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Christensen LM, Akimova T, Wang L, Han R, Samanta A, Di Giorgio E, Hancock WW. T-regulatory cells require Sin3a for stable expression of Foxp3. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1444937. [PMID: 39156895 PMCID: PMC11327135 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1444937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2024] [Accepted: 07/08/2024] [Indexed: 08/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Histone deacetylases 1 and 2 play a major role in the transcriptional regulation of T-regulatory (Treg) cells via interactions with a myriad of coregulatory factors. Sin3a has been well established as a Hdac1/2 cofactor, while its role within Tregs has not been established. In this study, the effects of conditional deletion of Sin3a within Foxp3+ Tregs were evaluated. Developmental deletion of Sin3a from Foxp3+ Tregs resulted in the rapid onset of fatal autoimmunity. Treg numbers were greatly reduced, while residual Tregs had impaired suppressive function. Mice also showed effector T-cell activation, autoantibody production, and widespread tissue injury. Mechanistically, Sin3a deletion resulted in decreased transcription of Foxp3 with a complete lack of CNS2 CpG demethylation. In addition, Foxp3 protein stability was impaired with an increased ex-Treg population. Thus, Sin3a plays a critical role in the maintenance of Treg identity and function and is essential for the expression and stability of Foxp3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lanette M. Christensen
- Division of Transplant Immunology, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Tatiana Akimova
- Division of Transplant Immunology, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, United States
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Liqing Wang
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Rongxiang Han
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Arabinda Samanta
- Division of Transplant Immunology, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | | | - Wayne W. Hancock
- Division of Transplant Immunology, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, United States
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
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2
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Yue Y, Ren Y, Lu C, Li P, Zhang G. Epigenetic regulation of human FOXP3+ Tregs: from homeostasis maintenance to pathogen defense. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1444533. [PMID: 39144146 PMCID: PMC11323565 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1444533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2024] [Accepted: 07/15/2024] [Indexed: 08/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Regulatory T cells (Tregs), characterized by the expression of Forkhead Box P3 (FOXP3), constitute a distinct subset of T cells crucial for immune regulation. Tregs can exert direct and indirect control over immune homeostasis by releasing inhibitory factors or differentiating into Th-like Treg (Th-Treg), thereby actively contributing to the prevention and treatment of autoimmune diseases. The epigenetic regulation of FOXP3, encompassing DNA methylation, histone modifications, and post-translational modifications, governs the development and optimal suppressive function of Tregs. In addition, Tregs can also possess the ability to maintain homeostasis in diverse microenvironments through non-suppressive mechanisms. In this review, we primarily focus on elucidating the epigenetic regulation of Tregs as well as their multifaceted roles within diverse physiological contexts while looking forward to potential strategies involving augmentation or suppression of Tregs activity for disease management, particularly in light of the ongoing global COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Guojun Zhang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
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Huang G, Cai X, Li D. Significance of targeting DNMT3A mutations in AML. Ann Hematol 2024:10.1007/s00277-024-05885-8. [PMID: 39078434 DOI: 10.1007/s00277-024-05885-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2024] [Accepted: 07/05/2024] [Indexed: 07/31/2024]
Abstract
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is the most prevalent form of leukemia among adults, characterized by aggressive behavior and significant genetic diversity. Despite decades of reliance on conventional chemotherapy as the mainstay treatment, patients often struggle with achieving remission, experience rapid relapses, and have limited survival prospects. While intensified induction chemotherapy and allogeneic stem cell transplantation have enhanced patient outcomes, these benefits are largely confined to younger AML patients capable of tolerating intensive treatments. DNMT3A, a crucial enzyme responsible for establishing de novo DNA methylation, plays a pivotal role in maintaining the delicate balance between hematopoietic stem cell differentiation and self-renewal, thereby influencing gene expression programs through epigenetic regulation. DNMT3A mutations are the most frequently observed genetic abnormalities in AML, predominantly in older patients, occurring in approximately 20-30% of adult AML cases and over 30% of AML with a normal karyotype. Consequently, the molecular underpinnings and potential therapeutic targets of DNMT3A mutations in AML are currently being thoroughly investigated. This article provides a comprehensive summary and the latest insights into the structure and function of DNMT3A, examines the impact of DNMT3A mutations on the progression and prognosis of AML, and explores potential therapeutic approaches for AML patients harboring DNMT3A mutations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guiqin Huang
- Department of Hematology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiaoya Cai
- Department of Hematology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Dengju Li
- Department of Hematology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.
