Lung neutrophils facilitate activation of naive antigen-specific CD4+ T cells during Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection

Polygenic TB control and the sequence of innate/adaptive immune responses to infection: MHC-II alleles determine the size of the S100A8/9-producing neutrophil population

Among several quantitative trait loci involved in tuberculosis (TB) control in mice, one was mapped within the chromosome 17 segment occupied by the H2 complex and another within the chromosome 3 segment comprising the S100A8/9 genes, which encode neutrophil inflammatory factor S100A8/9. Previously, we developed a panel of H2-congenic mouse strains differing by small segments of the major histocompatibility complex Class II (MHC-II) region from TB-susceptible H2j mice transferred onto the genetic background of the TB-resistant C57BL/6 (H2b) strain. Susceptible B6.I-9.3 mice differ from B6 progenitors by the alleles of their only classical MHC-II H2-Aβ gene. The goals of the present study were to: (i) comprehensively characterise the differences in TB-related phenotypes between mice of the two strains and (ii) decipher interactions between the H2-Aβ and S100A8/9 genes. Here, we describe the dynamics of TB-related phenotypes differentiating B6.I-9.3 and B6 mice (colony forming units counts, histopathology, lung immune cell infiltration and cytokine profiles). We show that disproportionally diminished CD4+ T-cell population, an enlarged S100A8/9-positive neutrophil population and higher S100A8/9 serum levels in B6.I-9.3 mice collectively form the 'susceptible' phenotype before infection. An increase in IL-17 and a decrease in intrferon-gamma production by CD4+ T-cells in these mice provide a mechanistic explanation of this phenotype. Using F2 segregation analysis, we show that the number of S100A8/9-producing neutrophils in lungs and spleens and the proportion of Th17 CD4+ T-cells in lungs are significantly lower in the presence of the MHC-II dominant 'resistant' b allele compared to the recessive 'susceptible' j/j genotype. This provides direct genetic evidence that MHC-II-regulated CD4+ T-cell landscapes determine neutrophil abundance before infection, an important pathogenic factor in TB immunity.

Mycobacterium tuberculosis resides in lysosome-poor monocyte-derived lung cells during chronic infection

Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) infects lung myeloid cells, but the specific Mtb-permissive cells and host mechanisms supporting Mtb persistence during chronic infection are incompletely characterized. We report that after the development of T cell responses, CD11clo monocyte-derived cells harbor more live Mtb than alveolar macrophages (AM), neutrophils, and CD11chi monocyte-derived cells. Transcriptomic and functional studies revealed that the lysosome pathway is underexpressed in this highly permissive subset, characterized by less lysosome content, acidification, and proteolytic activity than AM, along with less nuclear TFEB, a regulator of lysosome biogenesis. Mtb infection does not drive lysosome deficiency in CD11clo monocyte-derived cells but promotes recruitment of monocytes that develop into permissive lung cells, mediated by the Mtb ESX-1 secretion system. The c-Abl tyrosine kinase inhibitor nilotinib activates TFEB and enhances lysosome functions of macrophages in vitro and in vivo, improving control of Mtb infection. Our results suggest that Mtb exploits lysosome-poor lung cells for persistence and targeting lysosome biogenesis is a potential host-directed therapy for tuberculosis.

CD4-mediated immunity shapes neutrophil-driven tuberculous pathology

Pulmonary Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) infection results in highly heterogeneous lesions ranging from granulomas with central necrosis to those primarily comprised of alveolitis. While alveolitis has been associated with prior immunity in human post-mortem studies, the drivers of these distinct pathologic outcomes are poorly understood. Here, we show that these divergent lesion structures can be modeled in C3HeB/FeJ mice and are regulated by prior immunity. Using quantitative imaging, scRNAseq, and flow cytometry, we demonstrate that Mtb infection in the absence of prior immunity elicits dysregulated neutrophil recruitment and necrotic granulomas. In contrast, prior immunity induces rapid recruitment and activation of T cells, local macrophage activation, and diminished late neutrophil responses. Depletion studies at distinct infection stages demonstrated that neutrophils are required for early necrosis initiation and necrosis propagation at chronic stages, whereas early CD4 T cell responses prevent neutrophil feedforward circuits and necrosis. Together, these studies reveal fundamental determinants of tuberculosis lesion structure and pathogenesis, which have important implications for new strategies to prevent or treat tuberculosis.

Exploring the Potential of Exosomes as Biomarkers in Tuberculosis and Other Diseases

Tuberculosis (TB) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality and remains an important public health issue in developing countries worldwide. The existing methods and techniques available for the diagnosis of TB are based on combinations of laboratory (chemical and biological), radiological, and clinical tests. These methods are sophisticated and laborious and have limitations in terms of sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy. Clinical settings need improved diagnostic biomarkers to accurately detect biological changes due to pathogen invasion and pharmacological responses. Exosomes are membrane-bound vesicles and mediators of intercellular signaling processes that play a significant role in the pathogenesis of various diseases, such as tuberculosis, and can act as promising biomarkers for the monitoring of TB infection. Compared to conventional biomarkers, exosome-derived biomarkers are advantageous because they are easier to detect in different biofluids, are more sensitive and specific, and may be useful in tracking patients' reactions to therapy. This review provides insights into the types of biomarkers, methods of exosome isolation, and roles of the cargo (proteins) present in exosomes isolated from patients through omics studies, such as proteomics. These findings will aid in developing new prognostic and diagnostic biomarkers and could lead to the identification of new therapeutic targets in the clinical setting.

Systemic neutrophils are triggered by respiratory Bacillus Calmette- Guérin and mediate pulmonary mycobacterial clearance in synergy with the triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells 1

Tuberculosis remains a threat to public health. The only approved vaccine, Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG), is administered intradermally and provides limited protection, and its effect on innate immunity via the respiratory route has not been fully elucidated. A mouse model with genetically depleted TREM1 and seven-color flow cytometry staining were used to characterize the comprehensive immune response induced by respiratory BCG, through evaluating organ bacterial loads, lung histopathology, and lung immunohistochemistry. During respiratory BCG infection, the murine lungs displayed effective bacterial clearance. Notably, marked differences in neutrophils were observed between thymus and bone marrow cells, characterized by a significant increase in the expression of the triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells 1 (TREM1). Subsequently, upon depletion of TREM1, a reduction in pulmonary neutrophils was observed, which further exacerbated bacterial loads and resulted in worsened pathology following respiratory BCG infection. In summary, up-regulated expression of TREM1 in rapidly increasing circulating neutrophil by pulmonary BCG is required for an efficient host response to BCG infection, and suggests the important role of TREM1 in neutrophil-related pulmonary bacteria clearance and pathology.

The sound of silent RNA in tuberculosis and the lncRNA role on infection

Tuberculosis (TB) is one of the leading causes of death worldwide, and Diabetes Mellitus is one of the major comorbidities (TB/DM) associated with the disease. A total of 103 differentially expressed ncRNAs have been identified in the TB and TB/DM comparisons. A machine learning algorithm was employed to identify the most informative lncRNAs: ADM-DT, LINC02009, LINC02471, SOX2-OT, and GK-AS1. These lncRNAs presented substantial accuracy in classifying TB from HC (AUCs >0.85) and TB/DM from HC (AUCs >0.90) in the other three countries. Genes with significant correlations with the five lncRNAs enriched common pathways in Brazil and India for both TB and TB/DM. This suggests that lncRNAs play an important role in the regulation of genes related to the TB immune response.

Initial immune response after exposure to Mycobacterium tuberculosis or to SARS-COV-2: similarities and differences

Tuberculosis (TB), caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) and Coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19), whose etiologic agent is severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2), are currently the two deadliest infectious diseases in humans, which together have caused about more than 11 million deaths worldwide in the past 3 years. TB and COVID-19 share several aspects including the droplet- and aerosol-borne transmissibility, the lungs as primary target, some symptoms, and diagnostic tools. However, these two infectious diseases differ in other aspects as their incubation period, immune cells involved, persistence and the immunopathological response. In this review, we highlight the similarities and differences between TB and COVID-19 focusing on the innate and adaptive immune response induced after the exposure to Mtb and SARS-CoV-2 and the pathological pathways linking the two infections. Moreover, we provide a brief overview of the immune response in case of TB-COVID-19 co-infection highlighting the similarities and differences of each individual infection. A comprehensive understanding of the immune response involved in TB and COVID-19 is of utmost importance for the design of effective therapeutic strategies and vaccines for both diseases.

Animal models for COVID-19 and tuberculosis

Respiratory infections cause tremendous morbidity and mortality worldwide. Amongst these diseases, tuberculosis (TB), a bacterial illness caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis which often affects the lung, and coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus type 2 (SARS-CoV-2), stand out as major drivers of epidemics of global concern. Despite their unrelated etiology and distinct pathology, these infections affect the same vital organ and share immunopathogenesis traits and an imperative demand to model the diseases at their various progression stages and localizations. Due to the clinical spectrum and heterogeneity of both diseases experimental infections were pursued in a variety of animal models. We summarize mammalian models employed in TB and COVID-19 experimental investigations, highlighting the diversity of rodent models and species peculiarities for each infection. We discuss the utility of non-human primates for translational research and emphasize on the benefits of non-conventional experimental models such as livestock. We epitomize advances facilitated by animal models with regard to understanding disease pathophysiology and immune responses. Finally, we highlight research areas necessitating optimized models and advocate that research of pulmonary infectious diseases could benefit from cross-fertilization between studies of apparently unrelated diseases, such as TB and COVID-19.

Neutrophil extracellular trap formation and gene programs distinguish TST/IGRA sensitization outcomes among Mycobacterium tuberculosis exposed persons living with HIV

Persons living with HIV (PLWH) have an increased risk for tuberculosis (TB). After prolonged and repeated exposure, some PLWH never develop TB and show no evidence of immune sensitization to Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) as defined by persistently negative tuberculin skin tests (TST) and interferon gamma release assays (IGRA). This group has been identified and defined as HIV+ persistently TB, tuberculin and IGRA negative (HITTIN). To investigate potential innate mechanisms unique to individuals with the HITTIN phenotype we compared their neutrophil Mtb infection response to that of PLWH, with no TB history, but who test persistently IGRA positive, and tuberculin positive (HIT). Neutrophil samples from 17 HITTIN (PMNHITTIN) and 11 HIT (PMNHIT) were isolated and infected with Mtb H37Rv for 1h and 6h. RNA was extracted and used for RNAseq analysis. Since there was no significant differential transcriptional response at 1h between infected PMNHITTIN and PMNHIT, we focused on the 6h timepoint. When compared to uninfected PMN, PMNHITTIN displayed 3106 significantly upregulated and 3548 significantly downregulated differentially expressed genes (DEGs) (absolute cutoff of a log2FC of 0.2, FDR < 0.05) whereas PMNHIT demonstrated 3816 significantly upregulated and 3794 significantly downregulated DEGs following 6h Mtb infection. Contrasting the log2FC 6h infection response to Mtb from PMNHITTIN against PMNHIT, 2285 genes showed significant differential response between the two groups. Overall PMNHITTIN had a lower fold change response to Mtb infection compared to PMNHIT. According to pathway enrichment, Apoptosis and NETosis were differentially regulated between HITTIN and HIT PMN responses after 6h Mtb infection. To corroborate the blunted NETosis transcriptional response measured among HITTIN, fluorescence microscopy revealed relatively lower neutrophil extracellular trap formation and cell loss in PMNHITTIN compared to PMNHIT, showing that PMNHITTIN have a distinct response to Mtb.

Role of phagocyte extracellular traps during Mycobacterium tuberculosis infections and tuberculosis disease processes

Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M.tb) infections remain one of the most significant causes of mortality worldwide. The current situation shows an emergence of new antibiotic-resistant strains making it difficult to control the tuberculosis (TB) disease. A large part of its success as a pathogen is due to its ability to persist for years or even decades without causing evident clinical manifestations. M.tb is highly successful in evading the host-defense by manipulating host-signalling pathways. Although macrophages are generally viewed as the key cell type involved in harboring M.tb, growing evidence shows that neutrophils also play a fundamental role. Both cells are known to act in multiple ways when encountering an invading pathogen, including phagocytosis, release of cytokines and chemokines, and oxidative burst. In addition, the formation of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) and macrophage extracellular traps (METs) has been described to contribute to M.tb infections. NETs/METs are extracellular DNA fibers with associated granule components, which are released upon activation of the cells by the pathogen or by pro-inflammatory mediators. On one hand, they can lead to a protective immune response by entrapment and killing of pathogens. However, on the other hand, they can also play a severe pathological role by inducing tissue damage. Extracellular traps (ETs) produced in the pulmonary alveoli can expand easily and expose tissue-damaging factors with detrimental effects. Since host-directed therapies offer a complementary strategy in TB, the knowledge of NET/MET formation is important for understanding potential protective versus detrimental pathways during innate immune signaling. In this review, we summarize the progress made in understanding the role of NETs/METs in the pathogenesis of TB.

Protective Effect of BCG and Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio on Latent Tuberculosis in End Stage Renal Disease

INTRODUCTION

Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccination has been reported to be protective against latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) in the general population. The aim of this study was to investigate the protective effect of BCG vaccination against LTBI in adult patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) and renal transplants.

METHODS

Patients aged ≥ 20 years with ESRD who received hemodialysis (HD), peritoneal dialysis (PD) or kidney transplant were enrolled from January 2012 to December 2019 at a medical center and a regional hemodialysis center. Patients with active tuberculosis (TB), previously treated TB, active immunosuppressant therapy or human immunodeficiency virus infection were excluded. LTBI status was determined by QuantiFERON-TB Gold In-tube (QFT-GIT).

RESULTS

After the exclusion of indeterminate results of QFT-GIT, 517 participants were enrolled and 97 (18.8%) were identified as having LTBI. Participants with LTBI were older (55.1 ± 11.4 vs. 48.5 ± 14.6 years, p < 0.001) and had a significantly higher proportion receiving HD than those without LTBI (70.1% vs. 56.7%, p = 0.001). The percentage with BCG scars was higher in the non-LTBI group than in the LTBI group (94.8% vs. 81.4%, p < 0.001), whereas the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) (≥ 2.68) was significantly higher in the LTBI group (62.8% vs. 45.5%, p = 0.02). By multivariate logistic regression analysis, presence of BCG scar and high NLR were independent protective factors against LTBI [adjusted OR: 0.19 (0.063-0.58, p = 0.001) and 0.50 (0.28-0.89, p = 0.02)].

CONCLUSION

The prevalence of LTBI was as high as 18.8% in patients with end-stage kidney disease or kidney transplant. BCG vaccination and high NLR might have protective effects against LTBI in patients with renal failure or transplant.

Mycobacterium tuberculosis resides in lysosome-poor monocyte-derived lung cells during chronic infection

Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) persists in lung myeloid cells during chronic infection. However, the mechanisms allowing Mtb to evade elimination are not fully understood. Here, we determined that in chronic phase, CD11clo monocyte-derived lung cells termed MNC1 (mononuclear cell subset 1), harbor more live Mtb than alveolar macrophages (AM), neutrophils, and less permissive CD11chi MNC2. Transcriptomic and functional studies of sorted cells revealed that the lysosome biogenesis pathway is underexpressed in MNC1, which have less lysosome content, acidification, and proteolytic activity than AM, and less nuclear TFEB, a master regulator of lysosome biogenesis. Mtb infection does not drive lysosome deficiency in MNC1. Instead, Mtb recruits MNC1 and MNC2 to the lungs for its spread from AM to these cells via its ESX-1 secretion system. The c-Abl tyrosine kinase inhibitor nilotinib activates TFEB and enhances lysosome function of primary macrophages and MNC1 and MNC2 in vivo, improving control of Mtb infection. Our results indicate that Mtb exploits lysosome-poor monocyte-derived cells for in vivo persistence, suggesting a potential target for host-directed tuberculosis therapy.

Mycobacterium tuberculosis resides in lysosome-poor monocyte-derived lung cells during chronic infection

Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) infects cells in multiple lung myeloid cell subsets and causes chronic infection despite innate and adaptive immune responses. However, the mechanisms allowing Mtb to evade elimination are not fully understood. Here, using new methods, we determined that after T cell responses have developed, CD11clo monocyte-derived lung cells termed MNC1 (mononuclear cell subset 1), harbor more live Mtb compared to alveolar macrophages (AM), neutrophils, and less permissive CD11chi MNC2. Bulk RNA sequencing of sorted cells revealed that the lysosome biogenesis pathway is underexpressed in MNC1. Functional assays confirmed that Mtb-permissive MNC1 have less lysosome content, acidification, and proteolytic activity than AM, and less nuclear TFEB, a master regulator of lysosome biogenesis. Mtb infection does not drive lysosome deficiency in MNC1 in vivo. Instead, Mtb recruits MNC1 and MNC2 to the lungs for its spread from AM to these cell subsets as a virulence mechanism that requires the Mtb ESX-1 secretion system. The c-Abl tyrosine kinase inhibitor nilotinib activates TFEB and enhances lysosome function of primary macrophages in vitro and MNC1 and MNC2 in vivo, improving control of Mtb infection. Our results indicate that Mtb exploits lysosome-poor monocyte-derived cells for in vivo persistence, suggesting a potential target for host-directed tuberculosis therapy.

Immune cell interactions in tuberculosis

Despite having been identified as the organism that causes tuberculosis in 1882, Mycobacterium tuberculosis has managed to still evade our understanding of the protective immune response against it, defying the development of an effective vaccine. Technology and novel experimental models have revealed much new knowledge, particularly with respect to the heterogeneity of the bacillus and the host response. This review focuses on certain immunological elements that have recently yielded exciting data and highlights the importance of taking a holistic approach to understanding the interaction of M. tuberculosis with the many host cells that contribute to the development of protective immunity.

Immune evasion and provocation by Mycobacterium tuberculosis

Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the causative agent of tuberculosis, has infected humans for millennia. M. tuberculosis is well adapted to establish infection, persist in the face of the host immune response and be transmitted to uninfected individuals. Its ability to complete this infection cycle depends on it both evading and taking advantage of host immune responses. The outcome of M. tuberculosis infection is often a state of equilibrium characterized by immunological control and bacterial persistence. Recent data have highlighted the diverse cell populations that respond to M. tuberculosis infection and the dynamic changes in the cellular and intracellular niches of M. tuberculosis during the course of infection. M. tuberculosis possesses an arsenal of protein and lipid effectors that influence macrophage functions and inflammatory responses; however, our understanding of the role that specific bacterial virulence factors play in the context of diverse cellular reservoirs and distinct infection stages is limited. In this Review, we discuss immune evasion and provocation by M. tuberculosis during its infection cycle and describe how a more detailed molecular understanding is crucial to enable the development of novel host-directed therapies, disease biomarkers and effective vaccines.

Defining the role of neutrophils in the lung during infection: Implications for tuberculosis disease

Neutrophils are implicated in the pathogenesis of many diseases involving inflammation. Neutrophils are also critical to host defence and have a key role in the innate immune response to infection. Despite their efficiencies against a wide range of pathogens however, their ability to contain and combat Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) in the lung remains uncertain and contentious. The host response to Mtb infection is very complex, involving the secretion of various cytokines and chemokines from a wide variety of immune cells, including neutrophils, macrophages, monocytes, T cells, B cells, NK cells and dendritic cells. Considering the contributing role neutrophils play in the advancement of many diseases, understanding how an inflammatory microenvironment affects neutrophils, and how neutrophils interact with other immune cells, particularly in the context of the infected lung, may aid the design of immunomodulatory therapies. In the current review, we provide a brief overview of the mechanisms that underpin pathogen clearance by neutrophils and discuss their role in the context of Mtb and non-Mtb infection. Next, we examine the current evidence demonstrating how neutrophils interact with a range of human and non-human immune cells and how these interactions can differentially prime, activate and alter a repertoire of neutrophil effector functions. Furthermore, we discuss the metabolic pathways employed by neutrophils in modulating their response to activation, pathogen stimulation and infection. To conclude, we highlight knowledge gaps in the field and discuss plausible novel drug treatments that target host neutrophil metabolism and function which could hold therapeutic potential for people suffering from respiratory infections.

Pathological and protective roles of dendritic cells in Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection: Interaction between host immune responses and pathogen evasion

Dendritic cells (DCs) are principal defense components that play multifactorial roles in translating innate immune responses to adaptive immunity in Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) infections. The heterogeneous nature of DC subsets follows their altered functions by interacting with other immune cells, Mtb, and its products, enhancing host defense mechanisms or facilitating pathogen evasion. Thus, a better understanding of the immune responses initiated, promoted, and amplified or inhibited by DCs in Mtb infection is an essential step in developing anti-tuberculosis (TB) control measures, such as host-directed adjunctive therapy and anti-TB vaccines. This review summarizes the recent advances in salient DC subsets, including their phenotypic classification, cytokine profiles, functional alterations according to disease stages and environments, and consequent TB outcomes. A comprehensive overview of the role of DCs from various perspectives enables a deeper understanding of TB pathogenesis and could be useful in developing DC-based vaccines and immunotherapies.

The Dynamic Contribution of Neutrophils in the Chronic Respiratory Diseases

Asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis are representative chronic respiratory diseases (CRDs). Although they differ in terms of disease presentation, they are all thought to arise from unresolved inflammation. Neutrophils are not only the first responders to acute inflammation, but they also help resolve the inflammation. Notably, emerging clinical studies show that CRDs are associated with systemic and local elevation of neutrophils. Moreover, murine studies suggest that airway-infiltrating neutrophils not only help initiate airway inflammation but also prolong the inflammation. Given this background, this review describes neutrophil-mediated immune responses in CRDs and summarizes the completed, ongoing, and potential clinical trials that test the therapeutic value of targeting neutrophils in CRDs. The review also clarifies the importance of understanding how neutrophils interact with other immune cells and how these interactions contribute to chronic inflammation in specific CRDs. This information may help identify future therapeutic strategies for CRDs.

Bacterial Strain-Dependent Dissociation of Cell Recruitment and Cell-to-Cell Spread in Early M. tuberculosis Infection

In the initial stage of respiratory infection, Mycobacterium tuberculosis traverses from alveolar macrophages to phenotypically diverse monocyte-derived phagocytes and neutrophils in the lung parenchyma. Here, we compare the in vivo kinetics of early bacterial growth and cell-to-cell spread of two strains of M. tuberculosis: a lineage 2 strain, 4334, and the widely studied lineage 4 strain H37Rv. Using flow cytometry, live cell sorting of phenotypic subsets, and quantitation of bacteria in cells of the distinct subsets, we found that 4334 induces less leukocyte influx into the lungs but demonstrates earlier population expansion and cell-to-cell spread. The earlier spread of 4334 to recruited cells, including monocyte-derived dendritic cells, is accompanied by earlier and greater magnitude of CD4+ T cell activation. The results provide evidence that strain-specific differences in interactions with lung leukocytes can shape adaptive immune responses in vivo. IMPORTANCE Tuberculosis is a leading infectious disease killer worldwide and is caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. After exposure to M. tuberculosis, outcomes range from apparent elimination to active disease. Early innate immune responses may contribute to differences in outcomes, yet it is not known how bacterial strains alter the early dynamics of innate immune and T cell responses. We infected mice with distinct strains of M. tuberculosis and discovered striking differences in innate cellular recruitment, cell-to-cell spread of bacteria in the lungs, and kinetics of initiation of antigen-specific CD4 T cell responses. We also found that M. tuberculosis can spread beyond alveolar macrophages even before a large influx of inflammatory cells. These results provide evidence that distinct strains of M. tuberculosis can exhibit differential kinetics in cell-to-cell spread which is not directly linked to early recruitment of phagocytes but is subsequently linked to adaptive immune responses.

An In Vivo Model of Separate M. tuberculosis Phagocytosis by Neutrophils and Macrophages: Gene Expression Profiles in the Parasite and Disease Development in the Mouse Host

The role of neutrophils in tuberculosis infection remains less well studied compared to that of the CD4⁺ T-lymphocytes and macrophages. Thus, alterations in Mycobacterium tuberculosis transcription profile following phagocytosis by neutrophils and how these shifts differ from those caused by macrophage phagocytosis remain unknown. We developed a mouse model that allows obtaining large amounts of either neutrophils or macrophages infected in vivo with M. tuberculosis for mycobacteria isolation in quantities sufficient for the whole genome RNA sequencing and aerosol challenge of mice. Here, we present: (i) the differences in transcription profiles of mycobacteria isolated from liquid cultures, neutrophils and macrophages infected in vivo; (ii) phenotypes of infection and lung inflammation (life span, colony forming units (CFU) counts in organs, lung pathology, immune cells infiltration and cytokine production) in genetically TB-susceptible mice identically infected via respiratory tract with neutrophil-passaged (NP), macrophage-passaged (MP) and conventionally prepared (CP) mycobacteria. Two-hour residence within neutrophils caused transcriptome shifts consistent with mycobacterial transition to dormancy and diminished their capacity to attract immune cells to infected lung tissue. Mycobacterial multiplication in organs did not depend upon pre-phagocytosis, whilst survival time of infected mice was shorter in the group infected with NP bacilli. We also discuss possible reasons for these phenotypic divergences.

Neutrophil-Mediated Immunopathology and Matrix Metalloproteinases in Central Nervous System - Tuberculosis

Tuberculosis (TB) remains one of the leading infectious killers in the world, infecting approximately a quarter of the world’s population with the causative organism Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M. tb). Central nervous system tuberculosis (CNS-TB) is the most severe form of TB, with high mortality and residual neurological sequelae even with effective TB treatment. In CNS-TB, recruited neutrophils infiltrate into the brain to carry out its antimicrobial functions of degranulation, phagocytosis and NETosis. However, neutrophils also mediate inflammation, tissue destruction and immunopathology in the CNS. Neutrophils release key mediators including matrix metalloproteinase (MMPs) which degrade brain extracellular matrix (ECM), tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α which may drive inflammation, reactive oxygen species (ROS) that drive cellular necrosis and neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs), interacting with platelets to form thrombi that may lead to ischemic stroke. Host-directed therapies (HDTs) targeting these key mediators are potentially exciting, but currently remain of unproven effectiveness. This article reviews the key role of neutrophils and neutrophil-derived mediators in driving CNS-TB immunopathology.

Neutrophil-dendritic cell interaction plays an important role in live attenuated Leishmania vaccine induced immunity

Background

Neutrophils are involved in the initial host responses to pathogens. Neutrophils can activate T cell responses either independently or through indirect involvement of Dendritic cells (DCs). Recently we have demonstrated direct neutrophil-T cell interactions that initiate adaptive immune responses following immunization with live attenuated Leishmania donovani centrin deleted parasite vaccine (LdCen^-/-). However, neutrophil-DC interactions in T cell priming in vaccine immunity in general are not known. In this study we evaluated the interaction between neutrophils and DCs during LdCen^-/- infection and compared with wild type parasite (LdWT) both in vitro and in vivo.

Methodology/findings

LdCen^-/- parasite induced increased expression of CCL3 in neutrophils caused higher recruitment of DCs capable of inducing a strong proinflammatory response and elevated co-stimulatory molecule expression compared to LdWT infection. To further illustrate neutrophil-DCs interactions in vivo, we infected LYS-eGFP mice with red fluorescent LdWT/LdCen^-/- parasites and sort selected DCs that engulfed the neutrophil containing parasites or DCs that acquired the parasites directly in the ear draining lymph nodes (dLN) 5d post infection. The DCs predominantly acquired the parasites by phagocytosing infected neutrophils. Specifically, DCs containing LdCen^-/- parasitized neutrophils exhibited a proinflammatory phenotype, increased expression of costimulatory molecules and initiated higher CD4⁺T cell priming ex-vivo. Notably, potent DC activation occurred when LdCen^-/- parasites were acquired indirectly via engulfment of parasitized neutrophils compared to direct engulfment of LdCen^-/- parasites by DCs. Neutrophil depletion in LdCen^-/- infected mice significantly abrogated expression of CCL3 resulting in decreased DC recruitment in ear dLN. This event led to poor CD4⁺Th1 cell priming ex vivo that correlated with attenuated Tbet expression in ear dLN derived CD4⁺ T cells in vivo.

Conclusions

Collectively, LdCen^-/- containing neutrophils phagocytized by DC markedly influence the phenotype and antigen presenting capacity of DCs early on and thus play an immune-regulatory role in shaping vaccine induced host protective response.

Visceral Leishmaniasis (VL), caused by the protozoan parasites of the genus Leishmania is a neglected tropical disease. Leishmania donovani is the principal causative agent of VL in East Africa and the Indian subcontinent whereas in Europe, North Africa, and Latin America VL is mainly caused by Leishmania infantum. No licensed vaccine exists against VL. We have reported previously that live attenuated centrin gene-deleted L. donovani (LdCen^-/-) parasite vaccine induced strong innate immunity which leads to a protective Th1 response in animal models. We recently demonstrated that neutrophils play an indispensable role following immunization with LdCen^-/- parasites in inducing protective Th1 immune response. However, neutrophils also secrete chemokines that attract other innate cells such as dendritic cells and regulate their activities. In the current study we analyzed the interplay between neutrophils and DCs, and its effects on T cell activation during LdCen^-/- infection and compared with wild type parasite (LdWT) infection. We observed that higher recruitment of DCs occurred in LdCen^-/- infected mice ear draining lymph nodes compared to LdWT. This recruitment is facilitated by increased secretion of the chemokine CCL3 by neutrophils. A markedly decreased DC recruitment was observed in LdCen^-/- infected mice following CCL3 neutralization indicating the key role of neutrophils in DC recruitment. Further, we demonstrated that DCs that ingest LdCen^-/- infected neutrophils are better activated than those that acquire the parasites independent of neutrophils. Notably neutrophil depletion in LdCen^-/- infected mice also attenuated activation of DCs in the ear dLN that resulted in poor CD4⁺T cell priming. Our results reveal that interaction between neutrophils and DCs play an important role in shaping proinflammatory immune response induced by a live attenuated Leishmania vaccine.

Antimicrobial Activity of Neutrophils Against Mycobacteria

The mycobacterium genus contains a broad range of species, including the human pathogens M. tuberculosis and M. leprae. These bacteria are best known for their residence inside host cells. Neutrophils are frequently observed at sites of mycobacterial infection, but their role in clearance is not well understood. In this review, we discuss how neutrophils attempt to control mycobacterial infections, either through the ingestion of bacteria into intracellular phagosomes, or the release of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs). Despite their powerful antimicrobial activity, including the production of reactive oxidants such as hypochlorous acid, neutrophils appear ineffective in killing pathogenic mycobacteria. We explore mycobacterial resistance mechanisms, and how thwarting neutrophil action exacerbates disease pathology. A better understanding of how mycobacteria protect themselves from neutrophils will aid the development of novel strategies that facilitate bacterial clearance and limit host tissue damage.

Neutrophil Dynamics Affect Mycobacterium tuberculosis Granuloma Outcomes and Dissemination

Neutrophil infiltration into tuberculous granulomas is often associated with higher bacteria loads and severe disease but the basis for this relationship is not well understood. To better elucidate the connection between neutrophils and pathology in primate systems, we paired data from experimental studies with our next generation computational model GranSim to identify neutrophil-related factors, including neutrophil recruitment, lifespan, and intracellular bacteria numbers, that drive granuloma-level outcomes. We predict mechanisms underlying spatial organization of neutrophils within granulomas and identify how neutrophils contribute to granuloma dissemination. We also performed virtual deletion and depletion of neutrophils within granulomas and found that neutrophils play a nuanced role in determining granuloma outcome, promoting uncontrolled bacterial growth in some and working to contain bacterial growth in others. Here, we present three key results: We show that neutrophils can facilitate local dissemination of granulomas and thereby enable the spread of infection. We suggest that neutrophils influence CFU burden during both innate and adaptive immune responses, implying that they may be targets for therapeutic interventions during later stages of infection. Further, through the use of uncertainty and sensitivity analyses, we predict which neutrophil processes drive granuloma severity and structure.

The knowns and unknowns of latent Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection

Humans have been infected with Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) for thousands of years. While tuberculosis (TB), one of the deadliest infectious diseases, is caused by uncontrolled Mtb infection, over 90% of presumed infected individuals remain asymptomatic and contain Mtb in a latent TB infection (LTBI) without ever developing disease, and some may clear the infection. A small number of heavily Mtb-exposed individuals appear to resist developing traditional LTBI. Because Mtb has mechanisms for intracellular survival and immune evasion, successful control involves all of the arms of the immune system. Here, we focus on immune responses to Mtb in humans and nonhuman primates and discuss new concepts and outline major knowledge gaps in our understanding of LTBI, ranging from the earliest events of exposure and infection to success or failure of Mtb control.

Neutrophil Interactions with the Lymphatic System

The lymphatic system is a complex network of lymphatic vessels and lymph nodes designed to balance fluid homeostasis and facilitate host immune defence. Neutrophils are rapidly recruited to sites of inflammation to provide the first line of protection against microbial infections. The traditional view of neutrophils as short-lived cells, whose role is restricted to providing sterilizing immunity at sites of infection, is rapidly evolving to include additional functions at the interface between the innate and adaptive immune systems. Neutrophils travel via the lymphatics from the site of inflammation to transport antigens to lymph nodes. They can also enter lymph nodes from the blood by crossing high endothelial venules. Neutrophil functions in draining lymph nodes include pathogen control and modulation of adaptive immunity. Another facet of neutrophil interactions with the lymphatic system is their ability to promote lymphangiogenesis in draining lymph nodes and inflamed tissues. In this review, we discuss the significance of neutrophil migration to secondary lymphoid organs and within the lymphatic vasculature and highlight emerging evidence of the neutrophils’ role in lymphangiogenesis.

Tuberculosis: An Update on Pathophysiology, Molecular Mechanisms of Drug Resistance, Newer Anti-TB Drugs, Treatment Regimens and Host- Directed Therapies

Human tuberculosis (TB) is primarily caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) that inhabits inside and amidst immune cells of the host with adapted physiology to regulate interdependent cellular functions with intact pathogenic potential. The complexity of this disease is attributed to various factors such as the reactivation of latent TB form after prolonged persistence, disease progression specifically in immunocompromised patients, advent of multi- and extensivelydrug resistant (MDR and XDR) Mtb strains, adverse effects of tailor-made regimens, and drug-drug interactions among anti-TB drugs and anti-HIV therapies. Thus, there is a compelling demand for newer anti-TB drugs or regimens to overcome these obstacles. Considerable multifaceted transformations in the current TB methodologies and molecular interventions underpinning hostpathogen interactions and drug resistance mechanisms may assist to overcome the emerging drug resistance. Evidently, recent scientific and clinical advances have revolutionised the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of all forms of the disease. This review sheds light on the current understanding of the pathogenesis of TB disease, molecular mechanisms of drug-resistance, progress on the development of novel or repurposed anti-TB drugs and regimens, host-directed therapies, with particular emphasis on underlying knowledge gaps and prospective for futuristic TB control programs.

Reduced neutrophil granular proteins and post-treatment modulation in tuberculous lymphadenitis

Background

Neutrophils are important for host innate immune defense and mediate inflammatory responses. Pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) is associated with increased neutrophil granular protein (NGP) levels in the circulation. However, the systemic levels of neutrophil granular proteins were not examined in tuberculous lymphadenitis (TBL) disease.

Methods

We measured the systemic levels of NGP (myeloperoxidase [MPO], elastase and proteinase 3 [PRTN3]) in TBL and compared them to latent tuberculosis (LTB) and healthy control (HC) individuals. We also measured the pre-treatment (Pre-T) and post-treatment (Post-T) systemic levels of neutrophil granular proteins in TBL individuals upon anti-tuberculosis treatment (ATT) completion. In addition, we studied the correlation and discriminatory ability of NGPs using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis.

Results

Our data suggests that systemic levels of NGPs (MPO, PRTN3, elastase) were significantly reduced in TBL individuals compared to LTB and HC individuals. Similarly, after ATT, the plasma levels of MPO and elastase but not PRTN3 were significantly elevated compared to pre-treatment levels. NGPs (except PRTN3) were positively correlated with absolute neutrophil count of TBL, LTB and HC individuals. Further, NGPs were able to significantly discriminate TBL from LTB and HC individuals.

Conclusion

Hence, we conclude reduced neutrophil granular protein levels might be associated with disease pathogenesis in TBL.

Intrapulmonary vaccination with delta-inulin adjuvant stimulates non-polarised chemotactic signalling and diverse cellular interaction

There is an urgent need for novel vaccination strategies to combat respiratory pathogens. Mucosal vaccine delivery is an attractive option as it directly targets the site of infection; however, preclinical development has been hindered by a lack of suitable mucosal adjuvants and a limited understanding of their immune effects in the lung environment. Herein, we define the early immune events following the intrapulmonary delivery of a vaccine incorporating the adjuvant delta-inulin. Analysis of the early inflammatory response showed vaccine-induced innate cell recruitment to lungs and local lymph nodes (LN) was transient and non-polarised, correlating with an increase in pulmonary chemotactic factors. Use of fluorescently labelled adjuvant revealed widespread tissue dissemination of adjuvant particles, coupled with broad cellular uptake and transit to the lung-draining LN by a range of innate immune cells. Mass cytometric analysis revealed extensive phenotypic changes in innate and adaptive cell subsets induced by vaccination; this included identification of unconventional lymphocytes such as γδ-T cells and MAIT cells that increased following vaccination and displayed an activated phenotype. This study details a comprehensive view of the immune response to intrapulmonary adjuvant administration and provides pre-clinical evidence to support delta-inulin as a suitable adjuvant for pulmonary vaccines.

