1
|
Zhang Y, Wang J, Fang Y, Liang W, Lei L, Wang J, Gao X, Ma C, Li M, Guo H, Wei L. IFN-α affects Th17/Treg cell balance through c-Maf and associated with the progression of EBV- SLE. Mol Immunol 2024; 171:22-35. [PMID: 38749236 DOI: 10.1016/j.molimm.2024.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2024] [Revised: 04/25/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a multi-organ autoimmune disease, of which the pathogens is remains obscure. Viral infection, particularly Epstein Barr viru (EBV) infection, has been considered a common pathogenic factor. This study suggests that c-Maf may be an important target in T cell differentiation during SLE progression, providing a potentially new perspective on the role of viral infection in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases. METHODS Cytokines of EBV-infected SLE patients were measured by ELISA and assessed in conjunction with their clinical data. IFN-α, c-Maf, and the differentiation of Th17/Treg cells in SLE patients and MRL/LPR mice were analyzed using FCM, WB, RT-PCR, etc. Following the infection of cells and mice with EBV or viral mimic poly (dA:dT), the changes of the aforementioned indicators were investigated. The relationship among IFN-α, STAT3, c-Maf and Th17 cells was determined by si-RNA technique. RESULTS Many SLE patients are found to be complicated by viral infections; Further, studies have demonstrated that viral infection, especially EBV, is involved in SLE development. This study showed that viral infections might promote IFN-α secretion, inhibit c-Maf expression by activating STAT3, increase Th17 cell differentiation, and lead to the immune imbalance of Th17/Treg cells, thus playing a role in the onset and progression of SLE. CONCLUSION This study demonstrates that EBV infections may contribute to SLE development by activating STAT3 through IFN-α, inhibiting c-Maf, and causing Th17/Treg immune imbalance. Our work provided a new insight into the pathogenesis and treatment of SLE.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yue Zhang
- Department of Immunology, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China; Key Laboratory of Immune mechanism and Intervention on Serious Disease in Hebei Province, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China; Department of Rheumatology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Jiachao Wang
- Department of Immunology, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China; Key Laboratory of Immune mechanism and Intervention on Serious Disease in Hebei Province, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Yaqi Fang
- Department of Immunology, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China; Key Laboratory of Immune mechanism and Intervention on Serious Disease in Hebei Province, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Wenzhang Liang
- Department of Immunology, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China; Key Laboratory of Immune mechanism and Intervention on Serious Disease in Hebei Province, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Lingyan Lei
- Department of Rheumatology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Junhai Wang
- Department of Immunology, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China; Key Laboratory of Immune mechanism and Intervention on Serious Disease in Hebei Province, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Xue Gao
- Department of Immunology, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China; Key Laboratory of Immune mechanism and Intervention on Serious Disease in Hebei Province, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Cuiqing Ma
- Department of Immunology, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China; Key Laboratory of Immune mechanism and Intervention on Serious Disease in Hebei Province, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Miao Li
- Department of Immunology, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China; Key Laboratory of Immune mechanism and Intervention on Serious Disease in Hebei Province, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Huifang Guo
- Department of Rheumatology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China.
| | - Lin Wei
- Department of Immunology, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China; Key Laboratory of Immune mechanism and Intervention on Serious Disease in Hebei Province, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Żak-Gołąb A, Cieślik P, Siekiera U, Kuśmierz D, Hrycek A, Holecki M. The Impact of the IL-10 Gene Polymorphism on mRNA Expression and IL-10 Serum Concentration in Polish Lupus Patients. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:5511. [PMID: 38791549 PMCID: PMC11122543 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25105511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2024] [Revised: 05/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a complex autoimmune disease characterized by the production of autoantibodies against a lot of nuclear components. Despite many studies on the genetic background of this disease, the pathogenesis remains unclear. The aim of the study is to comprehensively evaluate the polymorphism of the IL-10 promoter gene, its mRNA expression, and the serum IL-10 concentration of SLE female patients and females age-matched controls. Analyzing the association between the level of the tested cytokine and the polymorphism genotype-1082; -819; -592, we found statistically higher serum IL-10 levels in SLE patients compared to in healthy controls (11.9 ± 2.2 pg/mL vs. 9.4 ± 1.7 pg/mL, accordingly; p < 0.0001). We did not find statistically significant differences in the gene polymorphism of IL-10 among SLE patients and controls. The most significant observation derived from our study is that IL-10 mRNA transcripts are upregulated in SLE patients compared to in healthy controls (p < 0.0001). According to our results, the presence of the IL-10 genetic polymorphism has no clinical significance for the development of SLE, and subsequent differences in mRNA and IL-10 concentration results from the influence of other factors which should be the subject of further research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Agnieszka Żak-Gołąb
- Department of Internal, Autoimmune and Metabolic Diseases, School of Medicine, Medical University of Silesia, 40-055 Katowice, Poland (A.H.)
