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Salfi G, Casiraghi F, Remuzzi G. Current understanding of the molecular mechanisms of circulating permeability factor in focal segmental glomerulosclerosis. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1247606. [PMID: 37795085 PMCID: PMC10546017 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1247606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The pathogenetic mechanisms underlying the onset and the post-transplant recurrence of primary focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) are complex and remain yet to be fully elucidated. However, a growing body of evidence emphasizes the pivotal role of the immune system in both initiating and perpetuating the disease. Extensive investigations, encompassing both experimental models and patient studies, have implicated T cells, B cells, and complement as crucial actors in the pathogenesis of primary FSGS, with various molecules being proposed as potential "circulating factors" contributing to the disease and its recurrence post kidney-transplantation. In this review, we critically assessed the existing literature to identify essential pathways for a comprehensive characterization of the pathogenesis of FSGS. Recent discoveries have shed further light on the intricate interplay between these mechanisms. We present an overview of the current understanding of the engagement of distinct molecules and immune cells in FSGS pathogenesis while highlighting critical knowledge gaps that require attention. A thorough characterization of these intricate immune mechanisms holds the potential to identify noninvasive biomarkers that can accurately identify patients at high risk of post-transplant recurrence. Such knowledge can pave the way for the development of targeted and personalized therapeutic approaches in the management of FSGS.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Federica Casiraghi
- Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Bergamo, Italy
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2
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Zhaoyang P, Wei L, Yanyan J, Wenqing X, Haidong F, Jianhua M. CCL22 and Leptin associated with steroid resistance in childhood idiopathic nephrotic syndrome. Front Pediatr 2023; 11:1261034. [PMID: 37744450 PMCID: PMC10514898 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2023.1261034] [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: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective Previous studies have indicated a decrease in T regulatory cells (Tregs) among patients with steroid-resistant nephrotic syndrome. CCL22 and Leptin influenced the immune function of Tregs through their respective pathways. This study aimed to compare patients with steroid-sensitive nephrotic syndrome (SSNS) and steroid-resistant nephrotic syndrome (SRNS) in terms of CCL22 and Leptin levels. Methods This prospective study included 117 children diagnosed with idiopathic nephrotic syndrome (INS). Peripheral blood samples were collected before initiating steroid therapy, and serum levels of CCL22 and Leptin were measured. Patients were categorized into three groups based on their response to steroid treatment. Renal biopsies were recommended for all children diagnosed with INS, with higher acceptance rates in glucocorticoid resistance patients. Results Based on the response to steroid treatment, 117 children were divided as groups of SSNS (82 cases), frequent relapse nephrotic syndrome (FRNS) (10 cases), and SRNS (25 cases). A total of 41 patients underwent kidney biopsy, 11 cases (13.4%) in SSNS, 7 cases (70.0%) in FRNS and 24 cases (96.0%) in SRNS. 30 cases were minimal change disease (MCD), 9 cases were mesangial proliferative glomerulonephritis (MsPGN) and 3 cases were focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS). The levels of Leptin were significantly higher in SR patients (1208.1 ± 1044.1 pg/ml) compared to SS patients (515.4 ± 676.9 pg/ml) and controls (507.9 ± 479.8 pg/ml), regardless of the pathological type. CCL22 levels were significantly elevated in SRNS (92.2 ± 157.0 pg/ml), but the difference seemed to be attributed to the specific type of pathology, such as Minimal change disease (MCD) (127.4 ± 206.7 pg/ml) and focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) (114.8 ± 22.0 pg/ml). For SRNS prediction, the AUC of Leptin, CCL22, and the joint prediction index were 0.764, 0.640, and 0.806, respectively. Conclusion Serum levels of CCL22 and Leptin, detected prior to steroid therapy, were associated with steroid resistance in childhood INS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Zhaoyang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Children’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health, Hangzhou, China
| | - Li Wei
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Children’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jin Yanyan
- Department of Nephrology, Children’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiang Wenqing
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Children’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health, Hangzhou, China
| | - Fu Haidong
- Department of Nephrology, Children’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health, Hangzhou, China
| | - Mao Jianhua
- Department of Nephrology, Children’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health, Hangzhou, China
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Chen G, Zeng M, Liu Z, Zhou M, Zha J, Zhang L, Chen H, Liu H. The kinetics of mTORC1 activation associates with FOXP3 expression pattern of CD4+ T cells and outcome of steroid-sensitive minimal change disease. Int Immunopharmacol 2023; 122:110589. [PMID: 37418986 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2023.110589] [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: 06/14/2023] [Revised: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 07/09/2023]
Abstract
Minimal change disease (MCD) usually responds to glucocorticoids (GCs) but relapses in most cases. Relapse pathogenesis after complete remission (CR) remains unclear. We hypothesized that FOXP3+ T regulatory cell (Treg) dysregulation may drive early relapses (ER). In this study, a cohort of 23 MCD patients were treated with a conventional GC regimen for the initial onset of nephrotic syndrome. Upon GC withdrawal, seven patients suffered from ER, while 16 patients sustained remission (SR) during the 12-month follow-up. Patients with ER had reduced FOXP3+ Treg proportions compared with healthy controls. Treg reduction, accompanied by IL-10 impairment, was ascribed to a proportional decline of FOXP3medium rather than FOXP3high cells. GC-induced CR was marked by a rise in the proportions of FOXP3+ and FOXP3medium cells compared to baseline levels. These increases declined in patients with ER. The expression level of phosphorylated ribosomal protein S6 was used to track the dynamic shifts in mTORC1 activity within CD4+ T cells of MCD patients at various stages of treatment. Baseline mTORC1 activity was inversely correlated with FOXP3+ and FOXP3medium Treg proportion. The mTORC1 activity in CD4+ T cells served as a reliable indicator for ER and demonstrated improved performance when paired with FOXP3 expression. Mechanically, targeting mTORC1 intervention by siRNAs sufficiently altered the conversion pattern of CD4+ T cell to FOXP3+ Treg. Taken together, the activity of mTORC1 in CD4+ T cells can act as a credible predictor for ER in MCD, especially when combined with FOXP3 expression, and may offer a potential therapeutic avenue for the treatment of podocytopathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guochun Chen
- Department of Nephrology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China; Hunan Key Laboratory of Kidney Disease and Blood Purification, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China; Clinical Immunology Research Center of Central South University, Changsha, China.
| | - Mengru Zeng
- Department of Nephrology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China; Hunan Key Laboratory of Kidney Disease and Blood Purification, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Zhiwen Liu
- Department of Nephrology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China; Hunan Key Laboratory of Kidney Disease and Blood Purification, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Mi Zhou
- Department of Nephrology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China; Hunan Key Laboratory of Kidney Disease and Blood Purification, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jie Zha
- Department of Nephrology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China; Hunan Key Laboratory of Kidney Disease and Blood Purification, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Lei Zhang
- Department of Nephrology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China; Hunan Key Laboratory of Kidney Disease and Blood Purification, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Huihui Chen
- Clinical Immunology Research Center of Central South University, Changsha, China; Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China.
| | - Hong Liu
- Department of Nephrology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China; Hunan Key Laboratory of Kidney Disease and Blood Purification, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China.
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4
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Ni FF, Liu GL, Jia SL, Li CR, Gao XJ. Effects of the mTOR Pathway on the Balance of Th2/Treg Cells in Children with Idiopathic Nephrotic Syndrome. Indian J Nephrol 2023; 33:93-100. [PMID: 37234433 PMCID: PMC10208544 DOI: 10.4103/ijn.ijn_521_21] [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: 12/15/2021] [Revised: 05/19/2022] [Accepted: 05/29/2022] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Immune dysfunction contributes to the progression of idiopathic nephrotic syndrome (INS), but the details of the pathogenesis of progression remain unknown. This study of children with INS investigated the relationship of activation of the mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway (PI3K/AKT/mTOR/p70S6K) with the levels of T helper 2/regulatory T (Th2/Treg) cells. Materials and Methods Twenty children with active INS (before steroid treatment), 20 children with remitting INS (INS-R, after steroid treatment), and 20 healthy control children (Ctrl) were enrolled. The levels of Th2/Treg cells in their peripheral circulatory systems were measured using flow cytometry, and the concentration of interleukin (IL)-4 was determined using a cytometric bead array (CBA). The levels of PI3K, AKT, mTOR, p70S6K, and transcription factors associated with Th2/Treg cells were measured using real-time polymerase chain reaction. Results The INS group had a greater proportion of circulating Th2 cells; level of IL-4 protein; and levels of GATA, PI3K, AKT, mTOR, and p70S6K mRNAs than the Ctrl group (all P < 0.05), but a lower proportion of circulating Tregs and expression of Foxp3 (both P < 0.05). Patients in the INS-R group had normalization of these markers (all P < 0.05). Patients in the INS group had negative correlation in the percentage of Treg cells with Th2 cells and with IL-4 level and a negative correlation in the levels of GATA3 and Foxp3 mRNAs. Conclusions Patients with active INS had an imbalance of Th2/Treg cells, which might result from the aberrant signaling of the mTOR pathway (PI3K/AKT/mTOR/p70S6K).
