Role for MyD88, TLR2 and TLR9 but not TLR1, TLR4 or TLR6 in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis

Transcriptional network analysis of peripheral blood leukocyte subsets in multiple sclerosis identifies a pathogenic role for a cytotoxicity-associated gene network in myeloid cells

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease of the central nervous system affecting predominantly adults. It is a complex disease associated with both environmental and genetic risk factors. Although over 230 risk single-nucleotide polymorphisms have been associated with MS, all are common human variants. The mechanisms by which they increase the risk of MS, however, remain elusive. We hypothesized that a complex genetic phenotype such as MS could be driven by coordinated expression of genes controlled by transcriptional regulatory networks. We, therefore, constructed a gene coexpression network from microarray expression analyses of five purified peripheral blood leukocyte subsets of 76 patients with relapsing remitting MS and 104 healthy controls. These analyses identified a major network (or module) of expressed genes associated with MS that play key roles in cell-mediated cytotoxicity which was downregulated in monocytes of patients with MS. Manipulation of the module gene expression was achieved in vitro through small interfering RNA gene knockdown of identified drivers. In a mouse model, network gene knockdown modulated the autoimmune inflammatory MS model disease-experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis. This research implicates a cytotoxicity-associated gene network in myeloid cells in the pathogenesis of MS.

Relationship Between Multiple Sclerosis, Gut Dysbiosis, and Inflammation: Considerations for Treatment

Multiple sclerosis is associated with gut dysbiosis, marked by changes in the relative abundances of specific microbes, circulating gut-derived metabolites, and altered gut permeability. This gut dysbiosis promotes disease pathology by increasing circulating proinflammatory bacterial factors, reducing tolerogenic factors, inducing molecular mimicry, and changing microbial nutrient metabolism. Beneficial antiinflammatory effects of the microbiome can be harnessed in therapeutic interventions. In the future, it is essential to assess the efficacy of these therapies in randomized controlled clinical trials to help make dietary and gut dysbiosis management an integral part of multiple sclerosis care.

Impact of Microbiome-Brain Communication on Neuroinflammation and Neurodegeneration

The gut microbiome plays a pivotal role in maintaining human health, with numerous studies demonstrating that alterations in microbial compositions can significantly affect the development and progression of various immune-mediated diseases affecting both the digestive tract and the central nervous system (CNS). This complex interplay between the microbiota, the gut, and the CNS is referred to as the gut-brain axis. The role of the gut microbiota in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases has gained increasing attention in recent years, and evidence suggests that gut dysbiosis may contribute to disease development and progression. Clinical studies have shown alterations in the composition of the gut microbiota in multiple sclerosis patients, with a decrease in beneficial bacteria and an increase in pro-inflammatory bacteria. Furthermore, changes within the microbial community have been linked to the pathogenesis of Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease. Microbiota-gut-brain communication can impact neurodegenerative diseases through various mechanisms, including the regulation of immune function, the production of microbial metabolites, as well as modulation of host-derived soluble factors. This review describes the current literature on the gut-brain axis and highlights novel communication systems that allow cross-talk between the gut microbiota and the host that might influence the pathogenesis of neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration.

Mechanisms of Demyelination and Remyelination Strategies for Multiple Sclerosis

All currently licensed medications for multiple sclerosis (MS) target the immune system. Albeit promising preclinical results demonstrated disease amelioration and remyelination enhancement via modulating oligodendrocyte lineage cells, most drug candidates showed only modest or no effects in human clinical trials. This might be due to the fact that remyelination is a sophistically orchestrated process that calls for the interplay between oligodendrocyte lineage cells, neurons, central nervous system (CNS) resident innate immune cells, and peripheral immune infiltrates and that this process may somewhat differ in humans and rodent models used in research. To ensure successful remyelination, the recruitment and activation/repression of each cell type should be regulated in a highly organized spatio–temporal manner. As a result, drug candidates targeting one single pathway or a single cell population have difficulty restoring the optimal microenvironment at lesion sites for remyelination. Therefore, when exploring new drug candidates for MS, it is instrumental to consider not only the effects on all CNS cell populations but also the optimal time of administration during disease progression. In this review, we describe the dysregulated mechanisms in each relevant cell type and the disruption of their coordination as causes of remyelination failure, providing an overview of the complex cell interplay in CNS lesion sites.

Involvement of TLR2-TLR4, NLRP3, and IL-17 in pain induced by a novel Sprague-Dawley rat model of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis

Up to 92% of patients suffering from multiple sclerosis (MS) experience pain, most without adequate treatment, and many report pain long before motor symptoms associated with MS diagnosis. In the most commonly studied rodent model of MS, experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), motor impairments/disabilities caused by EAE can interfere with pain testing. In this study, we characterize a novel low-dose myelin-oligodendrocyte-glycoprotein (MOG)-induced Sprague-Dawley (SD) model of EAE-related pain in male rats, optimized to minimize motor impairments/disabilities. Adult male SD rats were treated with increasing doses of intradermal myelin-oligodendrocyte-glycoprotein (MOG1-125) (0, 4, 8, and 16 μg) in incomplete Freund's adjuvant (IFA) vehicle to induce mild EAE. Von Frey testing and motor assessments were conducted prior to EAE induction and then weekly thereafter to assess EAE-induced pain and motor impairment. Results from these studies demonstrated that doses of 8 and 16 μg MOG1-125 were sufficient to produce stable mechanical allodynia for up to 1 month in the absence of hindpaw motor impairments/disabilities. In the follow-up studies, these doses of MOG1-125, were administered to create allodynia in the absence of confounded motor impairments. Then, 2 weeks later, rats began daily subcutaneous injections of the Toll-like receptor 2 and 4 (TLR2-TLR4) antagonist (+)-naltrexone [(+)-NTX] or saline for an additional 13 days. We found that (+)-NTX also reverses EAE-induced mechanical allodynia in the MOG-induced SD rat model of EAE, supporting parallels between models, but now allowing a protracted timecourse to be examined completely free of motor confounds. Exploring further mechanisms, we demonstrated that both spinal NOD-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3) and interleukin-17 (IL-17) are necessary for EAE-induced pain, as intrathecal injections of NLRP3 antagonist MCC950 and IL-17 neutralizing antibody both acutely reversed EAE-induced pain. Finally, we show that spinal glial immunoreactivity induced by EAE is reversed by (+)-NTX, and that spinal demyelination correlates with the severity of motor impairments/disabilities. These findings characterize an optimized MOG-induced SD rat model of EAE for the study of pain with minimal motor impairments/disabilities. Finally, these studies support the role of TLR2-TLR4 antagonists as a potential treatment for MS-related pain and other pain and inflammatory-related disorders.