| | - Paweł Cieślik
- Department of Internal, Autoimmune and Metabolic Diseases, School of Medicine, Medical University of Silesia, 40-055 Katowice, Poland (A.H.)
| | - Urszula Siekiera
- Regional Blood Donation and Treatment Center, 40-074 Katowice, Poland
| | - Dariusz Kuśmierz
- Department of Cell Biology, School of Pharmacy, Medical University of Silesia, 41-200 Sosnowiec, Poland
| | - Antoni Hrycek
- Department of Internal, Autoimmune and Metabolic Diseases, School of Medicine, Medical University of Silesia, 40-055 Katowice, Poland (A.H.)
| | - Michał Holecki
- Department of Internal, Autoimmune and Metabolic Diseases, School of Medicine, Medical University of Silesia, 40-055 Katowice, Poland (A.H.)
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Chen G, Zhang L, Wang R, Xie Z. Histone methylation in Epstein-Barr virus-associated diseases. Epigenomics 2024:1-13. [PMID: 38869454 DOI: 10.1080/17501911.2024.2345040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection is linked to various human diseases, including both noncancerous conditions like infectious mononucleosis and cancerous diseases such as lymphoma and nasopharyngeal carcinoma. After the initial infection, EBV establishes a lifelong presence and remains latent in specific cells. This latent infection causes changes in the epigenetic marks known as histone methylation. Many studies have examined the role of histone methylation in different EBV-associated diseases, and understanding how EBV affects histone methylation can help us identify potential targets for epigenetic therapies. This review focuses on the research progress made in understanding histone methylation in well-studied EBV-associated diseases, intending to provide insights into potential strategies based on histone methylation to combat EBV-related ailments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guanglian Chen
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Pediatric Respiratory Infectious Diseases, Key Laboratory of Major Diseases in Children, Ministry of Education, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Diseases, Beijing Pediatric Research Institute, Beijing Children's Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Center for Children's Health, Beijing, 100045, China
- Research Unit of Critical Infection in Children, 2019RU016, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100045, China
| | - Linlin Zhang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Pediatric Respiratory Infectious Diseases, Key Laboratory of Major Diseases in Children, Ministry of Education, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Diseases, Beijing Pediatric Research Institute, Beijing Children's Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Center for Children's Health, Beijing, 100045, China
- Research Unit of Critical Infection in Children, 2019RU016, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100045, China
| | - Ran Wang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Pediatric Respiratory Infectious Diseases, Key Laboratory of Major Diseases in Children, Ministry of Education, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Diseases, Beijing Pediatric Research Institute, Beijing Children's Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Center for Children's Health, Beijing, 100045, China
- Research Unit of Critical Infection in Children, 2019RU016, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100045, China
| | - Zhengde Xie
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Pediatric Respiratory Infectious Diseases, Key Laboratory of Major Diseases in Children, Ministry of Education, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Diseases, Beijing Pediatric Research Institute, Beijing Children's Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Center for Children's Health, Beijing, 100045, China
- Research Unit of Critical Infection in Children, 2019RU016, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100045, China
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Chen M, Tu J, Huang M, Cheng Y, Sun L. A retrospective cohort study of Epstein-Barr virus infection status and systemic lupus erythematosus. Clin Rheumatol 2024; 43:1521-1530. [PMID: 38509241 DOI: 10.1007/s10067-024-06917-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Revised: 02/04/2024] [Accepted: 02/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) are very closely related. This study estimated the impact of EBV infection status on clinical manifestations and disease remission in patients with SLE. METHOD A retrospective study was performed using electronic health records of patients with SLE. The SLE disease activity index (SLEDAI-2 K) was used to assess disease activity. VCAIgM or EAIgM positive or EBVDNA copies ≥ 50 IU/mL were defined as lytic infection group, EBNA-IgG or VCAIgG-positive and who were negative for both VCAIgM and EAIgM with EBVDNA copies < 50 IU/mL were defined as the latent infection group. The endpoint (disease remission) was defined as a decrease in SLEDAI-2 K score of ≥ 1 grade or ≥ 4 points from baseline. The association between EBV infection status and disease remission was assessed using propensity score weighting and multivariable Cox regression models. RESULTS There were 75 patients with SLE in the EBV lytic infection group and 142 patients in the latent infection group. The SLEDAI-2 K score was higher in the lytic infection group (10.00 (6.25, 16.00) vs. 8.00 (5.00, 10.00), Z = 3.96, P < 0.001). There was a significant difference in the effect of EBV lytic infection on disease remission compared to latent infection (HR 0.30, 95% CI 0.19-0.49, P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Patients with SLE with lytic EBV infection have higher disease activity and take longer to achieve remission. Our study furthers our understanding of the relationship between SLE and EBV infection and may inform better treatment practices in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mengjie Chen