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Affiliation(s)
- Fen Fen Ni
- Department of Nephrology, Shenzhen Children’s Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Guang Lei Liu
- Department of Pediatrics, The Fifth Affiliated (Zhuhai) Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zhuhai, China
| | - Shi Lei Jia
- Department of Nephrology, Shenzhen Children’s Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Cheng Rong Li
- Department of Nephrology, Shenzhen Children’s Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xiao Jie Gao
- Department of Nephrology, Shenzhen Children’s Hospital, Shenzhen, China
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Deng Y, Ou YY, Mo CJ, Huang L, Qin X, Li S. Peripheral blood lymphocyte subsets in children with nephrotic syndrome: a retrospective analysis. BMC Nephrol 2023; 24:7. [PMID: 36627573 PMCID: PMC9830737 DOI: 10.1186/s12882-022-03015-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nephrotic syndrome (NS) in children is widely believed to be associated with severe changes in the immune system. Based on lymphocyte subset analysis, we examined the pathogenesis of immune deficiencies in children with NS with varying steroid sensitivity. METHODS Our study utilized flow cytometry to retrospectively analyze the ratios of lymphocyte subsets in 204 children with nephrotic syndrome and 19 healthy children. RESULTS Compared with healthy children, the ratio of CD4 + /CD8 + in onset and remission was decreased in SRNS group (p < 0.05), and CD19 + B lymphocytes were increased in onset (p < 0.05). Compared with onset, the proportion of CD19 + B lymphocytes decreased in SRNS, while the proportion of CD19 + B lymphocytes increased in SDNS, p < (0.01). The ratio of CD8 + T/CD19 + B in onset in SDNS group was significantly higher than that in SSNS and SRNS groups (p < 0.01) and healthy control group (p < 0.05). Compared with onset, the ratio of CD8 + T/CD19 + B in SDNS group decreased significantly (p < 0.01), while the ratio of CD8 + T/CD19 + B in SRNS group increased significantly (p < 0.01). The proportion of CD56 + CD16 + NK cells was significantly reduced in children with INS (p < 0.01). CONCLUSION CD8 + T lymphocytes may be involved in the mechanism of lymphocyte subsets disorder during onset of SDNS, while CD19 + B lymphocytes may be involved in the mechanism of lymphocyte subsets disorder during relapse of SDNS. The CD8 + T/CD19 + B ratio may predict the degree of frequent recurrence. There is a certain degree of lymphoid subsets disorder in children with NS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Deng
- grid.412594.f0000 0004 1757 2961Key Laboratory of Clinical Laboratory Medicine of Guangxi Department of Education, Department of Clinical Laboratory, First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021 Guangxi China
| | - Ying-ying Ou
- grid.412594.f0000 0004 1757 2961Key Laboratory of Clinical Laboratory Medicine of Guangxi Department of Education, Department of Clinical Laboratory, First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021 Guangxi China
| | - Cui-Ju Mo
- grid.412594.f0000 0004 1757 2961Key Laboratory of Clinical Laboratory Medicine of Guangxi Department of Education, Department of Clinical Laboratory, First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021 Guangxi China
| | - Li Huang
- grid.412594.f0000 0004 1757 2961Key Laboratory of Clinical Laboratory Medicine of Guangxi Department of Education, Department of Clinical Laboratory, First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021 Guangxi China
| | - Xue Qin
- grid.412594.f0000 0004 1757 2961Key Laboratory of Clinical Laboratory Medicine of Guangxi Department of Education, Department of Clinical Laboratory, First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021 Guangxi China
| | - Shan Li
- grid.412594.f0000 0004 1757 2961Key Laboratory of Clinical Laboratory Medicine of Guangxi Department of Education, Department of Clinical Laboratory, First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021 Guangxi China