Host-pathogen protein-nucleic acid interactions: A comprehensive review

Recognition of pathogen-derived nucleic acids by host cells is an effective host strategy to detect pathogenic invasion and trigger immune responses. In the context of pathogen-specific pharmacology, there is a growing interest in mapping the interactions between pathogen-derived nucleic acids and host proteins. Insight into the principles of the structural and immunological mechanisms underlying such interactions and their roles in host defense is necessary to guide therapeutic intervention. Here, we discuss the newest advances in studies of molecular interactions involving pathogen nucleic acids and host factors, including their drug design, molecular structure and specific patterns. We observed that two groups of nucleic acid recognizing molecules, Toll-like receptors (TLRs) and the cytoplasmic retinoic acid-inducible gene (RIG)-I-like receptors (RLRs) form the backbone of host responses to pathogen nucleic acids, with additional support provided by absent in melanoma 2 (AIM2) and DNA-dependent activator of Interferons (IFNs)-regulatory factors (DAI) like cytosolic activity. We review the structural, immunological, and other biological aspects of these representative groups of molecules, especially in terms of their target specificity and affinity and challenges in leveraging host-pathogen protein-nucleic acid interactions (HP-PNI) in drug discovery.

Protecting effect of emodin in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis mice by inhibiting microglia activation and inflammation via Myd88/PI3K/Akt/NF-κB signalling pathway

Experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) is characterised by demyelination of the central nervous system. Emodin is an anthraquinone derivative with comprehensive anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, and immunomodulatory effects and is widely used in the treatment of inflammatory, tumour, and immune system diseases. However, none of the clinical or experimental studies have explored the therapeutic efficacy of emodin in EAE/multiple sclerosis (MS). Thus, we evaluated the protective effect of emodin on EAE mediated via inhibition of microglia activation and inflammation. Wild-type mice were randomly divided into the normal control, EAE, low-dose emodin, and high-dose emodin groups. Clinical scores and pathological changes were assessed 21 days after immunisation. The network pharmacology approach was used to elucidate underlying mechanisms by using an online database. Molecular docking, polymerase chain reaction tests, western blotting, and immunofluorescence were performed to verify the network pharmacology results. An in vivo experiment showed that high-dose emodin ameliorated clinical symptoms, inflammatory cell infiltration, and myelination. Pharmacological network analysis showed AKT1 was the main target and that emodin played a key role in MS treatment mainly via the PI3K-Akt pathway. Molecular docking showed that emodin bound well with PI3K, AKT1, and NFKB1. Emodin decreased the expression of phosphorylated(p)-PI3K, p-Akt, NF-κB, and myeloid differentiation factor 88 and the levels of markers (CD86 and CD206) in M1- and M2-phenotype microglia in EAE. Thus, emodin inhibited microglial activation and exhibited anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects against EAE via the Myd88/PI3K/Akt/NF-κB signalling pathway. In conclusion, emodin has a promising role in EAE/MS treatment, warranting further detailed studies.

The histone deacetylase inhibitor belinostat ameliorates experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis in mice by inhibiting TLR2/MyD88 and HDAC3/ NF-κB p65-mediated neuroinflammation

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a Th cell-mediated inflammatory demyelinating autoimmune disease. MS cannot be cured, and long-term drug treatment is still needed for MS patients. In this study, we examined the effect of belinostat, a pan-histone deacetylase inhibitor (HDACi), on experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) and elucidated its mechanism of action. We found that belinostat alleviates the clinical symptoms, histopathological central nervous system (CNS) inflammation and demyelination outcomes in EAE mice. Compared to the MS oral drug dimethyl fumarate (DMF) (100 mg/kg), belinostat (30 mg/kg) treatment exhibited better efficacy in improving the clinical symptoms of EAE mice. Belinostat treatment significantly suppressed the activation of M1 microglia and the proinflammatory cytokine expression; but it had no effects on the M2 microglial polarization. Belinostat also decreased both NO and iNOS levels in LPS-stimulated BV2 microglia. Accordingly, belinostat treatment of EAE mice significantly inhibited activation of the TLR2/MyD88 signaling pathway and downregulated the expression of HDAC3 while upregulating the acetylated NF-κB p65 levels. Taken together, these data demonstrate for the first time that belinostat ameliorates EAE in mice through inhibiting neuroinflammation via suppressing M1 microglial polarization, and implicating belinostat as a potential candidate for the treatment of multiple sclerosis.

Macrophage Plasticity and Polarization Are Altered in the Experimental Model of Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an immune-mediated demyelinating disease of the central nervous system. MS is characterized by infiltrations of leukocytes such as T and B lymphocytes and macrophages. Macrophages have been identified as major effectors of inflammation and demyelination in both MS and its animal model, experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE). However, the activation and heterogeneity of macrophages in MS has been poorly investigated. Thus, in this study, we evaluated M1 and M2 macrophages immunophenotype from EAE and control mice by analyzing over 30 surface and intracellular markers through polychromatic flow cytometry, qRT-PCR, and ELISA assay. We showed that M1 macrophages possessed a higher proinflammatory profile in EAE compared to control mice, since they expressed higher levels of activation/co-stimulatory markers (iNOS, CD40, and CD80) and cytokines/chemokines (IL-6, IL-12, CCL2, and CXCL10), whereas M2 lost their M2-like phenotype by showing a decreased expression of their signature markers CD206 and CCL22, as well as a concomitant upregulation of several M1 makers. Furthermore, immunization of M1 and M2 macrophages with MOG35-55 led to a significant hyperactivation of M1 and a concomitant shift of anti-inflammatory M2 to pro-inflammatory M1 macrophages. Overall, we provide evidence for a phenotypic alteration of M1/M2 balance during MS, which can be of crucial importance not only for a better understanding of the immunopathology of this neurodegenerative disease but also to potentially develop new macrophage-centered therapeutic strategies.

Molecular patterns from a human gut-derived Lactobacillus strain suppress pathogenic infiltration of leukocytes into the central nervous system

BACKGROUND

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an inflammatory demyelinating disease that affects 2.5 million people worldwide. Growing evidence suggests that perturbation of the gut microbiota, the dense collection of microorganisms that colonize the gastrointestinal tract, plays a functional role in MS. Indeed, specific gut-resident bacteria are altered in patients with MS compared to healthy individuals, and colonization of gnotobiotic mice with MS-associated microbiota exacerbates preclinical models of MS. However, defining the molecular mechanisms by which gut commensals can remotely affect the neuroinflammatory process remains a critical gap in the field.

METHODS

We utilized monophasic experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) in C57BL/6J mice and relapse-remitting EAE in SJL/J mice to test the effects of the products from a human gut-derived commensal strain of Lactobacillus paracasei (Lb).

RESULTS

We report that Lb can ameliorate preclinical murine models of MS with both prophylactic and therapeutic administrations. Lb ameliorates disease through a Toll-like receptor 2-dependent mechanism via its microbe-associated molecular patterns that can be detected in the systemic circulation, are sufficient to downregulate chemokine production, and can reduce immune cell infiltration into the central nervous system (CNS). In addition, alterations in the gut microbiota mediated by Lb-associated molecular patterns are sufficient to provide partial protection against neuroinflammatory diseases.

CONCLUSIONS

Local Lb modulation of the gut microbiota and the shedding of Lb-associated molecular patterns into the circulation may be important physiological signals to prevent aberrant peripheral immune cell infiltration into the CNS and have relevance to the development of new therapeutic strategies for MS.

Oleanolic Acid Acetate Alleviates Symptoms of Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis in Mice by Regulating Toll-Like Receptor 2 Signaling

Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2) is expressed by several immune cells in the central nervous system and plays an important role in neuroinflammation. TLR2 upregulation has been reported in multiple sclerosis patients and in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), a mouse model for multiple sclerosis. Therefore, modulating TLR2 signaling can be an effective treatment strategy against MS. Oleanolic acid acetate (OAA) has antiinflammatory and immunomodulatory effects. Hence, this study aimed to examine the effects of OAA on TLR2 signaling and neuroinflammation in EAE. EAE was induced in C57/BL6 mice using synthesized myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG)_35-55 peptide, and OAA was administered daily. Hind limb paralysis and inflammatory cell infiltration were observed in the spinal cords of EAE mice. Moreover, T-cell proliferation was significantly stimulated in splenic cells from EAE mice. The expression of proinflammatory cytokines in the spinal cord was upregulated, and their serum protein levels were increased in EAE mice. Furthermore, upregulation of TLR2 and downstream signaling molecules was observed in the spinal cord. These pathological changes were reversed by OAA treatment. Our results suggest that OAA might have promising therapeutic properties and that the TLR signaling pathway is an effective therapeutic target against multiple sclerosis.

Cytokines and Chemokines in the Pathogenesis of Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis

Experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis is a CD4⁺ T cell-mediated demyelinating disease of the CNS that serves as a model for multiple sclerosis. Cytokines and chemokines shape Th1 and Th17 effector responses as well as regulate migration of leukocytes to the CNS during disease. The CNS cellular infiltrate consists of Ag-specific and nonspecific CD4⁺ and CD8⁺ T cells, neutrophils, B cells, monocytes, macrophages, and dendritic cells. The mechanism of immune-mediated inflammation in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis has been extensively studied in an effort to develop therapeutic modalities for multiple sclerosis and, indeed, has provided insight in modern drug discovery. The present Brief Review highlights critical pathogenic aspects of cytokines and chemokines involved in generation of effector T cell responses and migration of inflammatory cells to the CNS. Select cytokines and chemokines are certainly important in the regulatory response, which involves T regulatory, B regulatory, and myeloid-derived suppressor cells. However, that discussion is beyond the scope of this brief review.

Synergistic Activation of Toll-Like and NOD Receptors by Complementary Antigens as Facilitators of Autoimmune Disease: Review, Model and Novel Predictions

Persistent activation of toll-like receptors (TLR) and nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-containing proteins (NOD) in the innate immune system is one necessary driver of autoimmune disease (AD), but its mechanism remains obscure. This study compares and contrasts TLR and NOD activation profiles for four AD (autoimmune myocarditis, myasthenia gravis, multiple sclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis) and their animal models. The failure of current AD theories to explain the disparate TLR/NOD profiles in AD is reviewed and a novel model is presented that explains innate immune support of persistent chronic inflammation in terms of unique combinations of complementary AD-specific antigens stimulating synergistic TLRs and/or NODs. The potential explanatory power of the model is explored through testable, novel predictions concerning TLR- and NOD-related AD animal models and therapies.

Synthetic mycobacterial molecular patterns partially complete Freund's adjuvant

Complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA) has historically been one of the most useful tools of immunologists. Essentially comprised of dead mycobacteria and mineral oil, we asked ourselves what is special about the mycobacterial part of this adjuvant, and could it be recapitulated synthetically? Here, we demonstrate the essentiality of N-glycolylated peptidoglycan plus trehalose dimycolate (both unique in mycobacteria) for the complete adjuvant effect using knockouts and chemical complementation. A combination of synthetic N-glycolyl muramyl dipeptide and minimal trehalose dimycolate motif GlcC14C18 was able to upregulate dendritic cell effectors, plus induce experimental autoimmunity qualitatively similar but quantitatively milder compared to CFA. This research outlines how to substitute CFA with a consistent, molecularly-defined adjuvant which may inform the design of immunotherapeutic agents and vaccines benefitting from cell-mediated immunity. We also anticipate using synthetic microbe-associated molecular patterns (MAMPs) to study mycobacterial immunity and immunopathogenesis.

'Prototypical' proinflammatory cytokine (IL-1) in multiple sclerosis: role in pathogenesis and therapeutic targeting

Introduction: It has been recognized for about 20 years that interleukin (IL)-1 signaling is implicated in Multiple Sclerosis (MS), a disabling, chronic, inflammatory and neurodegenerative disease of the central nervous system (CNS). Only recently, multifaceted roles of IL-1 emerged in MS pathophysiology as a result of both clinical and preclinical studies. Notably, drugs that directly target the IL-1 system have not been tested so far in MS.Areas covered: Recent studies in animal models, together with the development of ex vivo chimeric MS models, have disclosed a critical role for IL-1 not only at the peripheral level but also within the CNS. In the present review, we highlight the IL-1-dependent neuropathological aspects of MS, by providing an overview of the cells of the immune and CNS systems that respond to IL-1 signaling, and by emphasizing the subsequent effects on the CNS, from demyelinating processes, to synaptopathy, and excitotoxicity.Expert opinion: Drugs that act on the IL-1 system show a therapeutic potential in several autoinflammatory diseases and preclinical studies have highlighted the effects of these compounds in MS. We will discuss why anti-IL-1 therapies in MS have been neglected to date.

Converging TLR9 and PI3Kgamma signaling induces sterile inflammation and organ damage

Toll-like receptor 9 (TLR9) and Phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase gamma (PI3Kγ) are very important effectors of the immune response, however, the importance of such crosstalk for disease development is still a matter of discussion. Here we show that PI3Kγ is required for immune responses in which TLR9 is a relevant trigger. We demonstrate the requirement of PI3Kγ for TLR9-induced inflammation in a model of CpG-induced pleurisy. Such requirement was further observed in inflammatory models where DNA sensing via TLR9 contributes to disease, such as silicosis and drug-induced liver injury. Using adoptive transfer, we demonstrate that PI3Kγ is important not only in leukocytes but also in parenchymal cells for the progression of inflammation. We demonstrate this crosstalk between TLR9 and PI3Kγ in vitro using human PBMCs. The inhibition of PI3Kγ in CpG-stimulated PBMCs resulted in reduction of both cytokine production and phosphorylated Akt. Therefore, drugs that target PI3Kγ have the potential to treat diseases mediated by excessive TLR9 signalling.

Pattern Recognition Receptors in Multiple Sclerosis and Its Animal Models

Pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) coordinate the innate immune response and have a significant role in the development of multiple sclerosis (MS). Accumulating evidence has identified both pathogenic and protective functions of PRR signaling in MS and its animal model, experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE). Additionally, evidence for PRR signaling in non-immune cells and PRR responses to host-derived endogenous ligands has also revealed new pathways controlling the development of CNS autoimmunity. Many PRRs remain uncharacterized in MS and EAE, and understanding the distinct triggers and functions of PRR signaling in CNS autoimmunity requires further investigation. In this brief review, we discuss the diverse pathogenic and protective functions of PRRs in MS and EAE, and highlight major avenues for future research.

Exogenous hydrogen sulfide prevents lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammation by blocking the TLR4/NF-κB pathway in MAC-T cells

Mastitis impairs animal health and results in economic loss. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) may cause immune response and inflammation in the bovine mammary gland. Hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) is the third gasotransmitter that acts as an anti-inflammation regulator in many cells. Despite the importance of H₂S in regulating inflammation, the effect and mechanism of exogenous H₂S on LPS-induced inflammation in bovine mammary epithelial cells are unknown. In the present study, with NaHS as a donor of H₂S, the bovine mammary epithelial cell line (MAC-T) was applied as an in vitro model to study the role of H₂S on LPS-induced MAC-T cells. The results verified that the cell viability was diminished by LPS but restored by exogenous H₂S at a physiologically relevant concentration (10 μM). Additionally, the production of H₂S was mitigated in the LPS-induced MAC-T cells. Meanwhile, exogenous H₂S decreased the intracellular ROS production and mRNA expression levels of the pro-inflammatory cytokines, TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-8, and IL-6. Furthermore, exogenous H₂S inhibited the mRNA expression of TLR4 and activation of NF-κB signaling pathway. In summary, exogenous H₂S exerts anti-inflammatory effects through attenuating oxidative stress and blocking the TLR4/NF-κB pathway in the LPS-induced bovine mammary epithelial cells. Our findings might clarify new prophylactic approaches for mastitis.

The neurosteroid pregnenolone promotes degradation of key proteins in the innate immune signaling to suppress inflammation

Pregnenolone is a steroid hormone precursor that is synthesized in various steroidogenic tissues, in the brain, and in lymphocytes. In addition to serving as the precursor for other steroid hormones, pregnenolone exerts its own effect as an anti-inflammatory molecule to maintain immune homeostasis in various inflammatory conditions. Pregnenolone and its metabolic derivatives have been shown to have beneficial effects in the brain, including enhancing memory and learning, reversing depressive disorders, and modulating cognitive functions. A decreased level of pregnenolone has been observed in neuroinflammatory diseases, which emphasizes its role in neuroprotection and neuroregeneration. Although the anti-inflammatory property of pregnenolone was recognized several decades ago, its mechanism of action remains unknown. Here we report that pregnenolone promotes ubiquitination and degradation of the TLR2/4 adaptor protein TIRAP and TLR2 in macrophages and microglial cells. Pregnenolone and its metabolites suppressed the secretion of tumor necrosis factor α and interleukin-6 mediated through TLR2 and TLR4 signaling. Pregnenolone has been reported to induce activation of cytoplasmic linker protein 170, and this protein has recently been shown to promote targeted degradation of TIRAP. We observed enhanced degradation of TIRAP and TLR4 suppression by cytoplasmic linker protein 170 in the presence of pregnenolone. Our experimental data reveal novel nongenomic targets of pregnenolone and provide important leads to understand its role in restoring immune homeostasis in various inflammatory conditions.

Enhanced TLR2 responses in multiple sclerosis

The roles of the microbiome and innate immunity in the pathogenesis of multiple sclerosis (MS) remain unclear. We have previously documented abnormally low levels of a microbiome‐derived Toll‐like receptor (TLR)2‐stimulating bacterial lipid in the blood of MS patients and postulated that this is indicative of a deficiency in the innate immune regulating function of the microbiome in MS. We postulated further that the resulting enhanced TLR2 responsiveness plays a critical role in the pathogenesis of MS. As proof‐of‐concept, we reported that decreasing systemic TLR2 responsiveness by administering very low‐dose TLR2 ligands attenuated significantly the mouse model of MS, experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis. Studies of Toll‐like receptor responses in patients with MS have been conflicting. Importantly, most of these investigations have focused on the response to TLR4 ligation and few have characterized TLR2 responses in MS. In the present study, our goal was to characterize TLR2 responses of MS patients using multiple approaches. Studying a total of 26 MS patients and 32 healthy controls, we now document for the first time that a large fraction of MS patients (50%) demonstrate enhanced responsiveness to TLR2 stimulation. Interestingly, the enhanced TLR2 responders include a significant fraction of those with progressive forms of MS, a subset of patients considered unresponsive to adaptive immune system‐targeting therapies. Our results suggest the presence of a pathologically relevant TLR2 related innate immune abnormality in patients with both relapsing–remitting and progressive MS. These findings may have significant implications for understanding the role of innate immunity in the pathogenesis of MS.

Development of a Novel Backbone Cyclic Peptide Inhibitor of the Innate Immune TLR/IL1R Signaling Protein MyD88

MyD88 is a cytoplasmic adaptor protein that plays a central role in signaling downstream of the TLRs and the IL1R superfamily. We previously demonstrated that MyD88 plays a critical role in EAE, the murine model of multiple sclerosis, and showed that the MyD88 BB-loop decoy peptide RDVLPGT ameliorates EAE. We now designed and screened a library of backbone cyclized peptides based on the linear BB loop peptide, to identify a metabolically stable inhibitor of MyD88 that retains the binding properties of the linear peptide. We identified a novel cyclic peptide protein mimetic that inhibits inflammatory responses to TLR ligands, and NFκB activation in response to IL-1 activation. The inhibitor, c(MyD 4-4), is metabolically stable in comparison to the linear peptide, blocks MyD88 in a specific manner, and inhibits MyD88 function by preventing MyD88 dimerization. Finally, treatment of mice with c(MyD 4-4) reduced the severity of clinical disease in the murine EAE model of multiple sclerosis. Thus, modulation of MyD88-dependent signaling using c(MyD 4-4) is a potential therapeutic strategy to lower innate immune inflammation in autoimmune CNS disease.