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Yang L, Zhu JC, Li SJ, Zeng X, Xue XR, Dai Y, Wei ZF. HSP90β shapes the fate of Th17 cells with the help of glycolysis-controlled methylation modification. Br J Pharmacol 2024. [PMID: 38881036 DOI: 10.1111/bph.16432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2023] [Revised: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a refractory inflammatory disease associated with immune dysregulation. Elevated levels of heat shock protein (HSP) 90 in the β but not α subtype were positively associated with disease status in UC patients. This study validated the possibility that pharmacological inhibition or reduction of HSP90β would alleviate colitis, induced by dextran sulfate sodium, in mice and elucidated its mechanisms. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Histopathological and biochemical analysis assessed disease severity, and bioinformatics and correlation analysis explained the association between the many immune cells and HSP90β. Flow cytometry was used to analyse the homeostasis and transdifferentiation of Th17 and Treg cells. In vitro inhibition and adoptive transfer assays were used to investigate functions of the phenotypically transformed Th17 cells. Metabolomic analysis, DNA methylation detection and chromatin immunoprecipitation were used to explore these mechanisms. KEY RESULTS The selective pharmacological inhibitor (HSP90βi) and shHSP90β significantly mitigated UC in mice and promoted transformation of Th17 to Treg cell phenotype, via Foxp3 transcription. The phenotypically-transformed Th17 cells by HSP90βi or shHSP90β were able to inhibit lymphocyte proliferation and colitis in mice. HSP90βi and shHSP90β selectively weakened glycolysis by stopping the direct association of HSP90β and GLUT1, the key glucose transporter, to accelerate ubiquitination degradation of GLUT1, and enhance the methylation of Foxp3 CNS2 region. Then, the mediator path was identified as the "lactate-STAT5-TET2" cascade. CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS HSP90β shapes the fate of Th17 cells via glycolysis-controlled methylation modification to affect UC progression, which provides a new therapeutic target for UC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling Yang
- Department of Pharmacology of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jing-Chao Zhu
- Department of Pharmacology of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Shi-Jia Li
- Department of Pharmacology of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xi Zeng
- Department of Pharmacology of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xin-Ru Xue
- Department of Pharmacology of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yue Dai
- Department of Pharmacology of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Zhi-Feng Wei
- Department of Pharmacology of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
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Deng T, Wang Z, Geng Q, Wang Z, Jiao Y, Diao W, Xu J, Deng T, Luo J, Tao Q, Xiao C. Methylation of T and B Lymphocytes in Autoimmune Rheumatic Diseases. Clin Rev Allergy Immunol 2024; 66:401-422. [PMID: 39207646 DOI: 10.1007/s12016-024-09003-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/15/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
The role of abnormal epigenetic modifications, particularly DNA methylation, in the pathogenesis of autoimmune rheumatic diseases (ARDs) has garnered increasing attention. Lymphocyte dysfunction is a significant contributor to the pathogenesis of ARDs. Methylation is crucial for maintaining normal immune system function, and aberrant methylation can hinder lymphocyte differentiation, resulting in functional abnormalities that disrupt immune tolerance, leading to the excessive expression of inflammatory cytokines, thereby exacerbating the onset and progression of ARDs. Recent studies suggest that methylation-related factors have the potential to serve as biomarkers for monitoring the activity of ARDs. This review summarizes the current state of research on the impact of DNA and RNA methylation on the development, differentiation, and function of T and B cells and examines the progress of these epigenetic modifications in studies of six specific ARDs: systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, Sjögren's syndrome, systemic sclerosis, juvenile idiopathic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis. Additionally, we propose that exploring the interplay between RNA methylation and DNA methylation may represent a novel direction for understanding the pathogenesis of ARDs and developing novel treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiantian Deng
- Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Zihan Wang
- Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Qishun Geng
- Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Zhaoran Wang
- Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Yi Jiao
- Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Wenya Diao
- Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Jiahe Xu
- China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Peking University, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Tingting Deng
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Jing Luo
- Department of TCM Rheumatology, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, 100029, China.
| | - Qingwen Tao
- Department of TCM Rheumatology, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, 100029, China.
| | - Cheng Xiao
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, 100029, China.
