9, a gene implicated in a wide variety of cellular processes, including the degradation of IMPDH2. The link between ANKRD9 and IMPDH2 is striking given that IMPDHs are considered therapeutic targets for COVID-19. Furthermore, gene ontology analyses revealed pathways involved in response to viruses. The lack of significant differences associated with severity and long-COVID may be real or reflect limitations in sample size. Our findings support the involvement of interferon responsive genes in the pathophysiology of COVID-19 and indicate a possible link to systemic autoimmune diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunsung Lee
- Centre for Fertility and Health, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Skøyen, P.O. box 222, 0213, Oslo, Norway
| | | | | | - Mette Istre
- Department of Microbiology, Oslo University Hospital Rikshospitalet, 0372, Oslo, Norway
| | - Andreas Lind
- Department of Microbiology, Oslo University Hospital Ullevaal, 0372, Oslo, Norway
| | | | - Olaug Reiakvam
- Department of Microbiology, Oslo University Hospital Rikshospitalet, 0372, Oslo, Norway
| | - Arne V L Søraas
- Department of Microbiology, Oslo University Hospital Rikshospitalet, 0372, Oslo, Norway
| | - Jennifer R Harris
- Centre for Fertility and Health, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Skøyen, P.O. box 222, 0213, Oslo, Norway
| | - John Arne Dahl
- Department of Microbiology, Oslo University Hospital Rikshospitalet, 0372, Oslo, Norway
| | | | - Astanand Jugessur
- Centre for Fertility and Health, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Skøyen, P.O. box 222, 0213, Oslo, Norway.,Department of Global Public Health and Primary Care, University of Bergen, P.O. box 7804, 5020, Bergen, Norway
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12
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Scofield RH, Lewis VM, Cavitt J, Kurien BT, Assassi S, Martin J, Gorlova O, Gregersen P, Lee A, Rider LG, O'Hanlon T, Rothwell S, Lilleker J, Kochi Y, Terao C, Igoe A, Stevens W, Sahhar J, Roddy J, Rischmueller M, Lester S, Proudman S, Chen S, Brown MA, Mayes MD, Lamb JA, Miller FW. 47XXY and 47XXX in Scleroderma and Myositis. ACR Open Rheumatol 2022; 4:528-533. [PMID: 35352506 PMCID: PMC9190224 DOI: 10.1002/acr2.11413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2021] [Revised: 01/04/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective We undertook this study to examine the X chromosome complement in participants with systemic sclerosis (SSc) as well as idiopathic inflammatory myopathies. Methods The participants met classification criteria for the diseases. All participants underwent single‐nucleotide polymorphism typing. We examined X and Y single‐nucleotide polymorphism heterogeneity to determine the number of X chromosomes. For statistical comparisons, we used χ2 analyses with calculation of 95% confidence intervals. Results Three of seventy men with SSc had 47,XXY (P = 0.0001 compared with control men). Among the 435 women with SSc, none had 47,XXX. Among 709 men with polymyositis or dermatomyositis (PM/DM), seven had 47,XXY (P = 0.0016), whereas among the 1783 women with PM/DM, two had 47,XXX. Of 147 men with inclusion body myositis (IBM), six had 47,XXY, and 1 of the 114 women with IBM had 47,XXX. For each of these myositis disease groups, the excess 47,XXY and/or 47,XXX was significantly higher compared with in controls as well as the known birth rate of Klinefelter syndrome or 47,XXX. Conclusion Klinefelter syndrome (47,XXY) is associated with SSc and idiopathic inflammatory myopathies, similar to other autoimmune diseases with type 1 interferon pathogenesis, namely, systemic lupus erythematosus and Sjögren syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Hal Scofield
- Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, College of Medicine, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, and Oklahoma City US Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Oklahoma City
| | - Valerie M Lewis
- Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, College of Medicine, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, and Oklahoma City US Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Oklahoma City
| | - Joshua Cavitt
- Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, College of Medicine, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, and Oklahoma City US Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Oklahoma City
| | - Biji T Kurien
- Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, College of Medicine, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, and Oklahoma City US Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Oklahoma City
| | - Shervin Assassi
- University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston McGovern Medical School, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Javier Martin
- Instituto de Parasitología y Biomedicina López-Neyra, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, PTS, Granada, Spain
| | - Olga Gorlova
- Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College and Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, New Hampshire, USA
| | - Peter Gregersen
- Robert S. Boas Center for Genomics and Human Genetics, Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Manhasset, New York, USA
| | - Annette Lee
- Robert S. Boas Center for Genomics and Human Genetics, Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Manhasset, New York, USA
| | - Lisa G Rider
- National Institute of Environmental Health Science, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Terrance O'Hanlon
- National Institute of Environmental Health Science, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | | | - James Lilleker
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK, and Salford Royal National Health Service Foundation Trust, Salford, UK
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- RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Sciences, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Yuta Kochi
- Tokyo, Japan, and RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Chikacshi Terao
- RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Sciences, Yokohama, Japan, and Shizuoka General Hospital and School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Shizuoka, Shizuoka, Japan
| | - Ann Igoe
- Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Oklahoma City
| | - Wendy Stevens
- St. Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Joanne Sahhar
- Monash Medical Centre, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Janet Roddy
- Fiona Stanley Hospital, Murdoch, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Maureen Rischmueller
- The Queen Elizabeth Hospital and University of Adelaide, Woodville, South Australia, Australia
| | - Sue Lester
- The Queen Elizabeth Hospital and University of Adelaide, Woodville, South Australia, Australia
| | | | - Sixia Chen
- College of Public Health, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City
| | - Matthew A Brown
- Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Maureen D Mayes
- University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston McGovern Medical School, Houston, Texas, USA
| | | | - Frederick W Miller
- National Institute of Environmental Health Science, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
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13
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Chang C, Xu L, Zhang R, Jin Y, Jiang P, Wei K, Xu L, Shi Y, Zhao J, Xiong M, Guo S, He D. MicroRNA-Mediated Epigenetic Regulation of Rheumatoid Arthritis Susceptibility and Pathogenesis. Front Immunol 2022; 13:838884. [PMID: 35401568 PMCID: PMC8987113 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.838884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2021] [Accepted: 03/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play crucial roles in regulating the transcriptome and development of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Currently, a comprehensive map illustrating how miRNAs regulate transcripts, pathways, immune system differentiation, and their interactions with terminal cells such as fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLS), immune-cells, osteoblasts, and osteoclasts are still laking. In this review, we summarize the roles of miRNAs in the susceptibility, pathogenesis, diagnosis, therapeutic intervention, and prognosis of RA. Numerous miRNAs are abnormally expressed in cells involved in RA and regulate target genes and pathways, including NF-κB, Fas-FasL, JAK-STAT, and mTOR pathways. We outline how functional genetic variants of miR-499 and miR-146a partly explain susceptibility to RA. By regulating gene expression, miRNAs affect T cell differentiation into diverse cell types, including Th17 and Treg cells, thus constituting promising gene therapy targets to modulate the immune system in RA. We summarize the diagnostic and prognostic potential of blood-circulating and cell-free miRNAs, highlighting the opportunity to combine these miRNAs with antibodies to cyclic citrullinated peptide (ACCP) to allow accurate diagnosis and prognosis, particularly for seronegative patients. Furthermore, we review the evidence implicating miRNAs as promising biomarkers of efficiency and response of, and resistance to, disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs and immunotherapy. Finally, we discuss the autotherapeutic effect of miRNA intervention as a step toward the development of miRNA-based anti-RA drugs. Collectively, the current evidence supports miRNAs as interesting targets to better understand the pathogenetic mechanisms of RA and design more efficient therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cen Chang
- Guanghua Clinical Medical College, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Department of Rheumatology, Guanghua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Lingxia Xu
- Guanghua Clinical Medical College, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Department of Rheumatology, Guanghua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Runrun Zhang
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Yehua Jin
- Guanghua Clinical Medical College, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Department of Rheumatology, Guanghua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Ping Jiang
- Guanghua Clinical Medical College, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Department of Rheumatology, Guanghua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Kai Wei
- Guanghua Clinical Medical College, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Department of Rheumatology, Guanghua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Linshuai Xu
- Guanghua Clinical Medical College, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Department of Rheumatology, Guanghua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yiming Shi
- Guanghua Clinical Medical College, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Department of Rheumatology, Guanghua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jianan Zhao
- Guanghua Clinical Medical College, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Department of Rheumatology, Guanghua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Momiao Xiong
- Department of Biostatistics and Data Science, School of Public Health, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Shicheng Guo
- Center for Precision Medicine Research, Marshfield Clinic Research Institute, Marshfield, WI, United States
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
- *Correspondence: Shicheng Guo, ; Dongyi He,
| | - Dongyi He
- Guanghua Clinical Medical College, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Department of Rheumatology, Guanghua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Arthritis Institute of Integrated Traditional and Western Medicine, Shanghai Chinese Medicine Research Institute, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Shicheng Guo, ; Dongyi He,
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14
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Fernandez-Ruiz R, Niewold TB. Type I Interferons in Autoimmunity. J Invest Dermatol 2022; 142:793-803. [PMID: 35016780 PMCID: PMC8860872 DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2021.11.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2021] [Revised: 11/08/2021] [Accepted: 11/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Dysregulated IFN-1 responses play crucial roles in the development of multiple forms of autoimmunity. Many patients with lupus, systemic sclerosis, Sjogren's syndrome, and dermatomyositis demonstrate enhanced IFN-1 signaling. IFN-1 excess is associated with disease severity and autoantibodies and could potentially predict response to newer therapies targeting IFN-1 pathways. In this review, we provide an overview of the signaling pathway and immune functions of IFN-1s in health and disease. We also review the systemic autoimmune diseases classically associated with IFN-1 upregulation and current therapeutic strategies targeting the IFN-1 system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruth Fernandez-Ruiz
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Timothy B Niewold
- Judith & Stewart Colton Center for Autoimmunity, Department of Medicine Research, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA.