Damage-associated molecular pattern recognition is required for induction of retinal neuroprotective pathways in a sex-dependent manner

Retinal degeneration is a common cause of irreversible blindness and is caused by the death of retinal light-sensitive neurons called photoreceptors. At the onset of degeneration, stressed photoreceptors cause retinal glial cells to secrete neuroprotective factors that slow the pace of degeneration. Leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) is one such factor that is required for endogenous neuroprotection. Photoreceptors are known to release signals of cellular stress, called damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) early in degeneration, and we hypothesized that receptors for DAMPs or pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) play a key role in the induction of LIF and neuroprotective stress responses in retinal glial cells. Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2) is a well-established DAMP receptor. In our experiments, activation of TLR2 protected both male and female mice from light damage, while the loss of TLR2 in female mice did not impact photoreceptor survival. In contrast, induction of protective stress responses, microglial phenotype and photoreceptor survival were strongly impacted in male TLR2^−/− mice. Lastly, using publicly available gene expression data, we show that TLR2 is expressed highly in resting microglia prior to injury, but is also induced in Müller cells in inherited retinal degeneration.

Macrophage/microglial Ezh2 facilitates autoimmune inflammation through inhibition of Socs3

Histone 3 Lys27 (H3K27) trimethyltransferase Ezh2 is implicated in the pathogenesis of autoimmune inflammation. Nevertheless, the role of Ezh2 in macrophage/microglial activation remains to be defined. In this study, we identified that macrophage/microglial H3K27me3 or Ezh2, rather than functioning as a repressor, mediates toll-like receptor (TLR)-induced proinflammatory gene expression, and therefore Ezh2 depletion diminishes macrophage/microglial activation and attenuates the autoimmune inflammation in dextran sulfate sodium-induced colitis and experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis. Mechanistic characterizations indicated that Ezh2 deficiency directly stimulates suppressor of cytokine signaling 3 (Socs3) expression and therefore enhances the Lys48-linked ubiquitination and degradation of tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated factor 6. As a consequence, TLR-induced MyD88-dependent nuclear factor κB activation and the expression of proinflammatory genes in macrophages/microglia are compromised in the absence of Ezh2. The functional dependence of Ezh2 for Socs3 is further illustrated by the rescue experiments in which silencing of Socs3 restores macrophage activation and rescues autoimmune inflammation in macrophage/microglial Ezh2-deficient mice. Together, these findings establish Ezh2 as a macrophage lineage-specific mediator of autoimmune inflammation and highlight a previously unknown mechanism of Ezh2 function.

The Soluble Form of Toll-Like Receptor 2 Is Elevated in Serum of Multiple Sclerosis Patients: A Novel Potential Disease Biomarker

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an immune-mediated inflammatory demyelinating disease of the central nervous system. It was previously shown that toll-like receptor (TLR)-2 signaling plays a key role in the murine experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) model of MS, and that TLR2-stimulation of regulatory T cells (Tregs) promotes their conversion to T helper 17 (Th17) cells. Here, we sought potential sources of TLR2 stimulation and evidence of TLR2 activity in MS patient clinical samples. Soluble TLR2 (sTLR2) was found to be significantly elevated in sera of MS patients (n = 21), in both relapse and remission, compared to healthy controls (HC) (n = 24). This was not associated with the acute phase reaction (APR) as measured by serum C-reactive protein (CRP) level, which was similarly increased in MS patients compared to controls. An independent validation cohort from a different ethnic background showed a similar upward trend in mean sTLR2 values in relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS) patients, and significant differences in sTLR2 values between patients and HC were preserved when the data from the two cohorts were pooled together (n = 41 RRMS and 44 HC, P = 0.0006). TLR2-stimulants, measured using a human embryonic kidney (HEK)-293 cells transfectant reporter assay, were significantly higher in urine of MS patients than HC. A screen of several common urinary tract infections (UTI)-related organisms showed strong induction of TLR2-signaling in the same assay. Taken together, these results indicate that two different markers of TLR2-activity—urinary TLR2-stimulants and serum sTLR2 levels—are significantly elevated in MS patients compared to HC.

Different interleukin-17-secreting Toll-like receptor+ T-cell subsets are associated with disease activity in multiple sclerosis

Signalling through Toll-like receptors (TLRs) may play a role in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases, such as multiple sclerosis (MS). In the present study, the expression of TLR-2, -4 and -9 was significantly higher on CD4⁺ and CD8⁺ T-cells from MS patients compared to healthy individuals. Following in-vitro activation, the proportion of interleukin (IL)-17⁺ and IL-6⁺ CD4⁺ and CD8⁺ T-cells was higher in the patients. In addition, the proportion of IFN-γ-secreting TLR⁺ CD8⁺ T-cells was increased in MS patients. Among different IL-17⁺ T-cell phenotypes, the proportion of IL-17⁺ TLR⁺ CD4⁺ and CD8⁺ T-cells producing IFN-γ or IL-6 were positively associated with the number of active brain lesions and neurological disabilities. Interestingly, activation of purified CD4⁺ and CD8⁺ T-cells with ligands for TLR-2 (Pam3Csk4), TLR-4 [lipopolysaccharide (LPS)] and TLR-9 [oligodeoxynucleotide (ODN)] directly induced cytokine production in MS patients. Among the pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs), Pam3Csk4 was more potent than other TLR ligands in inducing the production of all proinflammatory cytokines. Furthermore, IL-6, IFN-γ, IL-17 and granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) levels produced by Pam3Csk4-activated CD4⁺ cells were directly associated with disease activity. A similar correlation was observed with regard to IL-17 levels released by Pam3Csk4-stimulated CD8⁺ T-cells and clinical parameters. In conclusion, our data suggest that the expansion of different T helper type 17 (Th17) phenotypes expressing TLR-2, -4 and -9 is associated with MS disease activity, and reveals a preferential ability of TLR-2 ligand in directly inducing the production of cytokines related to brains lesions and neurological disabilities.

ATG-dependent phagocytosis in dendritic cells drives myelin-specific CD4+ T cell pathogenicity during CNS inflammation

Although reactivation and accumulation of autoreactive CD4⁺ T cells within the CNS are considered to play a key role in the pathogenesis of multiple sclerosis (MS) and its animal model, experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), the mechanisms of how these cells recognize their target organ and induce sustained inflammation are incompletely understood. Here, we report that mice with conditional deletion of the essential autophagy protein ATG5 in classical dendritic cells (DCs), which are present at low frequencies in the nondiseased CNS, are completely resistant to EAE development following adoptive transfer of myelin-specific T cells and show substantially reduced in situ CD4⁺ T cell accumulation during the effector phase of the disease. Endogenous myelin peptide presentation to CD4⁺ T cells following phagocytosis of injured, phosphatidylserine-exposing oligodendroglial cells is abrogated in the absence of ATG5. Pharmacological inhibition of ATG-dependent phagocytosis by the cardiac glycoside neriifolin, an inhibitor of the Na⁺, K⁺-ATPase, delays the onset and reduces the clinical severity of EAE induced by myelin-specific CD4⁺ T cells. These findings link phagocytosis of injured oligodendrocytes, a pathological hallmark of MS lesions and during EAE, with myelin antigen processing and T cell pathogenicity, and identify ATG-dependent phagocytosis in DCs as a key regulator in driving autoimmune CD4⁺ T cell-mediated CNS damage.