- Department of Rheumatology, The First People's Hospital of Wenling, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jianxin Tu
- Department of Rheumatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Mingyu Huang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Yongjun Cheng
- Department of Rheumatology, The First People's Hospital of Wenling, Zhejiang, China
| | - Li Sun
- Department of Rheumatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Shin JH, Pyo JY, Han M, Lee M, Lim SM, Baek JY, Lee JY, Kang JM, Jung I, Ahn JG. Incidence and disease burden of autoimmune inflammatory rheumatic diseases after non-pharmaceutical interventions in the COVID-19 era: A nationwide observational study in Korea. Int J Rheum Dis 2024; 27:e15144. [PMID: 38590055 DOI: 10.1111/1756-185x.15144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Revised: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Infections are considered risk factors for autoimmune inflammatory rheumatic diseases (AIRDs), the incidence of which is considered to have been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The impact of non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) on the incidence of AIRDs and their associated health care services and medical expenses in Korea was investigated. METHODS We included all AIRD cases reported between January 2016 and February 2021 based on the National Health Insurance Service data. We evaluated changes in incidence trends for each AIRD before and after NPI implementation (Feb 2020 to Feb 2021) using segmented regression analysis. Changes in health care utilization and medical costs for each AIRD before and after NPI implementation were also investigated. RESULTS After NPI implementation, monthly incidence rates declined significantly by 0.205 per 1 000 000 (95% confidence interval [CI], -0.308 to -0.101, p < .001) in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). No significant changes in the incidence of all AIRDs other than SLE were observed before and after implementation. Further, annual outpatient department visits per patient were lower during implementation for all diseases, except juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA). The prescription days per outpatient visit increased significantly during implementation for all diseases, except JIA and ankylosing spondylitis. During implementation, the total annual medical costs per patient tended to decrease for all diseases, except JIA and mixed connective tissue disease. CONCLUSION Implementation of NPIs to contain the pandemic led to a reduction in the incidence of SLE and changed patterns of medical care utilization and treatment cost for most AIRDs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Je Hee Shin
- Department of Pediatrics, Severance Children's Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Jung Yoon Pyo
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Minkyung Han
- Biostatistics Collaboration Unit, Department of Biomedical Systems Informatics, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Myeongjee Lee
- Biostatistics Collaboration Unit, Department of Biomedical Systems Informatics, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Sung Min Lim
- Department of Pediatrics, Severance Children's Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Jee Yeon Baek
- Department of Pediatrics, Severance Children's Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Ji Young Lee
- Department of Pediatrics, Severance Children's Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Ji-Man Kang
- Department of Pediatrics, Severance Children's Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
- Institute for Immunology and Immunological Diseases, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - InKyung Jung
- Division of Biostatistics, Department of Biomedical Systems Informatics, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Jong Gyun Ahn
- Department of Pediatrics, Severance Children's Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