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Kitsou K, Askiti V, Mitsioni A, Spoulou V. The immunopathogenesis of idiopathic nephrotic syndrome: a narrative review of the literature. Eur J Pediatr 2022; 181:1395-1404. [PMID: 35098401 DOI: 10.1007/s00431-021-04357-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2021] [Revised: 10/21/2021] [Accepted: 12/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Idiopathic nephrotic syndrome (INS) is a common glomerular disease in childhood, and the immunological involvement in the pathogenesis of non-genetic INS, although not fully elucidated, is evident. This narrative review aims to offer a concise and in-depth view of the current knowledge on the immunological mechanisms of the development of INS as well as the role of the immunological components of the disease in the responsiveness to treatment. T cell immunity appears to play a major role in the INS immunopathogenesis and has been the first to be linked to the disease. Various T cell immunophenotypes are implicated in INS, including T-helper-1, T-helper-2, T-helper-17, and T regulatory cells, and various cytokines have been proposed as surrogate biomarkers of the disease; however, no distinct T helper or cytokine profile has been conclusively linked to the disease. More recently, the recognition of the role of B cell mediated immunity and the various B cell subsets that are dysregulated in patients with INS have led to new hypotheses on the underlying immunological causes of INS. Finally, the disambiguation of the exact mechanisms of the INS development in the future may be the key to the development of more targeted personalized approaches in managing INS. CONCLUSIONS INS demonstrates particularly interesting immunopathogenetic pathways, in which multiple interactions between T cell and B cell immunity and the podocyte are involved. The disambiguation of these pathways will provide promising novel therapeutic targets in INS. WHAT IS KNOWN • INS is the most common glomerular disease in the paediatric population, and its onset and relapses have been linked to various immunological triggers. • Multiple immunological mechanisms have been implicated in the pathogenesis of INS; however, no single distinct immunological profile has been recognized. WHAT IS NEW • Th17 cells and Treg cells play an important role in the immune dysregulation in INS. • Transitional B cell levels as well as the transitional/memory B cell ratio have been correlated to nephrotic relapses and have been proposed as biomarkers of INS relapses in SSNS patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konstantina Kitsou
- Immunobiology and Vaccinology Research Laboratory, First Department of Paediatrics, School of Medicine, "Aghia Sophia" Children's Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece.
| | - Varvara Askiti
- Department of Nephrology, "P. and A. Kyriakou" Children's Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Andromachi Mitsioni
- Department of Nephrology, "P. and A. Kyriakou" Children's Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Vana Spoulou
- Immunobiology and Vaccinology Research Laboratory, First Department of Paediatrics, School of Medicine, "Aghia Sophia" Children's Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
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7
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The Role of Cytokines in Nephrotic Syndrome. Mediators Inflamm 2022; 2022:6499668. [PMID: 35185384 PMCID: PMC8849808 DOI: 10.1155/2022/6499668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2021] [Revised: 01/16/2022] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Idiopathic nephrotic syndrome (INS) is an important primary glomerular disease characterized by severe proteinuria. Evidence supports a role for T cell dysfunction in the pathogenesis of INS. Glucocorticoids are the primary therapy for INS; however, steroid-resistant NS (SRNS) patients are at a higher risk of drug-induced side effects and harbor poor prognosis. Although the exact mechanism of the resistance is unknown, the imbalances of T helper subtype 1 (Th1), Th2, and regulatory T cells (Tregs) and their cytokines may be involved in the pathogenesis of glucocorticoid responsiveness. Up to now, no confirmed biomarkers have been able to predict SRNS; however, a panel of cytokines may predict responsiveness and identify SRNS patients. Thus, the introduction of distinctive cytokines as novel biomarkers of SRNS enables both preventions of drug-related toxicity and earlier switch to more effective therapies. This review highlights the impacts of T cell population imbalances and their downstream cytokines on response to glucocorticoid responsiveness state in INS.