The hygiene hypothesis in autoimmunity: the role of pathogens and commensals

The incidence of autoimmune diseases has been steadily rising. Concomitantly, the incidence of most infectious diseases has declined. This observation gave rise to the hygiene hypothesis, which postulates that a reduction in the frequency of infections contributes directly to the increase in the frequency of autoimmune and allergic diseases. This hypothesis is supported by robust epidemiological data, but the underlying mechanisms are unclear. Pathogens are known to be important, as autoimmune disease is prevented in various experimental models by infection with different bacteria, viruses and parasites. Gut commensal bacteria also play an important role: dysbiosis of the gut flora is observed in patients with autoimmune diseases, although the causal relationship with the occurrence of autoimmune diseases has not been established. Both pathogens and commensals act by stimulating immunoregulatory pathways. Here, I discuss the importance of innate immune receptors, in particular Toll-like receptors, in mediating the protective effect of pathogens and commensals on autoimmunity.

The Renin-Angiotensin System Regulates Neurodegeneration in a Mouse Model of Optic Neuritis

The major role of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS), including that of angiotensin II (Ang II), the principal effector molecule, in the cardiovascular system is well known. Increasing evidence suggests that the RAS also plays a role in the development of autoimmune diseases. Optic neuritis (ie, inflammation of the optic nerve, with retinal ganglion cell loss) is strongly associated with multiple sclerosis. We investigated the effects of candesartan, an Ang II receptor antagonist, on optic neuritis in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), an animal model of multiple sclerosis. The Ang II concentration was increased in the early phase of EAE. Oral administration of candesartan markedly attenuated demyelination of the optic nerve and spinal cord and reduced retinal ganglion cell loss and visual impairment in mice with EAE. In vitro analyses revealed that Ang II up-regulated the expression of Toll-like receptor (TLR)-4 in astrocytes via the NF-κB pathway. In addition, Ang II treatment enhanced lipopolysaccharide-induced production of monocyte chemoattractant protein 1 in astrocytes, and pretreatment with candesartan or SN50, an NF-κB inhibitor, suppressed the effects of Ang II. The novel pathway of RAS-NF-κB-TLR4 in glial cells identified in the present study may be a valid therapeutic target for neurodegeneration in neuroinflammatory diseases.

Autophagy and Autophagy-Related Proteins in CNS Autoimmunity

Autophagy comprises a heterogeneous group of cellular pathways that enables eukaryotic cells to deliver cytoplasmic constituents for lysosomal degradation, to recycle nutrients, and to survive during starvation. In addition to these primordial functions, autophagy has emerged as a key mechanism in orchestrating innate and adaptive immune responses and to shape CD4⁺ T cell immunity through delivery of peptides to major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II-containing compartments (MIICs). Individual autophagy proteins additionally modulate expression of MHC class I molecules for CD8⁺ T cell activation. The emergence and expansion of autoreactive CD4⁺ and CD8⁺ T cells are considered to play a key role in the pathogenesis of multiple sclerosis (MS) and its animal model experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis. Expression of the essential autophagy-related protein 5 (Atg5), which supports T lymphocyte survival and proliferation, is increased in T cells isolated from blood or brain tissues from patients with relapsing-remitting MS. Whether Atgs contribute to the activation of autoreactive T cells through autophagy-mediated antigen presentation is incompletely understood. Here, we discuss the complex functions of autophagy proteins and pathways in regulating T cell immunity and its potential role in the development and progression of MS.

Innate immune regulation of autoimmunity in multiple sclerosis: Focus on the role of Toll-like receptor 2

Innate immunity relies on a set of germline-encoded receptors including Toll-like receptors (TLRs) that enable the host to discriminate between self and non-self. Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune inflammatory demyelinating disease of the central nervous system (CNS). Infections are thought to play an important role in disease susceptibility. The role of innate immunity in MS has been recently appreciated. TLR2, a member of the TLR family, forms heterodimers with either TLR1 or TLR6 and detects a wide range of microbial as well as self-derived molecular structures. It may thus be important both in fighting infection and in activating autoimmunity. In this review, we discuss innate regulation of autoimmunity in MS with a focus on the role of TLR2 signaling.

Toll-like receptors: promising therapeutic targets for inflammatory diseases

The health of living organisms is constantly challenged by bacterial and viral threats. The recognition of pathogenic microorganisms by diverse receptors triggers a variety of host defense mechanisms, leading to their eradication. Toll-like receptors (TLRs), which are type I transmembrane proteins, recognize specific signatures of the invading microbes and activate a cascade of downstream signals inducing the secretion of inflammatory cytokines, chemokines, and type I interferons. The TLR response not only counteracts the pathogens but also initiates and shapes the adaptive immune response. Under normal conditions, inflammation is downregulated after the removal of the pathogen and cellular debris. However, a dysfunctional TLR-mediated response maintains a chronic inflammatory state and leads to local and systemic deleterious effects in host cells and tissues. Such inappropriate TLR response has been attributed to the development and progression of multiple diseases such as cancer, autoimmune, and inflammatory diseases. In this review, we discuss the emerging role of TLRs in the pathogenesis of inflammatory diseases and how targeting of TLRs offers a promising therapeutic strategy for the prevention and treatment of various inflammatory diseases. Additionally, we highlight a number of TLR-targeting agents that are in the developmental stage or in clinical trials.

TLR Tolerance as a Treatment for Central Nervous System Autoimmunity

The role of TLR signaling in multiple sclerosis (MS) and experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) is unclear. This role is especially controversial in models of adoptive transfer EAE in which no adjuvant and no TLR ligands are administered. We recently reported that a microbiome-derived TLR2 ligand, Lipid 654 (L654), is present in healthy human serum but significantly decreased in the serum of MS patients. This suggested that microbiome products that gain access to the systemic circulation, rather than being proinflammatory, may normally play an immune-regulatory role by maintaining a state of relative TLR tolerance. Therefore, a loss of microbiome-mediated TLR tolerance, as suggested by lower serum levels of L654, may play a role in the pathogenesis of MS. As proof of concept we asked whether administering low-level TLR2 ligands in adoptive transfer EAE induces TLR2 tolerance and attenuates disease. We administered low-level Pam2CSK4 or L654 to mice receiving encephalitogenic cells and in doing so induced both TLR2 tolerance and attenuation of EAE. Disease attenuation was accompanied in the CNS by a decrease in macrophage activation, a decrease in a specific proinflammatory macrophage population, and a decrease in Th17 cells. In addition, disease attenuation was associated with an increase in splenic type 1 regulatory T cells. Kinetic tolerance induction studies revealed a critical period for TLR2 involvement in adoptive transfer EAE. Overall, these results suggest that inducing TLR tolerance may offer a new approach to treating CNS autoimmune diseases such as MS.