Neutrophils in Tuberculosis: Cell Biology, Cellular Networking and Multitasking in Host Defense

Neutrophils readily infiltrate infection foci, phagocytose and usually destroy microbes. In tuberculosis (TB), a chronic pulmonary infection caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb), neutrophils harbor bacilli, are abundant in tissue lesions, and their abundances in blood correlate with poor disease outcomes in patients. The biology of these innate immune cells in TB is complex. Neutrophils have been assigned host-beneficial as well as deleterious roles. The short lifespan of neutrophils purified from blood poses challenges to cell biology studies, leaving intracellular biological processes and the precise consequences of Mtb–neutrophil interactions ill-defined. The phenotypic heterogeneity of neutrophils, and their propensity to engage in cellular cross-talk and to exert various functions during homeostasis and disease, have recently been reported, and such observations are newly emerging in TB. Here, we review the interactions of neutrophils with Mtb, including subcellular events and cell fate upon infection, and summarize the cross-talks between neutrophils and lung-residing and -recruited cells. We highlight the roles of neutrophils in TB pathophysiology, discussing recent findings from distinct models of pulmonary TB, and emphasize technical advances that could facilitate the discovery of novel neutrophil-related disease mechanisms and enrich our knowledge of TB pathogenesis.

The cell biology of inflammation: From common traits to remarkable immunological adaptations

Tissue damage triggers a rapid and robust inflammatory response in order to clear and repair a wound. Remarkably, many of the cell biology features that underlie the ability of leukocytes to home in to sites of injury and to fight infection—most of which are topics of intensive current research—were originally observed in various weird and wonderful translucent organisms over a century ago by Elie Metchnikoff, the “father of innate immunity,” who is credited with discovering phagocytes in 1882. In this review, we use Metchnikoff’s seminal lectures as a starting point to discuss the tremendous variety of cell biology features that underpin the function of these multitasking immune cells. Some of these are shared by other cell types (including aspects of motility, membrane trafficking, cell division, and death), but others are more unique features of innate immune cells, enabling them to fulfill their specialized functions, such as encapsulation of invading pathogens, cell–cell fusion in response to foreign bodies, and their self-sacrifice as occurs during NETosis.

Older but Not Wiser: the Age-Driven Changes in Neutrophil Responses during Pulmonary Infections

Elderly individuals are at increased risk of life-threatening pulmonary infections. Neutrophils are a key determinant of the disease course of pathogen-induced pneumonia. Optimal host defense balances initial robust pulmonary neutrophil responses to control pathogen numbers, ultimately followed by the resolution of inflammation to prevent pulmonary damage. Recent evidence suggests that phenotypic and functional heterogeneity in neutrophils impacts host resistance to pulmonary pathogens. Apart from their apparent role in innate immunity, neutrophils also orchestrate subsequent adaptive immune responses during infection. Thus, the outcome of pulmonary infections can be shaped by neutrophils. This review summarizes the age-driven impairment of neutrophil responses and the contribution of these cells to the susceptibility of the elderly to pneumonia. We describe how aging is accompanied by changes in neutrophil recruitment, resolution, and function. We discuss how systemic and local changes alter the neutrophil phenotype in aged hosts. We highlight the gap in knowledge of whether these changes in neutrophils also contribute to the decline in adaptive immunity seen with age. We further detail the factors that drive dysregulated neutrophil responses in the elderly and the pathways that may be targeted to rebalance neutrophil activity and boost host resistance to pulmonary infections.

The Innate Immune Response to Mycobacterium tuberculosis Infection

Infection with Mycobacterium tuberculosis causes >1.5 million deaths worldwide annually. Innate immune cells are the first to encounter M. tuberculosis, and their response dictates the course of infection. Dendritic cells (DCs) activate the adaptive response and determine its characteristics. Macrophages are responsible both for exerting cell-intrinsic antimicrobial control and for initiating and maintaining inflammation. The inflammatory response to M. tuberculosis infection is a double-edged sword. While cytokines such as TNF-α and IL-1 are important for protection, either excessive or insufficient cytokine production results in progressive disease. Furthermore, neutrophils-cells normally associated with control of bacterial infection-are emerging as key drivers of a hyperinflammatory response that results in host mortality. The roles of other innate cells, including natural killer cells and innate-like T cells, remain enigmatic. Understanding the nuances of both cell-intrinsic control of infection and regulation of inflammation will be crucial for the successful development of host-targeted therapeutics and vaccines.

Metabolic Regulation of Immune Responses to Mycobacterium tuberculosis: A Spotlight on L-Arginine and L-Tryptophan Metabolism

Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb), the causative agent of tuberculosis (TB), is a leading cause of death worldwide. Despite decades of research, there is still much to be uncovered regarding the immune response to Mtb infection. Here, we summarize the current knowledge on anti-Mtb immunity, with a spotlight on immune cell amino acid metabolism. Specifically, we discuss L-arginine and L-tryptophan, focusing on their requirements, regulatory roles, and potential use as adjunctive therapy in TB patients. By continuing to uncover the immune cell contribution during Mtb infection and how amino acid utilization regulates their functions, it is anticipated that novel host-directed therapies may be developed and/or refined, helping to eradicate TB.

Mucosal delivery of a multistage subunit vaccine promotes development of lung-resident memory T cells and affords interleukin-17-dependent protection against pulmonary tuberculosis

The development of effective vaccines against bacterial lung infections requires the induction of protective, pathogen-specific immune responses without deleterious inflammation within the pulmonary environment. Here, we made use of a polysaccharide-adjuvanted vaccine approach to elicit resident pulmonary T cells to protect against aerosol Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection. Intratracheal administration of the multistage fusion protein CysVac2 and the delta-inulin adjuvant Advax™ (formulated with a TLR9 agonist) provided superior protection against aerosol M. tuberculosis infection in mice, compared to parenteral delivery. Surprisingly, removal of the TLR9 agonist did not impact vaccine protection despite a reduction in cytokine-secreting T cell subsets, particularly CD4+IFN-γ+IL-2+TNF+ multifunctional T cells. CysVac2/Advax-mediated protection was associated with the induction of lung-resident, antigen-specific memory CD4+ T cells that expressed IL-17 and RORγT, the master transcriptional regulator of Th17 differentiation. IL-17 was identified as a key mediator of vaccine efficacy, with blocking of IL-17 during M. tuberculosis challenge reducing phagocyte influx, suppressing priming of pathogen-specific CD4+ T cells in local lymph nodes and ablating vaccine-induced protection. These findings suggest that tuberculosis vaccines such as CysVac2/Advax that are capable of eliciting Th17 lung-resident memory T cells are promising candidates for progression to human trials.

Essential Role of Neutrophils in the Protective Immune Response Induced by a Live Attenuated Leishmania Vaccine

No licensed vaccine exists against visceral leishmaniasis (VL), a disease caused by the Leishmania donovani parasite. We have previously reported both macrophages and dendritic cells play important role in the protection induced by a live attenuated centrin gene-deleted L. donovani (LdCen^-/- ) parasite vaccine. The role of neutrophils in orchestrating the initial innate response to pathogens is widely recognized. To investigate the early interaction of LdCen^-/- with neutrophils, we immunized mice intradermally in the ear pinna with LdCen^-/- Compared with LdWT infection, LdCen^-/- parasites induced higher recruitment of neutrophils to the ear dermis and ear draining lymph nodes (dLN) as early as 6-18 h after immunization, which were predominantly proinflammatory in nature. Neutrophils from ear dLN of LdCen^-/- -immunized mice exhibited heightened expression of costimulatory molecules and attenuated expression of coinhibitory molecules necessary for higher T cell activation. Further phenotypic characterization revealed heterogeneous neutrophil populations containing Nα and Nβ subtypes in the ear dLN. Of the two, the parasitized Nα subset from LdCen^-/- -immunized mice exhibited much stronger Ag-specific CD4⁺ T cell proliferation ex vivo. Adoptive transfer of neutrophils bearing LdCen^-/- parasites induced an increased Th1 response in naive mice. Importantly, neutrophil depletion significantly abrogated Ag-specific CD4⁺ T cell proliferation in LdCen^-/- -immunized mice and impaired protection against virulent challenge. Conversely, replenishing of neutrophils significantly restored the LdCen^-/- -induced host-protective response. These results suggest that neutrophils are indispensable for protective immunity induced by LdCen^-/- parasite vaccine.