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8
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da Silva Filha R, Burini K, Pires LG, Brant Pinheiro SV, Simões E Silva AC. Idiopathic Nephrotic Syndrome in Pediatrics: An Up-to-date. Curr Pediatr Rev 2022; 18:251-264. [PMID: 35289253 DOI: 10.2174/1573396318666220314142713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2021] [Revised: 10/31/2021] [Accepted: 12/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Idiopathic or Primary Nephrotic Syndrome (INS) is a common glomerular disease in pediatric population, characterized by proteinuria, edema and hypoalbuminemia with variable findings in renal histopathology. OBJECTIVE This review aims to summarize current data on the etiopathogenesis diagnosis, protocols of treatment and potential therapeutic advances in INS. METHODS This narrative review searched for articles on histopathology, physiopathology, genetic causes, diagnosis and treatment of INS in pediatric patients. The databases evaluated were PubMed and Scopus. RESULTS INS is caused by an alteration in the permeability of the glomerular filtration barrier with unknown etiology. There are several gaps in the etiopathogenesis, response to treatment and clinical course of INS that justify further investigation. Novel advances include the recent understanding of the role of podocytes in INS and the identification of genes associated with the disease. The role of immune system cells and molecules has also been investigated. The diagnosis relies on clinical findings, laboratory exams and renal histology for selected cases. The treatment is primarily based on steroids administration. In case of failure, other medications should be tried. Recent studies have also searched for novel biomarkers for diagnosis and alternative therapeutic approaches. CONCLUSION The therapeutic response to corticosteroids still remains the main predictive factor for the prognosis of the disease. Genetic and pharmacogenomics tools may allow the identification of cases not responsive to immunosuppressive medications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberta da Silva Filha
- Faculty of Medicine, Interdisciplinary Laboratory of Medical Investigation, Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Kassia Burini
- Faculty of Medicine, Interdisciplinary Laboratory of Medical Investigation, Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Laura Gregório Pires
- Faculty of Medicine, Interdisciplinary Laboratory of Medical Investigation, Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | | | - Ana Cristina Simões E Silva
- Faculty of Medicine, Interdisciplinary Laboratory of Medical Investigation, Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil.,Department of Pediatrics, Unit of Pediatric Nephrology, Faculty of Medicine, UFMG, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
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Hackl A, Zed SEDA, Diefenhardt P, Binz-Lotter J, Ehren R, Weber LT. The role of the immune system in idiopathic nephrotic syndrome. Mol Cell Pediatr 2021; 8:18. [PMID: 34792685 PMCID: PMC8600105 DOI: 10.1186/s40348-021-00128-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Idiopathic nephrotic syndrome (INS) in children is characterized by massive proteinuria and hypoalbuminemia and usually responds well to steroids. However, relapses are frequent, which can require multi-drug therapy with deleterious long-term side effects. In the last decades, different hypotheses on molecular mechanisms underlying INS have been proposed and several lines of evidences strongly indicate a crucial role of the immune system in the pathogenesis of non-genetic INS. INS is traditionally considered a T-cell-mediated disorder triggered by a circulating factor, which causes the impairment of the glomerular filtration barrier and subsequent proteinuria. Additionally, the imbalance between Th17/Tregs as well as Th2/Th1 has been implicated in the pathomechanism of INS. Interestingly, B-cells have gained attention, since rituximab, an anti-CD20 antibody demonstrated a good therapeutic response in the treatment of INS. Finally, recent findings indicate that even podocytes can act as antigen-presenting cells under inflammatory stimuli and play a direct role in activating cellular pathways that cause proteinuria. Even though our knowledge on the underlying mechanisms of INS is still incomplete, it became clear that instead of a traditionally implicated cell subset or one particular molecule as a causative factor for INS, a multi-step control system including soluble factors, immune cells, and podocytes is necessary to prevent the occurrence of INS. This present review aims to provide an overview of the current knowledge on this topic, since advances in our understanding of the immunopathogenesis of INS may help drive new tailored therapeutic approaches forward.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnes Hackl
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Cologne, Germany. .,Department of Internal Medicine II and Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Cologne, Germany.