Myeloid cell transmigration across the CNS vasculature triggers IL-1β-driven neuroinflammation during autoimmune encephalomyelitis in mice

Growing evidence supports a role for IL-1 in multiple sclerosis and experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), but how it impacts neuroinflammation is poorly understood. We show that susceptibility to EAE requires activation of IL-1R1 on radiation-resistant cells via IL-1β secreted by bone marrow-derived cells. Neutrophils and monocyte-derived macrophages (MDMs) are the main source of IL-1β and produce this cytokine as a result of their transmigration across the inflamed blood-spinal cord barrier. IL-1R1 expression in the spinal cord is found in endothelial cells (ECs) of the pial venous plexus. Accordingly, leukocyte infiltration at EAE onset is restricted to IL-1R1(+) subpial and subarachnoid vessels. In response to IL-1β, primary cultures of central nervous system ECs produce GM-CSF, G-CSF, IL-6, Cxcl1, and Cxcl2. Initiation of EAE or subdural injection of IL-1β induces a similar cytokine/chemokine signature in spinal cord vessels. Furthermore, the transfer of Gr1(+) cells on the spinal cord is sufficient to induce illness in EAE-resistant IL-1β knockout (KO) mice. Notably, transfer of Gr1(+) cells isolated from C57BL/6 mice induce massive recruitment of recipient myeloid cells compared with cells from IL-1β KO donors, and this recruitment translates into more severe paralysis. These findings suggest that an IL-1β-dependent paracrine loop between infiltrated neutrophils/MDMs and ECs drives neuroinflammation.

The immunobiology of Campylobacter jejuni: Innate immunity and autoimmune diseases

The Gram-negative bacterium Campylobacter jejuni causes gastroenteritis and Guillain-Barré syndrome in humans. Recent advances in the immunobiology of C. jejuni have been made. This review summarizes C. jejuni-binding innate receptors and highlights the role of innate immunity in autoimmune diseases. This human pathogen produces a variety of glycoconjugates, including human ganglioside-like determinants and multiple activators of Toll-like receptors (TLRs). Furthermore, C. jejuni targets MyD88, NLRP3 inflammasome, TIR-domain-containing adapter-inducing interferon-β (TRIF), sialic acid-binding immunoglobulin-like lectins (Siglecs), macrophage galactose-type lectin (MGL), and immunoglobulin-like receptors (TREM2, LMIR5/CD300b). The roles of these innate receptors and signaling molecules have been extensively studied. MyD88-mediated TLR activation or inflammasome-dependent IL-1β secretion is essential for autoimmune induction. TRIF mediates the production of type I interferons that promote humoral immune responses and immunoglobulin class-switching. Siglec-1 and Siglec-7 interact directly with gangliosides. Siglec-1 activation enhances phagocytosis and inflammatory responses. MGL internalizes GalNAc-containing glycoconjugates. TREM2 is well-known for its role in phagocytosis. LMIR5 recognizes C. jejuni components and endogenous sulfoglycolipids. Several lines of evidence from animal models of autoimmune diseases suggest that simultaneous activation of innate immunity in the presence of autoreactive lymphocytes or antigen mimicry may link C. jejuni to immunopathology.

Myd88 Initiates Early Innate Immune Responses and Promotes CD4 T Cells during Coronavirus Encephalomyelitis

Myd88 signaling is critical to the control of numerous central nervous system (CNS) infections by promoting both innate and adaptive immune responses. Nevertheless, the extent to which Myd88 regulates type I interferon (IFN) versus proinflammatory factors and T cell function, as well as the anatomical site of action, varies extensively with the pathogen. CNS infection by neurotropic coronavirus with replication confined to the brain and spinal cord induces protective IFN-α/β via Myd88-independent activation of melanoma differentiation-associated gene 5 (MDA5). However, a contribution of Myd88-dependent signals to CNS pathogenesis has not been assessed. Infected Myd88(-/-) mice failed to control virus, exhibited enhanced clinical disease coincident with increased demyelination, and succumbed to infection within 3 weeks. The induction of IFN-α/β, as well as of proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines, was impaired early during infection. However, defects in both IFN-α/β and select proinflammatory factors were rapidly overcome prior to T cell recruitment. Myd88 deficiency also specifically blunted myeloid and CD4 T cell recruitment into the CNS without affecting CD8 T cells. Moreover, CD4 T cells but not CD8 T cells were impaired in IFN-γ production. Ineffective virus control indeed correlated most prominently with reduced antiviral IFN-γ in the CNS of Myd88(-/-) mice. The results demonstrate a crucial role for Myd88 both in early induction of innate immune responses during coronavirus-induced encephalomyelitis and in specifically promoting protective CD4 T cell activation. In the absence of these responses, functional CD8 T cells are insufficient to control viral spread within the CNS, resulting in severe demyelination.

IMPORTANCE

During central nervous system (CNS) infections, signaling through the adaptor protein Myd88 promotes both innate and adaptive immune responses. The extent to which Myd88 regulates antiviral type I IFN, proinflammatory factors, adaptive immunity, and pathology is pathogen dependent. These results reveal that Myd88 protects from lethal neurotropic coronavirus-induced encephalomyelitis by accelerating but not enhancing the induction of IFN-α/β, as well as by promoting peripheral activation and CNS accumulation of virus-specific CD4 T cells secreting IFN-γ. By controlling both early innate immune responses and CD4 T cell-mediated antiviral IFN-γ, Myd88 signaling limits the initial viral dissemination and is vital for T cell-mediated control of viral loads. Uncontrolled viral replication in the absence of Myd88 leads to severe demyelination and pathology despite overall reduced inflammatory responses. These data support a vital role of Myd88 signaling in protective antimicrobial functions in the CNS by promoting proinflammatory mediators and T cell-mediated IFN-γ production.

Roles of Toll-like receptors 2 and 4 in mediating experimental autoimmune orchitis induction in mice

The mammalian testis is an immunoprivileged site where male germ cell antigens are immunologically tolerated under physiological conditions. However, some pathological conditions can disrupt the immunoprivileged status and induce autoimmune orchitis, an etiological factor of male infertility. Mechanisms underlying autoimmune orchitis induction are largely unknown. The present study investigated the roles of Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2) and TLR4 in mediating the induction of experimental autoimmune orchitis (EAO) in mice after immunization with male germ cell antigens emulsified with complete Freund adjuvant. Wild-type mice developed severe EAO after three immunizations, which was characterized by leukocyte infiltration, autoantibody production, and impaired spermatogenesis. Tlr2 or Tlr4 deficient mice showed relatively low susceptibility to EAO induction compared with wild-type mice. Notably, Tlr2 and Tlr4 double knockout mice were almost completely protected from EAO induction. Moreover, we demonstrated that TLR2 was crucial in mediating autoantibody production in response to immunization. The results imply that TLR2 and TLR4 cooperatively mediate EAO induction.

