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Zhang Y, Zhang F, Zhang Y, Wang M, Gao Y, Li H, Sun J, Xie Z. Investigating the therapeutic mechanism of Jiedu-Quyu-Ziyin Fang on systemic lupus erythematosus through the ERα-miRNA-TLR7 immune axis. Heliyon 2024; 10:e32752. [PMID: 38948043 PMCID: PMC11209013 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e32752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2023] [Revised: 06/06/2024] [Accepted: 06/07/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Jiedu-Quyu-Ziyin Fang (JQZF) is a formula that has been empirically used for the treatment of SLE in clinical practice. JQZF has become an approved hospital prescription in China. Fifteen MRL/lpr mice were randomly divided into three groups: Model, JQZF, and JQZF + GC, with five mice in each group. Five MRL/MPJ mice were used as the Blank group. After 8 weeks of administration, peripheral blood serum was collected to detect anti-dsDNA antibodies and complement C3 levels. Spleen B cells were collected to detect the expression of TLR7 and NF-κBp65 mRNA, and correlation analysis was performed. Transcriptome sequencing analysis was also performed on spleen B cells. Further, key miRNA and key gene mRNA expression were detected by RT-qPCR, and key protein expression levels were detected by Western blot method. Bioinformatics methods predicted that ESR1 is a key target of JQZF action on SLE, hsa-miR-146a-5p is one of the key miRNAs, and KEGG pathway analysis showed that NF-κB signaling pathway is its key signaling pathway. Transcriptome sequencing of MRL/lpr mouse spleen B cells revealed that the differential genes between the JQZF and Model groups were enriched in Toll-like receptor signaling pathway, NF-κB signaling pathway, Estrogen signaling pathway, etc. Animal studies show that JQZF treatment significantly boosts serum C3 and lowers anti-dsDNA antibodies (P < 0.01). On the molecular level, JQZF suppresses TLR7 and NF-κBp65 mRNA in spleen B cells, with TLR7 mRNA positively linked to anti-dsDNA titers and negatively to serum C3. Further cellular work demonstrates that JQZF reverses the increased IRAK1 and TRAF6 expression seen after miR146a inhibition. Additionally, post-ERα inhibition, JQZF continues to upregulate miR146a and more significantly reduces TLR7 mRNA expression (P < 0.01), pointing to ERα's pivotal role in the miR146a-TLR7 axis. These results indicate JQZF alleviates SLE by adjusting the ERα-miR146a-TLR7 loop, showcasing its mechanism and therapeutic potential for SLE.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - MeiJiao Wang
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Rheumatology of Zhejiang Province, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310000, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Yan Gao
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Rheumatology of Zhejiang Province, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310000, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - HaiChang Li
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Rheumatology of Zhejiang Province, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310000, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Jing Sun
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Rheumatology of Zhejiang Province, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310000, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - ZhiJun Xie
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Rheumatology of Zhejiang Province, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310000, Zhejiang Province, China
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2
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von Hofsten S, Fenton KA, Pedersen HL. Human and Murine Toll-like Receptor-Driven Disease in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:5351. [PMID: 38791389 PMCID: PMC11120885 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25105351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2024] [Revised: 05/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/12/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
The pathogenesis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is linked to the differential roles of toll-like receptors (TLRs), particularly TLR7, TLR8, and TLR9. TLR7 overexpression or gene duplication, as seen with the Y-linked autoimmune accelerator (Yaa) locus or TLR7 agonist imiquimod, correlates with increased SLE severity, and specific TLR7 polymorphisms and gain-of-function variants are associated with enhanced SLE susceptibility and severity. In addition, the X-chromosome location of TLR7 and its escape from X-chromosome inactivation provide a genetic basis for female predominance in SLE. The absence of TLR8 and TLR9 have been shown to exacerbate the detrimental effects of TLR7, leading to upregulated TLR7 activity and increased disease severity in mouse models of SLE. The regulatory functions of TLR8 and TLR9 have been proposed to involve competition for the endosomal trafficking chaperone UNC93B1. However, recent evidence implies more direct, regulatory functions of TLR9 on TLR7 activity. The association between age-associated B cells (ABCs) and autoantibody production positions these cells as potential targets for treatment in SLE, but the lack of specific markers necessitates further research for precise therapeutic intervention. Therapeutically, targeting TLRs is a promising strategy for SLE treatment, with drugs like hydroxychloroquine already in clinical use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susannah von Hofsten
- Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, 9019 Tromsø, Norway;
| | - Kristin Andreassen Fenton
- Centre of Clinical Research and Education, University Hospital of North Norway, Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, 9019 Tromsø, Norway;
| | - Hege Lynum Pedersen
- Centre of Clinical Research and Education, University Hospital of North Norway, Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, 9019 Tromsø, Norway;
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3
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Liu S, Lagos J, Shumlak NM, Largent AD, