Notch2 controls developmental fate choices between germinal center and marginal zone B cells upon immunization

Sustained Notch2 signals induce trans-differentiation of Follicular B (FoB) cells into Marginal Zone B (MZB) cells in mice, but the physiology underlying this differentiation pathway is still elusive. Here, we demonstrate that most B cells receive a basal Notch signal, which is intensified in pre-MZB and MZB cells. Ablation or constitutive activation of Notch2 upon T-cell-dependent immunization reveals an interplay between antigen-induced activation and Notch2 signaling, in which FoB cells that turn off Notch2 signaling enter germinal centers (GC), while high Notch2 signaling leads to generation of MZB cells or to initiation of plasmablast differentiation. Notch2 signaling is dispensable for GC dynamics but appears to be re-induced in some centrocytes to govern expansion of IgG1+ GCB cells. Mathematical modelling suggests that antigen-activated FoB cells make a Notch2 dependent binary fate-decision to differentiate into either GCB or MZB cells. This bifurcation might serve as a mechanism to archive antigen-specific clones into functionally and spatially diverse B cell states to generate robust antibody and memory responses.

The role of the Notch signaling pathway in bacterial infectious diseases

The Notch signaling pathway is the most crucial link in the normal operation and maintenance of physiological functions of mammalian life processes. Notch receptors interact with ligands and this leads to three cleavages and goes on to enter the nucleus to initiate the transcription of target genes. The Notch signaling pathway deeply participates in the differentiation and function of various cells, including immune cells. Recent studies indicate that the outcomes of Notch signaling are changeable and highly dependent on different bacterial infection. The Notch signaling pathway plays a different role in promoting and inhibiting bacterial infection. In this review, we focus on the latest research findings of the Notch signaling pathway in bacterial infectious diseases. The Notch signaling pathway is critically involved in a variety of development processes of immunosuppression of different APCs. The Notch signaling pathway leads to functional changes in epithelial cells to aggravate tissue damage. Specifically, we illustrate the regulatory mechanism of the Notch signaling pathway in various bacterial infections, such as Mycobacterium tuberculosis, Mycobacterium avium paratuberculosis, Mycobacterium leprae, Helicobacter pylori, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus, Ehrlichia chaffeensis and sepsis. Collectively, this review will not only help beginners intuitively and systematically understand the Notch signaling pathway in bacterial infectious diseases but also help experts to generate fresh insight in this field.

Combinatorial expression motifs in signaling pathways

In animal cells, molecular pathways often comprise families of variant components, such as ligands or receptors. These pathway components are differentially expressed by different cell types, potentially tailoring pathway function to cell context. However, it has remained unclear how pathway expression profiles are distributed across cell types and whether similar profiles can occur in dissimilar cell types. Here, using single-cell gene expression datasets, we identified pathway expression motifs, defined as recurrent expression profiles that are broadly distributed across diverse cell types. Motifs appeared in core pathways, including TGF-β, Notch, Wnt, and the SRSF splice factors, and involved combinatorial co-expression of multiple components. Motif usage was weakly correlated between pathways in adult cell types and during dynamic developmental transitions. Together, these results suggest a mosaic view of cell type organization, in which different cell types operate many of the same pathways in distinct modes.

Deciphering the localization and trajectory of human natural killer cell development

Innate immune cells represent the first line of cellular immunity, comprised of both circulating and tissue-resident natural killer cells and innate lymphoid cells. These innate lymphocytes arise from a common CD34+ progenitor that differentiates into mature natural killer cells and innate lymphoid cells. The successive stages in natural killer cell maturation are characterized by increased lineage restriction and changes to phenotype and function. Mechanisms of human natural killer cell development have not been fully elucidated, especially the role of signals that drive the spatial localization and maturation of natural killer cells. Cytokines, extracellular matrix components, and chemokines provide maturation signals and influence the trafficking of natural killer cell progenitors to peripheral sites of differentiation. Here we present the latest advances in our understanding of natural killer and innate lymphoid cell development in peripheral sites, including secondary lymphoid tissues (i.e. tonsil). Recent work in the field has provided a model for the spatial distribution of natural killer cell and innate lymphoid cell developmental intermediates in tissue and generated further insights into the developmental niche. In support of this model, future studies using multifaceted approaches seek to fully map the developmental trajectory of human natural killer cells and innate lymphoid cells in secondary lymphoid tissues.

NOTCH Signaling in Mantle Cell Lymphoma: Biological and Clinical Implications

Despite major progress in mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) therapeutics, MCL remains a deadly disease with a median survival not exceeding four years. No single driver genetic lesion has been described to solely give rise to MCL. The hallmark translocation t(11;14)(q13;q32) requires additional genetic alterations for the malignant transformation. A short list of recurrently mutated genes including ATM, CCND1, UBR5, TP53, BIRC3, NOTCH1, NOTCH2, and TRAF2 recently emerged as contributors to the pathogenesis of MCL. Notably, NOTCH1 and NOTCH2 were found to be mutated in multiple B cell lymphomas, including 5-10% of MCL, with most of these mutations occurring within the PEST domain of the protein. The NOTCH genes play a critical role in the early and late phases of normal B cell differentiation. In MCL, mutations in the PEST domain stabilize NOTCH proteins, rendering them resistant to degradation, which subsequently results in the upregulation of genes involved in angiogenesis, cell cycle progression, and cell migration and adhesion. At the clinical level, mutated NOTCH genes are associated with aggressive features in MCL, such as the blastoid and pleomorphic variants, a shorter response to treatment, and inferior survival. In this article, we explore in detail the role of NOTCH signaling in MCL biology and the ongoing efforts toward targeted therapeutic interventions.