| | - Seif El Din Abo Zed
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Cologne, Germany.,Department of Internal Medicine II and Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Paul Diefenhardt
- Department of Internal Medicine II and Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Julia Binz-Lotter
- Department of Internal Medicine II and Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Rasmus Ehren
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Lutz Thorsten Weber
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Cologne, Germany
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10
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Oniszczuk J, Beldi-Ferchiou A, Audureau E, Azzaoui I, Molinier-Frenkel V, Frontera V, Karras A, Moktefi A, Pillebout E, Zaidan M, El Karoui K, Delfau-Larue MH, Hénique C, Ollero M, Sahali D, Mahévas M, Audard V. Circulating plasmablasts and high level of BAFF are hallmarks of minimal change nephrotic syndrome in adults. Nephrol Dial Transplant 2021; 36:609-617. [PMID: 33241414 DOI: 10.1093/ndt/gfaa279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The recent success achieved with the use of B cell-depleting agents in some patients with minimal change nephrotic syndrome (MCNS) suggests an unexpected role for B lymphocytes in the pathogenesis of this immune-mediated glomerular disease. Nevertheless, no extensive B-cell phenotyping analysis has ever been performed in untreated adult patients soon after MCNS diagnosis. METHODS We investigated the distribution of the different B-cell subpopulations in 22 untreated adult patients with biopsy-proven MCNS [MCNS relapse (MCNS-Rel)]. We compared these data with those for 24 healthy controls, 13 MCNS patients in remission (with no specific treatment) and 19 patients with idiopathic membranous nephropathy (IMN). RESULTS Patients with MCNS-Rel or IMN had higher proteinuria and lower serum albumin and gammaglobulin levels (P < 0.0001 for all comparisons) than MCNS patients in remission. Plasmablasts were the only B-cell subsets present at significantly higher levels in MCNS-Rel patients than in the patients of the other three groups (P < 0.05 for all comparisons). The lower albumin levels and higher proteinuria levels were positively correlated with the percentage of circulating plasmablasts (Spearman test's ρ = -0.54, P = 0.01 and ρ = 0.65, P = 0.002, respectively). Similarly, the increase of immunoglobulin M (IgM) and the decrease of IgG levels were significantly associated with the percentage of plasmablasts in MCNS-Rel patients (Spearman's ρ = 0.36, P = 0.01 and Spearman's ρ = -0.60, P = 0.01, respectively). Increased production of interleukin (IL)-21, IL-6 and B-cell activating factor (BAFF) in the serum of MCNS-Rel patients was found significantly correlated with the percentage of plasmablasts (ρ = 0.72, P = 0.0002, ρ = 0.49, P = 0.04 and ρ = 0.62, P = 0.009, respectively). CONCLUSIONS An increase in the proportion of circulating plasmablasts seems to be a hallmark of untreated MCNS in adult patients. Further studies are required to more precisely determine the phenotype and functions of these cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Oniszczuk
- Assistance Publique des Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Hôpitaux Universitaires Henri Mondor, Service de Néphrologie et Transplantation, Centre de Référence Maladie Rare « Syndrome Néphrotique Idiopathique », Fédération Hospitalo-Universitaire « Innovative Therapy for Immune Disorders », Créteil, France.,Univ Paris Est Créteil, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM) U955, Institut Mondor de Recherche Biomédicale (IMRB), Equipe 21, Créteil, France
| | - Asma Beldi-Ferchiou
- AP-HP, Hôpitaux Universitaires Henri Mondor, Département d'Hématologie et Immunologie Biologiques, Créteil, France.,Univ Paris Est Créteil, INSERM U955, IMRB, Equipe Immunorégulation et Biothérapie, Créteil, France
| | - Etienne Audureau
- AP-HP, Hôpitaux Universitaires Henri Mondor, Service de Santé Publique, Unité de Recherche Clinique, Université Paris Est Créteil, INSERM U955, IMRB, Equipe CEPIA, Créteil, France
| | - Imane Azzaoui
- Univ Paris Est Créteil, INSERM U955, IMRB, Equipe 2, Créteil, France
| | - Valérie Molinier-Frenkel
- AP-HP, Hôpitaux Universitaires Henri Mondor, Département d'Hématologie et Immunologie Biologiques, Créteil, France.,Univ Paris Est Créteil, INSERM U955, IMRB, Equipe Immunorégulation et Biothérapie, Créteil, France
| | - Vincent Frontera
- Univ Paris Est Créteil, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM) U955, Institut Mondor de Recherche Biomédicale (IMRB), Equipe 21, Créteil, France
| | - Alexandre Karras
- AP-HP, Hôpital Européen Georges Pompidou, Service de Néphrologie, Paris, France.,Faculté de Médecine Paris-Descartes, Université de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Anissa Moktefi
- Univ Paris Est Créteil, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM) U955, Institut Mondor de Recherche Biomédicale (IMRB), Equipe 21, Créteil, France.,AP-HP, Hôpitaux Universitaires Henri Mondor, Département de Pathologie, Créteil, France
| | - Evangeline Pillebout
- Service de Néphrologie et Transplantation, AP-HP, Hôpital Saint Louis, Paris, France
| | - Mohamad Zaidan
- AP-HP, Hôpitaux Universitaires du Kremlin Bicêtre, Service de Néphrologie-Dialyse-Transplantation, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
| | - Khalil El Karoui
- Assistance Publique des Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Hôpitaux Universitaires Henri Mondor, Service de Néphrologie et Transplantation, Centre de Référence Maladie Rare « Syndrome Néphrotique Idiopathique », Fédération Hospitalo-Universitaire « Innovative Therapy for Immune Disorders », Créteil, France.,Univ Paris Est Créteil, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM) U955, Institut Mondor de Recherche Biomédicale (IMRB), Equipe 21, Créteil, France
| | - Marie-Hélène Delfau-Larue
- AP-HP, Hôpitaux Universitaires Henri Mondor, Département d'Hématologie et Immunologie Biologiques, Créteil, France.,Univ Paris Est Créteil, INSERM U955, IMRB, Equipe 9, Créteil, France
| | - Carole Hénique
- Univ Paris Est Créteil, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM) U955, Institut Mondor de Recherche Biomédicale (IMRB), Equipe 21, Créteil, France
| | - Mario Ollero
- Univ Paris Est Créteil, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM) U955, Institut Mondor de Recherche Biomédicale (IMRB), Equipe 21, Créteil, France
| | - Dil Sahali
- Assistance Publique des Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Hôpitaux Universitaires Henri Mondor, Service de Néphrologie et Transplantation, Centre de Référence Maladie Rare « Syndrome Néphrotique Idiopathique », Fédération Hospitalo-Universitaire « Innovative Therapy for Immune Disorders », Créteil, France.,Univ Paris Est Créteil, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM) U955, Institut Mondor de Recherche Biomédicale (IMRB), Equipe 21, Créteil, France
| | - Matthieu Mahévas
- Univ Paris Est Créteil, INSERM U955, IMRB, Equipe 2, Créteil, France.,AP-HP, Hôpitaux Universitaires Henri Mondor, Service de Médecine interne, Centre de Référence Maladie Rare « Cytopénies Auto-immunes », Créteil, France
| | - Vincent Audard
- Assistance Publique des Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Hôpitaux Universitaires Henri Mondor, Service de Néphrologie et Transplantation, Centre de Référence Maladie Rare « Syndrome Néphrotique Idiopathique », Fédération Hospitalo-Universitaire « Innovative Therapy for Immune Disorders », Créteil, France.,Univ Paris Est Créteil, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM) U955, Institut Mondor de Recherche Biomédicale (IMRB), Equipe 21, Créteil, France
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11
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Tsuji S, Akagawa S, Akagawa Y, Yamaguchi T, Kino J, Yamanouchi S, Kimata T, Hashiyada M, Akane A, Kaneko K. Idiopathic nephrotic syndrome in children: role of regulatory T cells and gut microbiota. Pediatr Res 2021; 89:1185-1191. [PMID: 32570267 DOI: 10.1038/s41390-020-1022-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2019] [Revised: 06/09/2020] [Accepted: 06/11/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND We investigated whether an association exists between regulatory T cells (Tregs) during initial presentation in children with idiopathic nephrotic syndrome (INS) and later development of frequently relapsing INS. METHODS Blood samples were obtained at onset and at remission from 25 patients (median age, 4.0 years) with INS; eight did not show relapse after initial response (non-relapsing [NR]), whereas 17 showed frequent relapses (frequently relapsing [FR]). Tregs were measured by flow cytometry; increases were compared between groups. Fecal samples were obtained at onset from 20 patients with INS, as well as from 20 age-matched healthy children. Gut microbiota composition was assessed using 16S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) sequencing (ion PGM). RESULTS The rate of increase in Tregs from onset to remission was significantly lower in the FR group (124.78%) than in the NR group (879.16%; P < 0.001). Additionally, 16S rRNA sequencing of gut microbiota showed that the proportion of butyric acid-producing bacteria was significantly lower in the FR group (7.08%) than in the healthy children (17.45%; P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS In children