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6
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Wang Y, Liu Q, Deng L, Ma X, Gong Y, Wang Y, Zhou F. The roles of epigenetic regulation in graft-versus-host disease. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 175:116652. [PMID: 38692061 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.116652] [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: 02/28/2024] [Revised: 04/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (aHSCT) is utilized as a potential curative treatment for various hematologic malignancies. However, graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) post-aHSCT is a severe complication that significantly impacts patients' quality of life and overall survival, becoming a major cause of non-relapse mortality. In recent years, the association between epigenetics and GVHD has garnered increasing attention. Epigenetics focuses on studying mechanisms that affect gene expression without altering DNA sequences, primarily including DNA methylation, histone modifications, non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) regulation, and RNA modifications. This review summarizes the role of epigenetic regulation in the pathogenesis of GVHD, with a focus on DNA methylation, histone modifications, ncRNA, RNA modifications and their involvement and applications in the occurrence and development of GVHD. It also highlights advancements in relevant diagnostic markers and drugs, aiming to provide new insights for the clinical diagnosis and treatment of GVHD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yimin Wang
- The First Clinical Medical School, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Qi Liu
- The First Clinical Medical School, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Lei Deng
- Department of Hematology, the 960th Hospital of the People's Liberation Army Joint Logistics Support Force, Jinan, China
| | - Xiting Ma
- School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Yuling Gong
- Department of Cardiovascular, Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Yifei Wang
- Department of Cardiovascular, Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China.
| | - Fang Zhou
- Department of Hematology, the 960th Hospital of the People's Liberation Army Joint Logistics Support Force, Jinan, China.
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Abdelrahman Z, Maxwell AP, McKnight AJ. Genetic and Epigenetic Associations with Post-Transplant Diabetes Mellitus. Genes (Basel) 2024; 15:503. [PMID: 38674437 PMCID: PMC11050138 DOI: 10.3390/genes15040503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2024] [Revised: 04/10/2024] [Accepted: 04/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Post-transplant diabetes mellitus (PTDM) is a common complication of solid organ transplantation. PTDM prevalence varies due to different diabetes definitions. Consensus guidelines for the diagnosis of PTDM have been published based on random blood glucose levels, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), and oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT). The task of diagnosing PTDM continues to pose challenges, given the potential for diabetes to manifest at different time points after transplantation, thus demanding constant clinical vigilance and repeated testing. Interpreting HbA1c levels can be challenging after renal transplantation. Pre-transplant risk factors for PTDM include obesity, sedentary lifestyle, family history of diabetes, ethnicity (e.g., African-Caribbean or South Asian ancestry), and genetic risk factors. Risk factors for PTDM include immunosuppressive drugs, weight gain, hepatitis C, and cytomegalovirus infection. There is also emerging evidence that genetic and epigenetic variation in the organ transplant recipient may influence the risk of developing PTDM. This review outlines many known risk factors for PTDM and details some of the pathways, genetic variants, and epigenetic features associated with PTDM. Improved understanding of established and emerging risk factors may help identify people at risk of developing PTDM and may reduce the risk of developing PTDM or improve the management of this complication of organ transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeinab Abdelrahman
- Centre for Public Health, Queen’s University of Belfast, Belfast BT12 6BA, UK; (Z.A.); (A.P.M.)
| | - Alexander Peter Maxwell
- Centre for Public Health, Queen’s University of Belfast, Belfast BT12 6BA, UK; (Z.A.); (A.P.M.)