The Neutrophil: The Underdog That Packs a Punch in the Fight against Cancer

The advent of immunotherapy has had a major impact on the outcome and overall survival in many types of cancer. Current immunotherapeutic strategies typically aim to (re)activate anticancer T cell immunity, although the targeting of macrophage-mediated anticancer innate immunity has also emerged in recent years. Neutrophils, although comprising ≈ 60% of all white blood cells in the circulation, are still largely overlooked in this respect. Nevertheless, neutrophils have evident anticancer activity and can induce phagocytosis, trogocytosis, as well as the direct cytotoxic elimination of cancer cells. Furthermore, therapeutic tumor-targeting monoclonal antibodies trigger anticancer immune responses through all innate Fc-receptor expressing cells, including neutrophils. Indeed, the depletion of neutrophils strongly reduced the efficacy of monoclonal antibody treatment and increased tumor progression in various preclinical studies. In addition, the infusion of neutrophils in murine cancer models reduced tumor progression. However, evidence on the anticancer effects of neutrophils is fragmentary and mostly obtained in in vitro assays or murine models with reports on anticancer neutrophil activity in humans lagging behind. In this review, we aim to give an overview of the available knowledge of anticancer activity by neutrophils. Furthermore, we will describe strategies being explored for the therapeutic activation of anticancer neutrophil activity.

Neutrophils acquire antigen-presenting cell features after phagocytosis of IgG-opsonized erythrocytes

Neutrophils are particularly well known for their antimicrobial function. Although historically they are regarded as strictly a phagocyte of the innate immune system, over time it has become clear that neutrophils are versatile cells with numerous functions including innate and adaptive immune regulation. We have previously described a role for human neutrophils in antibody-mediated red blood cell (RBC) clearance. Under homeostatic conditions, neutrophils do not take up RBCs. Yet, when RBCs are immunoglobulin G (IgG) opsonized, which can occur in alloimmunization or autoimmunization reactions, neutrophils can effectively phagocytose RBCs. In the present study, we show that human neutrophils acquire an antigen-presenting cell (APC) phenotype following RBC phagocytosis. Subsequent to RBC phagocytosis, neutrophils expressed major histocompatibility complex class II (MHC-II) and costimulatory molecules such as CD40 and CD80. Moreover, in classical APCs, the respiratory burst is known to regulate antigen presentation. We found that the respiratory burst in neutrophils is reduced after IgG-mediated RBC phagocytosis. Additionally, following RBC phagocytosis, neutrophils were demonstrated to elicit an antigen-specific T-cell response, using tetanus toxoid (TT) as an antigen to elicit an autologous TT-specific CD4⁺ T-cell response. Lastly, although the "don't eat me" signal CD47 is known to have a powerful restrictive role in the activation of immunity against RBCs in dendritic cells, CD47 does not seem to have a significant effect on the antigen-presenting function of neutrophils in this context. Overall, these findings reveal that besides their classical antimicrobial role, neutrophils show plasticity in their phenotype.

A new DNA vaccine expressing HspX-PPE44-EsxV fusion antigens of Mycobacterium tuberculosis induced strong immune responses

OBJECTIVES

Infection with tuberculosis (TB) is regarded as a major health issue. Due to the emergence of antibiotic resistance during TB treatment, prevention via vaccination is one of the most effective ways of controlling the infection. DNA vaccines are developed at a greater pace due to their ability in generating a long-lasting immune response, higher safety compared to the live vaccines, and relatively lower cost of production. In the present study, we evaluated a new DNA vaccine encoding the fusion HspX-PPE44-EsxV antigens, separately, and in combination with Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) administration, in a prime-boost method in mice.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A novel DNA vaccine encoding HspX-PPE44-EsxV fusion antigen of Mycobacterium tuberculosis was constructed, and RT-PCR and Western blot analysis were performed to verify the expression of the antigen. Female BALB/c mice were divided into five groups (PBS, BCG, pcDNA3.1 (+) vector, pDNA/HspX-PPE44-EsxV vaccine, and the BCG-prime boost groups). In order to evaluate the immunogenicity of the recombinant vector, BALB/c mice were injected with 100 μg of pDNA at 2-week intervals. Then, cytokine assay was conducted using eBioscience ELISA kits (Ebioscience, AUT) according to manufacturers' instructions to evaluate the concentrations of IL-4, IL-12, TGF-β, and IFN-γ.

RESULTS

The concentrations of INF-γ, IL-12, and TGF-beta were significantly increased compared to the control groups (P<0.001). INF-γ and IL-12 production were increased significantly in pDNA/HspX-PPE44-EsxV+BCG group compared to pDNA/HspX-PPE44-EsxV group (P<0.001).

CONCLUSION

This study showed that the present DNA vaccine could induce a high level of specific cytokines in mice. It was also shown that using this DNA vaccine in a BCG prime-boost protocol can produce significant amounts of IFN-γ, IL-12, and TGF-β.

S100A8/A9 regulates CD11b expression and neutrophil recruitment during chronic tuberculosis

Neutrophil accumulation is associated with lung pathology during active tuberculosis (ATB). However, the molecular mechanism or mechanisms by which neutrophils accumulate in the lung and contribute to TB immunopathology are not fully delineated. Using the well-established mouse model of TB, our new data provide evidence that the alarmin S100A8/A9 mediates neutrophil accumulation during progression to chronic TB. Depletion of neutrophils or S100A8/A9 deficiency resulted in improved Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) control during chronic but not acute TB. Mechanistically, we demonstrate that, following Mtb infection, S100A8/A9 expression is required for upregulation of the integrin molecule CD11b specifically on neutrophils, mediating their accumulation during chronic TB disease. These findings are further substantiated by increased expression of S100A8 and S100A9 mRNA in whole blood in human TB progressors when compared with nonprogressors and rapidly decreased S100A8/A9 protein levels in the serum upon TB treatment. Furthermore, we demonstrate that S100A8/A9 serum levels along with chemokines are useful in distinguishing between ATB and asymptomatic Mtb-infected latent individuals. Thus, our results support targeting S100A8/A9 pathways as host-directed therapy for TB.

Interactions between helminths and tuberculosis infections: Implications for tuberculosis diagnosis and vaccination in Africa

Africa is the second most populous continent and has perennial health challenges. Of the estimated 181 million school aged children in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), nearly half suffer from ascariasis, trichuriasis, or a combination of these infections. Coupled with these is the problem of tuberculosis (TB) caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) infection, which is a leading cause of death in the region. Compared to the effect of the human immunodeficiency virus on the development of TB, the effect of chronic helminth infections is a neglected area of research, yet helminth infections are as ubiquitous as they are varied and may potentially have profound effects upon host immunity, particularly as it relates to TB infection, diagnosis, and vaccination. Protection against active TB is known to require a clearly delineated T-helper type 1 (Th1) response, while helminths induce a strong opposing Th2 and immune-regulatory host response. This Review highlights the potential challenges of helminth-TB co-infection in Africa and the need for further research.

Changes in T-lymphocyte subsets and risk factors in human immunodeficiency virus-negative patients with active tuberculosis

Purpose

Immune function imbalance is closely associated with the occurrence and development of infectious diseases. We studied the characteristics of changes in T-lymphocyte subsets and their risk factors in HIV-negative patients with active tuberculosis (ATB).

Methods

T-lymphocyte subsets in 275 HIV-negative ATB patients were quantitatively analyzed and compared with an Mycobacteriumtuberculosis-free control group. Single-factor and multifactor analyses of clinical and laboratory characteristics of patients were also conducted.