with INS, small increases in Tregs in response to steroid treatment were associated with subsequent increased risk of frequent relapses. In addition, the FR group had a greater degree of dysbiosis at onset. IMPACT A low rate of Tregs increase is associated with subsequent frequent relapses of INS. The increase in Tregs in response to steroid treatment was small when dysbiosis was present in patients with INS, particularly when the proportion of butyrate-producing bacteria was considerably reduced We presume that improvement of dysbiosis by administration of probiotics and prebiotics may enhance the rate of Tregs' increase, thus preventing frequent relapse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shoji Tsuji
- Department of Pediatrics, Kansai Medical University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Shohei Akagawa
- Department of Pediatrics, Kansai Medical University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Yuko Akagawa
- Department of Pediatrics, Kansai Medical University, Osaka, Japan
| | | | - Jiro Kino
- Department of Pediatrics, Kansai Medical University, Osaka, Japan
| | | | - Takahisa Kimata
- Department of Pediatrics, Kansai Medical University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Masaki Hashiyada
- Department of Legal Medicine, Kansai Medical University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Atsushi Akane
- Department of Legal Medicine, Kansai Medical University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Kazunari Kaneko
- Department of Pediatrics, Kansai Medical University, Osaka, Japan.
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12
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Ni FF, Liu GL, Jia SL, Chen RR, Liu LB, Li CR, Yang J, Gao XJ. Function of miR-24 and miR-27 in Pediatric Patients With Idiopathic Nephrotic Syndrome. Front Pediatr 2021; 9:651544. [PMID: 33968853 PMCID: PMC8096900 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2021.651544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: We investigated the pathogenesis of idiopathic nephrotic syndrome (INS) by measuring the effects two specific miRNAs on Th2 cells in children with this disease. Methods: After informed consent, we enrolled 20 children with active INS before steroid initiation, 20 children with INS in remission after steroid therapy, and 20 age-matched healthy controls. Flow cytometry was used to measure the levels of Th2 cells and a cytometric bead array was used to measure the levels of IgE, interleukin (IL)-4, and IL-13. RT-PCR was used to measure the levels of miR-24 and miR-27 in CD4+TCD25- cells. PBMCs were isolated using Ficoll density gradient centrifugation, and transfected with different mimic or inhibitor miRNAs. RT-PCR was used to measure the expression of different RNAs, and flow cytometry was used to determine the percentage of Th2 cells. Results: Relative to healthy controls, children with active INS had higher percentages of Th2 cells (P < 0.05), but there was no significant difference in controls and children in remission. The plasma levels of IgE, IL-4, and IL-13 were significantly increased in children with active INS (P < 0.05). There were lower levels of miR-24 and miR-27 in children with active non-atopic INS (P < 0.05). Transfection experiments indicated that upregulation of each miRNA decreased the percentage of Th2 cells and the level of IL-4 (P < 0.05), and down-regulation of each miRNA had the opposite effects (P < 0.05). Conclusion: Children with active INS, with or without atopy, had higher levels of IgE, possibly related to their higher levels of IL-13 and IL-4 due to a drift toward Th2 cells. miR-24 and miR-27 suppressed the expression of Th2 cells and have a critical function regulating Th2 cell expression in INS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fen-Fen Ni
- Department of Nephrology, Shenzhen Children's Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Guang-Lei Liu
- The Fifth Affiliated (Zhuhai) Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zhuhai, China
| | - Shi-Lei Jia
- Department of Nephrology, Shenzhen Children's Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Ran-Ran Chen
- Department of Nephrology, Shenzhen Children's Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Li-Bing Liu
- Department of Nephrology, Shenzhen Children's Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Cheng-Rong Li
- Department of Nephrology, Shenzhen Children's Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jun Yang
- Department of Immunology, Shenzhen Children's Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xiao-Jie Gao
- Department of Nephrology, Shenzhen Children's Hospital, Shenzhen, China
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