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Heinz JL, Swagemakers SMA, von Hofsten J, Helleberg M, Thomsen MM, De Keukeleere K, de Boer JH, Ilginis T, Verjans GMGM, van Hagen PM, van der Spek PJ, Mogensen TH. Whole exome sequencing of patients with varicella-zoster virus and herpes simplex virus induced acute retinal necrosis reveals rare disease-associated genetic variants. Front Mol Neurosci 2023; 16:1253040. [PMID: 38025266 PMCID: PMC10630912 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2023.1253040] [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: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Herpes simplex virus (HSV) and varicella-zoster virus (VZV) are neurotropic human alphaherpesviruses endemic worldwide. Upon primary infection, both viruses establish lifelong latency in neurons and reactivate intermittently to cause a variety of mild to severe diseases. Acute retinal necrosis (ARN) is a rare, sight-threatening eye disease induced by ocular VZV or HSV infection. The virus and host factors involved in ARN pathogenesis remain incompletely described. We hypothesize an underlying genetic defect in at least part of ARN cases. Methods We collected blood from 17 patients with HSV-or VZV-induced ARN, isolated DNA and performed Whole Exome Sequencing by Illumina followed by analysis in Varseq with criteria of CADD score > 15 and frequency in GnomAD < 0.1% combined with biological filters. Gene modifications relative to healthy control genomes were filtered according to high quality and read-depth, low frequency, high deleteriousness predictions and biological relevance. Results We identified a total of 50 potentially disease-causing genetic variants, including missense, frameshift and splice site variants and on in-frame deletion in 16 of the 17 patients. The vast majority of these genes are involved in innate immunity, followed by adaptive immunity, autophagy, and apoptosis; in several instances variants within a given gene or pathway was identified in several patients. Discussion We propose that the identified variants may contribute to insufficient viral control and increased necrosis ocular disease presentation in the patients and serve as a knowledge base and starting point for the development of improved diagnostic, prophylactic, and therapeutic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johanna L. Heinz
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Sigrid M. A. Swagemakers
- Department of Pathology and Clinical Bioinformatics, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Joanna von Hofsten
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Department of Ophthalmology, Halland Hospital Halmstad, Halmstad, Sweden
| | - Marie Helleberg
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Center of Excellence for Health, Immunity and Infections, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Michelle M. Thomsen
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Kerstin De Keukeleere
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Joke H. de Boer
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Tomas Ilginis
- Department of Ophthalmology, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Georges M. G. M. Verjans
- HerpeslabNL, Department of Viroscience, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Peter M. van Hagen
- Department of Internal Medicine and Immunology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Peter J. van der Spek
- Department of Pathology and Clinical Bioinformatics, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Trine H. Mogensen
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
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Lindsay CV, Potter JA, Grimshaw AA, Abrahams VM, Tong M. Endometrial responses to bacterial and viral infection: a scoping review. Hum Reprod Update 2023; 29:675-693. [PMID: 37290428 PMCID: PMC10477945 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmad013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Revised: 04/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The endometrium is a highly dynamic tissue that undergoes dramatic proliferation and differentiation monthly in order to prepare the uterus for implantation and pregnancy. Intrauterine infection and inflammation are being increasingly recognized as potential causes of implantation failure and miscarriage, as well as obstetric complications later in gestation. However, the mechanisms by which the cells of the endometrium respond to infection remain understudied and recent progress is slowed in part owing to similar overlapping studies being performed in different species. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE The aim of this scoping review is to systematically summarize all published studies in humans and laboratory animals that have investigated the innate immune sensing and response of the endometrium to bacteria and viruses, and the signaling mechanisms involved. This will enable gaps in our knowledge to be identified to inform future studies. SEARCH METHODS The Cochrane Library, Ovid Embase/Medline, PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, and Web of Science databases were searched using a combination of controlled and free text terms for uterus/endometrium, infections, and fertility to March 2022. All primary research papers that have reported on endometrial responses to bacterial and viral infections in the context of reproduction were included. To focus the scope of the current review, studies in domesticated animals, included bovine, porcine, caprine, feline, and canine species were excluded. OUTCOMES This search identified 42 728 studies for screening and 766 full-text studies were assessed for eligibility. Data was extracted from 76 studies. The majority of studies focused on endometrial responses to Escherichia coli and Chlamydia trachomatis, with some studies of Neisseria gonorrhea, Staphylococcus aureus, and the Streptococcus family. Endometrial responses have only been studied in response to three groups of viruses thus far: HIV, Zika virus, and the herpesvirus family. For most infections, both cellular and animal models have been utilized in vitro and in vivo, focusing on endometrial production of cytokines, chemokines, and antiviral/antimicrobial factors, and the expression of innate immune signaling pathway mediators after infection. This review has identified gaps for future research in the field as well as highlighted some recent developments in organoid systems and immune cell co-cultures that offer new avenues for studying endometrial responses to infection in more physiologically relevant models that could accelerate future findings in this area. WIDER IMPLICATIONS This scoping review provides an overarching summary and benchmark of the current state of research on endometrial innate immune responses to bacterial and viral infection. This review also highlights some exciting recent developments that enable future studies to be designed to deepen our understanding of the mechanisms utilized by the endometrium to respond to infection and their downstream effects on uterine function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina V Lindsay
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Julie A Potter
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Alyssa A Grimshaw
- Harvey Cushing/John Hay Whitney Medical Library, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Vikki M Abrahams
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Mancy Tong
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
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Beltrami S, Rizzo S, Schiuma G, Speltri G, Di Luca D, Rizzo R, Bortolotti D. Gestational Viral Infections: Role of Host Immune System. Microorganisms 2023; 11:1637. [PMID: 37512810 PMCID: PMC10383666 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11071637] [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: 05/11/2023] [Revised: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Viral infections in pregnancy are major causes of maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality. Infections can develop in the neonate transplacentally, perinatally, or postnatally (from breast milk or other sources) and lead to different clinical manifestations, depending on the viral agent and the gestational age at exposure. Viewing the peculiar tolerogenic status which characterizes pregnancy, viruses could exploit this peculiar immunological status to spread or affect the maternal immune system, adopting several evasion strategies. In fact, both DNA and RNA virus might have a deep impact on both innate and acquired immune systems. For this reason, investigating the interaction with these pathogens and the host's immune system during pregnancy is crucial not only for the development of most effective therapies and diagnosis but mostly for prevention. In this review, we will analyze some of the most important DNA and RNA viruses related to gestational infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Beltrami
- Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Science, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Sabrina Rizzo
- Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Science, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Giovanna Schiuma
- Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Science, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Giorgia Speltri
- Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Science, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Dario Di Luca
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Roberta Rizzo
- Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Science, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Daria Bortolotti
- Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Science, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
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Coinfection of Dermal Fibroblasts by Human Cytomegalovirus and Human Herpesvirus 6 Can Boost the Expression of Fibrosis-Associated MicroRNAs. Microorganisms 2023; 11:microorganisms11020412. [PMID: 36838377 PMCID: PMC9958881 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11020412] [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: 01/09/2023] [Revised: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/04/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Tissue fibrosis can affect every type of tissue or organ, often leading to organ malfunction; however, the mechanisms involved in this process are not yet clarified. A role has been hypothesized for Human Cytomegalovirus (HCMV) and Human Herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6) infections as triggers of systemic sclerosis (SSc), a severe autoimmune disease causing progressive tissue fibrosis, since both viruses and antiviral immune responses toward them have been detected in patients. Moreover, HCMV or HHV-6A infection was reported to increase the expression of fibrosis-associated transcriptional factors and miRNAs in human dermal fibroblasts. However, it is unlikely that they have separate effects in the infected host, as both viruses are highly prevalent in the human population. Thus, our study aimed to investigate, by quantitative real-time PCR microarray, the impact of HCMV/HHV-6A coinfection on the expression of pro-fibrotic miRNAs in coinfected cells, compared to the effect of single viruses. The results showed a possible synergistic effect of the two viruses on pro-fibrotic miRNA expression, thus suggesting that HCMV and HHV-6 may enhance each other and cooperate at inducing enhanced miRNA-driven fibrosis. These data may also suggest a possible use of virus-induced miRNAs as novel diagnostic or prognostic biomarkers for SSc and its clinical treatment.