A role for Hes1 in constraining germinal center B cell formation

Germinal center is a transient lymphoid tissue structure in which B cells undergo affinity maturation and differentiate into memory B cells and plasma cells. GC formation depends on B cell expression of BCL6, a master transcription regulator of the GC state. Bcl6 expression is under elaborate control by external signals. HES1 plays important roles in T-cell lineage commitment, although little is known about its potential roles in GC formation. Here we report that B-cell-specific HES1 deletion causes a significant increase in GC formation, leading to increased production of plasma cells. We further provide evidence that HES1 inhibits BCL6 expression in a bHLH domain-dependent manner. Our study suggests a new layer of regulation of GC initiation mediated by HES1 and, by inference, Notch signals in vivo.

Multiple Mechanisms of NOTCH1 Activation in Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia: NOTCH1 Mutations and Beyond

Simple Summary

Mutations of the NOTCH1 gene are a validated prognostic marker in chronic lymphocytic leukemia and a potential predictive marker for anti-CD20-based therapies. At present, the most frequent pathological alteration of the NOTCH1 gene is due to somatic genetic mutations, which have a multifaceted functional impact. However, beside NOTCH1 mutations, other factors may lead to activation of the NOTCH1 pathway, and these include mutations of FBXW7, MED12, SPEN, SF3B1 as well as other B-cell pathways. Understanding the preferential strategies though which CLL cells hijack NOTCH1 signaling may present important clues for designing targeted treatment strategies for the management of CLL.

Abstract

The Notch signaling pathway plays a fundamental role for the terminal differentiation of multiple cell types, including B and T lymphocytes. The Notch receptors are transmembrane proteins that, upon ligand engagement, undergo multiple processing steps that ultimately release their intracytoplasmic portion. The activated protein ultimately operates as a nuclear transcriptional co-factor, whose stability is finely regulated. The Notch pathway has gained growing attention in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) because of the high rate of somatic mutations of the NOTCH1 gene. In CLL, NOTCH1 mutations represent a validated prognostic marker and a potential predictive marker for anti-CD20-based therapies, as pathological alterations of the Notch pathway can provide significant growth and survival advantage to neoplastic clone. However, beside NOTCH1 mutation, other events have been demonstrated to perturb the Notch pathway, namely somatic mutations of upstream, or even apparently unrelated, proteins such as FBXW7, MED12, SPEN, SF3B1, as well as physiological signals from other pathways such as the B-cell receptor. Here we review these mechanisms of activation of the NOTCH1 pathway in the context of CLL; the resulting picture highlights how multiple different mechanisms, that might occur under specific genomic, phenotypic and microenvironmental contexts, ultimately result in the same search for proliferative and survival advantages (through activation of MYC), as well as immune escape and therapy evasion (from anti-CD20 biological therapies). Understanding the preferential strategies through which CLL cells hijack NOTCH1 signaling may present important clues for designing targeted treatment strategies for the management of CLL.

Relative expression and prognostic significance of forkhead box P3 in childhood B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia

BACKGROUND

Despite the favorable survival rates of childhood B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL), a significant number of patients present a dismal prognosis. Forkhead box P3 (FOXP3), a marker of regulatory T cells, functions as a transcription factor involved in immune cell regulation, and its expression correlates with prognosis in many malignancies. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the relative gene expression level of FOXP3 in childhood B-ALL and to detect its prognostic utility.

METHODS

The study included 139 bone marrow samples obtained from 112 patients at diagnosis and 27 healthy children. Following extraction, RNA was reverse transcribed and the relative expression level of FOXP3 was quantified by quantitative PCR. Cytogenetics, immunophenotype, and minimal residual disease were analyzed according to international guidelines.

RESULTS

A highly significant overexpression of FOXP3 was detected in childhood B-ALL patients at diagnosis, which was associated with a stronger risk for disease relapse and patients' worse survival. Moreover, multivariate regression models highlighted the independent prognostic value of FOXP3 for childhood B-ALL. Finally, the combination of FOXP3 relative expression with clinically used disease markers clearly enhanced the prediction of treatment stratification.

CONCLUSIONS

High FOXP3 relative expression was associated with inferior outcome suggesting its potentiality as a molecular prognostic marker to predict childhood B-ALL patients' outcomes.

Autophagic degradation of NOXA underlies stromal cell-mediated resistance to proteasome inhibitors in mantle cell lymphoma

Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) is usually resistant to the current standard-of-care regimens and also to novel agents such as the proteasome inhibitor bortezomib. A better prognosis of leukemic variants of MCL suggests that MCL cells acquire drug resistance in nodal and/or bone marrow microenvironments via interaction with supporting cells. Bortezomib exerts cytotoxic action in MCL cells via stabilization of the pro-apoptotic BCL-2 family protein NOXA. Here we show that autophagic degradation of NOXA is a mechanism of bortezomib resistance in MCL cells in a tumor microenvironment. First, we demonstrated that interaction with bone marrow-derived or nodal stromal cells conferred bortezomib resistance to MCL cells in vitro and in a murine model. Co-culture of MCL cells with stromal cells enhanced bortezomib-induced ubiquitination and subsequent binding of NOXA to the p62 adaptor, which escorted NOXA to the lysosome for autophagic degradation. Finally, we found that not only direct contact with stromal cells but also stroma-derived humoral factors, especially interleukin-6, promoted selective autophagy and NOXA degradation in MCL cells. Targeting protective autophagy, for example, using the lysosome inhibitor chloroquine, might increase the efficacy of bortezomib-containing regimens in MCL.

Protein Kinase CK2 Regulates B Cell Development and Differentiation

Protein kinase CK2 (also known as Casein Kinase 2) is a serine/threonine kinase composed of two catalytic subunits (CK2α and/or CK2α') and two regulatory CK2β subunits. CK2 is overexpressed and overactive in B cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia and diffuse large B cell lymphomas, leading to inappropriate activation of the NF-κB, JAK/STAT, and PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathways and tumor growth. However, whether CK2 regulates normal B cell development and differentiation is not known. We generated mice lacking CK2α specifically in B cells (using CD19-driven Cre recombinase). These mice exhibited cell-intrinsic expansion of marginal zone B cells at the expense of transitional B cells, without changes in follicular B cells. Transitional B cells required CK2α to maintain adequate BCR signaling. In the absence of CK2α, reduced BCR signaling and elevated Notch2 signaling activation increased marginal zone B cell differentiation. Our results identify a previously unrecognized function for CK2α in B cell development and differentiation.