- Regional Nephrology Unit, Belfast City Hospital, Belfast BT9 7AB, UK
| | - Amy Jayne McKnight
- Centre for Public Health, Queen’s University of Belfast, Belfast BT12 6BA, UK; (Z.A.); (A.P.M.)
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Wang F, Zhao D, Xu WY, Liu Y, Sun H, Lu S, Ji Y, Jiang J, Chen Y, He Q, Gong C, Liu R, Su Z, Dong Y, Yan Z, Liu L. Blood leukocytes as a non-invasive diagnostic tool for thyroid nodules: a prospective cohort study. BMC Med 2024; 22:147. [PMID: 38561764 PMCID: PMC10986011 DOI: 10.1186/s12916-024-03368-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Thyroid nodule (TN) patients in China are subject to overdiagnosis and overtreatment. The implementation of existing technologies such as thyroid ultrasonography has indeed contributed to the improved diagnostic accuracy of TNs. However, a significant issue persists, where many patients undergo unnecessary biopsies, and patients with malignant thyroid nodules (MTNs) are advised to undergo surgery therapy. METHODS This study included a total of 293 patients diagnosed with TNs. Differential methylation haplotype blocks (MHBs) in blood leukocytes between MTNs and benign thyroid nodules (BTNs) were detected using reduced representation bisulfite sequencing (RRBS). Subsequently, an artificial intelligence blood leukocyte DNA methylation (BLDM) model was designed to optimize the management and treatment of patients with TNs for more effective outcomes. RESULTS The DNA methylation profiles of peripheral blood leukocytes exhibited distinctions between MTNs and BTNs. The BLDM model we developed for diagnosing TNs achieved an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.858 in the validation cohort and 0.863 in the independent test cohort. Its specificity reached 90.91% and 88.68% in the validation and independent test cohorts, respectively, outperforming the specificity of ultrasonography (43.64% in the validation cohort and 47.17% in the independent test cohort), albeit with a slightly lower sensitivity (83.33% in the validation cohort and 82.86% in the independent test cohort) compared to ultrasonography (97.62% in the validation cohort and 100.00% in the independent test cohort). The BLDM model could correctly identify 89.83% patients whose nodules were suspected malignant by ultrasonography but finally histological benign. In micronodules, the model displayed higher specificity (93.33% in the validation cohort and 92.00% in the independent test cohort) and accuracy (88.24% in the validation cohort and 87.50% in the independent test cohort) for diagnosing TNs. This performance surpassed the specificity and accuracy observed with ultrasonography. A TN diagnostic and treatment framework that prioritizes patients is provided, with fine-needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy performed only on patients with indications of MTNs in both BLDM and ultrasonography results, thus avoiding unnecessary biopsies. CONCLUSIONS This is the first study to demonstrate the potential of non-invasive blood leukocytes in diagnosing TNs, thereby making TN diagnosis and treatment more efficient in China.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feihang Wang
- Department of Interventional Radiology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Interventional Medicine, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Shanghai Institute of Medical Imaging, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Danyang Zhao
- Department of Interventional Radiology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Interventional Medicine, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Shanghai Institute of Medical Imaging, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Wang-Yang Xu
- Singlera Genomics (Shanghai) Ltd., Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Yiying Liu
- Singlera Genomics (Shanghai) Ltd., Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Huiyi Sun
- Department of Interventional Radiology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Interventional Medicine, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Shanghai Institute of Medical Imaging, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Shanshan Lu
- Department of Pathology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Yuan Ji
- Department of Pathology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Jingjing Jiang
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Yi Chen
- Department of Interventional Radiology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Interventional Medicine, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Shanghai Institute of Medical Imaging, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Qiye He
- Singlera Genomics (Shanghai) Ltd., Shanghai, 201203, China
| | | | - Rui Liu
- Singlera Genomics (Shanghai) Ltd., Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Zhixi Su
- Singlera Genomics (Shanghai) Ltd., Shanghai, 201203, China.
| | - Yi Dong
- Department of Ultrasound, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200092, China.
| | - Zhiping Yan
- Department of Interventional Radiology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
- National Clinical Research Center for Interventional Medicine, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
- Shanghai Institute of Medical Imaging, Shanghai, 200032, China.
| | - Lingxiao Liu
- Department of Interventional Radiology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
- National Clinical Research Center for Interventional Medicine, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
- Shanghai Institute of Medical Imaging, Shanghai, 200032, China.