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Schiuma G, Beltrami S, Santi E, Scutiero G, Sanz JM, Semprini CM, Rizzo S, Fernandez M, Zidi I, Gafà R, Passaro A, Greco P, Bortolotti D, Rizzo R. Effect of SARS-CoV-2 infection in pregnancy on CD147, ACE2 and HLA-G expression. Placenta 2023; 132:38-43. [PMID: 36628848 PMCID: PMC9814282 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2023.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2022] [Revised: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Recent studies reported a differential expression of both ACE2 and CD147 in pregnant women associated to SARS-CoV-2 placental infection. The aim of this study is to further investigate the placental SARS-CoV-2 infection and the potential effect on protein expression (ACE2, CD147, HLA-G and CD56). METHODS The study was on three subgroups: i) 18 subjects positive for SARS-CoV-2 swab at delivery; ii) 9 subjects that had a positive SARS-CoV-2 swab during pregnancy but resulted negative at delivery; iii) 11 control subjects with physiological pregnancy and with no previous or concomitant SARS-CoV-2 swab positivity. None of the subjects were vaccinated for SARS-CoV-2 infection. The placenta samples were analyzed for SARS-CoV-2 NP (Nucleocapsid protein) positivity and the expression of ACE2, CD147, HLA-G and CD56. RESULTS We observed a higher percentage of SARS-CoV-2 NP positive placenta samples in the group of SARS-CoV-2 PCR positive at delivery in comparison with SARS-CoV-2 PCR negative at delivery. The localization of SARS-CoV-2 NP positivity in placenta samples was mainly in syncytiotrophoblast (ST) of SARS-CoV-2 PCR positive at delivery group and in extra-villous trophoblast (EVT) of SARS-CoV-2 PCR negative at delivery group. CD147, HLA-G positivity was higher in ST of SARS-CoV-2 PCR positive at delivery group, while CD56-expressing immune cells were decreased in comparison with control subjects. DISCUSSION We confirmed the ability of SARS-CoV-2 to infect placenta tissues. The simultaneous SARS-CoV-2 swab positivity at delivery and the positivity of the placenta tissue for SARS-CoV-2 NP seems to create an environment that modifies the expression of specific molecules, as CD147 and HLA-G. These data suggest a possible impact of SARS-CoV-2 infection during pregnancy, that might be worthy to be monitored also in vaccinated subjects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanna Schiuma
- Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Sciences, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari, 46, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Silvia Beltrami
- Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Sciences, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari, 46, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Erica Santi
- Department of Medical Sciences, Obstetric and Gynecological Clinic, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari, 46, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Gennaro Scutiero
- Department of Medical Sciences, Obstetric and Gynecological Clinic, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari, 46, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Juana Maria Sanz
- Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Sciences, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari, 46, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Chiara Marina Semprini
- Medical Department, University Hospital of Ferrara Arcispedale Sant'Anna, Via Aldo Moro, 8 Cona, 44124, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Sabrina Rizzo
- Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Sciences, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari, 46, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Mercedes Fernandez
- Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Sciences, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari, 46, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Ines Zidi
- Laboratory Microorganismes and Active Biomolecules, Sciences Faculty of Tunis, University Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Roberta Gafà
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari, 46, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Angelina Passaro
- Medical Department, University Hospital of Ferrara Arcispedale Sant'Anna, Via Aldo Moro, 8 Cona, 44124, Ferrara, Italy,Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari, 46, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Pantaleo Greco
- Department of Medical Sciences, Obstetric and Gynecological Clinic, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari, 46, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Daria Bortolotti
- Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Sciences, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari, 46, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Roberta Rizzo
- Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Sciences, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari, 46, 44121, Ferrara, Italy; LTTA-Clinical Research Center, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari, 46 - 44100, 44121, Ferrara, Italy.
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Ferri C, Arcangeletti MC, Caselli E, Zakrzewska K, Maccari C, Calderaro A, D'Accolti M, Soffritti I, Arvia R, Sighinolfi G, Artoni E, Giuggioli D. Insights into the knowledge of complex diseases: Environmental infectious/toxic agents as potential etiopathogenetic factors of systemic sclerosis. J Autoimmun 2021; 124:102727. [PMID: 34601207 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaut.2021.102727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2021] [Revised: 09/16/2021] [Accepted: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a connective tissue disease secondary to three cardinal pathological features: immune-system alterations, diffuse microangiopathy, and fibrosis involving the skin and internal organs. The etiology of SSc remains quite obscure; it may encompass multiple host genetic and environmental -infectious/chemical-factors. The present review focused on the potential role of environmental agents in the etiopathogenesis of SSc based on epidemiological, clinical, and laboratory investigations previously published in the world literature. Among infectious agents, some viruses that may persist and reactivate in infected individuals, namely human cytomegalovirus (HCMV), human herpesvirus-6 (HHV-6), and parvovirus B19 (B19V), and retroviruses have been proposed as potential causative agents of SSc. These viruses share a number of biological activities and consequent pathological alterations, such as endothelial dysfunction and/or fibroblast activation. Moreover, the acute worsening of pre-existing interstitial lung involvement observed in SSc patients with symptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infection might suggest a potential role of this virus in the overall disease outcome. A variety of chemical/occupational agents might be regarded as putative etiological factors of SSc. In this setting, the SSc complicating silica dust exposure represents one of the most promising models of study. Considering the complexity of SSc pathogenesis, none of suggested causative factors may explain the appearance of the whole SSc; it is likely that the disease is the result of a multifactorial and multistep pathogenetic process. A variable combination of potential etiological factors may modulate the appearance of different clinical phenotypes detectable in individual scleroderma patients. The in-deep investigations on the SSc etiopathogenesis may provide useful insights in the broad field of human diseases characterized by diffuse microangiopathy or altered fibrogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clodoveo Ferri
- Rheumatology Unit, Medical School, University of Modena and Reggio E, University-Hospital Policlinico of Modena, Modena, Italy; Rheumatology Unit, Casa di Cura Madonna dello Scoglio, Cotronei (KR), Italy.
| | | | - Elisabetta Caselli
- Section of Microbiology, Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Sciences and LTTA, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Krystyna Zakrzewska
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Clara Maccari
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Adriana Calderaro
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Maria D'Accolti
- Section of Microbiology, Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Sciences and LTTA, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Irene Soffritti
- Section of Microbiology, Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Sciences and LTTA, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Rosaria Arvia
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Gianluca Sighinolfi
- Rheumatology Unit, Medical School, University of Modena and Reggio E, University-Hospital Policlinico of Modena, Modena, Italy.
| | - Erica Artoni
- Rheumatology Unit, Medical School, University of Modena and Reggio E, University-Hospital Policlinico of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Dilia Giuggioli
- Rheumatology Unit, Medical School, University of Modena and Reggio E, University-Hospital Policlinico of Modena, Modena, Italy
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Abstract
Natural Killer (NK) cells are key effectors of the innate immune system which represent the first line of defense against viral infections. NK cell activation depends on the engagement of a complex receptor repertoire expressed on their surface, consisting of both activating and inhibitory receptors. Among the known NK cell receptors, the family of killer Ig-like receptors (KIRs) consists in activating/inhibitory receptors that interact with specific human leukocyte antigen (HLA) molecules expressed on target cells. In particular, the expression of peculiar KIRs have been reported to be associated to viral infection susceptibility. Interestingly, a significant association between the development and onset of different human pathologies, such as tumors, neurodegeneration and infertility, and a clonal KIRs expression on NK cells has been described in presence of viral infections, supporting the crucial role of KIRs in defining the effect of viral infections in different tissues and organs. This review aims to report the state of art about the role of KIRs receptors in NK cell activation and viral infection control.
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Shmeleva EV, Colucci F. Maternal natural killer cells at the intersection between reproduction and mucosal immunity. Mucosal Immunol 2021; 14:991-1005. [PMID: 33903735 PMCID: PMC8071844 DOI: 10.1038/s41385-020-00374-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2020] [Revised: 11/24/2020] [Accepted: 12/02/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Many maternal immune cells populate the decidua, which is the mucosal lining of the uterus transformed during pregnancy. Here, abundant natural killer (NK) cells and macrophages help the uterine vasculature adapt to fetal demands for gas and nutrients, thereby supporting fetal growth. Fetal trophoblast cells budding off the forming placenta and invading deep into maternal tissues come into contact with these and other immune cells. Besides their homeostatic functions, decidual NK cells can respond to pathogens during infection, but in doing so, they may become conflicted between destroying the invader and sustaining fetoplacental growth. We review how maternal NK cells balance their double duty both in the local microenvironment of the uterus and systemically, during toxoplasmosis, influenza, cytomegalovirus, malaria and other infections that threat pregnancy. We also discuss recent developments in the understanding of NK-cell responses to SARS-Cov-2 infection and the possible dangers of COVID-19 during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evgeniya V Shmeleva
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, University of Cambridge, National Institute for Health Research Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, Cambridge, CB2 0SW, UK
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Francesco Colucci
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, University of Cambridge, National Institute for Health Research Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, Cambridge, CB2 0SW, UK.
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
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Bortolotti D, Gentili V, Santi E, Taliento C, Vitagliano A, Schiuma G, Beltrami S, Rizzo S, Lanza G, Rizzo R, Gafà R, Greco P. Late-onset intrauterine growth restriction and HHV-6 infection: A pilot study. J Med Virol 2021; 93:6317-6322. [PMID: 34138476 DOI: 10.1002/jmv.27138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2021] [Accepted: 06/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Late-onset Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) refers to impaired growth and development of the fetus, characterized by placental morphological abnormalities that affect the fetus's supply of nutrients. Human leukocyte antigen-G (HLA-G) is physiologically expressed during pregnancy, but decreased in normal placenta during the last weeks of gestation possibly inducing childbirth. Several viruses involved in congenital infection, such as herpesviruses, exploit HLA-G expression as an immune-escape mechanism. To date, despite different congenital herpetic infections having been associated with late IUGR, no direct implication of Human herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6) infection has been reported. We evaluated HLA-G expression and HHV-6 infection in 11 placentas from late-onset IUGR newborns and 11 placentas from uncomplicated pregnancies by histopathological and immunohistochemistry analysis. We found higher levels of HLA-G expression and HHV-6 presence in IUGR placenta samples compared with control placenta samples. We report HHV-6 staining in IUGR placenta samples, characterized by high HLA-G expression. These preliminary data suggest a possible involvement of HHV-6 infection in HLA-G deregulation that might affect vessel remodeling and prevent the correct pregnancy outcome in the IUGR condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daria Bortolotti
- Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Valentina Gentili
- Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Erica Santi
- Department of Medical Sciences,Obstetric and Gynecological Clinic, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Cristina Taliento
- Department of Medical Sciences,Obstetric and Gynecological Clinic, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Amerigo Vitagliano
- Department of Medical Sciences,Obstetric and Gynecological Clinic, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Giovanna Schiuma
- Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Silvia Beltrami
- Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Sabrina Rizzo
- Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Giovanni Lanza
- Department of Translational and for Romagna Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Roberta Rizzo
- Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Roberta Gafà
- Department of Translational and for Romagna Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Pantaleo Greco
- Department of Medical Sciences,Obstetric and Gynecological Clinic, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
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Is the ZIKV Congenital Syndrome and Microcephaly Due to Syndemism with Latent Virus Coinfection? Viruses 2021; 13:v13040669. [PMID: 33924398 PMCID: PMC8069280 DOI: 10.3390/v13040669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2021] [Revised: 04/02/2021] [Accepted: 04/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The emergence of the Zika virus (ZIKV) mirrors its evolutionary nature and, thus, its ability to grow in diversity or complexity (i.e., related to genome, host response, environment changes, tropism, and pathogenicity), leading to it recently joining the circle of closed congenital pathogens. The causal relation of ZIKV to microcephaly is still a much-debated issue. The identification of outbreak foci being in certain endemic urban areas characterized by a high-density population emphasizes that mixed infections might spearhead the recent appearance of a wide range of diseases that were initially attributed to ZIKV. Globally, such coinfections may have both positive and negative effects on viral replication, tropism, host response, and the viral genome. In other words, the possibility of coinfection may necessitate revisiting what is considered to be known regarding the pathogenesis and epidemiology of ZIKV diseases. ZIKV viral coinfections are already being reported with other arboviruses (e.g., chikungunya virus (CHIKV) and dengue virus (DENV)) as well as congenital pathogens (e.g., human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and cytomegalovirus (HCMV)). However, descriptions of human latent viruses and their impacts on ZIKV disease outcomes in hosts are currently lacking. This review proposes to select some interesting human latent viruses (i.e., herpes simplex virus 2 (HSV-2), Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), human herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6), human parvovirus B19 (B19V), and human papillomavirus (HPV)), whose virological features and co-exposition with ZIKV may provide evidence of the syndemism process, shedding some light on the emergence of the ZIKV-induced global congenital syndrome in South America.
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The U94 Gene of Human Herpesvirus 6: A Narrative Review of Its Role and Potential Functions. Cells 2020; 9:cells9122608. [PMID: 33291793 PMCID: PMC7762089 DOI: 10.3390/cells9122608] [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: 10/12/2020] [Revised: 12/02/2020] [Accepted: 12/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Human herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6) is a β-herpesvirus that is highly prevalent in the human population. HHV-6 comprises two recognized species (HHV-6A and HHV-6B). Despite different cell tropism and disease association, HHV-6A/B show high genome homology and harbor the conserved U94 gene, which is limited to HHV-6 and absent in all the other human herpesviruses. U94 has key functions in the virus life cycle and associated diseases, having demonstrated or putative roles in virus replication, integration, and reactivation. During natural infection, U94 elicits an immune response, and the prevalence and extent of the anti-U94 response are associated with specific diseases. Notably, U94 can entirely reproduce some virus effects at the cell level, including inhibition of cell migration, induction of cytokines and HLA-G expression, and angiogenesis inhibition, supporting a direct U94 role in the development of HHV-6-associated diseases. Moreover, specific U94 properties, such as the ability to modulate angiogenesis pathways, have been exploited to counteract cancer development. Here, we review the information available on this key HHV-6 gene, highlighting its potential uses.
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Miura H, Kawamura Y, Ohye T, Hattori F, Kozawa K, Ihira M, Yatsuya H, Nishizawa H, Kurahashi H, Yoshikawa T. Inherited Chromosomally Integrated Human Herpesvirus 6 Is a Risk Factor for Spontaneous Abortion. J Infect Dis 2020; 223:1717-1723. [PMID: 32984876 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiaa606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2020] [Accepted: 09/25/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Human herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6) can be genetically transmitted from parent to child as inherited chromosomally integrated HHV-6 (iciHHV-6). HHV-6 reactivation occurs in pregnant women with iciHHV-6. We found no sex differences in the frequency of index cases with iciHHV-6 but inheritance from the father was more common. We evaluated the association between iciHHV-6 status and spontaneous abortion. METHODS iciHHV-6 was confirmed by high viral DNA copy numbers in whole blood and somatic cells. The origin of integrated viral genome, paternal or maternal, was examined using the same method. The pregnancy history of 23 mothers in families with iciHHV-6 and 285 mothers in families without iciHHV-6 was abstracted. RESULTS Of 23 iciHHV-6 index cases, 8 mothers and 15 fathers had iciHHV-6. Spontaneous abortion rates in mothers with and mothers without/fathers with iciHHV-6 and mothers in families without iciHHV-6 were 27.6%, 10.3%, and 14.8%, respectively (P = .012). Mothers with iciHHV-6 (odds ratio [OR], 6.41; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.10-37.4) and maternal age at the most recent pregnancy ≥40 years (OR, 3.91; 95% CI, 1.30-11.8) were associated with 2 or more spontaneous abortions. CONCLUSIONS Mothers with iciHHV-6 is a risk factor for spontaneous abortion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroki Miura
- Department of Pediatrics, Fujita Health University School of Medicine, Toyoake, Japan
| | - Yoshiki Kawamura
- Department of Pediatrics, Fujita Health University School of Medicine, Toyoake, Japan
| | - Tamae Ohye
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Graduate School of Health Sciences, Fujita Health University, Toyoake, Japan
| | - Fumihiko Hattori
- Department of Pediatrics, Fujita Health University School of Medicine, Toyoake, Japan
| | - Kei Kozawa
- Department of Pediatrics, Fujita Health University School of Medicine, Toyoake, Japan
| | - Masaru Ihira
- Faculty of Clinical Engineering, Fujita Health University School of Health Sciences, Toyoake, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Yatsuya
- Department of Public Health, Fujita Health University School of Medicine, Toyoake, Japan
| | - Haruki Nishizawa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fujita Health University School of Medicine, Toyoake, Japan
| | - Hiroki Kurahashi
- Division of Molecular Genetics, Institute for Comprehensive Medical Science, Fujita Health University, Toyoake, Japan
| | - Tetsushi Yoshikawa
- Department of Pediatrics, Fujita Health University School of Medicine, Toyoake, Japan
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13
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Farsimadan M, Motamedifar M. The effects of human immunodeficiency virus, human papillomavirus, herpes simplex virus-1 and -2, human herpesvirus-6 and -8, cytomegalovirus, and hepatitis B and C virus on female fertility and pregnancy. Br J Biomed Sci 2020; 78:1-11. [PMID: 32726192 DOI: 10.1080/09674845.2020.1803540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Female infertility may be defined as a woman of reproductive age being unable to become pregnant after a year of regular unprotected sexual intercourse. Social, genetic, endocrine, physiological, and psychological factors as well as lifestyle habits (i.e., smoking and alcohol consumption), either alone or in combination with male factors, are major causes. However, approximately 15-30% of cases of female infertility remain unexplained. Numerous investigations have also indicated that microbiomes play an important role in human reproduction. All parts of the female reproductive system may be influenced by infectious and pathological agents, especially viruses, and these may interfere with reproductive function and so are risk factors for infertility, although in many cases an exact role is unclear. We present an overview of the impact of common viral infections on female reproduction, searching Medline, PubMed, Scopus, and Google scholar databases for potentially relevant studies of viruses known to have a potential effect. Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), herpes simplex virus (HSV) and human herpesvirus (HHV) increase infertility rates whilst human papillomavirus (HPV), cytomegalovirus (CMV), and hepatitis B and C virus (HBV, HCV) infections mostly lead to higher abortion and miscarriage rates. Moreover, HPV infection is linked to increased tubal infertility, endometriosis, and pelvic inflammatory disease. HPV was the most frequently observed infection and with lower pregnancy rate and foetal death in women undergoing IVF treatments. Assisted reproductive treatment could be a safe and effective approach for HIV and HBV infected women.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Farsimadan
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Guilan , Rasht, Iran
| | - M Motamedifar
- Department of Bacteriology and Virology, Shiraz Medical School, and Shiraz HIV/Aids Research Center, Institute of Health, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences , Shiraz, Iran
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14
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Bilal MY, Katara G, Dambaeva S, Kwak‐Kim J, Gilman‐Sachs A, Beaman KD. Clinical molecular genetics evaluation in women with reproductive failures. Am J Reprod Immunol 2020; 85:e13313. [DOI: 10.1111/aji.13313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2020] [Revised: 06/24/2020] [Accepted: 07/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Mahmood Y. Bilal
- Clinical Immunology Laboratory Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science North Chicago IL USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology Chicago Medical School Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science North Chicago IL USA
| | - Gajendra Katara
- Clinical Immunology Laboratory Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science North Chicago IL USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology Chicago Medical School Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science North Chicago IL USA
| | - Svetlana Dambaeva
- Clinical Immunology Laboratory Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science North Chicago IL USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology Chicago Medical School Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science North Chicago IL USA
| | - Joanne Kwak‐Kim
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology Chicago Medical School Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science North Chicago IL USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Rosalind Franklin University Health System Vernon Hills IL USA
| | - Alice Gilman‐Sachs
- Clinical Immunology Laboratory Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science North Chicago IL USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology Chicago Medical School Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science North Chicago IL USA
| | - Kenneth D. Beaman
- Clinical Immunology Laboratory Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science North Chicago IL USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology Chicago Medical School Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science North Chicago IL USA
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15
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Happel AU, Varsani A, Balle C, Passmore JA, Jaspan H. The Vaginal Virome-Balancing Female Genital Tract Bacteriome, Mucosal Immunity, and Sexual and Reproductive Health Outcomes? Viruses 2020; 12:E832. [PMID: 32751611 PMCID: PMC7472209 DOI: 10.3390/v12080832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2020] [Revised: 07/22/2020] [Accepted: 07/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Besides bacteria, fungi, protists and archaea, the vaginal ecosystem also contains a range of prokaryote- and eukaryote-infecting viruses, which are collectively referred to as the "virome". Despite its well-described role in the gut and other environmental niches, the vaginal virome remains understudied. With a focus on sexual and reproductive health, we summarize the currently known components of the vaginal virome, its relationship with other constituents of the vaginal microbiota and its association with adverse health outcomes. While a range of eukaryote-infecting viruses has been described to be present in the female genital tract (FGT), few prokaryote-infecting viruses have been described. Literature suggests that various vaginal viruses interact with vaginal bacterial microbiota and host immunity and that any imbalance thereof may contribute to the risk of adverse reproductive health outcomes, including infertility and adverse birth outcomes. Current limitations of vaginal virome research include experimental and analytical constraints. Considering the vaginal virome may represent the missing link in our understanding of the relationship between FGT bacteria, mucosal immunity, and adverse sexual and reproductive health outcomes, future studies evaluating the vaginal microbiome and its population dynamics holistically will be important for understanding the role of the vaginal virome in balancing health and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna-Ursula Happel
- Department of Pathology, Institute of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Anzio Road, Observatory, Cape Town 7925, South Africa; (C.B.); (J.-A.P.); (H.J.)
| | - Arvind Varsani
- The Biodesign Center of Fundamental and Applied Microbiomics, School of Life Sciences, Center for Evolution and Medicine, Arizona State University, 1001 S. McAllister Ave, Tempe, AZ 85287-5001, USA;
- Structural Biology Research Unit, Department of Integrative Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Anzio Road, Observatory, Cape Town 7925, South Africa
| | - Christina Balle
- Department of Pathology, Institute of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Anzio Road, Observatory, Cape Town 7925, South Africa; (C.B.); (J.-A.P.); (H.J.)
| | - Jo-Ann Passmore
- Department of Pathology, Institute of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Anzio Road, Observatory, Cape Town 7925, South Africa; (C.B.); (J.-A.P.); (H.J.)
- NRF-DST CAPRISA Centre of Excellence in HIV Prevention, 719 Umbilo Road, Congella, Durban 4013, South Africa
- National Health Laboratory Service, Anzio Road, Observatory, Cape Town 7925, South Africa
| | - Heather Jaspan
- Department of Pathology, Institute of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Anzio Road, Observatory, Cape Town 7925, South Africa; (C.B.); (J.-A.P.); (H.J.)
- Department of Pediatrics and Global Health, University of Washington, 1510 San Juan Road NE, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
- Seattle Children’s Research Institute, 307 Westlake Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
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16
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Gaccioli F, Lager S, de Goffau MC, Sovio U, Dopierala J, Gong S, Cook E, Sharkey A, Moffett A, Lee WK, Delles C, Venturini C, Breuer J, Parkhill J, Peacock SJ, Charnock-Jones DS, Smith GCS. Fetal inheritance of chromosomally integrated human herpesvirus 6 predisposes the mother to pre-eclampsia. Nat Microbiol 2020; 5:901-908. [PMID: 32367053 PMCID: PMC7610361 DOI: 10.1038/s41564-020-0711-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2019] [Accepted: 03/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Pre-eclampsia (typically characterized by new-onset hypertension and proteinuria in the second half of pregnancy) represents a major determinant of the global burden of disease1,2. Its pathophysiology involves placental dysfunction, but the mechanism is unclear. Viral infection can cause organ dysfunction, but its role in placentally related disorders of human pregnancy is unknown3. We addressed this using RNA sequencing metagenomics4-6 of placental samples from normal and complicated pregnancies. Here, we show that human herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6, A or B) RNA was detected in 6.1% of cases of pre-eclampsia and 2.2% of other pregnancies. Fetal genotyping demonstrated that 70% of samples with HHV-6 RNA in the placenta exhibited inherited, chromosomally integrated HHV-6 (iciHHV-6). We genotyped 467 pre-eclampsia cases and 3,854 controls and found an excess of iciHHV-6 in the cases (odds ratio of 2.8, 95% confidence intervals of 1.4-5.6, P = 0.008). We validated this finding by comparing iciHHV-6 in a further 740 cases with controls from large-scale population studies (odds ratio of 2.5, 95% confidence intervals of 1.4-4.4, P = 0.0013). We conclude that iciHHV-6 results in the transcription of viral RNA in the human placenta and predisposes the mother to pre-eclampsia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Gaccioli
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Susanne Lager
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Marcus C de Goffau
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Ulla Sovio
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Justyna Dopierala
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Functional Genomics, GlaxoSmithKline Limited, Stevenage, UK
| | - Sungsam Gong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Emma Cook
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Andrew Sharkey
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Ashley Moffett
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Wai Kwong Lee
- Institute of Cardiovascular and Medical Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Christian Delles
- Institute of Cardiovascular and Medical Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Cristina Venturini
- Division of Infection and Immunity, University College London, London, UK
| | - Judith Breuer
- Division of Infection and Immunity, University College London, London, UK
- Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Julian Parkhill
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Sharon J Peacock
- Department of Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - D Stephen Charnock-Jones
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Gordon C S Smith
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
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17
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Rizzo R, Bortolotti D, Gentili V, Rotola A, Bolzani S, Caselli E, Tola MR, Di Luca D. KIR2DS2/KIR2DL2/HLA-C1 Haplotype Is Associated with Alzheimer's Disease: Implication for the Role of Herpesvirus Infections. J Alzheimers Dis 2020; 67:1379-1389. [PMID: 30689576 DOI: 10.3233/jad-180777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder, where neuroinflammation and immune cells are key pathological factors. Recently, it was suggested a possible association between AD and human herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6) infection. Since we recently observed that multiple sclerosis patients with KIR2DL2 expression on natural killer (NK) cells are more susceptible to herpesvirus infection, we tested the possible implication of KIR/HLA genetic for HHV-6A infection. We identified, for the first time, a possible implication of a specific KIR/HLA subset in AD. The combination KIR2DS2/KIR2DL2/C1 correlated with a lower MMSEDi score, representative of a severe AD status and an increased susceptibility to HHV-6A infection. Therefore, the results seem to converge on the hypothesis that herpesvirus infection might play a role in AD. If this hypothesis finds experimental confirmation, a new therapeutic strategy, modulating KIR2DL2 expression on NK cells, for AD might be envisaged.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Rizzo
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Daria Bortolotti
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Valentina Gentili
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Antonella Rotola
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Silvia Bolzani
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | | | - Maria Rosaria Tola
- Department of Neurosciences and Rehabilitation, University Hospital, Arcispedale S. Anna, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Dario Di Luca
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
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18
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Pegoraro A, Bortolotti D, Marci R, Caselli E, Falzoni S, De Marchi E, Di Virgilio F, Rizzo R, Adinolfi E. The P2X7 Receptor 489C>T Gain of Function Polymorphism Favors HHV-6A Infection and Associates With Female Idiopathic Infertility. Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:96. [PMID: 32153407 PMCID: PMC7046806 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.00096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2019] [Accepted: 01/27/2020] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
The P2X7 receptor (P2X7R) is an ATP-gated ion channel known for its proinflammatory activity. Despite its participation in host defense against pathogens, the role played in viral infections, notably those caused by herpes viruses, has been seldom studied. Here we investigated the effect of P2X7R expression on human herpes virus 6 A (HHV-6A) infection of P2X7R-expressing HEK293 cells. We show that functional P2X7R increases while its blockade decreases viral load. Interestingly, HHV-6A infection was enhanced in HEK293 cells transfected with P2X7R cDNA bearing the gain of function 489C>T SNP (rs208294, replacing a histidine for tyrosine at position 155). The P2X7R 489C>T polymorphism correlated with HHV-6A infection also in a cohort of 50 women affected with idiopathic infertility, a condition previously shown to correlate with HHV-6A infection. None of the infertile women infected by HHV-6A was homozygote for 489CC genotype, while on the contrary HHV-6A infection significantly associated with the presence of the rs208294 allele. Levels of soluble human leukocyte antigen G (sHLA-G), a factor promoting embryo implant, measured in uterine flushings negatively correlated with the 489TT genotype and HHV-6A infection, while proinflammatory cytokines interleukins 1α (IL-1α), 1β (IL-1β), and 8 (IL-8) positively correlated with both the 489T allele presence and viral infection. Taken together these data point to the P2X7R as a new therapeutic target to prevent HHV-6A infection and the associated infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Pegoraro
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Daria Bortolotti
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Roberto Marci
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.,Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, University of Geneve, Geneve, Switzerland
| | | | - Simonetta Falzoni
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Elena De Marchi
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Francesco Di Virgilio
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Roberta Rizzo
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Elena Adinolfi
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
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19
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Bortolotti D, Gentili V, Caselli E, Sicolo M, Soffritti I, D'Accolti M, Barao I, Rotola A, Di Luca D, Rizzo R. DNA Sensors' Signaling in NK Cells During HHV-6A, HHV-6B and HHV-7 Infection. Front Microbiol 2020; 11:226. [PMID: 32140147 PMCID: PMC7042408 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2020.00226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2019] [Accepted: 01/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives The host DNA sensor proteins TLR9, STING, IFI16 are central signaling molecules that control the innate immune response to cytosolic nucleic acids. Here we propose to investigate how Natural killer (NK) cell infection by human herpesvirus (HHV)-6A, HHV-6B or HHV-7 is able to modify DNA sensor signaling in NK cells. Methods We infected the NK92 cell line and primary NK cells with cell-free inocula of HHV-6A, HHV-6B or HHV-7 and evaluated TLR9, STING, and IFI16 pathway expression by Real-Time PCR, Western Blot, immunofluorescence and flow cytometry for 1, 2, 3, and 6 days post-infection. We evaluated NK cell cytokine-producing by Real-Time PCR and enzyme immunosorbent assay. Results NK92 and primary NK cells were promptly infected by three viruses, as demonstrated by virus presence (DNA) and transcription (RNA) analysis. Our data show STING/STAT6 up-modulation in HHV-6A infected NK cells. NK cells infected with HHV-6B and HHV-7 up-regulated CCL3, IFN-alpha, TNF-alpha, IL-8 and IFN-gamma and slightly induced IL-4, and CCL4. HHV-6A infected NK cells up-regulated IL-4 and IL-13 and slightly induced IL-10, TNF-alpha, IFN-alpha, and IFN-gamma. Conclusion For the first time, we demonstrate that HHV-6A, HHV-6B, and HHV-7 infections have a differential impact on intracellular DNA sensors. HHV-6B and HHV-7 mainly lead to the active control of in vivo viral spreading by pro-inflammatory cytokine secretion via TLR9. HHV-6A infected NK cells conversely induced STING/STAT6 pathway, as a mechanism of anti-viral activation, but they were characterized by a Th2 type response and a non-cytotoxic profile, suggesting a potential novel mechanism of HHV-6A-mediated immunosuppression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daria Bortolotti
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Valentina Gentili
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Caselli
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Mariangela Sicolo
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Irene Soffritti
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Maria D'Accolti
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Isabel Barao
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Microbiology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.,School of Medicine, University of Nevada, Reno, Reno, NV, United States
| | - Antonella Rotola
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Dario Di Luca
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Microbiology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.,School of Medicine, University of Nevada, Reno, Reno, NV, United States
| | - Roberta Rizzo
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
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20
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Current understanding of human herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6) chromosomal integration. Antiviral Res 2020; 176:104720. [PMID: 32044155 DOI: 10.1016/j.antiviral.2020.104720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2019] [Revised: 01/21/2020] [Accepted: 01/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Human herpesvirus 6A (HHV-6A) and 6B (HHV-6B) are members of the genus Roseolovirus in the Betaherpesvirinae subfamily. HHV-6B infects humans in the first years of life, has a seroprevalence of more than 90% and causes Roseola Infantum, but less is known about HHV-6A. While most other herpesviruses maintain their latent genome as a circular episome, HHV-6A and HHV-6B (HHV-6A/B) have been shown to integrate their genome into the telomeres of infected cells. HHV-6A/B can also integrate into the chromosomes of germ cells, resulting in individuals carrying a copy of the virus genome in every nucleated cell of their bodies. This review highlights our current understanding of HHV-6A/B integration and reactivation as well as aspects that should be addressed in the future of this relatively young research area. It forms part of an online symposium on the prevention and therapy of DNA virus infections, dedicated to the memory of Mark Prichard.