To Be, or Notch to Be: Mediating Cell Fate from Embryogenesis to Lymphopoiesis

Notch signaling forms an evolutionarily conserved juxtacrine pathway crucial for cellular development. Initially identified in Drosophila wing morphogenesis, Notch signaling has since been demonstrated to play pivotal roles in governing mammalian cellular development in a large variety of cell types. Indeed, abolishing Notch constituents in mouse models result in embryonic lethality, demonstrating that Notch signaling is critical for development and differentiation. In this review, we focus on the crucial role of Notch signaling in governing embryogenesis and differentiation of multiple progenitor cell types. Using hematopoiesis as a diverse cellular model, we highlight the role of Notch in regulating the cell fate of common lymphoid progenitors. Additionally, the influence of Notch through microenvironment interplay with lymphoid cells and how dysregulation influences disease processes is explored. Furthermore, bi-directional and lateral Notch signaling between ligand expressing source cells and target cells are investigated, indicating potentially novel therapeutic options for treatment of Notch-mediated diseases. Finally, we discuss the role of cis-inhibition in regulating Notch signaling in mammalian development.

B cell/stromal cell crosstalk in health, disease, and treatment: Follicular lymphoma as a paradigm

Stromal cells organize specific anatomic compartments within bone marrow (BM) and secondary lymphoid organs where they finely regulate the behavior of mature normal B cells. In particular, lymphoid stromal cells (LSCs) form a phenotypically heterogeneous compartment including various cell subsets variably supporting B-cell survival, activation, proliferation, and differentiation. In turn, activated B cells trigger in-depth remodeling of LSC networks within lymph nodes (LN) and BM. Follicular lymphoma (FL) is one of the best paradigms of a B-cell neoplasia depending on a specific tumor microenvironment (TME), including cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) emerging from the reprogramming of LN LSCs or poorly characterized local BM precursors. FL-CAFs support directly malignant B-cell growth and orchestrate FL permissive cell niche by contributing, through a bidirectional crosstalk, to the recruitment and polarization of immune TME subsets. Recent studies have highlighted a previously unexpected level of heterogeneity of both FL B cells and FL TME, underlined by FL-CAF plasticity. A better understanding of the signaling pathways, molecular mechanisms, and kinetic of stromal cell remodeling in FL would be useful to delineate new predictive markers and new therapeutic approaches in this still fatal malignancy.

Notch Signaling in B Cell Immune Responses

The Notch signaling pathway is highly evolutionarily conserved, dictating cell fate decisions and influencing the survival and growth of progenitor cells that give rise to the cells of the immune system. The roles of Notch signaling in hematopoietic stem cell maintenance and in specification of T lineage cells have been well-described. Notch signaling also plays important roles in B cells. In particular, it is required for specification of marginal zone type B cells, but Notch signaling is also important in other stages of B cell development and activation. This review will focus on established and new roles of Notch signaling during B lymphocyte lineage commitment and describe the function of Notch within mature B cells involved in immune responses.

Notch signaling induces a transcriptionally permissive state at the Complement C3d Receptor 2 (CR2) promoter in a pre-B cell model

During mammalian lymphoid development, Notch signaling is necessary at multiple stages of T lymphopoiesis, including lineage commitment, and later stages of T cell effector differentiation. In contrast, outside of a defined role in the development of splenic marginal zone B cells, there is conflicting evidence regarding whether Notch signaling plays functional roles in other B cell sub-populations. Complement receptor 2 (CR2) modulates BCR-signaling and is tightly regulated throughout differentiation. During B lymphopoiesis, CR2 is detected on immature and mature B cells with high surface expression on marginal zone B cells. Here, we have explored the possibility that Notch regulates human CR2 transcriptional activity using in vitro models including a co-culture system, co-transfection gene reporters and chromatin accessibility assays. We provide evidence that Notch signaling regulates CR2 promoter activity in a mature B cell line, as well as the induction of endogenous CR2 mRNA in a non-expressing pre-B cell line. The dynamics of endogenous gene activation suggests additional unidentified factors are required to mediate surface CR2 expression on immature and mature B lineage cells.

Notch Regulates Innate Lymphoid Cell Plasticity during Human NK Cell Development

Human NK cells develop in tonsils through discrete NK cell developmental intermediates (NKDIs), yet the mechanistic regulation of this process is unclear. We demonstrate that Notch activation in human tonsil-derived stage 3 (CD34^-CD117⁺CD94^-NKp80^-) and 4A (CD34^-CD117^+/-CD94⁺NKp80^-) NKDIs promoted non-NK innate lymphoid cell differentiation at the expense of NK cell differentiation. In contrast, stage 4B (CD34^-CD117^+/-CD94⁺NKp80⁺) NKDIs were NK cell lineage committed despite Notch activation. Interestingly, whereas NK cell functional maturation from stage 3 and 4A NKDIs was independent of Notch activation, the latter was required for high NKp80 expression and a stage 4B-like phenotype by the NKDI-derived NK cells. The Notch-dependent effects required simultaneous engagement with OP9 stromal cells and were also stage-specific, with NOTCH1 and NOTCH2 receptors regulating stage 3 NKDIs and NOTCH1 primarily regulating stage 4A NKDIs. These data establish stage-specific and stromal-dependent roles for Notch in regulating human NK cell developmental plasticity and maturation.

Germinal center B cell initiation, GC maturation, and the coevolution of its stromal cell niches

Throughout the developing GC response, B cell survival and fate choices made at the single cell level are dependent on signals received largely through interactions with other cells, often with cognate T cells. The type of signals that a given B cell can encounter is dictated by its location within tissue microarchitecture. The focus of this review is on the initiation and evolution of the GC response at the earliest time points. Here, we review the key factors influencing the progression of GC B cell differentiation that are both stage and context dependent. Finally, we describe the coevolution of niches within and surrounding the GC that influence the outcome of the GC response.

B cells with aberrant activation of Notch1 signaling promote Treg and Th2 cell-dominant T-cell responses via IL-33

The Notch-signaling pathway in a variety of mature B-cell neoplasms is often activated by gene alterations, but its role remains unclear. Here, we show that B cells harboring dysregulated activation of Notch1 signaling have an immunomodulatory effect on T cells by amplifying regulatory T (Treg) and T helper 2 (Th2) cell responses in an interleukin-33 (IL-33)-dependent manner. A conditional mouse model, in which constitutive expression of an active form of Notch1 is induced in B cells by Aicda gene promoter-driven Cre recombinase, revealed no obvious phenotypic changes in B cells; however, mice demonstrated an expansion of Treg and Th2 cell subsets and a decrease in cytokine production by Th1 and CD8⁺ T cells. The mice were susceptible to soft tissue sarcoma and defective production of CD8⁺ T cells specific for inoculated tumor cells, suggesting impaired antitumor T-cell activity. Gene-expression microarray revealed that altered T-cell responses were due to increased IL-33 production by Notch1-activated B cells. Knockout of IL33 or blockade of IL-33 by a receptor-blocking antibody abrogated the Treg and Th2 cell-dominant T-cell response triggered by B cells. Gene-expression data derived from human diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) samples showed that an activated Notch-signaling signature correlates positively with IL33 expression and Treg cell-rich gene-expression signatures. These findings indicate that B cells harboring dysregulated Notch signaling alter T-cell responses via IL-33, and suggest that aberrant activation of Notch signaling plays a role in fostering immune privilege in mature B-cell neoplasms.

Notch/CXCR4 Partnership in Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia Progression

Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is the most common cancer among children. Recent advances in chemotherapy have made ALL a curable hematological malignancy. In children, there is 25% chance of disease relapse, typically in the central nervous system. While in adults, there is a higher chance of relapse. ALL may affect B-cell or T-cell lineages. Different genetic alterations characterize the two ALL forms. Deregulated Notch, either Notch1 or Notch3, and CXCR4 receptor signaling are involved in ALL disease development and progression. By analyzing their relevant roles in the pathogenesis of the two ALL forms, new molecular mechanisms able to modulate cancer cell invasion may be visualized. Notably, the partnership between Notch and CXCR4 may have considerable implications in understanding the complexity of T- and B-ALL. These two receptor pathways intersect other critical signals in the proliferative, differentiation, and metabolic programs of lymphocyte transformation. Also, the identification of the crosstalks in leukemia-stroma interaction within the tumor microenvironment may unveil new targetable mechanisms in disease relapse. Further studies are required to identify new challenges and opportunities to develop more selective and safer therapeutic strategies in ALL progression, possibly contributing to improve conventional hematological cancer therapy.

Inhibition of Notch Signaling Enhances Chemosensitivity in B-cell Precursor Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia

Notch3 and Notch4 support survival of primary B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL) cells, suggesting a role for Notch signaling in drug response. Here we used in vitro, in silico, and in vivo mouse xenograft model-based approaches to define the role of the Notch pathway in B-ALL chemosensitivity. We observed significant Notch receptor and ligand expression in B-ALL primary cells and cell lines. Primary leukemia cells from high-risk patients overexpressed Notch3, Notch4, and Jagged2 while displaying a reduction in expression levels of Notch1-4 following chemotherapy. We then analyzed in vitro cell survival of B-ALL cells treated with conventional chemotherapeutic agents alone or in combination with Notch signaling inhibitors. Gamma-secretase inhibitors (GSI) and anti-Notch4 were all capable of potentiating drug-induced cell death in B-ALL cells by upregulating intracellular levels of reactive oxygen species, which in turn modulated mTOR, NF-κB, and ERK expression. In NOG-mouse-based xenograft models of B-ALL, co-administration of the Notch inhibitor GSI-XII with the chemotherapeutic agent Ara-C lowered bone marrow leukemic burden compared with DMSO or Ara-C alone, thus prolonging mouse survival. Overall, our results support the potential effectiveness of Notch inhibitors in patients with B-ALL.Significance: Inhibition of Notch signaling enhances the chemosensitivity of B-ALL cells, suggesting Notch inhibition as a potential therapeutic strategy to improve the outcome of patients with B-ALL.

Notch Signaling and Alloreactivity

Solid organ and allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation have become standard therapeutic interventions that save patient lives and improve quality of life. Our enhanced understanding of transplantation immunobiology has refined clinical management and improved outcomes. However, organ rejection and graft-versus-host disease remain major obstacles to the broader successful application of these therapeutic procedures. Notch signaling regulates multiple aspects of adaptive and innate immunity. Preclinical studies identified Notch signaling as a promising target in autoimmune diseases, as well as after allogeneic hematopoietic cell and solid organ transplantation. Notch was found to be a central regulator of alloreactivity across clinically relevant models of transplantation. Notch inhibition in T cells prevented graft-versus-host disease and organ rejection, establishing organ tolerance by skewing CD4 T helper polarization away from a proinflammatory response toward suppressive regulatory T cells. Notch ligand blockade also dampened alloantibody deposition and prevented chronic rejection through humoral mechanisms. Toxicities of systemic Notch blockade were observed with γ-secretase inhibitors in preclinical and early clinical trials across different indications, but they did not arise upon preclinical targeting of Delta-like Notch ligands, a strategy sufficient to confer full benefits of Notch ablation in T cell alloimmunity. Because multiple clinical grade reagents have been developed to target individual Notch ligands and receptors, the benefits of Notch blockade in transplantation are calling for translation of preclinical findings into human transplantation medicine.

BMP-7 induces apoptosis in human germinal center B cells and is influenced by TGF-β receptor type I ALK5

Selection and maturation of B cells into plasma cells producing high-affinity antibodies occur in germinal centers (GC). GCs form transiently in secondary lymphoid organs upon antigen challenge, and the GC reaction is a highly regulated process. TGF-β is a potent negative regulator, but the influence of other family members including bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) is less known. Studies of human peripheral blood B lymphocytes showed that BMP-6 suppressed plasmablast differentiation, whereas BMP-7 induced apoptosis. Here, we show that human naïve and GC B cells had a strikingly different receptor expression pattern. GC B cells expressed high levels of BMP type I receptor but low levels of type II receptors, whereas naïve B cells had the opposite pattern. Furthermore, GC B cells had elevated levels of downstream signaling components SMAD1 and SMAD5, but reduced levels of the inhibitory SMAD7. Functional assays of GC B cells revealed that BMP-7 suppressed the viability-promoting effect of CD40L and IL-21, but had no effect on CD40L- and IL-21-induced differentiation into plasmablasts. BMP-7-induced apoptosis was counteracted by a selective TGF-β type I receptor (ALK4/5/7) inhibitor, but not by a selective BMP receptor type I inhibitor. Furthermore, overexpression of truncated ALK5 in a B-cell line counteracted BMP-7-induced apoptosis, whereas overexpression of truncated ALK4 had no effect. BMP-7 mRNA and protein was readily detected in tonsillar B cells, indicating a physiological relevance of the study. Altogether, we identified BMP-7 as a negative regulator of GC B-cell survival. The effect was counteracted by truncated ALK5, suggesting greater complexity in regulating BMP-7 signaling than previously believed.

BCL6 Antagonizes NOTCH2 to Maintain Survival of Human Follicular Lymphoma Cells

Although the BCL6 transcriptional repressor is frequently expressed in human follicular lymphomas (FL), its biological role in this disease remains unknown. Herein, we comprehensively identify the set of gene promoters directly targeted by BCL6 in primary human FLs. We noted that BCL6 binds and represses NOTCH2 and NOTCH pathway genes. Moreover, BCL6 and NOTCH2 pathway gene expression is inversely correlated in FL. Notably, BCL6 upregulation is associated with repression of NOTCH2 and its target genes in primary human and murine germinal center (GC) cells. Repression of NOTCH2 is an essential function of BCL6 in FL and GC B cells because inducible expression of Notch2 abrogated GC formation in mice and killed FL cells. Indeed, BCL6-targeting compounds or gene silencing leads to the induction of NOTCH2 activity and compromises survival of FL cells, whereas NOTCH2 depletion or pathway antagonists rescue FL cells from such effects. Moreover, BCL6 inhibitors induced NOTCH2 expression and suppressed growth of human FL xenografts in vivo and primary human FL specimens ex vivo These studies suggest that established FLs are thus dependent on BCL6 through its suppression of NOTCH2Significance: We show that human FLs are dependent on BCL6, and primary human FLs can be killed using specific BCL6 inhibitors. Integrative genomics and functional studies of BCL6 in primary FL cells point toward a novel mechanism whereby BCL6 repression of NOTCH2 drives the survival and growth of FL cells as well as GC B cells, which are the FL cell of origin. Cancer Discov; 7(5); 506-21. ©2017 AACR.This article is highlighted in the In This Issue feature, p. 443.

γ-Secretase directly sheds the survival receptor BCMA from plasma cells

Survival of plasma cells is regulated by B-cell maturation antigen (BCMA), a membrane-bound receptor activated by its agonist ligands BAFF and APRIL. Here we report that γ-secretase directly cleaves BCMA, without prior truncation by another protease. This direct shedding is facilitated by the short length of BCMA's extracellular domain. In vitro, γ-secretase reduces BCMA-mediated NF-κB activation. In addition, γ-secretase releases soluble BCMA (sBCMA) that acts as a decoy neutralizing APRIL. In vivo, inhibition of γ-secretase enhances BCMA surface expression in plasma cells and increases their number in the bone marrow. Furthermore, in multiple sclerosis, sBCMA levels in spinal fluid are elevated and associated with intracerebral IgG production; in systemic lupus erythematosus, sBCMA levels in serum are elevated and correlate with disease activity. Together, shedding of BCMA by γ-secretase controls plasma cells in the bone marrow and yields a potential biomarker for B-cell involvement in human autoimmune diseases.

B-cell maturation antigen (BCMA) regulates the survival of B cells and is essential for the maintenance of long-lived plasma cells. Here, the authors show that γ-secretase directly sheds BCMA from the cell surface and therefore regulates the number of plasma cells.

DNA vaccine molecular adjuvants SP-D-BAFF and SP-D-APRIL enhance anti-gp120 immune response and increase HIV-1 neutralizing antibody titers

Broadly neutralizing antibodies (bNAbs) specific for conserved epitopes on the HIV-1 envelope (Env) are believed to be essential for protection against multiple HIV-1 clades. However, vaccines capable of stimulating the production of bNAbs remain a major challenge. Given that polyreactivity and autoreactivity are considered important characteristics of anti-HIV bNAbs, we designed an HIV vaccine incorporating the molecular adjuvants BAFF (B cell activating factor) and APRIL (a proliferation-inducing ligand) with the potential to facilitate the maturation of polyreactive and autoreactive B cells as well as to enhance the affinity and/or avidity of Env-specific antibodies. We designed recombinant DNA plasmids encoding soluble multitrimers of BAFF and APRIL using surfactant protein D as a scaffold, and we vaccinated mice with these molecular adjuvants using DNA and DNA-protein vaccination strategies. We found that immunization of mice with a DNA vaccine encoding BAFF or APRIL multitrimers, together with interleukin 12 (IL-12) and membrane-bound HIV-1 Env gp140, induced neutralizing antibodies against tier 1 and tier 2 (vaccine strain) viruses. The APRIL-containing vaccine was particularly effective at generating tier 2 neutralizing antibodies following a protein boost. These BAFF and APRIL effects coincided with an enhanced germinal center (GC) reaction, increased anti-gp120 antibody-secreting cells, and increased anti-gp120 functional avidity. Notably, BAFF and APRIL did not cause indiscriminate B cell expansion or an increase in total IgG. We propose that BAFF and APRIL multitrimers are promising molecular adjuvants for vaccines designed to induce bNAbs against HIV-1.