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15
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Abstract
Significance: Epigenetic dysregulation plays an important role in the pathogenesis and development of autoimmune diseases. Oxidative stress is associated with autoimmunity and is also known to alter epigenetic mechanisms. Understanding the interplay between oxidative stress and epigenetics will provide insights into the role of environmental triggers in the development of autoimmunity in genetically susceptible individuals. Recent Advances: Abnormal DNA and histone methylation patterns in genes and pathways involved in interferon and tumor necrosis factor signaling, cellular survival, proliferation, metabolism, organ development, and autoantibody production have been described in autoimmunity. Inhibitors of DNA and histone methyltransferases showed potential therapeutic effects in animal models of autoimmune diseases. Oxidative stress can regulate epigenetic mechanisms via effects on DNA damage repair mechanisms, cellular metabolism and the local redox environment, and redox-sensitive transcription factors and pathways. Critical Issues: Studies looking into oxidative stress and epigenetics in autoimmunity are relatively limited. The number of available longitudinal studies to explore the role of DNA methylation in the development of autoimmune diseases is small. Future Directions: Exploring the relationship between oxidative stress and epigenetics in autoimmunity will provide clues for potential preventative measures and treatment strategies. Inception cohorts with longitudinal follow-up would help to evaluate epigenetic marks as potential biomarkers for disease development, progression, and treatment response in autoimmunity. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 36, 423-440.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoqing Zheng
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Amr H Sawalha
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA.,Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA.,Lupus Center of Excellence, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA.,Department of Immunology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
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16
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Yu J, Tang R, Ding K. Epigenetic Modifications in the Pathogenesis of Systemic Sclerosis. Int J Gen Med 2022; 15:3155-3166. [PMID: 35342304 PMCID: PMC8942200 DOI: 10.2147/ijgm.s356877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2022] [Accepted: 03/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis is a rare chronic autoimmune disease, which mainly manifests as immune disorders, vascular damage, and progressive fibrosis. The etiology of SSc is complex and involves multiple factors. Both genetic and environmental factors are involved in its pathogenesis. As one of the molecular mechanisms of environmental factors, epigenetic regulation plays an important role in the occurrence and development of systemic sclerosis, which involves DNA methylation, histone modification and non-coding RNA regulation. This review summarizes research advances in epigenetics, including exosomes, lncRNA, and mentions possible biomarkers and therapeutic targets among them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiangfan Yu
- Department of Dermatology, Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, 410011, People’s Republic of China
| | - Rui Tang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, 410011, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ke Ding
- Department of Urology, Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, 410008, People’s Republic of China
- Correspondence: Ke Ding, Department of Urology, Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, 410008, People’s Republic of China, Email
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17
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Abstract
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an inflammatory autoimmune disease involving symmetric joints and is generally characterized by persistent pain, tenderness, and destruction of joints. The vast majority of RA patients produce autoantibodies, and immune cell involvement in disease development is well recognized, as is the contribution of other types of cells in synovial tissue, like fibroblasts. It is known that there are major genetic associations with the HLA locus, while multiple non-HLA genetic variants display relatively low risk of RA. Both HLA and non-HLA associations suggest that the profiles of genetic associations for autoantibody-positive vs. autoantibody-negative RA are different. Several alleles of HLA-DRB1 are associated with high risk for autoantibody-positive RA, with the strongest risk characterized by valine at position 11 of the protein sequence (HLA-DRB1*04 and *10 alleles). There is a strong protective effect for the risk of autoantibody-positive RA associated with HLA-DRB1*13 alleles. Although major genetic associations have been known for several years, understanding of the specific mechanisms in the development of increased risk of RA for these variations is work in progress. Current studies focus on the binding of immune receptors involved in recognition of putative peptides in activation of T cells, as well as investigation of cell signaling mechanisms. At least a part of RA risk could be explained by gene-gene and gene-environment interactions. There are currently more than 150 candidate loci with polymorphisms that associate with RA, mainly related to seropositive disease, and new discoveries are anticipated in the future from investigation of diverse human populations. This new research will help create a strong foundation for the continuing process of integrating genetic, epigenetic, transcriptomic, and proteomic data in studies of RA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonid Padyukov
- Department of Medicine Solna, Division of Rheumatology, Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.
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18
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Salesi M, Dehabadi MH, Salehi R, Salehi A, Pakzad B. Differentially methylation of IFI44L gene promoter in Iranian patients with systemic lupus erythematosus and rheumatoid arthritis. Mol Biol Rep 2022; 49:3065-3072. [DOI: 10.1007/s11033-022-07134-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2021] [Accepted: 01/10/2022] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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19
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Epigenome association study for DNA methylation biomarkers in buccal and monocyte cells for female rheumatoid arthritis. Sci Rep 2021; 11:23789. [PMID: 34893669 PMCID: PMC8664902 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-03170-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2021] [Accepted: 11/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Genetics (i.e., mutations) has been assumed to be the major factor in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) etiology, but accounts for a minority of the variance in disease risk for RA. In contrast to genetics, the environment can have dramatic impacts on epigenetics that associate with disease etiology. The current study used buccal cells and purified blood monocytes from two different clinical cohorts involving Caucasian or African American female populations with or without arthritis. The differential DNA methylation regions (DMRs) between the control and RA populations were identified with an epigenome-wide association study. The DMRs (i.e., epimutations) identified in the buccal cells and monocytes were found to be distinct. The DMR associated genes were identified and many have previously been shown to be associated with arthritis. Observations demonstrate DNA methylation epimutation RA biomarkers are cell type specific and similar findings were observed with the two racial background populations. Rheumatoid arthritis susceptibility epigenetic diagnosis appears feasible and may improve the clinical management of RA and allowpreventative medicine considerations.
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20
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Shen CY, Lu CH, Wu CH, Li KJ, Kuo YM, Hsieh SC, Yu CL. Molecular Basis of Accelerated Aging with Immune Dysfunction-Mediated Inflammation (Inflamm-Aging) in Patients with Systemic Sclerosis. Cells 2021; 10:cells10123402. [PMID: 34943909 PMCID: PMC8699891 DOI: 10.3390/cells10123402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2021] [Revised: 11/17/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a chronic connective tissue disorder characterized by immune dysregulation, chronic inflammation, vascular endothelial cell dysfunction, and progressive tissue fibrosis of the skin and internal organs. Moreover, increased cancer incidence and accelerated aging are also found. The increased cancer incidence is believed to be a result of chromosome instability. Accelerated cellular senescence has been confirmed by the shortening of telomere length due to increased DNA breakage, abnormal DNA repair response, and telomerase deficiency mediated by enhanced oxidative/nitrative stresses. The immune dysfunctions of SSc patients are manifested by excessive production of proinflammatory cytokines IL-1, IL-6, IL-17, IFN-α, and TNF-α, which can elicit potent tissue inflammation followed by tissue fibrosis. Furthermore, a number of autoantibodies including anti-topoisomerase 1 (anti-TOPO-1), anti-centromere (ACA or anti-CENP-B), anti-RNA polymerase enzyme (anti-RNAP III), anti-ribonuclear proteins (anti-U1, U2, and U11/U12 RNP), anti-nucleolar antigens (anti-Th/T0, anti-NOR90, anti-Ku, anti-RuvBL1/2, and anti-PM/Scl), and anti-telomere-associated proteins were also found. Based on these data, inflamm-aging caused by immune dysfunction-mediated inflammation exists in patients with SSc. Hence, increased cellular senescence is elicited by the interactions among excessive oxidative stress, pro-inflammatory cytokines, and autoantibodies. In the present review, we will discuss in detail the molecular basis of chromosome instability, increased oxidative stress, and functional adaptation by deranged immunome, which are related to inflamm-aging in patients with SSc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chieh-Yu Shen
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei 10002, Taiwan; (C.-Y.S.); (C.-H.L.); (C.-H.W.); (K.-J.L.); (Y.-M.K.)
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei 10002, Taiwan
| | - Cheng-Hsun Lu
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei 10002, Taiwan; (C.-Y.S.); (C.-H.L.); (C.-H.W.); (K.-J.L.); (Y.-M.K.)
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei 10002, Taiwan
| | - Cheng-Han Wu
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei 10002, Taiwan; (C.-Y.S.); (C.-H.L.); (C.-H.W.); (K.-J.L.); (Y.-M.K.)
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei 10002, Taiwan
| | - Ko-Jen Li
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei 10002, Taiwan; (C.-Y.S.); (C.-H.L.); (C.-H.W.); (K.-J.L.); (Y.-M.K.)
| | - Yu-Min Kuo
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei 10002, Taiwan; (C.-Y.S.); (C.-H.L.); (C.-H.W.); (K.-J.L.); (Y.-M.K.)
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei 10002, Taiwan
| | - Song-Chou Hsieh
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei 10002, Taiwan; (C.-Y.S.); (C.-H.L.); (C.-H.W.); (K.-J.L.); (Y.-M.K.)
- Correspondence: (S.-C.H.); (C.-L.Y.); Tel.: +886-2-23123456 (S.-C.H. & C.-L.Y.)
| | - Chia-Li Yu
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei 10002, Taiwan; (C.-Y.S.); (C.-H.L.); (C.-H.W.); (K.-J.L.); (Y.-M.K.)
- Correspondence: (S.-C.H.); (C.-L.Y.); Tel.: +886-2-23123456 (S.-C.H. & C.-L.Y.)
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21
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Contribution of Dysregulated DNA Methylation to Autoimmunity. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222111892. [PMID: 34769338 PMCID: PMC8584328 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222111892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2021] [Revised: 10/22/2021] [Accepted: 10/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Epigenetic mechanisms, such as DNA methylation, histone modifications, and non-coding RNAs are known regulators of gene expression and genomic stability in cell growth, development, and differentiation. Because epigenetic mechanisms can regulate several immune system elements, epigenetic alterations have been found in several autoimmune diseases. The purpose of this review is to discuss the epigenetic modifications, mainly DNA methylation, involved in autoimmune diseases in which T cells play a significant role. For example, Rheumatoid Arthritis and Systemic Lupus Erythematosus display differential gene methylation, mostly hypomethylated 5′-C-phosphate-G-3′ (CpG) sites that may associate with disease activity. However, a clear association between DNA methylation, gene expression, and disease pathogenesis must be demonstrated. A better understanding of the impact of epigenetic modifications on the onset of autoimmunity will contribute to the design of novel therapeutic approaches for these diseases.
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22
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Kerachian MA, Azghandi M, Mozaffari-Jovin S, Thierry AR. Guidelines for pre-analytical conditions for assessing the methylation of circulating cell-free DNA. Clin Epigenetics 2021; 13:193. [PMID: 34663458 PMCID: PMC8525023 DOI: 10.1186/s13148-021-01182-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2021] [Accepted: 10/04/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Methylation analysis of circulating cell-free DNA (cirDNA), as a liquid biopsy, has a significant potential to advance the detection, prognosis, and treatment of cancer, as well as many genetic disorders. The role of epigenetics in disease development has been reported in several hereditary disorders, and epigenetic modifications are regarded as one of the earliest and most significant genomic aberrations that arise during carcinogenesis. Liquid biopsy can be employed for the detection of these epigenetic biomarkers. It consists of isolation (pre-analytical) and detection (analytical) phases. The choice of pre-analytical variables comprising cirDNA extraction and bisulfite conversion methods can affect the identification of cirDNA methylation. Indeed, different techniques give a different return of cirDNA, which confirms the importance of pre-analytical procedures in clinical diagnostics. Although novel techniques have been developed for the simplification of methylation analysis, the process remains complex, as the steps of DNA extraction, bisulfite treatment, and methylation detection are each carried out separately. Recent studies have noted the absence of any standard method for the pre-analytical processing of methylated cirDNA. We have therefore conducted a comprehensive and systematic review of the important pre-analytical and analytical variables and the patient-related factors which form the basis of our guidelines for analyzing methylated cirDNA in liquid biopsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Amin Kerachian
- Medical Genetics Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
- Cancer Genetics Research Unit, Reza Radiotherapy and Oncology Center, Mashhad, Iran.
| | - Marjan Azghandi
- Cancer Genetics Research Unit, Reza Radiotherapy and Oncology Center, Mashhad, Iran
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Sina Mozaffari-Jovin
- Medical Genetics Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Alain R Thierry
- IRCM, Institute of Research in Oncology of Montpellier, Montpellier, France.
- INSERM, U1194, Montpellier, France.
- University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France.
- ICM, Regional Institute of Cancer of Montpellier, Montpellier, France.
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Yang M, Yi P, Jiang J, Zhao M, Wu H, Lu Q. Dysregulated translational factors and epigenetic regulations orchestrate in B cells contributing to autoimmune diseases. Int Rev Immunol 2021; 42:1-25. [PMID: 34445929 DOI: 10.1080/08830185.2021.1964498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
B cells play a crucial role in antigen presentation, antibody production and pro-/anti-inflammatory cytokine secretion in adaptive immunity. Several translational factors including transcription factors and cytokines participate in the regulation of B cell development, with the cooperation of epigenetic regulations. Autoimmune diseases are generally characterized with autoreactive B cells and high-level pathogenic autoantibodies. The success of B cell depletion therapy in mouse model and clinical trials has proven the role of B cells in pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases. The failure of B cell tolerance in immune checkpoints results in accumulated autoreactive naïve B (BN) cells with aberrant B cell receptor signaling and dysregulated B cell response, contributing to self-antibody-mediated autoimmune reaction. Dysregulation of translational factors and epigenetic alterations in B cells has been demonstrated to correlate with aberrant B cell compartment in autoimmune diseases, such as systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, primary Sjögren's syndrome, multiple sclerosis, diabetes mellitus and pemphigus. This review is intended to summarize the interaction of translational factors and epigenetic regulations that are involved with development and differentiation of B cells, and the mechanism of dysregulation in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming Yang
- Department of Dermatology, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Hunan Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenomics, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Ping Yi
- Department of Dermatology, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Hunan Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenomics, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Jiao Jiang
- Department of Dermatology, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Hunan Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenomics, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Ming Zhao
- Department of Dermatology, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Hunan Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenomics, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Haijing Wu
- Department of Dermatology, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Hunan Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenomics, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Qianjin Lu
- Department of Dermatology, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Hunan Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenomics, Changsha, Hunan, China.,Department of Dermatology, Institute of Dermatology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
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24
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Balnis J, Madrid A, Hogan KJ, Drake LA, Chieng HC, Tiwari A, Vincent CE, Chopra A, Vincent PA, Robek MD, Singer HA, Alisch RS, Jaitovich A. Blood DNA methylation and COVID-19 outcomes. Clin Epigenetics 2021; 13:118. [PMID: 34034806 PMCID: PMC8148415 DOI: 10.1186/s13148-021-01102-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 05/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There are no prior reports that compare differentially methylated regions of DNA in blood samples from COVID-19 patients to samples collected before the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic using a shared epigenotyping platform. We performed a genome-wide analysis of circulating blood DNA CpG methylation using the Infinium Human MethylationEPIC BeadChip on 124 blood samples from hospitalized COVID-19-positive and COVID-19-negative patients and compared these data with previously reported data from 39 healthy individuals collected before the pandemic. Prospective outcome measures such as COVID-19-GRAM risk-score and mortality were combined with methylation data. RESULTS Global mean methylation levels did not differ between COVID-19 patients and healthy pre-pandemic controls. About 75% of acute illness-associated differentially methylated regions were located near gene promoter regions and were hypo-methylated in comparison with healthy pre-pandemic controls. Gene ontology analyses revealed terms associated with the immune response to viral infections and leukocyte activation; and disease ontology analyses revealed a predominance of autoimmune disorders. Among COVID-19-positive patients, worse outcomes were associated with a prevailing hyper-methylated status. Recursive feature elimination identified 77 differentially methylated positions predictive of COVID-19 severity measured by the GRAM-risk score. CONCLUSION Our data contribute to the awareness that DNA methylation may influence the expression of genes that regulate COVID-19 progression and represent a targetable process in that setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Balnis
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Albany Medical Center, Albany, NY, USA
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Albany Medical College, Albany, NY, USA
| | - Andy Madrid
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Kirk J Hogan
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Lisa A Drake
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Albany Medical Center, Albany, NY, USA
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Albany Medical College, Albany, NY, USA
| | - Hau C Chieng
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Albany Medical Center, Albany, NY, USA
| | - Anupama Tiwari
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Albany Medical Center, Albany, NY, USA
| | - Catherine E Vincent
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Albany Medical Center, Albany, NY, USA
| | - Amit Chopra
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Albany Medical Center, Albany, NY, USA
| | - Peter A Vincent
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Albany Medical College, Albany, NY, USA
| | - Michael D Robek
- Department of Immunology and Microbial Disease, Albany Medical College, Albany, NY, USA
| | - Harold A Singer
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Albany Medical College, Albany, NY, USA
| | - Reid S Alisch
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA.
| | - Ariel Jaitovich
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Albany Medical Center, Albany, NY, USA.
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Albany Medical College, Albany, NY, USA.
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25
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Coit P, Schollaert KL, Mirizio EM, Torok KS, Sawalha AH. DNA methylation patterns in juvenile systemic sclerosis and localized scleroderma. Clin Immunol 2021; 228:108756. [PMID: 33992755 DOI: 10.1016/j.clim.2021.108756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2021] [Revised: 05/12/2021] [Accepted: 05/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Scleroderma refers to a group of chronic fibrotic immune-mediated diseases of unknown etiology. Characterizing epigenetic changes in childhood-onset scleroderma, systemic sclerosis or localized scleroderma, has not been previously performed. The aim of this study was to assess DNA methylation differences and similarities between juvenile systemic sclerosis (jSSc) and juvenile localized scleroderma (jLS) compared to matched healthy controls. Genome-wide DNA methylation changes in peripheral blood mononuclear cell samples were assessed using the MethylationEPIC array followed by bioinformatic analysis and limited functional assessment. We identified a total of 105 and 144 differentially methylated sites compared to healthy controls in jSSc and jLS, respectively. The majority of differentially methylated sites and genes represented were unique to either jSSc or jLS suggesting a different underlying epigenetic pattern in both diseases. Among shared differentially methylated genes, methylation levels in a CpG site in FGFR2 can distinguish between LS and healthy PBMCs with a high accuracy. Canonical pathway analysis revealed that inflammatory pathways were enriched in genes differentially methylated in jSSc, including STAT3, NF-κB, and IL-15 pathways. In contrast, the HIPPO signaling pathway was enriched in jLS. Our data also suggest a potential role for NOTCH3 in both jSSc and jLS, and revealed a number of transcription factors unique to each of the two diseases. In summary, our data revealed important insights into jSSc and jLS and suggest a potentially novel epigenetic diagnostic biomarker for LS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Coit
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Graduate Program in Immunology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Kaila L Schollaert
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Emily M Mirizio
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Kathryn S Torok
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Clinical and Translational Science Institute, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; University of Pittsburgh Systemic Sclerosis Center of Research Translation, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Amr H Sawalha
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Lupus Center of Excellence, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Department of Immunology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
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26
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Cai T, Qin Q, Song R, Zhao J, Wang G, Zhang J. Identifying and Validating Differentially Methylated Regions in Newly Diagnosed Patients with Graves' Disease. DNA Cell Biol 2021; 40:482-490. [PMID: 33617351 DOI: 10.1089/dna.2020.6215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
This research used combined bioinformatic methods to identify differentially methylated regions (DMRs) in newly diagnosed patients with Graves' disease (GD). Peripheral blood from six GD patients and controls was collected and methyl-DNA immunoprecipitation (MeDIP), and NimbleGen Human DNA Methylation 3 × 720 K promoter plus CpG island microarrays were further analyzed. DMRs were categorized into low-methylated genes and high-methylated genes, which were mapped into a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network constructed by a dataset. Then, six candidate genes were validated in an expanded population with 32 GD patients and 30 controls using bisulfite amplicon sequencing. Top 10 hub genes revealed by PPI analysis were CRHR1, CAMK2A, SERPINA1, RANBP9, ICAM1, ADRB2, KRTAP13-1, PTPRA, S100A2, and KPRP. Five CpG sites of CDKN2C (51436061), SERPINA1 (94856657), B3GNT2 (62422532 and 62422689), and IRS4 (107979477) were validated, having significantly different methylation levels between GD patients and controls. Based on gender stratification, nine significant CpG sites of CDKN2C (51436061), SERPINA1 (94855831), and B3GNT2 (62422301, 62422327, 62422356, 62422365, 62422374, 62422532, and 62422689) were detected between female GD patients and controls. The methylation level of 62422532 of B3GNT2 was significantly associated with levels of serum TGAb and TRAb. In addition, the methylation level of 62422689 of B3GNT2 showed significant correlation with the age of GD patients. In the analysis of prediction of transcription factor binding at specific CpG sites in B3GNT2 promoter region, paired box protein 5 (Pax-5) and CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein (C/EBP β) might be under the influence of methylation at CpG sites 62422365 and 62422532, respectively. CDKN2C, SERPINA1, IRS4, and especially B3GNT2 were potential aberrantly methylated genes related to GD. These findings might supply the latest information of DNA methylation in the GD disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiantian Cai
- Department of Endocrinology, Shanghai University of Medicine & Health Sciences Affiliated Zhoupu Hospital, Shanghai, China.,Department of Endocrinology and The First People's Hospital of Xianyang, Xianyang, People's Republic of China
| | - Qiu Qin
- Department of Endocrinology, Shanghai University of Medicine & Health Sciences Affiliated Zhoupu Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Ronghua Song
- Department of Endocrinology, Shanghai University of Medicine & Health Sciences Affiliated Zhoupu Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Jing Zhao
- Department of Endocrinology, Shanghai University of Medicine & Health Sciences Affiliated Zhoupu Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Guofei Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First People's Hospital of Xianyang, Xianyang, People's Republic of China
| | - Jinan Zhang
- Department of Endocrinology, Shanghai University of Medicine & Health Sciences Affiliated Zhoupu Hospital, Shanghai, China
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27
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Bacalao MA, Satterthwaite AB. Recent Advances in Lupus B Cell Biology: PI3K, IFNγ, and Chromatin. Front Immunol 2021; 11:615673. [PMID: 33519824 PMCID: PMC7841329 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.615673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2020] [Accepted: 11/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
In the autoimmune disease Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE), autoantibodies are formed that promote inflammation and tissue damage. There has been significant interest in understanding the B cell derangements involved in SLE pathogenesis. The past few years have been particularly fruitful in three domains: the role of PI3K signaling in loss of B cell tolerance, the role of IFNγ signaling in the development of autoimmunity, and the characterization of changes in chromatin accessibility in SLE B cells. The PI3K pathway coordinates various downstream signaling molecules involved in B cell development and activation. It is governed by the phosphatases PTEN and SHIP-1. Murine models lacking either of these phosphatases in B cells develop autoimmune disease and exhibit defects in B cell tolerance. Limited studies of human SLE B cells demonstrate reduced expression of PTEN or increased signaling events downstream of PI3K in some patients. IFNγ has long been known to be elevated in both SLE patients and mouse models of lupus. New data suggests that IFNγR expression on B cells is required to develop autoreactive germinal centers (GC) and autoantibodies in murine lupus. Furthermore, IFNγ promotes increased transcription of BCL6, IL-6 and T-bet in B cells, which also promote GC and autoantibody formation. IFNγ also induces epigenetic changes in human B cells. SLE B cells demonstrate significant epigenetic reprogramming, including enhanced chromatin accessibility at transcription factor motifs involved in B cell activation and plasma cell (PC) differentiation as well as alterations in DNA methylation and histone modifications. Histone deacetylase inhibitors limit disease development in murine lupus models, at least in part via their ability to prevent B cell class switching and differentiation into plasma cells. This review will discuss relevant discoveries of the past several years pertaining to these areas of SLE B cell biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria A. Bacalao
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States
| | - Anne B. Satterthwaite
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States
- Department of Immunology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States
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28
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Postal M, Vivaldo JF, Fernandez-Ruiz R, Paredes JL, Appenzeller S, Niewold TB. Type I interferon in the pathogenesis of systemic lupus erythematosus. Curr Opin Immunol 2020; 67:87-94. [PMID: 33246136 PMCID: PMC8054829 DOI: 10.1016/j.coi.2020.10.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2020] [Revised: 10/23/2020] [Accepted: 10/25/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Type I interferon (IFN) is a primary pathogenic factor in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Gain-of-function genetic variants in the type I IFN pathway have been associated with risk of disease. Common polygenic as well as rare monogenic influences on type I IFN have been demonstrated, supporting a complex genetic basis for high IFN in many SLE patients. Both SLE-associated autoantibodies and high type I IFN can be observed in the pre-disease state. Patients with SLE and evidence of high type I IFN have more active disease and a greater propensity to nephritis and other severe manifestations. Despite the well-established association between type I IFN and SLE, the specific triggers of type I IFN production, the mechanisms by which IFNs help perpetuate the cycle of autoreactive cells and autoantibody production are not completely clear. This review provides an updated overview of type I IFN in SLE pathogenesis, clinical manifestations, and current therapeutic strategies targeting this pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariana Postal
- Autoimmunity Lab, School of Medical Science, State University of Campinas, Campinas, SP, Brazil
| | - Jessica F Vivaldo
- Autoimmunity Lab, School of Medical Science, State University of Campinas, Campinas, SP, Brazil; Graduate Program of Child and Adolescent Health, School of Medical Science, State University of Campinas, Campinas, SP, Brazil
| | - Ruth Fernandez-Ruiz
- Colton Center for Autoimmunity, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jacqueline L Paredes
- Colton Center for Autoimmunity, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Simone Appenzeller
- Autoimmunity Lab, School of Medical Science, State University of Campinas, Campinas, SP, Brazil; Rheumatology Unit, Department of Medicine, School of Medical Science, State University of Campinas, Campinas, SP, Brazil
| | - Timothy B Niewold
- Colton Center for Autoimmunity, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA.
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29
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Li T, Ortiz-Fernández L, Andrés-León E, Ciudad L, Javierre BM, López-Isac E, Guillén-Del-Castillo A, Simeón-Aznar CP, Ballestar E, Martin J. Epigenomics and transcriptomics of systemic sclerosis CD4+ T cells reveal long-range dysregulation of key inflammatory pathways mediated by disease-associated susceptibility loci. Genome Med 2020; 12:81. [PMID: 32977850 PMCID: PMC7519528 DOI: 10.1186/s13073-020-00779-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2020] [Accepted: 09/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a genetically complex autoimmune disease mediated by the interplay between genetic and epigenetic factors in a multitude of immune cells, with CD4+ T lymphocytes as one of the principle drivers of pathogenesis. METHODS DNA samples exacted from CD4+ T cells of 48 SSc patients and 16 healthy controls were hybridized on MethylationEPIC BeadChip array. In parallel, gene expression was interrogated by hybridizing total RNA on Clariom™ S array. Downstream bioinformatics analyses were performed to identify correlating differentially methylated CpG positions (DMPs) and differentially expressed genes (DEGs), which were then confirmed utilizing previously published promoter capture Hi-C (PCHi-C) data. RESULTS We identified 9112 and 3929 DMPs and DEGs, respectively. These DMPs and DEGs are enriched in functional categories related to inflammation and T cell biology. Furthermore, correlation analysis identified 17,500 possible DMP-DEG interaction pairs within a window of 5 Mb, and utilizing PCHi-C data, we observed that 212 CD4+ T cell-specific pairs of DMP-DEG also formed part of three-dimensional promoter-enhancer networks, potentially involving CTCF. Finally, combining PCHi-C data with SSc GWAS data, we identified four important SSc-associated susceptibility loci, TNIP1 (rs3792783), GSDMB (rs9303277), IL12RB1 (rs2305743), and CSK (rs1378942), that could potentially interact with DMP-DEG pairs cg17239269-ANXA6, cg19458020-CCR7, cg10808810-JUND, and cg11062629-ULK3, respectively. CONCLUSION Our study unveils a potential link between genetic, epigenetic, and transcriptional deregulation in CD4+ T cells of SSc patients, providing a novel integrated view of molecular components driving SSc pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianlu Li
- Epigenetics and Immune Disease Group, Josep Carreras Research Institute (IJC), 08916, Badalona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Lourdes Ortiz-Fernández
- Instituto de Parasitología y Biomedicina López-Neyra, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (IPBLN-CSIC), Granada, Spain
| | - Eduardo Andrés-León
- Instituto de Parasitología y Biomedicina López-Neyra, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (IPBLN-CSIC), Granada, Spain
| | - Laura Ciudad
- Epigenetics and Immune Disease Group, Josep Carreras Research Institute (IJC), 08916, Badalona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Biola M Javierre
- 3D Chromatin Organization, Josep Carreras Research Institute (IJC), 08916, Badalona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Elena López-Isac
- Instituto de Parasitología y Biomedicina López-Neyra, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (IPBLN-CSIC), Granada, Spain
| | - Alfredo Guillén-Del-Castillo
- Unit of Systemic Autoimmunity Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Vall d'Hebron Hospital, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Carmen Pilar Simeón-Aznar
- Unit of Systemic Autoimmunity Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Vall d'Hebron Hospital, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Esteban Ballestar
- Epigenetics and Immune Disease Group, Josep Carreras Research Institute (IJC), 08916, Badalona, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Javier Martin
- Instituto de Parasitología y Biomedicina López-Neyra, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (IPBLN-CSIC), Granada, Spain.
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30
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Guo S, Xu L, Chang C, Zhang R, Jin Y, He D. Epigenetic Regulation Mediated by Methylation in the Pathogenesis and Precision Medicine of Rheumatoid Arthritis. Front Genet 2020; 11:811. [PMID: 32849810 PMCID: PMC7417338 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2020.00811] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2020] [Accepted: 07/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a complex disease triggered by the interaction between genetics and the environment, especially through the shared epitope (SE) and cell surface calreticulin (CSC) theory. However, the available evidence shows that genetic diversity and environmental exposure cannot explain all the clinical characteristics and heterogeneity of RA. In contrast, recent studies demonstrate that epigenetics play important roles in the pathogenesis of RA, especially DNA methylation and histone modification. DNA methylation and histone methylation are involved in innate and adaptive immune cell differentiation and migration, proliferation, apoptosis, and mesenchymal characteristics of fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLS). Epigenetic-mediated regulation of immune-related genes and inflammation pathways explains the dynamic expression network of RA. In this review, we summarize the comprehensive evidence to show that methylation of DNA and histones is significantly involved in the pathogenesis of RA and could be applied as a promising biomarker in the disease progression and drug-response prediction. We also explain the advantages and challenges of the current epigenetics research in RA. In summary, epigenetic modules provide a possible interface through which genetic and environmental risk factors connect to contribute to the susceptibility and pathogenesis of RA. Additionally, epigenetic regulators provide promising drug targets to develop novel therapeutic drugs for RA. Finally, DNA methylation and histone modifications could be important features for providing a better RA subtype identification to accelerate personalized treatment and precision medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shicheng Guo
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States.,Center for Precision Medicine Research, Marshfield Clinic Research Institute, Marshfield, WI, United States
| | - Lingxia Xu
- Department of Rheumatology, Guanghua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Institute of Arthritis Research in Integrative Medicine, Shanghai Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Cen Chang
- Department of Rheumatology, Guanghua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Institute of Arthritis Research in Integrative Medicine, Shanghai Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Runrun Zhang
- Department of Rheumatology, Guanghua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Institute of Arthritis Research in Integrative Medicine, Shanghai Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yehua Jin
- Department of Rheumatology, Guanghua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Institute of Arthritis Research in Integrative Medicine, Shanghai Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Dongyi He
- Department of Rheumatology, Guanghua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Institute of Arthritis Research in Integrative Medicine, Shanghai Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
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31
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Lodde V, Murgia G, Simula ER, Steri M, Floris M, Idda ML. Long Noncoding RNAs and Circular RNAs in Autoimmune Diseases. Biomolecules 2020; 10:E1044. [PMID: 32674342 PMCID: PMC7407480 DOI: 10.3390/biom10071044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2020] [Revised: 07/10/2020] [Accepted: 07/12/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Immune responses are essential for the clearance of pathogens and the repair of injured tissues; however, if these responses are not properly controlled, autoimmune diseases can occur. Autoimmune diseases (ADs) are a family of disorders characterized by the body's immune response being directed against its own tissues, with consequent chronic inflammation and tissue damage. Despite enormous efforts to identify new drug targets and develop new therapies to prevent and ameliorate AD symptoms, no definitive solutions are available today. Additionally, while substantial progress has been made in drug development for some ADs, most treatments only ameliorate symptoms and, in general, ADs are still incurable. Hundreds of genetic loci have been identified and associated with ADs by genome-wide association studies. However, the whole list of molecular factors that contribute to AD pathogenesis is still unknown. Noncoding (nc)RNAs, such as microRNAs, circular (circ)RNAs, and long noncoding (lnc)RNAs, regulate gene expression at different levels in various diseases, including ADs, and serve as potential drug targets as well as biomarkers for disease progression and response to therapy. In this review, we will focus on the potential roles and genetic regulation of ncRNA in four autoimmune diseases-systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, and type 1 diabetes mellitus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valeria Lodde
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Viale San Pietro 43/b, 07100 Sassari, Italy; (V.L.); (G.M.); (E.R.S.); (M.F.)
| | - Giampaolo Murgia
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Viale San Pietro 43/b, 07100 Sassari, Italy; (V.L.); (G.M.); (E.R.S.); (M.F.)
| | - Elena Rita Simula
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Viale San Pietro 43/b, 07100 Sassari, Italy; (V.L.); (G.M.); (E.R.S.); (M.F.)
| | - Maristella Steri
- Istituto di Ricerca Genetica e Biomedica, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, SS554 km 4,500, 09042 Monserrato-Cagliari, Italy;
| | - Matteo Floris
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Viale San Pietro 43/b, 07100 Sassari, Italy; (V.L.); (G.M.); (E.R.S.); (M.F.)
- Istituto di Ricerca Genetica e Biomedica, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, SS554 km 4,500, 09042 Monserrato-Cagliari, Italy;
| | - Maria Laura Idda
- Istituto di Ricerca Genetica e Biomedica, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Traversa La Crucca 3, 07100 Sassari, Italy
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Luo Y, Xiao R. The Epigenetic Regulation of Scleroderma and Its Clinical Application. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2020; 1253:375-403. [PMID: 32445102 DOI: 10.1007/978-981-15-3449-2_13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/11/2023]
Abstract
Scleroderma (systemic sclerosis; SSc) is a complex and highly heterogeneous multisystem rheumatic disease characterized by vascular abnormality, immunologic derangement, and excessive deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins. To date, the etiology of this life-threatening disorder remains not fully clear. More and more studies show epigenetic modifications play a vital role. The aberrant epigenetic status of certain molecules such as Fli-1, BMPRII, NRP1, CD70, CD40L, CD11A, FOXP3, KLF5, DKK1, SFRP1, and so on contributes to the pathogenesis of progressive vasculopathy, autoimmune dysfunction, and tissue fibrosis in SSc. Meanwhile, numerous miRNAs including miR-21, miR-29a, miR-196a, miR-202-3p, miR-150, miR-let-7a, and others are involved in the process. In addition, the abnormal epigenetic biomarker levels of CD11a, Foxp3, HDAC2, miR-30b, miR-142-3p, miR-150, miR-5196 in SSc are closely correlated with disease severity. In this chapter, we not only review new advancements on the epigenetic mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of SSc and potential epigenetic biomarkers, but also discuss the therapeutic potential of epigenetic targeting therapeutics such as DNA methylation inhibitors, histone acetylase inhibitors, and miRNA replacement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yangyang Luo
- Department of Dermatology, Hunan Children's Hospital, Changsha, China
| | - Rong Xiao
- Department of Dermatology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.
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The multifaceted functional role of DNA methylation in immune-mediated rheumatic diseases. Clin Rheumatol 2020; 40:459-476. [PMID: 32613397 DOI: 10.1007/s10067-020-05255-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2020] [Revised: 06/15/2020] [Accepted: 06/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Genomic predisposition cannot explain the onset of complex diseases, as well illustrated by the largely incomplete concordance among monozygotic twins. Epigenetic mechanisms, including DNA methylation, chromatin remodelling and non-coding RNA, are considered to be the link between environmental stimuli and disease onset on a permissive genetic background in autoimmune and chronic inflammatory diseases. The paradigmatic cases of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), systemic sclerosis (SSc), Sjogren's syndrome (SjS) and type-1 diabetes (T1D) share the loss of immunological tolerance to self-antigen influenced by several factors, with a largely incomplete role of individual genomic susceptibility. The most widely investigated epigenetic mechanism is DNA methylation which is associated with gene silencing and is due to the binding of methyl-CpG binding domain (MBD)-containing proteins, such as MECP2, to 5-methylcytosine (5mC). Indeed, a causal relationship occurs between DNA methylation and transcription factors occupancy and recruitment at specific genomic locus. In most cases, the results obtained in different studies are controversial in terms of DNA methylation comparison while fascinating evidence comes from the comparison of the epigenome in clinically discordant monozygotic twins. In this manuscript, we will review the mechanisms of epigenetics and DNA methylation changes in specific immune-mediated rheumatic diseases to highlight remaining unmet needs and to identify possible shared mechanisms beyond different tissue involvements with common therapeutic opportunities. Key Points • DNA methylation has a crucial role in regulating and tuning the immune system. • Evidences suggest that dysregulation of DNA methylation is pivotal in the context of immune-mediated rheumatic diseases. • DNA methylation dysregulation in FOXP3 and interferons-related genes is shared within several autoimmune diseases. • DNA methylation is an attractive marker for diagnosis and therapy.
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Eze IC, Jeong A, Schaffner E, Rezwan FI, Ghantous A, Foraster M, Vienneau D, Kronenberg F, Herceg Z, Vineis P, Brink M, Wunderli JM, Schindler C, Cajochen C, Röösli M, Holloway JW, Imboden M, Probst-Hensch N. Genome-Wide DNA Methylation in Peripheral Blood and Long-Term Exposure to Source-Specific Transportation Noise and Air Pollution: The SAPALDIA Study. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVES 2020; 128:67003. [PMID: 32484729 PMCID: PMC7263738 DOI: 10.1289/ehp6174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2019] [Revised: 04/27/2020] [Accepted: 04/30/2020] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Few epigenome-wide association studies (EWAS) on air pollutants exist, and none have been done on transportation noise exposures, which also contribute to environmental burden of disease. OBJECTIVE We performed mutually independent EWAS on transportation noise and air pollution exposures. METHODS We used data from two time points of the Swiss Cohort Study on Air Pollution and Lung and Heart Diseases in Adults (SAPALDIA) from 1,389 participants contributing 2,542 observations. We applied multiexposure linear mixed-effects regressions with participant-level random intercept to identify significant Cytosine-phosphate-Guanine (CpG) sites and differentially methylated regions (DMRs) in relation to 1-y average aircraft, railway, and road traffic day-evening-night noise (Lden); nitrogen dioxide (NO 2 ); and particulate matter (PM) with aerodynamic diameter < 2.5 μ m (PM 2.5 ). We performed candidate (CpG-based; cross-systemic phenotypes, combined into "allostatic load") and agnostic (DMR-based) pathway enrichment tests, and replicated previously reported air pollution EWAS signals. RESULTS We found no statistically significant CpGs at false discovery rate < 0.05 . However, 14, 48, 183, 8, and 71 DMRs independently associated with aircraft, railway, and road traffic Lden; NO 2 ; and PM 2.5 , respectively, with minimally overlapping signals. Transportation Lden and air pollutants tendentially associated with decreased and increased methylation, respectively. We observed significant enrichment of candidate DNA methylation related to C-reactive protein and body mass index (aircraft, road traffic Lden, and PM 2.5 ), renal function and "allostatic load" (all exposures). Agnostic functional networks related to cellular immunity, gene expression, cell growth/proliferation, cardiovascular, auditory, embryonic, and neurological systems development were enriched. We replicated increased methylation in cg08500171 (NO 2 ) and decreased methylation in cg17629796 (PM 2.5 ). CONCLUSIONS Mutually independent DNA methylation was associated with source-specific transportation noise and air pollution exposures, with distinct and shared enrichments for pathways related to inflammation, cellular development, and immune responses. These findings contribute in clarifying the pathways linking these exposures and age-related diseases but need further confirmation in the context of mediation analyses. https://doi.org/10.1289/EHP6174.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ikenna C Eze
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Ayoung Jeong
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Emmanuel Schaffner
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Faisal I Rezwan
- Human Development and Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
- School of Water, Energy and Environment, Cranfield University, Cranfield, UK
| | - Akram Ghantous
- Epigenetics Group, International Agency for Research on Cancer, Lyon, France
| | - Maria Foraster
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- ISGlobal, Barcelona Institute for Global Health, Barcelona, Spain
- University Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain
- CIBER Epidemiologia y Salud Publica, Madrid, Spain
- Blanquerna School of Health Science, Universitat Ramon Llull, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Danielle Vienneau
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Florian Kronenberg
- Institute of Genetic Epidemiology, Department of Genetics and Pharmacology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Zdenko Herceg
- Epigenetics Group, International Agency for Research on Cancer, Lyon, France
| | - Paolo Vineis
- MRC-PHE Centre for Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, UK
- Italian Institute for Genomic Medicine (IIGM), Turin, Italy
| | - Mark Brink
- Federal Office for the Environment, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Jean-Marc Wunderli
- Empa Laboratory for Acoustics/Noise Control, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Material Science and Technology, Dübendorf, Switzerland
| | - Christian Schindler
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Christian Cajochen
- Center for Chronobiology, Psychiatric Hospital of the University of Basel, and Transfaculty Research Platform Molecular and Cognitive Neurosciences (MCN), Basel, Switzerland
| | - Martin Röösli
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - John W Holloway
- Human Development and Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Medea Imboden
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Nicole Probst-Hensch
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
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Fioretto BS, Rosa I, Romano E, Wang Y, Guiducci S, Zhang G, Manetti M, Matucci-Cerinic M. The contribution of epigenetics to the pathogenesis and gender dimorphism of systemic sclerosis: a comprehensive overview. Ther Adv Musculoskelet Dis 2020; 12:1759720X20918456. [PMID: 32523636 PMCID: PMC7236401 DOI: 10.1177/1759720x20918456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2019] [Accepted: 03/15/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a life-threatening connective tissue disorder of unknown etiology characterized by widespread vascular injury and dysfunction, impaired angiogenesis, immune dysregulation and progressive fibrosis of the skin and internal organs. Over the past few years, a new trend of investigations is increasingly reporting aberrant epigenetic modifications in genes related to the pathogenesis of SSc, suggesting that, besides genetics, epigenetics may play a pivotal role in disease development and clinical manifestations. Like many other autoimmune diseases, SSc presents a striking female predominance, and even if the reason for this gender imbalance has yet to be completely understood, it appears that the X chromosome, which contains many gender and immune-related genes, could play a role in such gender-biased prevalence. Besides a short summary of the genetic background of SSc, in this review we provide a comprehensive overview of the most recent insights into the epigenetic modifications which underlie the pathophysiology of SSc. A particular focus is given to genetic variations in genes located on the X chromosome as well as to the main X-linked epigenetic modifications that can influence SSc susceptibility and clinical phenotype. On the basis of the most recent advances, there is realistic hope that integrating epigenetic data with genomic, transcriptomic, proteomic and metabolomic analyses may provide in the future a better picture of their functional implications in SSc, paving the right way for a better understanding of disease pathogenesis and the development of innovative therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bianca Saveria Fioretto
- Department of Experimental and Clinical
Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini
6, Florence, 50139, Italy
| | - Irene Rosa
- Department of Experimental and Clinical
Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, University of Florence and Scleroderma
Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Careggi (AOUC),Florence, Italy
Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Section of Anatomy and
Histology, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Eloisa Romano
- Department of Experimental and Clinical
Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, University of Florence and Scleroderma
Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Careggi (AOUC), Florence,
Italy
| | - Yukai Wang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology,
Shantou Central Hospital, Shantou, China
| | - Serena Guiducci
- Department of Experimental and Clinical
Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, University of Florence and Scleroderma
Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Careggi (AOUC), Florence,
Italy
| | - Guohong Zhang
- Department of Pathology, Shantou University
Medical College, Shantou, China
| | - Mirko Manetti
- Department of Experimental and Clinical
Medicine, Section of Anatomy and Histology, University of Florence,
Florence, Italy
| | - Marco Matucci-Cerinic
- Department of Experimental and Clinical
Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, University of Florence and Scleroderma
Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Careggi (AOUC), Florence,
Italy
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Zhang H, Zhang H, Gao D, Xie W, Geng Y, Zhang Z. Overlapping Sjogren's syndrome reduces the probability of reaching target in rheumatoid arthritis patients: a propensity score matched real-world cohort from 2009 to 2019. Arthritis Res Ther 2020; 22:100. [PMID: 32357906 PMCID: PMC7195774 DOI: 10.1186/s13075-020-02189-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2019] [Accepted: 04/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Overlapping Sjogren’s syndrome (SS) is not uncommon in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and considered as a probable detrimental factor of RA. But data on the impact of overlapping SS on RA therapeutic response is limited. Our current study aimed to identify the effect in a real-world cohort from 2009 to 2019. Methods The medical records of RA patients who visited the rheumatology clinic of our medical center from 2009 to 2019 were reviewed. Their composite disease activity scores at each follow-up point were collected. The therapeutic response between RA patients with SS (RA-SS) and without (RA-noSS) was compared. To correct confounders which may affect the therapeutic response, both propensity score matched and unmatched cohorts were analyzed by using the Cox proportional hazards model. Results Among the 1099 RA patients, 129 (11.7%) overlapped with SS were validated by positive anti-SSA or a minor salivary gland biopsy with histological changes suggestive of SS. After propensity score matching based on their baseline characteristics, 126 of 129 RA-SS and 126 of 970 RA-noSS patients were statistically extracted. Overlapping SS was associated with a 29%, 26%, 18%, and 22% lower probability of reaching remission defined by DAS28-ESR, DAS28-CRP, SDAI, and CDAI in RA patients, respectively. Similar decreased probability of reaching low disease activity was also observed. Although ESR was most significantly affected (HR 0.69, 95% CI 0.61–0.79), other component of composite RA disease activity score was also affected by overlapping SS. Stratification by age, RF/ACPA status, or baseline DAS28-CRP was not associated with change of results. Conclusions Overlapping SS is associated with lower probability of reaching remission or low disease activity in RA patients and should be regarded as one of the poor prognostic factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huijuan Zhang
- Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology Department, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, 100034, China
| | - Haoze Zhang
- Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology Department, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, 100034, China
| | - Dai Gao
- Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology Department, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, 100034, China
| | - Wenhui Xie
- Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology Department, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, 100034, China
| | - Yan Geng
- Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology Department, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, 100034, China
| | - Zhuoli Zhang
- Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology Department, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, 100034, China.
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Protecting the kidney in systemic lupus erythematosus: from diagnosis to therapy. Nat Rev Rheumatol 2020; 16:255-267. [PMID: 32203285 DOI: 10.1038/s41584-020-0401-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Lupus nephritis (LN) is a common manifestation of systemic lupus erythematosus that can lead to irreversible renal impairment. Although the prognosis of LN has improved substantially over the past 50 years, outcomes have plateaued in the USA in the past 20 years as immunosuppressive therapies have failed to reverse disease in more than half of treated patients. This failure might reflect disease complexity and heterogeneity, as well as social and economic barriers to health-care access that can delay intervention until after damage has already occurred. LN progression is still poorly understood and involves multiple cell types and both immune and non-immune mechanisms. Single-cell analysis of intrinsic renal cells and infiltrating cells from patients with LN is a new approach that will help to define the pathways of renal injury at a cellular level. Although many new immune-modulating therapies are being tested in the clinic, the development of therapies to improve regeneration of the injured kidney and to prevent fibrosis requires a better understanding of the mechanisms of LN progression. This mechanistic understanding, together with the development of clinical measures to evaluate risk and detect early disease and better access to expert health-care providers, should improve outcomes for patients with LN.
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Breitbach ME, Ramaker RC, Roberts K, Kimberly RP, Absher D. Population-Specific Patterns of Epigenetic Defects in the B Cell Lineage in Patients With Systemic Lupus Erythematosus. Arthritis Rheumatol 2019; 72:282-291. [PMID: 31430064 DOI: 10.1002/art.41083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2019] [Accepted: 08/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the stage of B cell development at which a systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)-associated DNA methylation signature originates in African American (AA) and European American (EA) subjects, and to assess whether epigenetic defects in B cell development patterns could be predictive of SLE status in individual and mixed immune cell populations. METHODS B cells from AA patients (n = 31) and EA patients (n = 49) with or without SLE were sorted using fluorescence-activated cell sorting into 5 B cell subsets. DNA methylation, measured at ~460,000 CpG sites, was interrogated in each subset. Enrichment analysis of transcription factor interaction at SLE-associated methylation sites was performed. A random forests algorithm was used to identify an epigenetic signature of SLE in the B cell subsets, which was then validated in an independent cohort of AA and EA patients and healthy controls. RESULTS Regression analysis across all B cell stages resulted in identification of 60 CpGs that reached genome-wide significance for SLE-associated methylation differences (P ≤ 1.07 × 10-7 ). Interrogation of ethnicity-specific CpGs associated with SLE revealed a hypomethylated pattern that was enriched for interferon (IFN)-regulated genes and binding of EBF1 in AA patients (each P < 0.001). AA patients with SLE could be distinguished from healthy controls when the predictive model developed with the transitional B cell subset was applied to other B cell subsets (mean receiver operating characteristic [ROC] area under the curve [AUC] 0.98), and when applied to CD19+ pan-B cells (mean ROC AUC 0.95) and CD4+ pan-T cells (mean ROC AUC 0.97) from the independent validation cohort. CONCLUSION These results indicate that SLE-specific methylation patterns are ethnicity dependent. A pattern of epigenetic changes near IFN-regulated genes early in B cell development is a hallmark of SLE in AA female subjects. EBF1 binding sites are highly enriched for significant methylation changes, implying that this may be a potential regulator of SLE-associated epigenetic changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan E Breitbach
- University of Alabama at Huntsville and HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology
| | - Ryne C Ramaker
- HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology, Huntsville, Alabama, and University of Alabama at Birmingham
| | - Kevin Roberts
- HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology, Huntsville, Alabama
| | | | - Devin Absher
- HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology, Huntsville, Alabama
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Chai RC, Chang YZ, Wang QW, Zhang KN, Li JJ, Huang H, Wu F, Liu YQ, Wang YZ. A Novel DNA Methylation-Based Signature Can Predict the Responses of MGMT Promoter Unmethylated Glioblastomas to Temozolomide. Front Genet 2019; 10:910. [PMID: 31611911 PMCID: PMC6776832 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2019.00910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2019] [Accepted: 08/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most malignant glioma, with a median overall survival (OS) of 14–16 months. Temozolomide (TMZ) is the first-line chemotherapy drug for glioma, but whether TMZ should be withheld from patients with GBMs that lack O6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) promoter methylation is still under debate. DNA methylation profiling holds great promise for further stratifying the responses of MGMT promoter unmethylated GBMs to TMZ. In this study, we studied 147 TMZ-treated MGMT promoter unmethylated GBM, whose methylation information was obtained from the HumanMethylation27 (HM-27K) BeadChips (n = 107) and the HumanMethylation450 (HM-450K) BeadChips (n = 40) for training and validation, respectively. In the training set, we performed univariate Cox regression and identified that 3,565 CpGs were significantly associated with the OS of the TMZ-treated MGMT promoter unmethylated GBMs. Functional analysis indicated that the genes corresponding to these CpGs were enriched in the biological processes or pathways of mitochondrial translation, cell cycle, and DNA repair. Based on these CpGs, we developed a 31-CpGs methylation signature utilizing the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) Cox regression algorithm. In both training and validation datasets, the signature identified the TMZ-sensitive GBMs in the MGMT promoter unmethylated GBMs, and only the patients in the low-risk group appear to benefit from the TMZ treatment. Furthermore, these identified TMZ-sensitive MGMT promoter unmethylated GBMs have a similar OS when compared with the MGMT promoter methylated GBMs after TMZ treatment in both two datasets. Multivariate Cox regression demonstrated the independent prognostic value of the signature in TMZ-treated MGMT promoter unmethylated GBMs. Moreover, we also noticed that the hallmark of epithelial–mesenchymal transition, ECM related biological processes and pathways were highly enriched in the MGMT unmethylated GBMs with the high-risk score, indicating that enhanced ECM activities could be involved in the TMZ-resistance of GBM. In conclusion, our findings promote our understanding of the roles of DNA methylation in MGMT umethylated GBMs and offer a very promising TMZ-sensitivity predictive signature for these GBMs that could be tested prospectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui-Chao Chai
- Department of Molecular Neuropathology, Beijing Neurosurgical Institute, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,China National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yu-Zhou Chang
- China National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Qiang-Wei Wang
- Department of Molecular Neuropathology, Beijing Neurosurgical Institute, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Ke-Nan Zhang
- Department of Molecular Neuropathology, Beijing Neurosurgical Institute, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,China National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Jing-Jun Li
- Department of Molecular Neuropathology, Beijing Neurosurgical Institute, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Hua Huang
- Department of Molecular Neuropathology, Beijing Neurosurgical Institute, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Fan Wu
- Department of Molecular Neuropathology, Beijing Neurosurgical Institute, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yu-Qing Liu
- Department of Molecular Neuropathology, Beijing Neurosurgical Institute, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yong-Zhi Wang
- Department of Molecular Neuropathology, Beijing Neurosurgical Institute, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,China National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
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40
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Ciechomska M, Roszkowski L, Maslinski W. DNA Methylation as a Future Therapeutic and Diagnostic Target in Rheumatoid Arthritis. Cells 2019; 8:E953. [PMID: 31443448 PMCID: PMC6770174 DOI: 10.3390/cells8090953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2019] [Revised: 08/15/2019] [Accepted: 08/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a long-term autoimmune disease of unknown etiology that leads to progressive joint destruction and ultimately to disability. RA affects as much as 1% of the population worldwide. To date, RA is not a curable disease, and the mechanisms responsible for RA development have not yet been well understood. The development of more effective treatments and improvements in the early diagnosis of RA is direly needed to increase patients' functional capacity and their quality of life. As opposed to genetic mutation, epigenetic changes, such as DNA methylation, are reversible, making them good therapeutic candidates, modulating the immune response or aggressive synovial fibroblasts (FLS-fibroblast-like synoviocytes) activity when it is necessary. It has been suggested that DNA methylation might contribute to RA development, however, with insufficient and conflicting results. Besides, recent studies have shown that circulating cell-free methylated DNA (ccfDNA) in blood offers a very convenient, non-invasive, and repeatable "liquid biopsy", thus providing a reliable template for assessing molecular markers of various diseases, including RA. Thus, epigenetic therapies controlling autoimmunity and systemic inflammation may find wider implications for the diagnosis and management of RA. In this review, we highlight current challenges associated with the treatment of RA and other autoimmune diseases and discuss how targeting DNA methylation may improve diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marzena Ciechomska
- Department of Pathophysiology and Immunology, National Institute of Geriatrics Rheumatology and Rehabilitation, 02-635 Warsaw, Poland.
| | - Leszek Roszkowski
- Department of Rheumatology, National Institute of Geriatrics Rheumatology and Rehabilitation, 02-635 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Wlodzimierz Maslinski
- Department of Pathophysiology and Immunology, National Institute of Geriatrics Rheumatology and Rehabilitation, 02-635 Warsaw, Poland
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41
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Karagianni P, Tzioufas AG. Epigenetic perspectives on systemic autoimmune disease. J Autoimmun 2019; 104:102315. [PMID: 31421964 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaut.2019.102315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2019] [Accepted: 07/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Autoimmune diseases are characterized by increased reactivity of the immune system towards self-antigens, causing tissue damage. Although their etiology remains largely unknown, genetic, microbial, environmental and psychological factors are recognized as contributing elements. Epigenetic changes, including covalent modifications of the DNA and histones, are critical signaling mediators between the genome and the environment, and thus potent regulators of cellular functions. The most extensively studied epigenetic modifications are Cytosine DNA methylation and histone acetylation and methylation on various residues. These are thought to affect chromatin structure and binding of specific effectors that regulate transcription, replication, and other processes. Recent studies have uncovered significant epigenetic alterations in cells or tissues derived from autoimmune disease patients compared to samples from healthy individuals and have linked them with disease phenotypes. Epigenetic changes in specific genes correlate with upregulated or downregulated transcription. For instance, in many systems, reduced DNA methylation and increased histone acetylation of interferon-inducible genes correlate with their increased expression in autoimmune disease patients. Also, reduced DNA methylation of retroelements has been proposed as an activating mechanism and has been linked with increased immune reactivity, while epigenetic differences on the X chromosome could indicate incomplete dosage compensation and explain to some extent the increased susceptibility of females over males towards the development of most autoimmune diseases. Besides changes in epigenetic modifications, differences in the levels of many enzymes catalyzing the addition or removal of these marks as well as proteins that recognize them and function as effector molecules have also been detected in autoimmune patients. Although the existing knowledge cannot fully explain whether epigenetic alterations cause or follow the increased immune activation, their characterization is very useful for understanding the pathogenetic mechanisms and complements genetic and clinical studies. Furthermore, specific epigenetic marks have the potential to serve as biomarkers for disease status, prognosis, and response to treatment. Finally, epigenetic factors are currently being examined as candidate therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Panagiota Karagianni
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Medicine, University of Athens, Mikras Asias Str 75, 115 27, Athens, Greece
| | - Athanasios G Tzioufas
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Medicine, University of Athens, Mikras Asias Str 75, 115 27, Athens, Greece.
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Carnero-Montoro E, Barturen G, Povedano E, Kerick M, Martinez-Bueno M, Ballestar E, Martin J, Teruel M, Alarcón-Riquelme ME. Epigenome-Wide Comparative Study Reveals Key Differences Between Mixed Connective Tissue Disease and Related Systemic Autoimmune Diseases. Front Immunol 2019; 10:1880. [PMID: 31440254 PMCID: PMC6693476 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.01880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2019] [Accepted: 07/24/2019] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Mixed Connective Tissue Disease (MCTD) is a rare complex systemic autoimmune disease (SAD) characterized by the presence of increased levels of anti-U1 ribonucleoprotein autoantibodies and signs and symptoms that resemble other SADs such as systemic sclerosis (SSc), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Due to its low prevalence, this disease has been very poorly studied at the molecular level. We performed for the first time an epigenome-wide association study interrogating DNA methylation data obtained with the Infinium MethylationEPIC array from whole blood samples in 31 patients diagnosed with MCTD and 255 healthy subjects. We observed a pervasive hypomethylation involving 170 genes enriched for immune-related function such as those involved in type I interferon signaling pathways or in negative regulation of viral genome replication. We mostly identified epigenetic signals at genes previously implicated in other SADs, for example MX1, PARP9, DDX60, or IFI44L, for which we also observed that MCTD patients exhibit higher DNA methylation variability compared with controls, suggesting that these sites might be involved in plastic immune responses that are relevant to the disease. Through methylation quantitative trait locus (meQTL) analysis we identified widespread local genetic effects influencing DNA methylation variability at MCTD-associated sites. Interestingly, for IRF7, IFI44 genes, and the HLA region we have evidence that they could be exerting a genetic risk on MCTD mediated through DNA methylation changes. Comparison of MCTD-associated epigenome with patients diagnosed with SLE, or Sjögren's Syndrome, reveals a common interferon-related epigenetic signature, however we find substantial epigenetic differences when compared with patients diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis and systemic sclerosis. Furthermore, we show that MCTD-associated CpGs are potential epigenetic biomarkers with high diagnostic value. Our study serves to reveal new genes and pathways involved in MCTD, to illustrate the important role of epigenetic modifications in MCTD pathology, in mediating the interaction between different genetic and environmental MCTD risk factors, and as potential biomarkers of SADs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Carnero-Montoro
- GENYO, Center for Genomics and Oncological Research: Pfizer, University of Granada, Andalusian Regional Government, Granada, Spain
| | - Guillermo Barturen
- GENYO, Center for Genomics and Oncological Research: Pfizer, University of Granada, Andalusian Regional Government, Granada, Spain
| | - Elena Povedano
- GENYO, Center for Genomics and Oncological Research: Pfizer, University of Granada, Andalusian Regional Government, Granada, Spain
| | - Martin Kerick
- CSIC-IBPLN, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, Instituto de Parasitología y Biomedicina López-Neyra, Granada, Spain
| | - Manuel Martinez-Bueno
- GENYO, Center for Genomics and Oncological Research: Pfizer, University of Granada, Andalusian Regional Government, Granada, Spain
| | | | - Esteban Ballestar
- IDIBELL, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Javier Martin
- CSIC-IBPLN, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, Instituto de Parasitología y Biomedicina López-Neyra, Granada, Spain
| | - María Teruel
- GENYO, Center for Genomics and Oncological Research: Pfizer, University of Granada, Andalusian Regional Government, Granada, Spain
| | - Marta E Alarcón-Riquelme
- GENYO, Center for Genomics and Oncological Research: Pfizer, University of Granada, Andalusian Regional Government, Granada, Spain.,Institute for Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Solna, Sweden
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