- Institute for Immunology and Immunological Diseases, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Li H, Zhou L, Zhou W, Zhang X, Shang J, Feng X, Yu L, Fan J, Ren J, Zhang R, Duan X. Decoding the mitochondrial connection: development and validation of biomarkers for classifying and treating systemic lupus erythematosus through bioinformatics and machine learning. BMC Rheumatol 2023; 7:44. [PMID: 38044432 PMCID: PMC10694981 DOI: 10.1186/s41927-023-00369-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a multifaceted autoimmune disease characterized by clinical and pathological diversity. Mitochondrial dysfunction has been identified as a critical pathogenetic factor in SLE. However, the specific molecular aspects and regulatory roles of this dysfunction in SLE are not fully understood. Our study aims to explore the molecular characteristics of mitochondria-related genes (MRGs) in SLE, with a focus on identifying reliable biomarkers for classification and therapeutic purposes. METHODS We sourced six SLE-related microarray datasets (GSE61635, GSE50772, GSE30153, GSE99967, GSE81622, and GSE49454) from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Three of these datasets (GSE61635, GSE50772, GSE30153) were integrated into a training set for differential analysis. The intersection of differentially expressed genes with MRGs yielded a set of differentially expressed MRGs (DE-MRGs). We employed machine learning algorithms-random forest (RF), support vector machine (SVM), and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) logistic regression-to select key hub genes. These genes' classifying potential was validated in the training set and three other validation sets (GSE99967, GSE81622, and GSE49454). Further analyses included differential expression, co-expression, protein-protein interaction (PPI), gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA), and immune infiltration, centered on these hub genes. We also constructed TF-mRNA, miRNA-mRNA, and drug-target networks based on these hub genes using the ChEA3, miRcode, and PubChem databases. RESULTS Our investigation identified 761 differentially expressed genes (DEGs), mainly related to viral infection, inflammatory, and immune-related signaling pathways. The interaction between these DEGs and MRGs led to the identification of 27 distinct DE-MRGs. Key among these were FAM210B, MSRB2, LYRM7, IFI27, and SCO2, designated as hub genes through machine learning analysis. Their significant role in SLE classification was confirmed in both the training and validation sets. Additional analyses included differential expression, co-expression, PPI, GSEA, immune infiltration, and the construction of TF-mRNA, miRNA-mRNA, and drug-target networks. CONCLUSIONS This research represents a novel exploration into the MRGs of SLE, identifying FAM210B, MSRB2, LYRM7, IFI27, and SCO2 as significant candidates for classifying and therapeutic targeting.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Haoguang Li
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330006, China
| | - Lu Zhou
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330006, China
| | - Wei Zhou
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330006, China
| | - Xiuling Zhang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330006, China
| | - Jingjing Shang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330006, China
| | - Xueqin Feng
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330006, China
| | - Le Yu
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330006, China
| | - Jie Fan
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330006, China
| | - Jie Ren
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330006, China
| | - Rongwei Zhang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330006, China
| | - Xinwang Duan
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330006, China.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Li H, Zhou J, Zhou L, Zhang X, Shang J, Feng X, Yu L, Fan J, Ren J, Zhang R, Duan X. Identification of the shared gene signatures and molecular pathways in systemic lupus erythematosus and diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. J Gene Med 2023; 25:e3558. [PMID: 37392050 DOI: 10.1002/jgm.3558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Revised: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 07/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) incidence is higher in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients than the general population, but the molecular mechanisms behind this link remain ambiguous. The aim of this study was to investigate shared gene signatures and molecular pathways between SLE and DLBCL. METHODS We procured expression profiles of SLE and DLBCL from public databases and identified common differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Functional pathway enrichment and protein-protein interaction (PPI) analyses were performed on these shared genes. The molecular complex detection technology (MCODE) and eXtreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost) machine learning algorithm were used to select core shared genes, followed by Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) and immune infiltration analysis. RESULTS We identified 54 DEGs as shared genes, among which CD177, CEACAM1, GPR84 and IFIT3 were identified as core shared genes. These genes showed strong associations with inflammatory and immune response pathways. We found a significant positive correlation between GPR84 and IFIT3 expression levels and the immune microenvironment. Decreased expression levels of GPR84 and IFIT3 were linked to enhanced immune therapy sensitivity, potentially due to lower dysregulation scores during low expression. We also discovered that TP53 mutations might elevate CD177 and GPR84 expression and that reduced expression levels of GPR84 and IFIT3 were linked with better overall survival and progression-free survival in DLBCL patients. CONCLUSIONS Our study provides valuable insights into the shared molecular mechanisms underpinning the pathogenesis of SLE and DLBCL. These findings could potentially offer new biomarkers and therapeutic targets for SLE and DLBCL.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Haoguang Li