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Hu Y, Lang Z, Li X, Lin L, Li Y, Zhang R, Zheng J, Yu Z. Ginsenoside Rg3 promotes hepatic stellate cell ferroptosis by epigenetically regulating ACSL4 to suppress liver fibrosis progression. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 124:155289. [PMID: 38176269 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2023.155289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2023] [Revised: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ginsenoside Rg3 (G-Rg3), extracted from Panax notoginseng, possesses hepatoprotective properties. Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) activation is responsible for liver fibrosis. Recent studies have reported the suppressive effects of G-Rg3 on HSC activation and proliferation. Ferroptosis is a novel iron regulated cell death. ACSL4, a key indicator of ferroptosis, is commonly methylated in various diseases. PURPOSE However, the role of ACSL4 methylation-mediated HSC ferroptosis in G-Rg3 inhibition of hepatic fibrosis needs to be explored. METHODS Effects of G-Rg3 on inhibiting fibrosis were evaluated in vivo and in vitro. The impact of G-Rg3 on HSC ferroptosis was assessed in vitro. Furthermore, the expression of ACSL4, ACSL4 methylation and microRNA-6945-3p (miR-6945-3p) levels were determined. RESULTS G-Rg3 significantly alleviated CCl4-induced liver fibrosis, accompanied by collagen downregulation. In vitro, G-Rg3 contributed to HSC inactivation, leading to decreased collagen production. G-Rg3 induced HSC ferroptosis, characterized by increased iron accumulation, depletion of glutathione, malondialdehyde levels, and generation of lipid reactive oxygen species. Moreover, G-Rg3 promoted ACSL4 demethylation and restored its expression. Notably, DNMT3B counteracted the effect of G-Rg3-mediated inhibition of ACSL4 methylation and was targeted by miR-6945-3p. Further investigations revealed that G-Rg3 suppressed ACSL4 methylation through miR-6945-3p-mediated DNMT3B inhibition. Consistent with this, miR-6945-3p inhibition reversed G-Rg3-induced ACSL4 expression and HSC ferroptosis. CONCLUSION G-Rg3 inhibits ACSL4 methylation by miR-6945-3p-mediated DNMT3B inhibition, thereby promoting HSC ferroptosis and mitigating liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuhang Hu
- Key Laboratory of Clinical Laboratory Diagnosis and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, No.2 Fuxue Lane, Wenzhou 325000, Zhejiang, PR China; Cixi Biomedical Research Institute, Wenzhou Medical University, Ningbo 315300, Zhejiang, PR China
| | - Zhichao Lang
- Key Laboratory of Clinical Laboratory Diagnosis and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, No.2 Fuxue Lane, Wenzhou 325000, Zhejiang, PR China
| | - Xinmiao Li
- Key Laboratory of Clinical Laboratory Diagnosis and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, No.2 Fuxue Lane, Wenzhou 325000, Zhejiang, PR China
| | - Lifan Lin
- Key Laboratory of Clinical Laboratory Diagnosis and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, No.2 Fuxue Lane, Wenzhou 325000, Zhejiang, PR China
| | - Yifei Li
- Key Laboratory of Clinical Laboratory Diagnosis and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, No.2 Fuxue Lane, Wenzhou 325000, Zhejiang, PR China
| | - Rongrong Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Clinical Laboratory Diagnosis and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, No.2 Fuxue Lane, Wenzhou 325000, Zhejiang, PR China
| | - Jianjian Zheng
- Key Laboratory of Clinical Laboratory Diagnosis and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, No.2 Fuxue Lane, Wenzhou 325000, Zhejiang, PR China.
| | - Zhengping Yu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, No.2 Fuxue Lane, Wenzhou 325000, Zhejiang, PR China.