IMPORTANCE

Recent identification of antibodies that neutralize most HIV-1 strains has revived hopes and efforts to create novel vaccines that can effectively stimulate HIV-1 neutralizing antibodies. However, the multiple immune evasion properties of HIV have hampered these efforts. These include the instability of the gp120 trimer, the inaccessibility of the conserved sequences, highly variable protein sequences, and the loss of HIV-1-specific antibody-producing cells during development. We have shown previously that tumor necrosis factor (TNF) superfamily ligands, including BAFF and APRIL, can be multitrimerized using the lung protein SP-D (surfactant protein D), enhancing immune responses. Here we show that DNA or DNA-protein vaccines encoding BAFF or APRIL multitrimers, IL-12p70, and membrane-bound HIV-1 Env gp140 induced tier 1 and tier 2 neutralizing antibodies in a mouse model. BAFF and APRIL enhanced the immune reaction, improved antibody binding, and increased the numbers of anti-HIV-1 antibody-secreting cells. Adaptation of this vaccine design may prove useful in designing preventive HIV-1 vaccines for humans.

Notch1 is an important mediator for enhancing of B-cell activation and antibody secretion by Notch ligand

The roles of Notch1 and Notch2 in T-cell function have been well studied, but the functional roles of Notch in B cells have not been extensively investigated, except for Notch2 involvement in peripheral marginal zone B-cell differentiation. This study examined the roles of Notch1 in murine primary B cells. During B-cell activation by B-cell receptor ligation, Notch1 was up-regulated while Notch2 was not. In addition, Notch1 up-regulation itself did not contribute to the further activation of B cells, but the Notch ligand was important for Notch1-mediated further B-cell activation. Moreover, Notch1 deficiency significantly decreased B-cell activation and antibody secretion under the presence of Notch ligand. These data suggest that Notch1 is an important mediator for enhancing B-cell activation and antibody secretion by Notch ligand.

Targeting miR-23a in CD8+ cytotoxic T lymphocytes prevents tumor-dependent immunosuppression

CD8(+) cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) have potent antitumor activity and therefore are leading candidates for use in tumor immunotherapy. The application of CTLs for clinical use has been limited by the susceptibility of ex vivo-expanded CTLs to become dysfunctional in response to immunosuppressive microenvironments. Here, we developed a microRNA-targeting (miRNA-targeting) approach that augments CTL cytotoxicity and preserves immunocompetence. Specifically, we screened for miRNAs that modulate cytotoxicity and identified miR-23a as a strong functional repressor of the transcription factor BLIMP-1, which promotes CTL cytotoxicity and effector cell differentiation. In a cohort of advanced lung cancer patients, miR-23a was upregulated in tumor-infiltrating CTLs, and expression correlated with impaired antitumor potential of patient CTLs. We determined that tumor-derived TGF-β directly suppresses CTL immune function by elevating miR-23a and downregulating BLIMP-1. Functional blocking of miR-23a in human CTLs enhanced granzyme B expression, and in mice with established tumors, immunotherapy with just a small number of tumor-specific CTLs in which miR-23a was inhibited robustly hindered tumor progression. Together, our findings provide a miRNA-based strategy that subverts the immunosuppression of CTLs that is often observed during adoptive cell transfer tumor immunotherapy and identify a TGF-β-mediated tumor immune-evasion pathway.

Follicular dendritic cells: dynamic antigen libraries

Follicular dendritic cells (FDCs) are essential for high-affinity antibody production and for the development of B cell memory. Historically, FDCs have been characterized as 'accessory' cells that passively support germinal centre (GC) responses. However, recent observations suggest that FDCs actively shape humoral immunity. In this Review, we discuss recent findings concerning the antigen acquisition and retention functions of FDCs, and relevant implications for protective immunity. Furthermore, we describe the roles of FDCs within GCs in secondary lymphoid organs and discuss FDC development within this dynamic environment. Finally, we discuss how a better understanding of FDCs could facilitate the design of next-generation vaccines.

Follicular dendritic cells: origin, phenotype, and function in health and disease

Follicular dendritic cells (FDCs) were originally identified by their specific morphology and by their ability to trap immune-complexed antigen in B cell follicles. By virtue of the latter as well as the provision of chemokines, adhesion molecules, and trophic factors, FDCs participate in the shaping of B cell responses. Importantly, FDCs also supply tingible body macrophages (TBMs) with the eat-me-signaling molecule milk fat globule-EGF factor 8 (Mfge8), thereby enabling the disposal of apoptotic B cells. Recent studies have provided fundamental insights into the multiple functions of FDCs in both physiological and pathophysiological contexts and into their origin. Here we review these findings, and discuss current concepts related to FDC histogenesis both in lymphoid organs and in inflammatory lymphoneogenesis.

Follicular dendritic cells in health and disease

Follicular dendritic cells (FDCs) are unique immune cells that contribute to the regulation of humoral immune responses. These cells are located in the B-cell follicles of secondary lymphoid tissues where they trap and retain antigens (Ags) in the form of highly immunogenic immune complexes (ICs) consisting of Ag plus specific antibody (Ab) and/or complement proteins. FDCs multimerize Ags and present them polyvalently to B-cells in periodically arranged arrays that extensively crosslink the B-cell receptors for Ag (BCRs). FDC-FcγRIIB mediates IC periodicity, and FDC-Ag presentation combined with other soluble and membrane bound signals contributed by FDCs, like FDC-BAFF, -IL-6, and -C4bBP, are essential for the induction of the germinal center (GC) reaction, the maintenance of serological memory, and the remarkable ability of FDC-Ags to induce specific Ab responses in the absence of cognate T-cell help. On the other hand, FDCs play a negative role in several disease conditions including chronic inflammatory diseases, autoimmune diseases, HIV/AIDS, prion diseases, and follicular lymphomas. Compared to other accessory immune cells, FDCs have received little attention, and their functions have not been fully elucidated. This review gives an overview of FDC structure, and recapitulates our current knowledge on the immunoregulatory functions of FDCs in health and disease. A better understanding of FDCs should permit better regulation of Ab responses to suit the therapeutic manipulation of regulated and dysregulated immune responses.