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Jie Zhou
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Lu Zhou
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Xiuling Zhang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Jingjing Shang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Xueqin Feng
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Le Yu
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Jie Fan
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Jie Ren
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Rongwei Zhang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Xinwang Duan
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Buckner JH. Translational immunology: Applying fundamental discoveries to human health and autoimmune diseases. Eur J Immunol 2023; 53:e2250197. [PMID: 37101346 PMCID: PMC10600327 DOI: 10.1002/eji.202250197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2023] [Revised: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 04/28/2023]
Abstract
Studying the human immune system is challenging. These challenges stem from the complexity of the immune system itself, the heterogeneity of the immune system between individuals, and the many factors that lead to this heterogeneity including the influence of genetics, environment, and immune experience. Studies of the human immune system in the context of disease are increased in complexity as multiple combinations and variations in immune pathways can lead to a single disease. Thus, although individuals with a disease may share clinical features, the underlying disease mechanisms and resulting pathophysiology can be diverse among individuals with the same disease diagnosis. This has consequences for the treatment of diseases, as no single therapy will work for everyone, therapeutic efficacy varies among patients, and targeting a single immune pathway is rarely 100% effective. This review discusses how to address these challenges by identifying and managing the sources of variation, improving access to high-quality, well-curated biological samples by building cohorts, applying new technologies such as single-cell omics and imaging technologies to interrogate samples, and bringing to bear computational expertise in conjunction with immunologists and clinicians to interpret those results. The review has a focus on autoimmune diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, MS, systemic lupus erythematosus, and type 1 diabetes, but its recommendations are also applicable to studies of other immune-mediated diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jane H Buckner
- Center for Translational Immunology, Benaroya Research Institute, Virginia Mason Hospital, Seattle, WA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Rao M, Mikdashi J. A Framework to Overcome Challenges in the Management of Infections in Patients with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus. Open Access Rheumatol 2023; 15:125-137. [PMID: 37534019 PMCID: PMC10391536 DOI: 10.2147/oarrr.s295036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Infections remain one of the leading causes of death in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), despite awareness of factors contributing to increased susceptibility to infectious diseases in SLE. Clinicians report challenges and barriers when encountering infection in SLE as certain infections may mimic a lupus flare. There are no evidence-based practice guidelines in the management of fever in SLE, with suboptimal implementations of evidence-based benefits related to infectious disease control and/or prevention strategies in SLE. Vigilance in identifying an opportunistic infection must be stressed when confronted by a diagnostic challenge during a presentation with a febrile illness in SLE. A balanced approach must focus on management of infections in SLE, and reduction in the glucocorticoids dose, given the need to control lupus disease activity to avoid lupus related organ damage and mortality. Clinical judgement and application of biomarkers of lupus flares could reduce false positives and overdiagnosis and improve differentiation of infections from lupus flares. Further precision-based risk and screening measures must identify individuals who would benefit most from low dose immunosuppressive therapy, targeted immune therapy, and vaccination programs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Madhavi Rao
- Department of Medicine, Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Jamal Mikdashi
- Department of Medicine, Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Abstract
The relationship between viral infection and onset of autoimmune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus remains uncertain. During the COVID-19 pandemic, organ-specific and multisystemic autoimmune phenomena temporally related to the viral infection have been described. Immune dysregulation triggered by the SARS-CoV-2 virus leading to hyperactivation of both the innate and adaptive immune systems contributes to the excessive production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, autoantibodies, and subsequent autoimmune manifestations. We report two patients without known autoimmune diseases who developed lupus nephritis shortly after a documented mild SARS-CoV-2 infection. Together with other similar cases in the literature, the observation supports a viral trigger of the development of systemic lupus erythematosus in susceptible individuals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chi Chiu Mok