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10
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Liang Y, Wang L, Ma P, Ju D, Zhao M, Shi Y. Enhancing anti-tumor immune responses through combination therapies: epigenetic drugs and immune checkpoint inhibitors. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1308264. [PMID: 38077327 PMCID: PMC10704038 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1308264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Epigenetic mechanisms are processes that affect gene expression and cellular functions without involving changes in the DNA sequence. This abnormal or unstable expression of genes regulated by epigenetics can trigger cancer and other various diseases. The immune cells involved in anti-tumor responses and the immunogenicity of tumors may also be affected by epigenomic changes. This holds significant implications for the development and application of cancer immunotherapy, epigenetic therapy, and their combined treatments in the fight against cancer. We provide an overview of recent research literature focusing on how epigenomic changes in immune cells influence immune cell behavior and function, as well as the immunogenicity of cancer cells. And the combined utilization of epigenetic medications with immune checkpoint inhibitors that focus on immune checkpoint molecules [e.g., Programmed Death 1 (PD-1), Cytotoxic T-Lymphocyte-Associated Protein 4 (CTLA-4), T cell Immunoglobulin and Mucin Domain (TIM-3), Lymphocyte Activation Gene-3 (LAG-3)] present in immune cells and stromal cells associated with tumors. We highlight the potential of small-molecule inhibitors targeting epigenetic regulators to amplify anti-tumor immune responses. Moreover, we discuss how to leverage the intricate relationship between cancer epigenetics and cancer immunology to create treatment regimens that integrate epigenetic therapies with immunotherapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Liang
- Precision Pharmacy and Drug Development Center, Department of Pharmacy, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Lingling Wang
- Wuchang Hospital Affiliated to Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan Wuchang Hospital, Wuhan, China
| | - Peijun Ma
- Clinical Laboratory, Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Dongen Ju
- Department of Urology, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Minggao Zhao
- Precision Pharmacy and Drug Development Center, Department of Pharmacy, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yun Shi
- Department of Immunology and Theranostics, Arthur Riggs Diabetes and Metabolism Research Institute, Beckman Research Institute of the City of Hope, Duarte, CA, United States
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Kiriyama Y, Nochi H. The Role of Gut Microbiota-Derived Lithocholic Acid, Deoxycholic Acid and Their Derivatives on the Function and Differentiation of Immune Cells. Microorganisms 2023; 11:2730. [PMID: 38004742 PMCID: PMC10672800 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11112730] [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: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 10/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
A wide variety and large number of bacterial species live in the gut, forming the gut microbiota. Gut microbiota not only coexist harmoniously with their hosts, but they also induce significant effects on each other. The composition of the gut microbiota can be changed due to environmental factors such as diet and antibiotic intake. In contrast, alterations in the composition of the gut microbiota have been reported in a variety of diseases, including intestinal, allergic, and autoimmune diseases and cancer. The gut microbiota metabolize exogenous dietary components ingested from outside the body to produce short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and amino acid metabolites. Unlike SCFAs and amino acid metabolites, the source of bile acids (BAs) produced by the gut microbiota is endogenous BAs from the liver. The gut microbiota metabolize BAs to generate secondary bile acids, such as lithocholic acid (LCA), deoxycholic acid (DCA), and their derivatives, which have recently been shown to play important roles in immune cells. This review focuses on current knowledge of the role of LCA, DCA, and their derivatives on immune cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshimitsu Kiriyama
- Kagawa School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokushima Bunri University, Sanuki 769-2193, Japan;
- Institute of Neuroscience, Tokushima Bunri University, Sanuki 769-2193, Japan
| | - Hiromi Nochi
- Kagawa School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokushima Bunri University, Sanuki 769-2193, Japan;