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21
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Bortolotti D, Soffritti I, D'Accolti M, Gentili V, Di Luca D, Rizzo R, Caselli E. HHV-6A Infection of Endometrial Epithelial Cells Affects miRNA Expression and Trophoblast Cell Attachment. Reprod Sci 2020; 27:779-786. [PMID: 32046402 PMCID: PMC7077927 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-019-00102-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2019] [Accepted: 08/13/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
We recently reported that human herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6) infection is frequently present in endometrial tissue of women with unexplained infertility, and that virus infection induces a profound remodulation of miRNA expression in human cells of different origin. Since specific miRNA patterns have been associated with specific pregnancy outcomes, we aimed to analyze the impact of HHV-6A infection on miRNAs expression and trophoblast receptivity in human endometrial cells. To this purpose, a human endometrial cell line (HEC-1A) was infected with HHV-6A and analyzed for alterations in the expression of miRNAs and for permissiveness to the attachment of a human choriocarcinoma trophoblast cell line (JEG-3). The results showed that HHV-6A infection of endometrial cells up-modulates miR22 (26-fold), miR15 (19.5-fold), and miR196-5p (12.1 fold), that are correlated with implant failure, and down-modulates miR18 (11.4 fold), miR101-3p (4.6 fold), miR181-5p (4.9 fold), miR92 (3.3 fold), and miR1207-5p (3.9 fold), characterized by a low expression in preeclampsia. Moreover, HHV-6A-infected endometrial cells infected resulted less permissive to the attachment of trophoblast cells. In conclusion, collected data suggest that HHV-6A infection could modify miRNA expression pattern and control of trophoblast cell adhesion of endometrial cells, undermining a correct trophoblast cell attachment on endometrial cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daria Bortolotti
- Section of Microbiology and Medical Genetics, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, via Luigi Borsari 46, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Irene Soffritti
- Section of Microbiology and Medical Genetics, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, via Luigi Borsari 46, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Maria D'Accolti
- Section of Microbiology and Medical Genetics, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, via Luigi Borsari 46, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Valentina Gentili
- Section of Microbiology and Medical Genetics, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, via Luigi Borsari 46, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Dario Di Luca
- Section of Microbiology and Medical Genetics, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, via Luigi Borsari 46, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Roberta Rizzo
- Section of Microbiology and Medical Genetics, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, via Luigi Borsari 46, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Caselli
- Section of Microbiology and Medical Genetics, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, via Luigi Borsari 46, 44121, Ferrara, Italy.
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22
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Caselli E, Soffritti I, D’Accolti M, Bortolotti D, Rizzo R, Sighinolfi G, Giuggioli D, Ferri C. HHV-6A Infection and Systemic Sclerosis: Clues of a Possible Association. Microorganisms 2019; 8:microorganisms8010039. [PMID: 31878218 PMCID: PMC7022325 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms8010039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2019] [Accepted: 12/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an autoimmune disease characterized by vasculopathy, excessive extracellular matrix deposition, and fibrosis of the skin and internal organs. Several infectious agents, including human herpesvirus-6 (HHV-6), have been suggested as possible triggering factors, but a direct association is still missing. We characterized 26 SSc patients for the presence of HHV-6 in tissues and blood, the anti-HHV-6 response, HLA-G plasma levels, and KIR typing. Given the prominent role of endothelial cells (EC) in SSc pathogenesis, along with HHV-6 tropism for EC, we also investigated the expression of pro-fibrosis factors in HHV-6 infected EC. Results showed the presence of HHV-6A in skin biopsies, and an increased virus load was associated with disease severity and poor natural killer (NK) response against the virus, particularly in subjects exhibiting a KIR2 phenotype. HLA-G plasma levels were significantly higher in HHV-6A/B-KIR2 positive SSc patients and in vitro HHV-6A infection-induced pro-fibrosis factors expression in EC, supporting its role in the development of the fibrosing process. Our data suggest an association between virus infection/reactivation and disease, opening the way to future studies to understand the mechanisms by which HHV-6A might contribute to the multifactorial pathogenesis of SSc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabetta Caselli
- Section of Microbiology and Medical Genetics, Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-0532-455387
| | - Irene Soffritti
- Section of Microbiology and Medical Genetics, Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Maria D’Accolti
- Section of Microbiology and Medical Genetics, Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Daria Bortolotti
- Section of Microbiology and Medical Genetics, Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Roberta Rizzo
- Section of Microbiology and Medical Genetics, Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Gianluca Sighinolfi
- Rheumatology Unit, Medical School, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, University-Hospital Policlinico of Modena, 41121 Modena, Italy
| | - Dilia Giuggioli
- Rheumatology Unit, Medical School, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, University-Hospital Policlinico of Modena, 41121 Modena, Italy
| | - Clodoveo Ferri
- Rheumatology Unit, Medical School, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, University-Hospital Policlinico of Modena, 41121 Modena, Italy
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23
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Denner J, Bigley TM, Phan TL, Zimmermann C, Zhou X, Kaufer BB. Comparative Analysis of Roseoloviruses in Humans, Pigs, Mice, and Other Species. Viruses 2019; 11:E1108. [PMID: 31801268 PMCID: PMC6949924 DOI: 10.3390/v11121108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2019] [Revised: 11/13/2019] [Accepted: 11/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Viruses of the genus Roseolovirus belong to the subfamily Betaherpesvirinae, family Herpesviridae. Roseoloviruses have been studied in humans, mice and pigs, but they are likely also present in other species. This is the first comparative analysis of roseoloviruses in humans and animals. The human roseoloviruses human herpesvirus 6A (HHV-6A), 6B (HHV-6B), and 7 (HHV-7) are relatively well characterized. In contrast, little is known about the murine roseolovirus (MRV), also known as murine thymic virus (MTV) or murine thymic lymphotrophic virus (MTLV), and the porcine roseolovirus (PRV), initially incorrectly named porcine cytomegalovirus (PCMV). Human roseoloviruses have gained attention because they can cause severe diseases including encephalitis in immunocompromised transplant and AIDS patients and febrile seizures in infants. They have been linked to a number of neurological diseases in the immunocompetent including multiple sclerosis (MS) and Alzheimer's. However, to prove the causality in the latter disease associations is challenging due to the high prevalence of these viruses in the human population. PCMV/PRV has attracted attention because it may be transmitted and pose a risk in xenotransplantation, e.g., the transplantation of pig organs into humans. Most importantly, all roseoloviruses are immunosuppressive, the humoral and cellular immune responses against these viruses are not well studied and vaccines as well as effective antivirals are not available.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joachim Denner