Escherichia coli maltose-binding protein (MBP) directly induces mouse Th1 activation through upregulating TLR2 and downregulating TLR4 expressions

Maltose-binding protein (MBP), a component of the maltose transport system of Escherichia coli, has been commonly thought to have minimal bioactivity. Our previous studies demonstrated that MBP could significantly enhance Bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG)-induced T helper 1 (Th1) cell activation in mice. In the present study, we analyzed the effect of MBP on mouse T cells and found that MBP promoted the proliferation and IFN-γ production of CD4(+) T cells, suggesting that MBP directly induces Th1 activation. To explore the mechanism of Th1 activation, the expression of Toll-like receptor 2/4 (TLR2/4) on purified mouse CD4(+) T cells was detected. The results showed that MBP up-regulated TLR2 while down-regulated TLR4 expression, accompanied by a clear increase in MyD88 expression and IκB phosphorylation. Notably, the addition of anti-TLR2 antibody abrogated the MBP-induced CD4(+) T cells proliferation, IFN-γ secretion and MyD88 expression, whereas the addition of anti-TLR4 antibody exhibited a contradictive effect. Besides, the block of either TLR2 or TLR4 both reduced IκB phosphorylation. These results above suggest that TLR2-mediated MyD88-dependent pathway contributes to MBP-induced Th1 activation, while TLR4 appears to counteract this effect via MyD88-independent pathway.

Humanized TLR7/8 expression drives proliferative multisystemic histiocytosis in C57BL/6 mice

A humanized TLR7/TLR8 transgenic mouse line was engineered for studies using TLR7/8 ligands as vaccine adjuvants. The mice developed a spontaneous immune-mediated phenotype prior to six months of age characterized by runting, lethargy, blepharitis, and corneal ulceration. Histological examination revealed a marked, multisystemic histiocytic infiltrate that effaced normal architecture. The histological changes were distinct from those previously reported in mouse models of systemic lupus erythematosus. When the mice were crossed with MyD88-/- mice, which prevented toll-like receptor signaling, the inflammatory phenotype resolved. Illness may be caused by constitutive activation of human TLR7 or TLR8 in the bacterial artificial chromosome positive mice as increased TLR7 and TLR8 expression or activation has previously been implicated in autoimmune disease.

Retinal dendritic cell recruitment, but not function, was inhibited in MyD88 and TRIF deficient mice

BACKGROUND

Immune system cells are known to affect loss of neurons due to injury or disease. Recruitment of immune cells following retinal/CNS injury has been shown to affect the health and survival of neurons in several models. We detected close, physical contact between dendritic cells and retinal ganglion cells following an optic nerve crush, and sought to understand the underlying mechanisms.

METHODS

CD11c-DTR/GFP mice producing a chimeric protein of diphtheria toxin receptor (DTR) and GFP from a transgenic CD11c promoter were used in conjunction with mice deficient in MyD88 and/or TRIF. Retinal ganglion cell injury was induced by an optic nerve crush, and the resulting interactions of the GFPhi cells and retinal ganglion cells were examined.

RESULTS

Recruitment of GFPhi dendritic cells to the retina was significantly compromised in MyD88 and TRIF knockout mice. GFPhi dendritic cells played a significant role in clearing fluorescent-labeled retinal ganglion cells post-injury in the CD11c-DTR/GFP mice. In the TRIF and MyD88 deficient mice, the resting level of GFPhi dendritic cells was lower, and their influx was reduced following the optic nerve crush injury. The reduction in GFPhi dendritic cell numbers led to their replacement in the uptake of fluorescent-labeled debris by GFPlo microglia/macrophages. Depletion of GFPhi dendritic cells by treatment with diphtheria toxin also led to their displacement by GFPlo microglia/macrophages, which then assumed close contact with the injured neurons.

CONCLUSIONS

The contribution of recruited cells to the injury response was substantial, and regulated by MyD88 and TRIF. However, the presence of these adaptor proteins was not required for interaction with neurons, or the phagocytosis of debris. The data suggested a two-niche model in which resident microglia were maintained at a constant level post-optic nerve crush, while the injury-stimulated recruitment of dendritic cells and macrophages led to their transient appearance in numbers equivalent to or greater than the resident microglia.

Early treatment with anti-VLA-4 mAb can prevent the infiltration and/or development of pathogenic CD11b+CD4+ T cells in the CNS during progressive EAE

Natalizumab is a humanized monoclonal antibody against the leukocyte adhesion molecule very late antigen (VLA)-4, and is currently an approved therapy for patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS). However, it is unknown whether natalizumab is beneficial for progressive forms of MS. Therefore, we assessed the effects of anti-VLA-4 monoclonal antibody (mAb) therapy in a progressive experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) mouse model. Notably, we found that early therapy could significantly reduce the severity of progressive EAE, while treatment initiated at an advanced stage was less efficient. Furthermore, we observed the accumulation of a novel subset of GM-CSF-producing CD11b+CD4+ T cells in the CNS throughout disease progression. Importantly, early therapeutic anti-VLA-4 mAb treatment suppressed the accumulation of these GM-CSF-producing CD11b+CD4+ T cells in the CNS along with activated microglia/macrophages populations, and also conferred a protective effect against inflammation-mediated neurodegeneration, including demyelination and axonal loss. Collectively, our data suggest that early treatment with anti-VLA-4 mAb can provide neuroprotection against progressive CNS autoimmune disease by preventing the accumulation of pathogenic GM-CSF-producing CD11b+CD4+ T cells in the CNS.

Targeting innate receptors with MIS416 reshapes Th responses and suppresses CNS disease in a mouse model of multiple sclerosis

Modification of the innate immune cell environment has recently been recognized as a viable treatment strategy for reducing autoimmune disease pathology. MIS416 is a microparticulate immune response modifier that targets myeloid cells, activating cytosolic receptors NOD2 and TLR9, and has completed a phase 1b/2a trial for the treatment of secondary progressive multiple sclerosis. Using a mouse model of multiple sclerosis, we are investigating the pathways by which activation of TLR9 and NOD2 may modify the innate immune environment and the subsequent T cell-mediated autoimmune responses. We have found that MIS416 has profound effects on the Th subset balance by depressing antigen-specific Th1, Th17, and Th2 development. These effects coincided with an expansion of specific myeloid subpopulations and increased levels of MIS416-stimulated IFN-γ by splenocytes. Additionally, systemic IFN-γ serum levels were enhanced and correlated strongly with disease reduction, and the protective effect of MIS416 was abrogated in IFN-γ-deficient animals. Finally, treatment of secondary progressive MS patients with MIS416 similarly elevated the levels of IFN-γ and IFN-γ-associated proteins in the serum. Together, these studies demonstrate that administration of MIS416, which targets innate cells, reshapes autoimmune T cell responses and leads to a significant reduction in CNS inflammation and disease.