- Department of Medicine, Tuen Mun Hospital, Hong Kong, China
| | - Chiu Sum Chu
- Department of Medicine, Tuen Mun Hospital, Hong Kong, China
| | - Sau Mei Tse
- Department of Medicine, Tuen Mun Hospital, Hong Kong, China
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Zhu QY. Bioinformatics analysis of the pathogenic link between Epstein-Barr virus infection, systemic lupus erythematosus and diffuse large B cell lymphoma. Sci Rep 2023; 13:6310. [PMID: 37072474 PMCID: PMC10113247 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-33585-2] [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: 02/25/2023] [Accepted: 04/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is a risk factor for diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). While prior research has suggested a potential correlation between SLE and DLBCL, the molecular mechanisms remain unclear. The present study aimed to explore the contribution of EBV infection to the pathogenesis of DLBCL in the individuals with SLE using bioinformatics approaches. The Gene Expression Omnibus database was used to compile the gene expression profiles of EBV-infected B cells (GSE49628), SLE (GSE61635), and DLBCL (GSE32018). Altogether, 72 shared common differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were extracted and enrichment analysis of the shared genes showed that p53 signaling pathway was a common feature of the pathophysiology. Six hub genes were selected using protein-protein interaction (PPI) network analysis, including CDK1, KIF23, NEK2, TOP2A, NEIL3 and DEPDC1, which showed preferable diagnostic values for SLE and DLBCL and involved in immune cell infiltration and immune responses regulation. Finally, TF-gene and miRNA-gene regulatory networks and 10 potential drugs molecule were predicted. Our study revealed the potential molecular mechanisms by which EBV infection contribute to the susceptibility of DLBCL in SLE patients for the first time and identified future biomarkers and therapeutic targets for SLE and DLBCL.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qian-Ying Zhu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The Eighth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, 518003, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Chen X, Li H, Wu C, Zhang Y. Epstein‒Barr virus and human herpesvirus 6 infection in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus. Virol J 2023; 20:29. [PMID: 36782252 PMCID: PMC9926755 DOI: 10.1186/s12985-023-01987-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2022] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a complex autoimmune disease, and the etiology is still unclear. Some studies have indicated that viral infection might contribute to the development of SLE. METHODS A total of 105 individuals with SLE and 110 matched healthy controls were tested for EBV-specific DNA fragments in peripheral blood monocytes by PCR-Southern blotting. The expression of EBV-encoded genes was determined by RT-PCR and Southern blotting in EBV-positive patients. Serum EBV-specific IgM antibody was determined by ELISA. HHV-6 DNA in peripheral blood monocytes of those SLE patients and normal controls was tested by nested PCR. RESULTS Statistical analysis showed that the EBV-positive rate of SLE patients was significantly higher than that of the control group (χ2 = 87.329, P = 0), while the difference in the HHV-6-positive rate between the two groups was not significant (P > 0.05). An association of EBV and HHV-6 positivity in SLE patients was found (P = 0, r = 0.38). The EBV IgM level was significantly higher in SLE patients than in healthy controls (χ2 = 25.184, P = 0). Forty-two of the 75 EBV DNA-positive specimens were positive for EBNA2 mRNA, and an association between EBV EBNA2 mRNA and anti-Sm antibody positivity was found (P = 0, r = 0.409). LMP1 mRNA was positive in 2 SLE patients with active phase, and no LMP2A mRNA expression was detected in EBV DNA-positive specimens. EBV early gene BARF1 mRNA was detected in 2 cases of EBV-positive SLE patients, and these 2 patients were also HHV-6 DNA positive. Thirty-eight patients were BcLF1 mRNA positive, and 33 of them were HHV-6 positive as well. These factors were associated (χ2 = 15.734, P = 0). The expression of the EBV immediate early gene BZLF1 was negative in all 75 EBV-positive SLE patients. CONCLUSIONS The results suggest that EBV infection might be related to the occurrence of SLE. Although there is no direct evidence that HHV-6 infection is associated with the development of SLE, EBV and HHV-6 infection may have a coacceleration effect in SLE patients. This study provides a new theoretical and experimental basis for the study of viral etiology and the prevention and treatment of SLE.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaotong Chen
- The Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110001, China
| | - Hui Li
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, 19 Jiangsu Road, Qingdao, 266003, China
| | - Chunling Wu
- The Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110001, China.
| | - Yan Zhang
- Department of Pathogeny Biology, Basic Medicine College, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, China. .,Department of Clinical Laboratory, Zibo Central Hospital, Zibo, 255036, China.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Rangel SC, da Silva MD, da Silva AL, dos Santos JDMB, Neves LM, Pedrosa A, Rodrigues FM, Trettel CDS, Furtado GE, de Barros MP, Bachi ALL, Romano CM, Nali LHDS. Human endogenous retroviruses and the inflammatory response: A vicious circle associated with health and illness. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1057791. [PMID: 36518758 PMCID: PMC9744114 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1057791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Human Endogenous Retroviruses (HERVs) are derived from ancient exogenous retroviral infections that have infected our ancestors' germline cells, underwent endogenization process, and were passed throughout the generations by retrotransposition and hereditary transmission. HERVs comprise 8% of the human genome and are critical for several physiological activities. Yet, HERVs reactivation is involved in pathological process as cancer and autoimmune diseases. In this review, we summarize the multiple aspects of HERVs' role within the human genome, as well as virological and molecular aspects, and their fusogenic property. We also discuss possibilities of how the HERVs are possibly transactivated and participate in modulating the inflammatory response in health conditions. An update on their role in several autoimmune, inflammatory, and aging-related diseases is also presented.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sara Coelho Rangel
- UNISA Research Center, Universidade Santo Amaro, Post-Graduation in Health Sciences, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Amanda Lopes da Silva
- Laboratório de Virologia, Instituto de Medicina Tropical de São Paulo, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Lucas Melo Neves
- UNISA Research Center, Universidade Santo Amaro, Post-Graduation in Health Sciences, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ana Pedrosa
- CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB - Centre for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology, University of Coimbra, (3004-504), Coimbra, Portugal
| | | | - Caio dos Santos Trettel
- Interdisciplinary Program in Health Sciences, Institute of Physical Activity Sciences and Sports (ICAFE), Cruzeiro do Sul University, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Guilherme Eustáquio Furtado
- Polytechnic Institute of Coimbra, Applied Research Institute, Rua da Misericórdia, Lagar dos Cortiços – S. Martinho do Bispo, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Marcelo Paes de Barros
- Interdisciplinary Program in Health Sciences, Institute of Physical Activity Sciences and Sports (ICAFE), Cruzeiro do Sul University, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - André Luis Lacerda Bachi
- UNISA Research Center, Universidade Santo Amaro, Post-Graduation in Health Sciences, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Camila Malta Romano
- Laboratório de Virologia, Instituto de Medicina Tropical de São Paulo, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil,Hospital das Clínicas HCFMUSP (LIM52), Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Luiz Henrique Da Silva Nali
- UNISA Research Center, Universidade Santo Amaro, Post-Graduation in Health Sciences, São Paulo, Brazil,*Correspondence: Luiz Henrique Da Silva Nali, ;
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Chen K, Wu T, Wang D, Li R, Shen X, Zhao T, Ozato K, Li R. Transcriptomics and quantitative proteomics reveal changes after second stimulation of bone marrow-derived macrophages from lupus-prone MRL/lpr mice. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1004232. [PMID: 36341359 PMCID: PMC9627492 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1004232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Innate immune memory can cause the occurrence and exacerbation of autoimmune diseases, and it is as well as being strongly associated with the pathogenesis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), however, the specific mechanism remains to be further studied. We learned that IFN-γ stimulation generated innate immune memory in bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMDMs) and activated memory interferon-stimulated genes (ISGs). This research used IFN-γ and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to treat BMDMs with lupus-prone MRL/lpr mice and showed that particular memory ISGs were substantially elevated in prestimulated macrophages. In order to identify the differentially expressed genes (DEGs), researchers turned to RNA-seq. GO and KEGG analysis showed that up-regulated DEGs were enriched in defense and innate immune responses, and were related to the expression of pattern recognition receptors (PRRs)-related pathways in macrophages. TMT-based proteome analysis revealed differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) up-regulated in BMDMs were abundant in metabolic pathways such as glucose metabolism. Our study found that after the secondary stimulation of MRL/lpr mice, the expression of PRRs in innate immune cells was changed, and IFN-related pathways were activated to release a large number of ISGs to promote the secondary response. At the same time, related metabolic modes such as glycolysis were enhanced, and epigenetic changes may occur. Therefore, SLE is brought on, maintained, and worsened by a variety of factors that work together to produce innate immune memory.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Keyue Chen
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Rheumatology of Zhejiang Province, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Tiyun Wu
- Division of Developmental Biology, National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Danyan Wang
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Rheumatology of Zhejiang Province, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Rong Li
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Rheumatology of Zhejiang Province, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiangfeng Shen
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Rheumatology of Zhejiang Province, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Ting Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Rheumatology of Zhejiang Province, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Keiko Ozato
- Division of Developmental Biology, National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
- *Correspondence: Keiko Ozato, ; Rongqun Li,
| | - Rongqun Li
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Rheumatology of Zhejiang Province, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Keiko Ozato, ; Rongqun Li,
| |
Collapse
|