- Robert Koch Institute, Robert Koch Fellow, 13352 Berlin, Germany
| | - Tarin M. Bigley
- Division of Rheumatology, Department. of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA;
| | - Tuan L. Phan
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA 70118, USA;
- HHV-6 Foundation, Santa Barbara, CA 93108, USA
| | - Cosima Zimmermann
- Institute of Virology, Freie Universität Berlin, 14163 Berlin, Germany;
| | - Xiaofeng Zhou
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department. of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
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24
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Bortolotti D, Gentili V, Rotola A, Cultrera R, Marci R, Di Luca D, Rizzo R. HHV-6A infection of endometrial epithelial cells affects immune profile and trophoblast invasion. Am J Reprod Immunol 2019; 82:e13174. [PMID: 31338899 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2019] [Revised: 07/15/2019] [Accepted: 07/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM We first reported human herpesvirus (HHV)-6A DNA presence in 43% of endometrial cells from women with idiopathic infertility, whereas no fertile control women harbored the virus. We investigated the effect of HHV-6A infection on the immunological status of the endometrium. METHOD OF STUDY Endometrial biopsies, uterine flushing, and whole blood samples were collected from 67 idiopathic infertile women (mid-secretory phase). We analyzed the endometrial immunological status evaluating: (a) the effect of HHV-6A infection on endometrial immune profile analyzing the ratio of interleukin (IL)-15/ fibroblast growth factor-inducible 14 (Fn-14) and IL-18/ TNF-related weak inducer of apoptosis (TWEAK) mRNA as a biomarker of endometrial (e)natural killer activation/maturation, angiogenesis, and Th1/Th2 balance; (b) endometrial receptivity to trophoblasts in endometrial 3D in vitro model; (c) natural killer (NK) cells and T cells percentage and subpopulations by flow cytometry. RESULTS We confirmed the presence of HHV-6A infection in a 40% of idiopathic infertile women, characterized by an immune profile reflecting eNK cell cytotoxic activation and a decrease in CD4+ CD25+ CD127dim/- regulatory T cells. The co-culture of endometrial epithelial cells with spheroids generated from the extravillous trophoblast-derived cell line JEG3 showed a twofold expansion of spheroids on endometrial epithelial-stromal cells (ESC) culture surface from HHV-6A negative women while no expansion was observed on the surface of ESC from HHV-6A positive women. CONCLUSION The identification of an effect of HHV-6A infection on endometrial immune status opens new perspectives in idiopathic infertile women care management. In addition, it would be possible to select antiviral therapies as novel, non-hormonal therapeutic approaches to those idiopathic infertile women characterized by the presence of endometrial HHV-6A infection, to increase their pregnancy rate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daria Bortolotti
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Valentina Gentili
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Antonella Rotola
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Rosario Cultrera
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Dermathology and Infective Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Roberto Marci
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, Section of Orthopedics, Obstetrics and Gynecology and Anesthesiology and Reanimation Ferrara, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.,School of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Dario Di Luca
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Roberta Rizzo
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
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25
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Human Herpesvirus 6A and 6B inhibit in vitro angiogenesis by induction of Human Leukocyte Antigen G. Sci Rep 2018; 8:17683. [PMID: 30523283 PMCID: PMC6283866 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-36146-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2018] [Accepted: 11/09/2018] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
We have previously reported that human herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6) infection of endothelial cells (ECs) induces the loss of angiogenic properties, through the expression of HHV-6 U94, possibly associated to the release of a soluble mediator. It is also known that the soluble isoform of HLA-G exhibits an anti-angiogenic function, important in implantation, transplantation and neoplastic development. In this study, we analyzed the expression of HLA-G in HHV-6 infected ECs, showing that both HHV-6A and HHV-6B infection induce a potent up-modulation of HLA-G, including both membrane and soluble isoforms. Interestingly, HHV-6A and HHV-6B induced different isoforms of HLA-G. The virus-induced increase of HLA-G was likely due to the expression of the U94 viral gene, that by itself was able to reproduce the effect of whole virus. The effect of U94 was mediated by human transcription factor ATF3, that induced HLA-G activation by recognizing a consensus sequence on its promoter. Virus-induced inhibition of ECs angiogenic ability directly correlated to HLA-G expression and release, and the addition of anti-HLA-G antibody restored the angiogenic properties of HHV6-infected ECs. The induction of HLA-G expression in ECs might represent an important mediator of HHV-6 induced effects.
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26
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Eliassen E, Krueger G, Luppi M, Ablashi D. Lymphoproliferative Syndromes Associated with Human Herpesvirus-6A and Human Herpesvirus-6B. Mediterr J Hematol Infect Dis 2018; 10:e2018035. [PMID: 29755712 PMCID: PMC5937953 DOI: 10.4084/mjhid.2018.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2018] [Accepted: 04/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Human herpesvirus 6A and 6B (HHV-6A and HHV-6B) have been noted since their discovery for their T-lymphotropism. Although it has proven difficult to determine the extent to which HHV-6A and HHV-6B are involved in the pathogenesis of many diseases, evidence suggests that primary infection and reactivation of both viruses may induce or contribute to the progression of several lymphoproliferative disorders, ranging from benign to malignant and including infectious mononucleosis-like illness, drug induced hypersensitivity syndrome/drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DIHS/DRESS), and nodular sclerosis Hodgkin's lymphoma. Herein, we discuss the conditions associated with the lymphoproliferative capacity of HHV-6, as well as the potential mechanisms behind them. Continued exploration on this topic may add to our understanding of the interactions between HHV-6 and the immune system and may open the doors to more accurate diagnosis and treatment of certain lymphoproliferative disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Eliassen
- HHV-6 Foundation, Santa Barbara, California, USA
| | - Gerhard Krueger
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Texas, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Mario Luppi
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
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