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Ma X, Li J, Li M, Qi G, Wei L, Zhang D. Nets in fibrosis: Bridging innate immunity and tissue remodeling. Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 137:112516. [PMID: 38906006 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2024.112516] [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: 04/02/2024] [Revised: 06/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/16/2024] [Indexed: 06/23/2024]
Abstract
Fibrosis, a complex pathological process characterized by excessive deposition of extracellular matrix components, leads to tissue scarring and dysfunction. Emerging evidence suggests that neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs), composed of DNA, histones, and antimicrobial proteins, significantly contribute to fibrotic diseases pathogenesis. This review summarizes the process of NETs production, molecular mechanisms, and related diseases, and outlines the cellular and molecular mechanisms associated with fibrosis. Subsequently, this review comprehensively summarizes the current understanding of the intricate interplay between NETs and fibrosis across various organs, including the lung, liver, kidney, skin, and heart. The mechanisms by which NETs contribute to fibrogenesis, including their ability to promote inflammation, induce epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), activate fibroblasts, deposit extracellular matrix (ECM) components, and trigger TLR4 signaling were explored. This review aimed to provide insights into the complex relationship between NETs and fibrosis via a comprehensive analysis of existing reports, offering novel perspectives for future research and therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xueni Ma
- Key Laboratory of Digestive Diseases, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou, China; The Second Clinical Medical College, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Jipin Li
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Muyang Li
- Key Laboratory of Digestive Diseases, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou, China; The Second Clinical Medical College, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Guoqing Qi
- Department of Gastroenterology, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou, China
| | - Lina Wei
- Department of Gastroenterology, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou, China
| | - Dekui Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Digestive Diseases, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou, China; Department of Gastroenterology, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou, China.
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2
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Wu X, Yang Y. Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) and fibrotic diseases. Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 133:112085. [PMID: 38626550 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2024.112085] [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: 04/07/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 04/18/2024]
Abstract
Fibrosis, a common cause and serious outcome of organ failure that can affect any organ, is responsible for up to 45% of all deaths in various clinical settings. Both preclinical models and clinical trials investigating various organ systems have shown that fibrosis is a highly dynamic process. Although many studies have sought to gain understanding of the mechanism of fibrosis progression, their findings have been mixed. In recent years, increasing evidence indicates that neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) are involved in many inflammatory and autoimmune disorders and participate in the regulation of fibrotic processes in various organs and systems. In this review, we summarize the current understanding of the role of NETs in fibrosis development and progression and their possibility as therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaojiao Wu
- School of Pediatrics, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yang Yang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Sir Run Run Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.
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3
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Li T, Qian Y, Li H, Wang T, Jiang Q, Wang Y, Zhu Y, Li S, He X, Shi G, Su W, Lu Y, Chen Y. Cellular communication network factor 1 promotes retinal leakage in diabetic retinopathy via inducing neutrophil stasis and neutrophil extracellular traps extrusion. Cell Commun Signal 2024; 22:275. [PMID: 38755602 PMCID: PMC11097549 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-024-01653-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a major cause of blindness and is characterized by dysfunction of the retinal microvasculature. Neutrophil stasis, resulting in retinal inflammation and the occlusion of retinal microvessels, is a key mechanism driving DR. These plugging neutrophils subsequently release neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs), which further disrupts the retinal vasculature. Nevertheless, the primary catalyst for NETs extrusion in the retinal microenvironment under diabetic conditions remains unidentified. In recent studies, cellular communication network factor 1 (CCN1) has emerged as a central molecule modulating inflammation in pathological settings. Additionally, our previous research has shed light on the pathogenic role of CCN1 in maintaining endothelial integrity. However, the precise role of CCN1 in microvascular occlusion and its potential interaction with neutrophils in diabetic retinopathy have not yet been investigated. METHODS We first examined the circulating level of CCN1 and NETs in our study cohort and analyzed related clinical parameters. To further evaluate the effects of CCN1 in vivo, we used recombinant CCN1 protein and CCN1 overexpression for gain-of-function, and CCN1 knockdown for loss-of-function by intravitreal injection in diabetic mice. The underlying mechanisms were further validated on human and mouse primary neutrophils and dHL60 cells. RESULTS We detected increases in CCN1 and neutrophil elastase in the plasma of DR patients and the retinas of diabetic mice. CCN1 gain-of-function in the retina resulted in neutrophil stasis, NETs extrusion, capillary degeneration, and retinal leakage. Pre-treatment with DNase I to reduce NETs effectively eliminated CCN1-induced retinal leakage. Notably, both CCN1 knockdown and DNase I treatment rescued the retinal leakage in the context of diabetes. In vitro, CCN1 promoted adherence, migration, and NETs extrusion of neutrophils. CONCLUSION In this study, we uncover that CCN1 contributed to retinal inflammation, vessel occlusion and leakage by recruiting neutrophils and triggering NETs extrusion under diabetic conditions. Notably, manipulating CCN1 was able to hold therapeutic promise for the treatment of diabetic retinopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Li
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Diabetology, Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Mechanistic and Translational Obesity Research, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510630, China
| | - Yixia Qian
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Diabetology, Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Mechanistic and Translational Obesity Research, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510630, China
| | - Haicheng Li
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Diabetology, Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Mechanistic and Translational Obesity Research, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510630, China
| | - Tongtong Wang
- Department of Clinical Immunology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510630, China
| | - Qi Jiang
- Department of Ocular Immunology & Uveitis, State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Yuchan Wang
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Diabetology, Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Mechanistic and Translational Obesity Research, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510630, China
| | - Yanhua Zhu
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Diabetology, Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Mechanistic and Translational Obesity Research, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510630, China
| | - Shasha Li
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Diabetology, Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Mechanistic and Translational Obesity Research, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510630, China
| | - Xuemin He
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Diabetology, Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Mechanistic and Translational Obesity Research, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510630, China
| | - Guojun Shi
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Diabetology, Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Mechanistic and Translational Obesity Research, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510630, China
| | - Wenru Su
- Department of Ocular Immunology & Uveitis, State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Yan Lu
- Department of Clinical Immunology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510630, China.
| | - Yanming Chen
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Diabetology, Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Mechanistic and Translational Obesity Research, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510630, China.
- Department of Clinical Immunology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510630, China.
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Delabio Auer E, Bumiller-Bini Hoch V, Borges da Silva E, Ricci Zonta Y, Alarcão Dias-Melicio L, Larocca Skare T, F Picceli V, Messias-Reason IJ, Boldt ABW. Association of neutrophil extracellular trap levels with Raynaud's phenomenon, glomerulonephritis and disease index score in SLE patients from Brazil. Immunobiology 2024; 229:152803. [PMID: 38640572 DOI: 10.1016/j.imbio.2024.152803] [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: 07/23/2023] [Revised: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/21/2024]
Abstract
Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) are cell-extruded DNA strands coated with neutrophils' nuclear proteins and enzymes from cytotoxic granules, produced by NETosis, a cell death pathway. They perform an important defensive role in innate immunity, but their increased production and/or inefficient degradation expose new antigens, such as DNA or citrullinated histone peptides, triggering autoimmunity. This study aimed to access possible associations between serum NETs levels with epidemiological, clinical, and serological data from a well-characterized SLE Brazilian patients' cohort. NET levels were evaluated in one hundred seventy serum samples of patients with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) using an Immunoassay. Univariate and multivariate binary logistic regression used clinical patients' data as independent variables. Parametric and non-parametric tests compared log10 base serum NET levels transformed between patients' groups. SLE patients were also dichotomized into "High serum NET levels" and "Low serum NET levels" groups. All analyses were performed in R language 4.1.2, and p < 0.05 were considered significant. Increased susceptibility for high serum NET levels was observed in SLE patients with Raynaud's phenomenon (OR = 2.30, 95 % CI = 1.06-5.21 and p = 0.039), independently of any other risk factor. Also, SLE patients with Raynaud's phenomenon presented higher mean NET serum levels (mean = -0.13 vs. -0.51, p = 0.01). In addition, higher mean NET serum levels were associated with glomerulonephritis (mean = -0.45 vs. -0.12, p = 0.03). Ultimately, the SLEDAI index scored higher in the high NETs serum levels group (median = 2.0 vs. 0.0, p = 6 × 10-3). The formation of NETs might be implicated in Raynaud's phenomenon, glomerulonephritis, and disease index score in SLE patients. Our results highlight the importance of serum NET levels as a possible therapeutical target to modulate the clinical course of SLE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eduardo Delabio Auer
- Postgraduate Program in Genetics. Department of Genetics, Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), Centro Politécnico, Jardim das Américas, 81531-990, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Valéria Bumiller-Bini Hoch
- Postgraduate Program in Genetics. Department of Genetics, Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), Centro Politécnico, Jardim das Américas, 81531-990, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Emiliano Borges da Silva
- Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), Centro Politécnico, Jardim das Américas, 81531-990 Curitiba, PR, Brazil
| | - Yohan Ricci Zonta
- São Paulo State University (UNESP), Medical School of Botucatu, Laboratory of Immunopathology and Infectious Agents - LIAI, UNIPEX - Experimental Research Unity, Sector 5, Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - Luciane Alarcão Dias-Melicio
- São Paulo State University (UNESP), Medical School of Botucatu, Laboratory of Immunopathology and Infectious Agents - LIAI, UNIPEX - Experimental Research Unity, Sector 5, Botucatu, SP, Brazil; São Paulo State University (UNESP), Medical School of Botucatu, Department of Pathology, Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | | | - Vanessa F Picceli
- Hospital Geral de Curitiba - Exército Brasileiro - Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Iara José Messias-Reason
- Laboratory of Immunopathology, Department of Clinical Pathology, Federal University of Paraná, Curitiba, Brazil
| | - Angelica Beate Winter Boldt
- Postgraduate Program in Genetics. Department of Genetics, Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), Centro Politécnico, Jardim das Américas, 81531-990, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil.
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5
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Wasson CW, De Lorenzis E, Clavane EM, Ross RL, Walker KA, Caballero-Ruiz B, Antinozzi C, Wells R, Migneco G, Brown JMY, Turvey SJ, Simmons KJ, Riobo-Del Galdo NA, Di Luigi L, McKimmie CS, Del Galdo F, Meakin PJ. The β-Secretase BACE1 Drives Fibroblast Activation in Systemic Sclerosis through the APP/β-Catenin/Notch Signaling Axis. J Invest Dermatol 2024:S0022-202X(24)00265-3. [PMID: 38570030 DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2024.03.024] [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: 08/22/2023] [Revised: 02/26/2024] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
BACE1 is well-known for its role in the development of Alzheimer's disease. Recent publications, including our own, have demonstrated a role for this enzyme in other chronic diseases. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of BACE1 in the autoimmune disease systemic sclerosis (SSc). BACE1 protein levels were elevated in the skin of patients with SSc. Inhibition of BACE1 with small-molecule inhibitors or small interfering RNA blocked SSc and fibrotic stimuli-mediated fibroblast activation. Furthermore, we show that BACE1 regulation of dermal fibroblast activation is dependent on β-catenin and Notch signaling. The neurotropic factor brain-derived neurotrophic factor negatively regulates BACE1 expression and activity in dermal fibroblasts. Finally, sera from patients with SSc show higher β-amyloid and lower brain-derived neurotrophic factor levels than healthy controls. The ability of BACE1 to regulate SSc fibroblast activation reveals a therapeutic target in SSc. Several BACE1 inhibitors have been shown to be safe in clinical trials for Alzheimer's disease and could be repurposed to ameliorate fibrosis progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher W Wasson
- Leeds Institute of Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Enrico De Lorenzis
- Leeds Institute of Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom; Division of Rheumatology, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Eva M Clavane
- Leeds Institute of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Rebecca L Ross
- Leeds Institute of Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Kieran A Walker
- Leeds Institute of Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Begoña Caballero-Ruiz
- Leeds Institute of Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Cristina Antinozzi
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, University of Rome Foro Italico, Rome, Italy
| | - Rebecca Wells
- Leeds Institute of Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Gemma Migneco
- Department of Pharmacology & Physiology, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Jane M Y Brown
- Leeds Institute of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Samuel J Turvey
- Leeds Institute of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Katie J Simmons
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Natalia A Riobo-Del Galdo
- Astbury Centre for Structural Molecular Biology, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom; School of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom; Leeds Institute of Medical Research, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Luigi Di Luigi
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, University of Rome Foro Italico, Rome, Italy
| | - Clive S McKimmie
- Leeds Institute of Medical Research, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Francesco Del Galdo
- Leeds Institute of Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom; Scleroderma Programme, NIHR Leeds Musculoskeletal Biomedical Research Centre, Leeds, United Kingdom.
| | - Paul J Meakin
- Leeds Institute of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom.
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6
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Marongiu F, Ruberto MF, Marongiu S, Matucci Cerinic M, Barcellona D. A journey to vasculopathy in systemic sclerosis: focus on haemostasis and thrombosis. Clin Exp Med 2023; 23:4057-4064. [PMID: 37914967 DOI: 10.1007/s10238-023-01222-x] [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: 07/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/15/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023]
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis is a multisystem connective tissue disease, characterized by endothelial autoimmune activation, along with tissue and vascular fibrosis leading to vasculopathy and to a progressive loss of angiogenesis. This condition further deranges the endothelial barrier favouring the opening of the endothelial junctions allowing the vascular leak in the surrounding tissues: this process may induce cell detachment which allows the contact between platelets and collagen present in the exposed subendothelial layer. Platelets first adhere to collagen via glycoprotein VI and then, immediately aggregate because of the release of von Willebrand factor which is a strong activator of platelet aggregation. Activated platelets exert their procoagulant activity, exposing on their membrane phospholipids and phosphatidylserine, enabling the adsorption of clotting factors ready to form thrombin which in turn drives the amplification of the coagulative cascade. An essential role in the activation of blood coagulation is the tissue factor (TF), which triggers blood coagulation. The TF is found abundantly in the subendothelial collagen and is also expressed by fibroblasts providing a haemostatic covering layer ready to activate coagulation when the endothelial injury occurs. The aim of this review is to focus the attention on the underlying mechanisms related to haemostasis and thrombosis pathophysiology which may have a relevant role in SSc as well as on a possible role of anticoagulation in this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Marongiu
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
- Thrombosis and Haemostasis Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Maria Filomena Ruberto
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Silvia Marongiu
- Internal Medicine Unit, SS Trinità Hospital of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Marco Matucci Cerinic
- Unit of Immunology, Rheumatology, Allergy and Rare Diseases (UnIRAR), IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Doris Barcellona
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy.
- Thrombosis and Haemostasis Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy.
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7
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de Bont C, Pruijn GJM. Citrulline is not a major determinant of autoantibody reactivity to neutrophil extracellular traps. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2023; 378:20220249. [PMID: 37778385 PMCID: PMC10542444 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2022.0249] [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: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023] Open
Abstract
One of the main strategies of neutrophils in responding to microbial infections is the formation of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs). NETs are web-like structures of decondensed chromatin associated with antimicrobial proteins. Citrullination plays an important role during NET formation and a substantial fraction of NET-associated proteins appeared to be citrullinated. The release of citrullinated intracellular proteins from netting neutrophils led to the hypothesis that the production of anti-citrullinated protein autoantibodies by autoimmune patients, in particular patients with rheumatoid arthritis, might be initiated when citrullinated NET components are not properly cleared and are exposed to the immune system. Here, we discuss the processes that lead to NET formation, including the role of peptidylarginine deiminase activation and our current knowledge on citrullinated NET-associated proteins. Citrulline-dependent epitopes do not appear to play a major role in the recognition of NETs by autoantibodies from rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus patients, even though anti-NET autoantibodies are frequently observed in sera from these patients. The neutrophil proteases associated with NETs have a major impact on the integrity of NET-associated proteins when NET formation is induced by activating isolated human neutrophils. Cleavage/degradation of these proteins also resulted in a strong reduction of the reactivity with autoantibodies. This article is part of the Theo Murphy meeting issue 'The virtues and vices of protein citrullination'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cynthia de Bont
- Department of Biomolecular Chemistry, Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Ger J. M. Pruijn
- Department of Biomolecular Chemistry, Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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8
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Parackova Z, Vrabcova P, Zentsova I, Sediva A, Bloomfield M. Neutrophils in STAT1 Gain-Of-Function Have a Pro-inflammatory Signature Which Is Not Rescued by JAK Inhibition. J Clin Immunol 2023; 43:1640-1659. [PMID: 37358695 PMCID: PMC10499747 DOI: 10.1007/s10875-023-01528-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/27/2023]
Abstract
STAT1 gain-of-function (GOF) mutations cause an inborn error of immunity with diverse phenotype ranging from chronic mucocutaneous candidiasis (CMC) to various non-infectious manifestations, the most precarious of which are autoimmunity and vascular complications. The pathogenesis centers around Th17 failure but is far from being understood. We hypothesized that neutrophils, whose functions have not been explored in the context of STAT1 GOF CMC yet, might be involved in the associated immunodysregulatory and vascular pathology. In a cohort of ten patients, we demonstrate that STAT1 GOF human ex-vivo peripheral blood neutrophils are immature and highly activated; have strong propensity for degranulation, NETosis, and platelet-neutrophil aggregation; and display marked inflammatory bias. STAT1 GOF neutrophils exhibit increased basal STAT1 phosphorylation and expression of IFN stimulated genes, but contrary to other immune cells, STAT1 GOF neutrophils do not display hyperphosphorylation of STAT1 molecule upon stimulation with IFNs. The patient treatment with JAKinib ruxolitinib does not ameliorate the observed neutrophil aberrations. To our knowledge, this is the first work describing features of peripheral neutrophils in STAT1 GOF CMC. The presented data suggest that neutrophils may contribute to the immune pathophysiology of the STAT1 GOF CMC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zuzana Parackova
- Department of Immunology, 2nd Faculty of Medicine Charles University, University Hospital in Motol, V Uvalu 84, 515006, Prague, Czech Republic.
| | - Petra Vrabcova
- Department of Immunology, 2nd Faculty of Medicine Charles University, University Hospital in Motol, V Uvalu 84, 515006, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Irena Zentsova
- Department of Immunology, 2nd Faculty of Medicine Charles University, University Hospital in Motol, V Uvalu 84, 515006, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Anna Sediva
- Department of Immunology, 2nd Faculty of Medicine Charles University, University Hospital in Motol, V Uvalu 84, 515006, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Marketa Bloomfield
- Department of Immunology, 2nd Faculty of Medicine Charles University, University Hospital in Motol, V Uvalu 84, 515006, Prague, Czech Republic
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9
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Zhang Z, Jin L, Liu L, Zhou M, Zhang X, Zhang L. The intricate relationship between autoimmunity disease and neutrophils death patterns: a love-hate story. Apoptosis 2023; 28:1259-1284. [PMID: 37486407 DOI: 10.1007/s10495-023-01874-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023]
Abstract
Autoimmune diseases are pathological conditions that result from the misidentification of self-antigens in immune system, leading to host tissue damage and destruction. These diseases can affect different organs and systems, including the blood, joints, skin, and muscles. Despite the significant progress made in comprehending the underlying pathogenesis, the complete mechanism of autoimmune disease is still not entirely understood. In autoimmune diseases, the innate immunocytes are not functioning properly: they are either abnormally activated or physically disabled. As a vital member of innate immunocyte, neutrophils and their modes of death are influenced by the microenvironment of different autoimmune diseases due to their short lifespan and diverse death modes. Related to neutrophil death pathways, apoptosis is the most frequent cell death form of neutrophil non-lytic morphology, delayed or aberrant apoptosis may contribute to the development anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (ANCA)-associated vasculitis (AAV). In addition, NETosis, necroptosis and pyroptosis which are parts of lytic morphology exacerbate disease progression through various mechanisms in autoimmune diseases. This review aims to summarize recent advancements in understanding neutrophil death modes in various autoimmune diseases and provide insights into the development of novel therapeutic approaches for autoimmune diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziwei Zhang
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China
- Key Laboratory of Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Ministry of Education, Hefei, China
- Anti-Inflammatory Immune Drugs Collaborative Innovation Center, Hefei, Anhui Province, China
| | - Lin Jin
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China
- Key Laboratory of Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Ministry of Education, Hefei, China
- Anti-Inflammatory Immune Drugs Collaborative Innovation Center, Hefei, Anhui Province, China
| | - Lianghu Liu
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China
- Key Laboratory of Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Ministry of Education, Hefei, China
- Anti-Inflammatory Immune Drugs Collaborative Innovation Center, Hefei, Anhui Province, China
| | - Mengqi Zhou
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China
- Key Laboratory of Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Ministry of Education, Hefei, China
- Anti-Inflammatory Immune Drugs Collaborative Innovation Center, Hefei, Anhui Province, China
| | - Xianzheng Zhang
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China.
- Key Laboratory of Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Ministry of Education, Hefei, China.
- Anti-Inflammatory Immune Drugs Collaborative Innovation Center, Hefei, Anhui Province, China.
| | - Lingling Zhang
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China.
- Key Laboratory of Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Ministry of Education, Hefei, China.
- Anti-Inflammatory Immune Drugs Collaborative Innovation Center, Hefei, Anhui Province, China.
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10
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Ko J, Noviani M, Chellamuthu VR, Albani S, Low AHL. The Pathogenesis of Systemic Sclerosis: The Origin of Fibrosis and Interlink with Vasculopathy and Autoimmunity. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:14287. [PMID: 37762589 PMCID: PMC10532389 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241814287] [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: 07/10/2023] [Revised: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an autoimmune disease associated with increased mortality and poor morbidity, impairing the quality of life in patients. Whilst we know that SSc affects multiple organs via vasculopathy, inflammation, and fibrosis, its exact pathophysiology remains elusive. Microvascular injury and vasculopathy are the initial pathological features of the disease. Clinically, the vasculopathy in SSc is manifested as Raynaud's phenomenon (reversible vasospasm in reaction to the cold or emotional stress) and digital ulcers due to ischemic injury. There are several reports that medications for vasculopathy, such as bosentan and soluble guanylate cyclase (sGC) modulators, improve not only vasculopathy but also dermal fibrosis, suggesting that vasculopathy is important in SSc. Although vasculopathy is an important initial step of the pathogenesis for SSc, it is still unclear how vasculopathy is related to inflammation and fibrosis. In this review, we focused on the clinical evidence for vasculopathy, the major cellular players for the pathogenesis, including pericytes, adipocytes, endothelial cells (ECs), and myofibroblasts, and their signaling pathway to elucidate the relationship among vasculopathy, inflammation, and fibrosis in SSc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junsuk Ko
- Duke-National University of Singapore Medical School, Singapore 169857, Singapore; (J.K.); (M.N.); (S.A.)
| | - Maria Noviani
- Duke-National University of Singapore Medical School, Singapore 169857, Singapore; (J.K.); (M.N.); (S.A.)
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore 169608, Singapore
- Translational Immunology Institute, SingHealth Duke-National University of Singapore Academic Medical Centre, Singapore 169856, Singapore;
| | - Vasuki Ranjani Chellamuthu
- Translational Immunology Institute, SingHealth Duke-National University of Singapore Academic Medical Centre, Singapore 169856, Singapore;
| | - Salvatore Albani
- Duke-National University of Singapore Medical School, Singapore 169857, Singapore; (J.K.); (M.N.); (S.A.)
- Translational Immunology Institute, SingHealth Duke-National University of Singapore Academic Medical Centre, Singapore 169856, Singapore;
| | - Andrea Hsiu Ling Low
- Duke-National University of Singapore Medical School, Singapore 169857, Singapore; (J.K.); (M.N.); (S.A.)
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore 169608, Singapore
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Purushothaman AK, Nelson EJR. Role of innate immunity and systemic inflammation in cystic fibrosis disease progression. Heliyon 2023; 9:e17553. [PMID: 37449112 PMCID: PMC10336457 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e17553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Revised: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Pathophysiological manifestations of cystic fibrosis (CF) result from a functional defect in the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) paving way for mucus obstruction and pathogen colonization. The role of CFTR in modulating immune cell function and vascular integrity, irrespective of mucus thickening, in determining the host cell response to pathogens/allergens and causing systemic inflammation is least appreciated. Since CFTR plays a key role in the conductance of anions like Cl-, loss of CFTR function could affect various basic cellular processes, such as cellular homeostasis, lysosome acidification, and redox balance. CFTR aids in endotoxin tolerance by regulating Toll-like receptor-mediated signaling resulting in uncontrolled activation of innate immune cells. Although leukocytes of CF patients are hyperactivated, they exhibit compromised phagosome activity thus favouring the orchestration of sepsis from defective pathogen clearance. This review will emphasize the importance of innate immunity and systemic inflammatory response in the development of CF and other CFTR-associated pathologies.
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12
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Wareing N, Mohan V, Taherian R, Volkmann ER, Lyons MA, Wilhalme H, Roth MD, Estrada-y-Martin RM, Skaug B, Mayes MD, Tashkin DP, Assassi S. Blood Neutrophil Count and Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio for Prediction of Disease Progression and Mortality in Two Independent Systemic Sclerosis Cohorts. Arthritis Care Res (Hoboken) 2023; 75:648-656. [PMID: 35287250 PMCID: PMC9470772 DOI: 10.1002/acr.24880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2021] [Revised: 02/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the predictive significance of blood neutrophil count and the ratio between neutrophil and lymphocyte count (neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio [NLR]) for disease severity and mortality in systemic sclerosis (SSc). METHODS Neutrophil and lymphocyte counts were prospectively measured in the Genetics versus Environment in Scleroderma Outcome Study (GENISOS) and the Scleroderma Lung Study II (SLS II). Forced vital capacity percent predicted (FVC%) and modified Rodnan skin thickness score (MRSS) were used as surrogate measures for disease severity. Longitudinal analyses were performed using generalized linear mixed models. Cox proportional hazards models evaluated the predictive significance of these cell counts for mortality. RESULTS Of the 447 SSc patients in the GENISOS cohort at the time of analysis, 377 (84.3%) had available baseline blood neutrophil and lymphocyte counts. Higher baseline neutrophil count and NLR predicted lower serially obtained FVC% (b = -4.74, P = 0.009 and b = -2.68, P = 0.028, respectively) and higher serially obtained MRSS (b = 4.07, P < 0.001 and b = 2.32, P < 0.001, respectively). Longitudinal neutrophil and NLR measurements also significantly correlated with lower concurrently obtained FVC% measurements and higher concurrently obtained MRSS. Baseline neutrophil count and NLR predicted increased risk of long-term mortality, even after adjustment for baseline demographic and clinical factors (hazard ratio [HR] 1.42, P = 0.02 and HR 1.48, P < 0.001, respectively). The predictive significance of higher baseline neutrophil count and NLR for declining FVC% and increased long-term mortality was confirmed in the SLS II. CONCLUSION Higher blood neutrophil count and NLR are predictive of more severe disease course and increased mortality, indicating that these easily obtainable laboratory studies might be a reflection of pathologic immune processes in SSc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nancy Wareing
- McGovern Medical School at University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, TX, USA
| | - Vishnu Mohan
- McGovern Medical School at University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, TX, USA
| | - Rana Taherian
- McGovern Medical School at University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, TX, USA
| | | | - Marka A. Lyons
- McGovern Medical School at University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, TX, USA
| | | | | | | | - Brian Skaug
- McGovern Medical School at University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, TX, USA
| | - Maureen D. Mayes
- McGovern Medical School at University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, TX, USA
| | | | - Shervin Assassi
- McGovern Medical School at University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, TX, USA
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Molecular Mechanisms Behind the Role of Plasmacytoid Dendritic Cells in Systemic Sclerosis. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:biology12020285. [PMID: 36829561 PMCID: PMC9953616 DOI: 10.3390/biology12020285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2022] [Revised: 02/04/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2023]
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a debilitating autoimmune disease that affects multiple systems. It is characterized by immunological deregulation, functional and structural abnormalities of small blood vessels, and fibrosis of the skin, and, in some cases, internal organs. Fibrosis has a devastating impact on a patient's life and lung fibrosis is associated with high morbimortality. Several immune populations contribute to the progression of SSc, and plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs) have been identified as crucial mediators of fibrosis. Research on murine models of lung and skin fibrosis has shown that pDCs are essential in the development of fibrosis, and that removing pDCs improves fibrosis. pDCs are a subset of dendritic cells (DCs) that are specialized in anti-viral responses and are also involved in autoimmune diseases, such as SSc, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and psoriasis, mostly due to their capacity to produce type I interferon (IFN). A type I IFN signature and high levels of CXCL4, both derived from pDCs, have been associated with poor prognosis in patients with SSc and are correlated with fibrosis. This review will examine the recent research on the molecular mechanisms through which pDCs impact SSc.