Stromal cell contribution to human follicular lymphoma pathogenesis

Follicular lymphoma (FL) is the prototypical model of indolent B cell lymphoma displaying a strong dependence on a specialized cell microenvironment mimicking normal germinal center. Within malignant cell niches in invaded lymph nodes and bone marrow, external stimuli provided by infiltrating stromal cells make a pivotal contribution to disease development, progression, and drug resistance. The crosstalk between FL B cells and stromal cells is bidirectional, causing activation of both partners. In agreement, FL stromal cells exhibit specific phenotypic, transcriptomic, and functional properties. This review highlights the critical pathways involved in the direct tumor-promoting activity of stromal cells but also their role in the organization of FL cell niche through the recruitment of accessory immune cells and their polarization to a B cell supportive phenotype. Finally, deciphering the interplay between stromal cells and FL cells provides potential new therapeutic targets with the aim to mobilize malignant cells outside their protective microenvironment and increase their sensitivity to conventional treatment.

A role for tolerogenic dendritic cell-induced B-regulatory cells in type 1 diabetes mellitus

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To review the important recent findings on the nature, characteristics and function of novel populations of immunosuppressive B-lymphocytes (Bregs) and their possible role as a regulatory cell population, potentially responsive to dendritic cells, in preventing and possibly controlling type 1 diabetes mellitus.

RECENT FINDINGS

Although almost all of the experimental work in immunosuppressive B-lymphocyte biology has focused on their role in arthritis and experimental inflammatory bowel disease, only recently has a role for Bregs in the regulation of type 1 diabetes been looked at more extensively. IL-10-producing Bregs are of significant interest, more so because of their potential modulation by tolerogenic dendritic cells. Additionally, novel populations have been discovered that could also be relevant in the regulation of diabetes autoimmunity. The unexpected discovery of a novel population of Bregs, whose frequency was upregulated in our phase I clinical trial of tolerogenic autologous dendritic cell administration in humans, opens a new frontier for basic and translational research into these novel cell populations.

SUMMARY

Bregs are a recently rediscovered population of suppressive lymphocytes whose activation, differentiation and function could be sensitive to tolerogenic dendritic cell networks. Modulation of these dendritic cell networks, or the Bregs directly, offers novel options to attenuate and reverse type 1 diabetes autoimmunity as a possible cure for the disease.

B-cell-activating factor and autoimmune myasthenia gravis

BAFF is a potent B-cell survival factor, and it plays an essential role in B-cell homeostasis and B-cell function in the periphery. Both normal and autoreactive B cells are BAFF dependent; however, excess BAFF promotes the survival, growth, and maturation of autoreactive B cells. When overexpressed, BAFF protects B cells from apoptosis, thereby contributing to autoimmunity. Three independent studies have shown higher BAFF levels in the circulation of MG patients. BAFF may play an important role in the pathogenesis of MG. BAFF antagonists may well provide new treatment options for MG patients, particularly those patients with thymic lymphoid follicular hyperplasia.

Ligation of Notch receptors in human conventional and plasmacytoid dendritic cells differentially regulates cytokine and chemokine secretion and modulates Th cell polarization

Notch signaling is involved in multiple cellular processes. Recent data also support the prominent role of Notch signaling in the regulation of the immune response. In this study, we analyzed the expression and function of Notch receptors and ligands on both human blood conventional dendritic cells (cDCs) and plasmacytoid DCs (pDCs). The expression and modulation upon TLR activation of Notch molecules partially differed between cDCs and pDCs, but functional involvement of the Notch pathway in both cell types was clearly revealed by specific inhibition using DAPT. Beyond the induction of Notch target genes and modulation of maturation markers, Notch pathway was also involved in a differential secretion of some specific cytokines/chemokines by DC subsets. Whereas Notch ligation induced IL-10 and CCL19 secretion in cDCs, Notch inhibition resulted in a diminished production of these proteins. With regard to pDCs, Notch activation induced TNF-α whereas Notch inhibition significantly abrogated the secretion of CCL19, CXCL9, CXCL10, and TNF-α. Additionally, Notch modulation of DC subsets differentially affected Th polarization of allostimulated T cells. Our results suggest that the Notch pathway may function as an additional mechanism controlling human DC responses, with differential activity on cDCs and pDCs. This control mechanism may ultimately contribute to define the local milieu promoted by these cells under the particular conditions of the immune response.

The bone marrow stroma in hematological neoplasms--a guilty bystander

In the setting of hematological neoplasms, changes in the bone marrow (BM) stroma might arise from pressure exerted by the neoplastic clone in shaping a supportive microenvironment, or from chronic perturbation of the BM homeostasis. Under such conditions, alterations in the composition of the BM stroma can be profound, and could emerge as relevant prognostic factors. In this Review, we delineate the multifaceted contribution of the BM stroma to the pathobiology of several hematological neoplasms, and discuss the impact of stromal modifications on the natural course of these diseases. Specifically, we highlight the involvement of BM stromal components in lymphoid and myeloid malignancies, and present the most relevant processes responsible for remodeling the BM stroma. The role of bystander BM stromal elements in the setting of hematological neoplasms is discussed, strengthening the rationale for treatment strategies that target the BM stroma.

The emergence of ADAM10 as a regulator of lymphocyte development and autoimmunity

Proteolytic processing of transmembrane receptors and ligands can have a dramatic impact on cell signaling processes and subsequent cellular responses, including activation and differentiation. A member of the disintegrin and metalloproteinase family, ADAM10, has emerged as a prominent regulator of numerous receptors and ligands, including Notch and CD23. Here, we review studies resulting from the recent generation of ADAM10 conditional knockout mice which revealed a critical role for ADAM10 in Notch-dependent lymphocyte development. Additionally, we discuss results of numerous in vitro and ex vivo studies indicating that ADAM10 regulates the production of multiple secreted factors that contribute to autoimmune reactions.