Results

In ATB patients, CD4 and CD8 T-cell counts decreased, and the levels were positively interrelated (r = 0.655, P < 0.0001). After 4 weeks of antituberculosis treatment, CD4 and CD8 T-cell counts increased significantly but remained lower than in the control group. CD4 and CD8 cell counts were negatively associated with the extent of lesions detected in the chest by computed tomography (all P < 0.05). Although not reflected in the CD4/CD8 ratio, CD4 and CD8 cell counts differed between drug-resistant TB patients and drug-susceptible TB patients (P = 0.030). The multivariate analysis showed prealbumin, alpha-1 globulin, body mass index, and platelet count were independent risk factors for decreased CD4 cell count (all P < 0.05), while age and platelet count were independent risk factors for decreased CD8 cell count (all P < 0.05).

Conclusion

CD4 and CD8 T-cell counts showed the evident value in predicting ATB severity. An increase in the CD4/CD8 ratio may be a critical clue of drug resistance in ATB. Although the factors influencing CD4 and CD8 are not identical, our results indicated the importance of serum protein and platelets to ATB patients’ immune function.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1007/s15010-020-01451-2) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Intrapulmonary (i.pulmon.) Pull Immunization With the Tuberculosis Subunit Vaccine Candidate H56/CAF01 After Intramuscular (i.m.) Priming Elicits a Distinct Innate Myeloid Response and Activation of Antigen-Presenting Cells Than i.m. or i.pulmon. Prime Immunization Alone

Understanding the in vivo fate of vaccine antigens and adjuvants and their safety is crucial for the rational design of mucosal subunit vaccines. Prime and pull vaccination using the T helper 17-inducing adjuvant CAF01 administered parenterally and mucosally, respectively, has previously been suggested as a promising strategy to redirect immunity to mucosal tissues. Recently, we reported a promising tuberculosis (TB) vaccination strategy comprising of parenteral priming followed by intrapulmonary (i.pulmon.) mucosal pull immunization with the TB subunit vaccine candidate H56/CAF01, which resulted in the induction of lung-localized, H56-specific T cells and systemic as well as lung mucosal IgA responses. Here, we investigate the uptake of H56/CAF01 by mucosal and systemic innate myeloid cells, antigen-presenting cells (APCs), lung epithelial cells and endothelial cells in mice after parenteral prime combined with i.pulmon. pull immunization, and after parenteral or i.pulmon. prime immunization alone. We find that i.pulmon. pull immunization of mice with H56/CAF01, which are parenterally primed with H56/CAF01, substantially enhances vaccine uptake and presentation by pulmonary and splenic APCs, pulmonary endothelial cells and type I epithelial cells and induces stronger activation of dendritic cells in the lung-draining lymph nodes, compared with parenteral immunization alone, which suggests activation of both innate and memory responses. Using mass spectrometry imaging of lipid biomarkers, we further show that (i) airway mucosal immunization with H56/CAF01 neither induces apparent local tissue damage nor inflammation in the lungs, and (ii) the presence of CAF01 is accompanied by evidence of an altered phagocytic activity in alveolar macrophages, evident from co-localization of CAF01 with the biomarker bis(monoacylglycero)phosphate, which is expressed in the late endosomes and lysosomes of phagocytosing macrophages. Hence, our data demonstrate that innate myeloid responses differ after one and two immunizations, respectively, and the priming route and boosting route individually affect this outcome. These findings may have important implications for the design of mucosal vaccines intended for safe administration in the airways.

Role of neutrophils in tuberculosis: A bird's eye view

Neutrophils are innate immune cells implicated in the process of killing Mycobacterium tuberculosis early during infection. Once the mycobacteria enter the human system, neutrophils sense and engulf them. By secreting bactericidal enzymes and α-defensins like human neutrophil peptides loaded in their granule armory, neutrophils kill the pathogen. Peripheral blood neutrophils secrete a wide range of cytokines like IL-8, IL-1-β and IFN-γ in response to mycobacterial infection. Thus they signal and activate distant immune cells thereby informing them of prevailing infection. The activated monocytes, dendritic cells and T cells further continue the immune response. As a final call, neutrophils release neutrophil extracellular traps in circulation which can trap mycobacteria in patients with active pulmonary tuberculosis. Extensive neutrophilic response is associated with inflammation, pulmonary destruction, and pathology. For example, inappropriate phagocytosis of mycobacteria-infected neutrophils can damage host cells due to necrosis of neutrophils, leading to chronic inflammation and tissue damage. This dual nature of neutrophils makes them double-edged swords during tuberculosis, and hence data available on neutrophil functions against mycobacterium are controversial and non-uniform. This article reviews the role of neutrophils in tuberculosis infection and highlights research gaps that need to be addressed. We focus on our understanding of new research ideologies targeting neutrophils (a) in the early stages of infection for boosting specific immune functions or (b) in the later stages of infection to prevent inflammatory conditions mediated by activated neutrophils. This would plausibly lead to the development of better tuberculosis vaccines and therapeutics in the future.

Host defense mechanisms against Mycobacterium tuberculosis

Tuberculosis (TB), which is caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb), remains the leading cause of death worldwide from a single infectious pathogen. Mtb is a paradigmatic intracellular pathogen that primarily invades the lungs after host inhalation of bacteria-containing droplets via the airway. However, the majority of Mtb-exposed individuals can spontaneously control the infection by virtue of a robust immune defense system. The mucosal barriers of the respiratory tract shape the first-line defense against Mtb through various mucosal immune responses. After arriving at the alveoli, the surviving mycobacteria further encounter a set of host innate immune cells that exert multiple cellular bactericidal functions. Adaptive immunity, predominantly mediated by a range of different T cell and B cell subsets, is subsequently activated and participates in host anti-mycobacterial defense. During Mtb infection, host bactericidal immune responses are exquisitely adjusted and balanced by multifaceted mechanisms, including genetic and epigenetic regulation, metabolic regulation and neuroendocrine regulation, which are indispensable for maintaining host immune efficiency and avoiding excessive tissue injury. A better understanding of the integrated and equilibrated host immune defense system against Mtb will contribute to the development of rational TB treatment regimens especially novel host-directed therapeutics.

Live Vaccines Have Different NK Cells and Neutrophils Requirements for the Development of a Protective Immune Response Against Tuberculosis

It has been shown that neutrophils drive NK cells to activate DCs while NK cells regulate neutrophils survival. In response to mycobacteria, NK cells proliferate and produces IFN-γ, that appears to regulate the neutrophilic inflammatory responses to both M. tuberculosis infection and BCG vaccination. Although the role of neutrophils in the immune response to tuberculosis is a matter of debate, neutrophils were shown to be crucial to induce specific response against mc²-CMX vaccine. The objective of this study was to investigate the interplay between NK cells and neutrophils in regard to the development of a protective immune response against M. tuberculosis. Depletion of NK cells during vaccination did not alter the total number of neutrophils or DCs, but reduced the number of activated DCs, thus reducing the generation of Th1 specific immune responses and the protection conferred by mc²-CMX and BCG vaccines. However, only in mc²-CMX vaccination that neutrophil depletion interfered with the NK cell numbers and protection. In conclusion, it was shown that only when both NK and neutrophils were present, specific Th1 response and protection was achieved by mc²-CMX vaccine, while neutrophils although activated upon BCG vaccination were not necessary for the induced protection.

Immunology of Mycobacterium tuberculosis Infections

Tuberculosis (TB) is a serious global public health challenge that results in significant morbidity and mortality worldwide. TB is caused by infection with the bacilli Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M. tuberculosis), which has evolved a wide variety of strategies in order to thrive within its host. Understanding the complex interactions between M. tuberculosis and host immunity can inform the rational design of better TB vaccines and therapeutics. This chapter covers innate and adaptive immunity against M. tuberculosis infection, including insights on bacterial immune evasion and subversion garnered from animal models of infection and human studies. In addition, this chapter discusses the immunology of the TB granuloma, TB diagnostics, and TB comorbidities. Finally, this chapter provides a broad overview of the current TB vaccine pipeline.