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14
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Chrysanthopoulou A, Antoniadou C, Natsi AM, Gavriilidis E, Papadopoulos V, Xingi E, Didaskalou S, Mikroulis D, Tsironidou V, Kambas K, Koffa M, Skendros P, Ritis K. Down-regulation of KLF2 in lung fibroblasts is linked with COVID-19 immunofibrosis and restored by combined inhibition of NETs, JAK-1/2 and IL-6 signaling. Clin Immunol 2023; 247:109240. [PMID: 36693535 PMCID: PMC9862710 DOI: 10.1016/j.clim.2023.109240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2022] [Revised: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Kruppel-like factor 2 (KLF2) has been linked with fibrosis and neutrophil-associated thromboinflammation; however, its role in COVID-19 remains elusive. We investigated the effect of disease microenvironment on the fibrotic potential of human lung fibroblasts (LFs) and its association with KLF2 expression. LFs stimulated with plasma from severe COVID-19 patients down-regulated KLF2 expression at mRNA/protein and functional level acquiring a pre-fibrotic phenotype, as indicated by increased CCN2/collagen levels. Pre-incubation with the COMBI-treatment-agents (DNase I and JAKs/IL-6 inhibitors baricitinib/tocilizumab) restored KLF2 levels of LFs to normal abolishing their fibrotic activity. LFs stimulated with plasma from COMBI-treated patients at day-7 expressed lower CCN2 and higher KLF2 levels, compared to plasma prior-to-treatment, an effect not observed in standard-of-care treatment. In line with this, COMBI-treated patients had better outcome than standard-of-care group. These data link fibroblast KLF2 with NETosis and JAK/IL-6 signaling, suggesting the potential of combined therapeutic strategies in immunofibrotic diseases, such as COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akrivi Chrysanthopoulou
- Laboratory of Molecular Hematology, Department of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Christina Antoniadou
- First Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Alexandroupolis, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Anastasia-Maria Natsi
- Laboratory of Molecular Hematology, Department of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Efstratios Gavriilidis
- First Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Alexandroupolis, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Vasileios Papadopoulos
- First Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Alexandroupolis, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Evangelia Xingi
- Light Microscopy Unit, Hellenic Pasteur Institute, Athens, Greece
| | - Stylianos Didaskalou
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, Proteomics and Cell Cycle, Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Dimitrios Mikroulis
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, University Hospital of Alexandroupolis, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Victoria Tsironidou
- Laboratory of Molecular Hematology, Department of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Konstantinos Kambas
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics, Department of Immunology, Hellenic Pasteur Institute, Athens, Greece
| | - Maria Koffa
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, Proteomics and Cell Cycle, Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Panagiotis Skendros
- Laboratory of Molecular Hematology, Department of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece; First Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Alexandroupolis, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece.
| | - Konstantinos Ritis
- Laboratory of Molecular Hematology, Department of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece; First Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Alexandroupolis, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece.
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15
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Höppner J, Tabeling C, Casteleyn V, Kedor C, Windisch W, Burmester GR, Huscher D, Siegert E. Comprehensive autoantibody profiles in systemic sclerosis: Clinical cluster analysis. Front Immunol 2023; 13:1045523. [PMID: 36685532 PMCID: PMC9846214 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1045523] [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: 09/15/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Systemic sclerosis (SSc) belongs to the group of connective tissue diseases and is associated with the occurrence of disease-specific autoantibodies. Although it is still controversial whether these antibodies contribute to pathogenesis, there are new insights into the development of these specific antibodies and their possible pathophysiological properties. Interestingly, they are associated with specific clinical manifestations, but for some rarer antibodies this association is not fully clarified. The aim of this study is a comprehensive analysis of the serum autoantibody status in patients with SSc followed by correlation analyses of autoantibodies with the clinical course of the disease. Methods Serum from SSc patients was analyzed using a line blot (EUROLINE, EUROIMMUN AG) for SSc-related autoantibodies. Autoantibodies to centromere, Topo-1, antimitochondrial antibodies (AMA) M2 subunit, angiotensin II type 1 receptors (AT1R) and endothelin-1 type-A-receptors (ETAR) were also determined by ELISA. We formed immunological clusters and used principal components analysis (PCA) to assign specific clinical characteristics to these clusters. Results A total of 372 SSc patients were included. 95.3% of the patients were antinuclear antibody positive and in 333 patients at least one SSc specific antibody could be detected. Four immunological clusters could be found by PCA. Centromere, Topo-1 and RP3 all formed own clusters, which are associated with distinct clinical phenotypes. We found that patients with an inverted phenotype, such as limited cutaneous SSc patients within the Topo-1 cluster show an increased risk for interstital lung disease compared to ACA positive patients. Anti-AT1R and anti-ETAR autoantibodies were measured in 176 SSc patients; no association with SSc disease manifestation was found. SSc patients with AMA-M2 antibodies showed an increased risk of cardiovascular events. Conclusion In our in large cluster analysis, which included an extended autoantibody profile, we were able to show that serologic status of SSc patients provides important clues to disease manifestation, co-morbidities and complications. Line blot was a reliable technique to detect autoantibodies in SSc and detected rarer autoantibodies in 42% of our patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jakob Höppner
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Department of Pulmonology, Cologne Merheim Hospital, Kliniken der Stadt Köln gGmbH, Witten/Herdecke University, Cologne, Germany
| | - Christoph Tabeling
- Division of Pulmonary Inflammation, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Respiratory Medicine, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- BIH Charité Clinician Scientist Program, Berlin Institute of Health at Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Vincent Casteleyn
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Claudia Kedor
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Wolfram Windisch
- Department of Pulmonology, Cologne Merheim Hospital, Kliniken der Stadt Köln gGmbH, Witten/Herdecke University, Cologne, Germany
| | - Gerd Rüdiger Burmester
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Dörte Huscher
- Institute of Biometry and Clinical Epidemiology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Elise Siegert
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- BIH Charité Clinician Scientist Program, Berlin Institute of Health at Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
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16
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Bissenova S, Ellis D, Mathieu C, Gysemans C. Neutrophils in autoimmunity: when the hero becomes the villain. Clin Exp Immunol 2022; 210:128-140. [PMID: 36208466 PMCID: PMC9750832 DOI: 10.1093/cei/uxac093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2022] [Revised: 09/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Neutrophils were long considered to be a short-lived homogenous cell population, limited to their role as first responders in anti-bacterial and -fungal immunity. While it is true that neutrophils are first to infiltrate the site of infection to eliminate pathogens, growing evidence suggests their functions could extend beyond those of basic innate immune cells. Along with their well-established role in pathogen elimination, utilizing effector functions such as phagocytosis, degranulation, and the deployment of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs), neutrophils have recently been shown to possess antigen-presenting capabilities. Moreover, the identification of different subtypes of neutrophils points to a multifactorial heterogeneous cell population with great plasticity in which some subsets have enhanced pro-inflammatory characteristics, while others seem to behave as immunosuppressors. Interestingly, the aberrant presence of activated neutrophils with a pro-inflammatory profile in several systemic and organ-specific autoimmune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), systemic sclerosis (SSc), multiple sclerosis (MS), and type 1 diabetes (T1D) could potentially be exploited in novel therapeutic strategies. The full extent of the involvement of neutrophils, and more specifically that of their various subtypes, in the pathophysiology of autoimmune diseases is yet to be elucidated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samal Bissenova
- Clinical and Experimental Endocrinology, Department of Chronic Diseases and Metabolism (CHROMETA), KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Darcy Ellis
- Clinical and Experimental Endocrinology, Department of Chronic Diseases and Metabolism (CHROMETA), KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Chantal Mathieu