Colony-stimulating factor 2 inhibits induction of apoptosis in the bovine preimplantation embryo

PROBLEM

Addition of colony-stimulating factor 2 (CSF2) to culture medium increases post-transfer survival of bovine embryos. Here we provide evidence that one mechanism by which CSF2 affects the embryo is through inhibition of apoptosis.

METHOD OF STUDY

In the first experiment, genes and pathways whose expression were regulated by CSF2 were identified by microarray analysis. Embryos were treated with 10 ng/ml CSF2 or vehicle at Day 5 after insemination; morulae were selected for microarray analysis at Day 6. In a second experiment, antiapoptotic effects of CSF2 were determined. Embryos were treated with CSF2 or vehicle at Day 5. On Day 6 (24 h after treatment), morulae were cultured for 15 h at either 42°C (a temperature that induces apoptosis) or 38.5°C (cow body temperature).

RESULTS

In the first experiment, a total of 214 genes were differentially regulated and 160 of these could be annotated (67 upregulated genes and 93 downregulated genes). Differentially expressed genes could be placed in 13 biological process ontologies in four functional groups (development and differentiation process, cell communication, apoptosis and cell adhesion). Antiapoptotic effects of CSF2 were confirmed in the second experiment because the magnitude of the increase in TUNEL positive cells caused by heat shock was reduced by CSF2.

CONCLUSION

CSF2 blocks apoptosis in bovine embryos through actions associated with regulation of genes controlling apoptosis.

T cells and follicular dendritic cells in germinal center B-cell formation and selection

Germinal centers (GCs) are specialized microenvironments formed after infection where activated B cells can mutate their B-cell receptors to undergo affinity maturation. A stringent process of selection allows high affinity, non-self-reactive B cells to become long-lived memory B cells and plasma cells. While the precise mechanism of selection is still poorly understood, the last decade has advanced our understanding of the role of T cells and follicular dendritic cells (FDCs) in GC B-cell formation and selection. T cells and non-T-cell-derived CD40 ligands on FDCs are essential for T-dependent (TD) and T-independent GC formation, respectively. TD-GC formation requires Bcl-6-expressing T cells capable of signaling through SAP, which promotes formation of stable T:B conjugates. By contrast, differentiation of B blasts along the extrafollicular pathway is less dependent on SAP. T-follicular helper (Tfh) cell-derived CD40L, interleukin-21, and interleukin-4 play important roles in GC B-cell proliferation, survival, and affinity maturation. A role for FDC-derived integrin signals has also emerged: GC B cells capable of forming an immune synapse with FDCs have a survival advantage. This emerges as a powerful mechanism to ensure death of B cells that bind self-reactive antigen, which would not normally be presented on FDCs.

Dendritic cells in systemic lupus erythematosus

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) persists as a chronic inflammatory autoimmune disease and is characterized by the production of autoantibodies and immune complexes that affect multiple organs. The underlying mechanism that triggers and sustains disease are complex and involve certain susceptibility genes and environmental factors. There have been several immune mediators linked to SLE including cytokines and chemokines that have been reviewed elsewhere [ 1-3 ]. A number of articles have reviewed the role of B cells and T cells in SLE [ 4-10 ]. Here, we focus on the role of dendritic cells (DC) and innate immune factors that may regulate autoreactive B cells.

ADAM10 is essential for Notch2-dependent marginal zone B cell development and CD23 cleavage in vivo

The proteolytic activity of a disintegrin and metalloproteinase 10 (ADAM10) regulates cell-fate decisions in Drosophila and mouse embryos. However, in utero lethality of ADAM10^−/− mice has prevented examination of ADAM10 cleavage events in lymphocytes. To investigate their role in B cell development, we generated B cell–specific ADAM10 knockout mice. Intriguingly, deletion of ADAM10 prevented development of the entire marginal zone B cell (MZB) lineage. Additionally, cleavage of the low affinity IgE receptor, CD23, was profoundly impaired, but subsequent experiments demonstrated that ADAM10 regulates CD23 cleavage and MZB development by independent mechanisms. Development of MZBs is dependent on Notch2 signaling, which requires proteolysis of the Notch2 receptor by a previously unidentified proteinase. Further experiments revealed that Notch2 signaling is severely impaired in ADAM10-null B cells. Thus, ADAM10 critically regulates MZB development by initiating Notch2 signaling. This study identifies ADAM10 as the in vivo CD23 sheddase and an important regulator of B cell development. Moreover, it has important implications for the treatment of numerous CD23- and Notch-mediated pathologies, ranging from allergy to cancer.

Targeting the BCL-2 family in malignancies of germinal centre origin

The germinal centre is a dynamic microenvironment where B-cell responses are honed. Antigen-specific cells undergo clonal expansion followed by antibody affinity maturation and class switching through somatic hypermutation and recombination of immunoglobulin genes respectively. The huge proliferative capacity of the B-cells and the potential for generating non-functional or autoreactive immunoglobulins, necessitate strict control measures. Pro-apoptotic signalling pathways via B-cell receptors, FAS and the TGF-beta receptor, ALK5, ensure that apoptosis of germinal centre B-cells is the norm and cells only survive to differentiate fully if they receive sufficient pro-survival signals to overcome their 'primed for death' status. Several of the B-cell signalling pathways converge on the intrinsic apoptotic machinery to control expression of the BCL-2 family of apoptosis regulators including BIM, the pro-survival factor BCL-X(L) and the BH3-only protein, BIK (recently identified as a mediator of a TGF-beta-induced default apoptosis pathway in human B-cells). It is a foreseeable hazard that cells undergoing genetic mutation and recombination events might unintentionally target some of these factors, resulting in defective programmed cell death. Here we discuss the function of BCL-2 family proteins in germinal centre reactions, their deregulation in malignancies of germinal centre origin, and the potential for targeting BCL-2-related proteins therapeutically in lymphomas.