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Friedman MJ, Lee H, Lee JY, Oh S. Transcriptional and Epigenetic Regulation of Context-Dependent Plasticity in T-Helper Lineages. Immune Netw 2023; 23:e5. [PMID: 36911799 PMCID: PMC9995996 DOI: 10.4110/in.2023.23.e5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2023] [Revised: 02/12/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Th cell lineage determination and functional specialization are tightly linked to the activation of lineage-determining transcription factors (TFs) that bind cis-regulatory elements. These lineage-determining TFs act in concert with multiple layers of transcriptional regulators to alter the epigenetic landscape, including DNA methylation, histone modification and three-dimensional chromosome architecture, in order to facilitate the specific Th gene expression programs that allow for phenotypic diversification. Accumulating evidence indicates that Th cell differentiation is not as rigid as classically held; rather, extensive phenotypic plasticity is an inherent feature of T cell lineages. Recent studies have begun to uncover the epigenetic programs that mechanistically govern T cell subset specification and immunological memory. Advances in next generation sequencing technologies have allowed global transcriptomic and epigenomic interrogation of CD4+ Th cells that extends previous findings focusing on individual loci. In this review, we provide an overview of recent genome-wide insights into the transcriptional and epigenetic regulation of CD4+ T cell-mediated adaptive immunity and discuss the implications for disease as well as immunotherapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meyer J. Friedman
- Department and School of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Haram Lee
- College of Pharmacy Korea University, Sejong 30019, Korea
| | - June-Yong Lee
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Korea
- Brain Korea 21 PLUS Project for Medical Sciences, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Korea
- Institute for Immunology and Immunological Diseases, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Korea
- Institute of Genetic Science, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Korea
| | - Soohwan Oh
- College of Pharmacy Korea University, Sejong 30019, Korea
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Li XH, Lu MY, Niu JL, Zhu DY, Liu B. cfDNA Methylation Profiles and T-Cell Differentiation in Women with Endometrial Polyps. Cells 2022; 11:cells11243989. [PMID: 36552753 PMCID: PMC9777338 DOI: 10.3390/cells11243989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2022] [Revised: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
DNA methylation is a part of the regulatory mechanisms of gene expression, including chromatin remodeling and the activity of microRNAs, which are involved in the regulation of T-cell differentiation and function. However, the role of cfDNA methylation in T-cell differentiation is entirely unknown. In patients with endometrial polyps (EPs), we have found an imbalance of T-cell differentiation and an aberrant cfDNA methylation profile, respectively. In this study, we investigated the relationship between cfDNA methylation profiles and T-cell differentiation in 14 people with EPs and 27 healthy controls. We found that several differentially methylated genes (DMGs) were associated with T-cell differentiation in people with EPs (ITGA2-Naïve CD4, r = -0.560, p = 0.037; CST9-EMRA CD4, r = -0.626, p = 0.017; and ZIM2-CM CD8, r = 0.576, p = 0.031), but not in healthy controls (all p > 0.05). When we combined the patients' characteristics, we found a significant association between ITGA2 methylation and polyp diameter (r = 0.562, p = 0.036), but this effect was lost when adjusting the level of Naïve CD4 T-cells (r = 0.038, p = 0.903). Moreover, the circulating sex hormone levels were associated with T-cell differentiation (estradiol-Naïve CD4, r = -0.589, p = 0.027), and the cfDNA methylation profile (testosterone-ZIM2, r = -0.656, p = 0.011). In conclusion, this study has established a link between cfDNA methylation profiles and T-cell differentiation among people with EPs, which may contribute to the etiology of EPs. Further functional studies are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Hong Li
- Department of Reproductive Health, Shenzhen Baoan Women’s and Children’s Hospital, Jinan University, Shenzhen 518102, China
| | - Mei-Yin Lu
- Department of Biobank, Shenzhen Baoan Women’s and Children’s Hospital, Jinan University, Shenzhen 518102, China
| | - Jia-Li Niu
- Department of Biobank, Shenzhen Baoan Women’s and Children’s Hospital, Jinan University, Shenzhen 518102, China
| | - Dong-Yan Zhu
- Department of Biobank, Shenzhen Baoan Women’s and Children’s Hospital, Jinan University, Shenzhen 518102, China
| | - Bin Liu
- Department of Biobank, Shenzhen Baoan Women’s and Children’s Hospital, Jinan University, Shenzhen 518102, China
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +86-158-1732-7996
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