- Clinical and Experimental Endocrinology, Department of Chronic Diseases and Metabolism (CHROMETA), KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Conny Gysemans
- Clinical and Experimental Endocrinology, Department of Chronic Diseases and Metabolism (CHROMETA), KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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Fang D, Chen B, Lescoat A, Khanna D, Mu R. Immune cell dysregulation as a mediator of fibrosis in systemic sclerosis. Nat Rev Rheumatol 2022; 18:683-693. [DOI: 10.1038/s41584-022-00864-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a chronic rheumatic disease that is characterized by immune activation, vasculopathy and fibrosis of the skin and internal organs. It has been proposed that premature onset of ageing pathways and associated senescent changes in cells contribute to the clinical and pathological features of SSc. The aim of this review is to critically review recent insights into the involvement of cellular senescence in SSc. RECENT FINDINGS Cellular senescence plays a critical role in SSc pathogenesis, particularly involving endothelial cells and fibroblasts. Immunosenescence could also contribute to SSc pathogenesis by direct alteration of cellular functions or indirect promotion of defective immune surveillance. Molecular studies have shed some light on how cellular senescence contributes to fibrosis. Recent and planned proof-of-concept trials using senotherapeutics showed promising results in fibrotic diseases, including SSc. SUMMARY There is increasing evidence implicating cellular senescence in SSc. The mechanisms underlying premature cellular senescence in SSc, and its potential role in pathogenesis, merit further investigation. Emerging drugs targeting senescence-related pathways might be potential therapeutic options for SSc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pei-Suen Tsou
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Scleroderma Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Bo Shi
- Department of Dermatology, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - John Varga
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Scleroderma Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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van Eeden C, Osman MS, Cohen Tervaert JW. Fatigue in ANCA-associated vasculitis (AAV) and systemic sclerosis (SSc): similarities with Myalgic encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS). A critical review of the literature. Expert Rev Clin Immunol 2022; 18:1049-1070. [PMID: 36045606 DOI: 10.1080/1744666x.2022.2116002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Persistent debilitating fatigue is a frequent complaint in patients with systemic autoimmune rheumatic diseases (SARDs). Fatigue is, however, frequently overlooked in the clinic, and patients who successfully achieve remission of their disease, often still have a lowered quality of life due to its persistence. How similar is this fatigue to Myalgic encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS), what is this fatigue associated with, and what tools/approaches (if any), have resulted in the improvement of fatigue in these patients is poorly defined. AREAS COVERED Similarities between the pathophysiology of ME/CFS, systemic sclerosis (SSc) and primary systemic vasculitides (PSV) are discussed, followed by an in-depth review of the prevalence and correlates of fatigue in these diseases. The authors reviewed literature from MEDLINE, APA PsycInfo, Embase, and CINAHL. EXPERT OPINION Persistent fatigue is a prominent feature in SARDs and may not be associated with components commonly associated with disease activity and/or progression. Immune and metabolic commonalities exist between ME/CFS, SSc, and PSVs - suggesting that common pathways inherent to the diseases and fatigue may be present. We suggest that patients with features of ME/CFS need to be identified by treating physicians, as they may require alternative approaches to therapy to improve their quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charmaine van Eeden
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Mohammed S Osman
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Jan Willem Cohen Tervaert
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.,School for Mental Health and Neurosciences (MHeNs), Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
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20
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Tu J, Jin J, Chen X, Sun L, Cai Z. Altered Cellular Immunity and Differentially Expressed Immune-Related Genes in Patients With Systemic Sclerosis-Associated Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension. Front Immunol 2022; 13:868983. [PMID: 35663995 PMCID: PMC9159786 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.868983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2022] [Accepted: 04/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is the most common connective tissue disease causing pulmonary hypertension (PAH). However, the cause and potential immune molecular events associated with PAH are still unclear. Therefore, it is particularly essential to analyze the changes in SSc-PAH–related immune cells and their immune-related genes. Three microarray datasets (GSE22356, GSE33463, and GSE19617) were obtained by the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO). Compared with SSc, we found neutrophils have a statistically higher abundance, while T-cell CD4 naive and T-cell CD4 memory resting have a statistically lower abundance in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). Moreover, the results of Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) showed there is a differential enrichment of multiple pathways between SSc and SSc-PAH. By combining differentiated expressed genes (DEGs) and immune-related genes (IRGs), fifteen IRGs were selected. In addition, we also analyzed the first five rich Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways and the most abundant Gene Ontology (GO)-molecular functional terms. Furthermore, interleukin-7 receptor (IL-7R), tyrosine–protein kinase (LCK), histone deacetylase 1 (HDAC1), and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) genes were identified as hub genes via protein–protein interaction (PPI) network analysis. The Comparative Toxic Genomics Database (CTD) analysis result showed that LCK, HDAC1, and EGFR have a higher score with SSc. Coexpression network analysis confirmed that IL-7R, LCK, and HDAC1 are key genes related to immune regulation in SSc without PAH and are involved in T-cell immune regulation. Subsequently, using GSE22356 and GSE33463 as the test sets and GSE19617 as the verification set, it was verified that the mRNA expression levels of the three central genes of SSc-PAH were significantly lower than those of the SSc without PAH samples. Consistent with previous predictions, the expressions of IL-7R, LCK, and HDAC1 are positively correlated with the numbers of T-cell CD4 naive and T-cell CD4 memory, while the expressions of IL-7R and LCK are negatively correlated with the numbers of neutrophils in the peripheral blood. Therefore, this evidence may suggest that these three immune-related genes: IL-7R, LCK, and HDAC1, may be highly related to the immunological changes in SSc-PAH. These three molecules can reduce T cells in SSc-PAH PBMCs through the regulation of T-cell activation, which suggests that these three molecules may be involved in the development of SSc-PAH. Meanwhile, the low expression of IL-7R, LCK, and HDAC1 detected in the peripheral blood of SSc may indicate the possibility of PAH and hopefully become a biomarker for the early detection of SSc-PAH. Finally, 49 target miRNAs of 3 specifically expressed hub genes were obtained, and 49 mRNA–miRNA pairs were identified, which provided directions for our further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianxin Tu
- Bone Marrow Transplantation Center, Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.,Department of Rheumatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Jinji Jin
- Gastrointestinal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Xiaowei Chen
- Department of Rheumatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Li Sun
- Department of Rheumatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Zhen Cai
- Bone Marrow Transplantation Center, Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
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Interleukin-36α is elevated in diffuse systemic sclerosis and may potentiate fibrosis. Cytokine 2022; 156:155921. [PMID: 35667282 DOI: 10.1016/j.cyto.2022.155921] [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: 03/08/2022] [Revised: 05/17/2022] [Accepted: 05/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an autoimmune prototypical connective tissues disease that results in alterations in vasculature, inflammation and fibrosis of the skin. Interleukin-1 family cytokines has been implicated in the disease including IL-1. IL-36α is an IL-1 family member that is clearly implicated in psoriatic skin disease but its role in systemic sclerosis disease is not clear. The aim of this work is to evaluate the levels and role of IL-36α in systemic sclerosis. Early diffuse SSc patients sera was isolated along with healthy controls and IL-36 levels quantified by ELISA. In vitro analysis was also undertaken with primary dermal fibroblasts with recombinant IL-36α and keratinocyte cells were also incubated with IL-36α. Cytokines were measured by ELISA. Serum IL-36 was significantly elevated compared to healthy controls. Elevated neutrophil elastase was also elevated in the matched sera. IL-36 was not directly pro-fibrotic in dermal fibroblasts but did induce pro-inflammatory cytokines that were dependant on the MAPK pathway for their release. IL-36α also led to release of CCL20 and CCL2 in keratinocytes which may potentiate fibrosis. IL-36α is elevated in SSc serum and whilst not directly pro-fibrotic it may through keratinocytes, potentiate fibrosis through keratinocyte-immune fibroblast cross-talk.
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Chandra A, Kahaleh B. Systemic Sclerosis (SSc) After COVID-19: A Case Report. Cureus 2022; 14:e23179. [PMID: 35444873 PMCID: PMC9009972 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.23179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
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23
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Kuley R, Stultz RD, Duvvuri B, Wang T, Fritzler MJ, Hesselstrand R, Nelson JL, Lood C. N-Formyl Methionine Peptide-Mediated Neutrophil Activation in Systemic Sclerosis. Front Immunol 2022; 12:785275. [PMID: 35069556 PMCID: PMC8766990 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.785275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Exaggerated neutrophil activation and formation of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) are reported in systemic sclerosis (SSc) but its involvement in SSc pathogenesis is not clear. In the present study we assessed markers of neutrophil activation and NET formation in SSc patients in relation to markers of inflammation and disease phenotype. Factors promoting neutrophil activation in SSc remain largely unknown. Among the neutrophil activating factors, mitochondrial-derived N-formyl methionine (fMet) has been reported in several autoinflammatory conditions. The aim of the current study is to assess whether SSc patients have elevated levels of fMet and the role of fMet in neutrophil-mediated inflammation on SSc pathogenesis. Markers of neutrophil activation (calprotectin, NETs) and levels of fMet were analyzed in plasma from two SSc cohorts (n=80 and n=20, respectively) using ELISA. Neutrophil activation assays were performed in presence or absence of formyl peptide receptor 1 (FPR1) inhibitor cyclosporin H. Elevated levels of calprotectin and NETs were observed in SSc patients as compared to healthy controls (p<0.0001) associating with SSc clinical disease characteristics. Further, SSc patients had elevated levels of circulating fMet as compared to healthy controls (p<0.0001). Consistent with a role for fMet-mediated neutrophil activation, fMet levels correlated with levels of calprotectin and NETs (r=0.34, p=0.002; r=0.29, p<0.01 respectively). Additionally, plasma samples from SSc patients with high levels of fMet induced de novo neutrophil activation through FPR1-dependent mechanisms. Our data for the first time implicates an important role for the mitochondrial component fMet in promoting neutrophil-mediated inflammation in SSc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Runa Kuley
- Department of Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Ryan D Stultz
- Department of Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Bhargavi Duvvuri
- Department of Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Ting Wang
- Department of Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Marvin J Fritzler
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Roger Hesselstrand
- Department of Clinical Sciences Lund University, Section of Rheumatology, Lund, Sweden
| | - J Lee Nelson
- Department of Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States.,Clinical Research Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Christian Lood
- Department of Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
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24
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Osman M, Redmond D, Tervaert JWC. Comment on: ANCA in systemic sclerosis, when vasculitis overlaps with vasculopathy: a devastating combination of pathologies. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2021; 60:e407-e409. [PMID: 34213551 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/keab525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2021] [Revised: 05/27/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed Osman
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Desiree Redmond
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
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25
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Kase K, Watanabe S, Saeki K, Waseda Y, Takato H, Ichikawa Y, Murata A, Yasui M, Noriyuki O, Hara J, Sone T, Abo M, Kimura H, Kasahara K. Fractional analysis of bronchoalveolar lavage in systemic sclerosis-associated interstitial lung disease. J Thorac Dis 2021; 13:4146-4155. [PMID: 34422344 PMCID: PMC8339759 DOI: 10.21037/jtd-20-2596] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2020] [Accepted: 05/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Background The utility of bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) in the evaluation of systemic sclerosis-associated interstitial lung disease (SSc-ILD) remains controversial. Fractional analysis of BAL (FBAL) is a technique that can analyze small airways and alveolar compartments separately and has proven informative in other ILDs. The aim of this study was to explore FBAL characteristics across the spectrum of SSc-ILD severity. Methods We retrospectively reviewed patients with SSc-ILD who underwent bronchoscopy with FBAL using three 50 mL aliquots of saline solution. These aliquots were analyzed separately for differential cell composition (FBAL-1, -2, and -3). We compared the FBAL cell composition to the progression of ILD and end-stages of ILD using Cox proportional hazards models. Results Sixty-eight patients with SSc-ILD were enrolled in this study. The percentage of neutrophils and eosinophils was lower in FBAL-3 compared to FBAL-1. In contrast, the percentage of macrophages and lymphocytes was higher in FBAL-3. Neutrophils in FBAL-2, -3, and the estimated total FBAL cell fraction (FBAL-total) were negatively correlated with the forced vital capacity % predicted (r=−0.420, −0.362, −0.409, respectively). Although FBAL-total was not linked to the progression and end-stage of ILD, a high percentage of neutrophils in FBAL-3 was significantly associated with the development of end-stage ILD (HR 1.093, 95% CI: 1.003–1.190). Conclusions A higher percentage of neutrophils in FBAL-3 is correlated with development of end-stage ILD in SSc-ILD as well as mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazumasa Kase
- Respiratory Medicine, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, Japan.,Respiratory Medicine, Japan Community Health Care Organization, Kanazawa Hospital, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, Japan
| | - Satoshi Watanabe
- Respiratory Medicine, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, Japan
| | - Keigo Saeki
- Respiratory Medicine, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, Japan
| | - Yuko Waseda
- Third Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Fukui, Fukui, Japan
| | - Hazuki Takato
- Respiratory Medicine, Japan Community Health Care Organization, Kanazawa Hospital, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, Japan
| | - Yukari Ichikawa
- Respiratory Medicine, Kanazawa Municipal Hospital, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, Japan
| | - Akari Murata
- Respiratory Medicine, Keiju Medical Center, Nanao, Ishikawa Japan
| | - Masahide Yasui
- Respiratory Medicine, National Hospital Organization Nanao Hospital, Nanao, Ishikawa, Japan
| | - Ohkura Noriyuki
- Respiratory Medicine, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, Japan
| | - Johsuke Hara
- Respiratory Medicine, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, Japan
| | - Takashi Sone
- Respiratory Medicine, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, Japan
| | - Miki Abo
- Respiratory Medicine, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, Japan
| | - Hideharu Kimura
- Respiratory Medicine, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, Japan
| | - Kazuo Kasahara
- Respiratory Medicine, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, Japan
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26
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Manfredi AA, Ramirez GA, Godino C, Capobianco A, Monno A, Franchini S, Tombetti E, Corradetti S, Distler JHW, Bianchi ME, Rovere-Querini P, Maugeri N. Platelet Phagocytosis via P-selectin Glycoprotein Ligand 1 and Accumulation of Microparticles in Systemic Sclerosis. Arthritis Rheumatol 2021; 74:318-328. [PMID: 34279048 DOI: 10.1002/art.41926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2020] [Revised: 04/29/2021] [Accepted: 07/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE It is unclear why activated platelets and platelet-derived microparticles (MPs) accumulate in the blood of patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc). This study was undertaken to investigate whether defective phagocytosis might contribute to MP accumulation in the blood of patients with SSc. METHODS Blood samples were obtained from a total of 81 subjects, including 25 patients with SSc and 26 patients with stable coronary artery disease (CAD). Thirty sex- and age-matched healthy volunteers served as controls. Studies were also conducted in NSG mice, in which the tail vein of the mice was injected with MPs, and samples of the lung parenchyma were obtained for analysis of the pulmonary microvasculature. Tissue samples from human subjects and from mice were assessed by flow cytometry and immunochemical analyses for determination of platelet-neutrophil interactions, phagocytosis, levels and distribution of P-selectin, P-selectin glycoprotein ligand 1 (PSGL-1), and HMGB1 on platelets and MPs, and concentration of byproducts of neutrophil extracellular trap (NET) generation/catabolism. RESULTS Activated P-selectin+ platelets and platelet-derived HMGB1+ MPs accumulated in the blood of SSc patients but not in the blood of healthy controls. Patients with CAD, a vasculopathy independent of systemic inflammation, had fewer P-selectin+ platelets and a negligible number of MPs. The expression of the receptor for P-selectin, PSGL-1, in neutrophils from SSc patients was significantly decreased, raising the possibility that phagocytes in SSc do not recognize activated platelets, leading to a failure of phagocytosis and continued neutrophil release of MPs. As evidence of this process, activated platelets were not detected in the neutrophils from SSc patients, whereas they were consistently present in the neutrophils from patients with CAD. HMGB1+ MPs elicited generation of NETs, which were only detected in the plasma of SSc patients. In mice, P-selectin-PSGL-1 interaction resulted in platelet phagocytosis in vitro and influenced the ability of MPs to elicit NETs, endothelial activation, and migration of leukocytes through the pulmonary microvasculature. CONCLUSION The clearance of activated platelets via PSGL-1 limits the undesirable effects of MP-elicited neutrophil activation. This balance is disrupted in patients with SSc. Its reconstitution might curb vascular inflammation and prevent fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angelo A Manfredi
- Università Vita-Salute San Raffaele and IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Giuseppe A Ramirez
- Università Vita-Salute San Raffaele and IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Cosmo Godino
- Università Vita-Salute San Raffaele and IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Annalisa Capobianco
- Università Vita-Salute San Raffaele and IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Antonella Monno
- Università Vita-Salute San Raffaele and IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Stefano Franchini
- Università Vita-Salute San Raffaele and IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Enrico Tombetti
- Università Vita-Salute San Raffaele and IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Sara Corradetti
- Università Vita-Salute San Raffaele and IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Jörg H W Distler
- Friedrich-Alexander-University (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Marco E Bianchi
- Università Vita-Salute San Raffaele and IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Patrizia Rovere-Querini
- Università Vita-Salute San Raffaele and IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Norma Maugeri
- Università Vita-Salute San Raffaele and IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
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Fetz AE, Bowlin GL. Neutrophil Extracellular Traps: Inflammation and Biomaterial Preconditioning for Tissue Engineering. TISSUE ENGINEERING PART B-REVIEWS 2021; 28:437-450. [PMID: 33736452 DOI: 10.1089/ten.teb.2021.0013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Tissue injury initiates a tissue repair program, characterized by acute inflammation and recruitment of immune cells, dominated by neutrophils. Neutrophils prevent infection in the injured tissue through multiple effector functions, including the production of reactive oxygen species, the release of granules, the phagocytosis of invaders, and the extrusion of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs). However, these canonical protective mechanisms can also have detrimental effects both in the context of infection and in response to sterile injuries. Of particular interest to biomaterials and tissue engineering is the release of NETs, which are extracellular structures composed of decondensed chromatin and various toxic nuclear and granular components. These structures and their dysregulated release can cause collateral tissue damage, uncontrolled inflammation, and fibrosis and prevent the neutrophil from exerting its prohealing functions. This review discusses our knowledge of NETs, including their composition and morphology, signaling pathways, inhibitors, and contribution to inflammatory pathologies, as well as their role in the resolution of inflammation. In addition, we summarize what is known about the release of NETs as a preconditioning event in the response to biomaterials and highlight future considerations to target the neutrophil response and enhance biomaterial-guided tissue repair and regeneration. Impact statement Neutrophil extracellular trap (NET) release is an active process programmed into the neutrophil's molecular machinery to prevent infection. However, the release of NETs on biomaterials appears to be a significant preconditioning event that influences the potential for tissue healing with largely detrimental consequences. Given their contribution to inflammatory pathologies, this review highlights the role of NETs in the response to biomaterials. Together, the studies discussed in this review suggest that biomaterials should be designed to regulate NET release to avoid maladaptive immune responses and improve the therapeutic potential of tissue-engineered biomaterials and their applications in the clinical setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allison E Fetz
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Memphis, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Gary L Bowlin
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Memphis, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
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Echinochrome A Treatment Alleviates Fibrosis and Inflammation in Bleomycin-Induced Scleroderma. Mar Drugs 2021; 19:md19050237. [PMID: 33922418 PMCID: PMC8146844 DOI: 10.3390/md19050237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2021] [Revised: 04/16/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Scleroderma is an autoimmune disease caused by the abnormal regulation of extracellular matrix synthesis and is activated by non-regulated inflammatory cells and cytokines. Echinochrome A (EchA), a natural pigment isolated from sea urchins, has been demonstrated to have antioxidant activities and beneficial effects in various disease models. The present study demonstrates for the first time that EchA treatment alleviates bleomycin-induced scleroderma by normalizing dermal thickness and suppressing collagen deposition in vivo. EchA treatment reduces the number of activated myofibroblasts expressing α-SMA, vimentin, and phosphorylated Smad3 in bleomycin-induced scleroderma. In addition, it decreased the number of macrophages, including M1 and M2 types in the affected skin, suggesting the induction of an anti-inflammatory effect. Furthermore, EchA treatment markedly attenuated serum levels of inflammatory cytokines, such as tumor necrosis factor-α and interferon-γ, in a murine scleroderma model. Taken together, these results suggest that EchA is highly useful for the treatment of scleroderma, exerting anti-fibrosis and anti-inflammatory effects.
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29
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Stone RC, Chen V, Burgess J, Pannu S, Tomic-Canic M. Genomics of Human Fibrotic Diseases: Disordered Wound Healing Response. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21228590. [PMID: 33202590 PMCID: PMC7698326 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21228590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2020] [Revised: 11/08/2020] [Accepted: 11/11/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Fibrotic disease, which is implicated in almost half of all deaths worldwide, is the result of an uncontrolled wound healing response to injury in which tissue is replaced by deposition of excess extracellular matrix, leading to fibrosis and loss of organ function. A plethora of genome-wide association studies, microarrays, exome sequencing studies, DNA methylation arrays, next-generation sequencing, and profiling of noncoding RNAs have been performed in patient-derived fibrotic tissue, with the shared goal of utilizing genomics to identify the transcriptional networks and biological pathways underlying the development of fibrotic diseases. In this review, we discuss fibrosing disorders of the skin, liver, kidney, lung, and heart, systematically (1) characterizing the initial acute injury that drives unresolved inflammation, (2) identifying genomic studies that have defined the pathologic gene changes leading to excess matrix deposition and fibrogenesis, and (3) summarizing therapies targeting pro-fibrotic genes and networks identified in the genomic studies. Ultimately, successful bench-to-bedside translation of observations from genomic studies will result in the development of novel anti-fibrotic therapeutics that improve functional quality of life for patients and decrease mortality from fibrotic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rivka C. Stone
- Wound Healing and Regenerative Medicine Research Program, Dr. Phillip Frost Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery, University of Miami-Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA; (V.C.); (J.B.)
- Correspondence: (R.C.S.); (M.T.-C.)
| | - Vivien Chen
- Wound Healing and Regenerative Medicine Research Program, Dr. Phillip Frost Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery, University of Miami-Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA; (V.C.); (J.B.)
| | - Jamie Burgess
- Wound Healing and Regenerative Medicine Research Program, Dr. Phillip Frost Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery, University of Miami-Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA; (V.C.); (J.B.)
- Medical Scientist Training Program in Biomedical Sciences, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Sukhmani Pannu
- Department of Dermatology, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA 02116, USA;
| | - Marjana Tomic-Canic
- Wound Healing and Regenerative Medicine Research Program, Dr. Phillip Frost Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery, University of Miami-Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA; (V.C.); (J.B.)
- John P. Hussman Institute for Human Genomics, University of Miami-Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA
- Correspondence: (R.C.S.); (M.T.-C.)
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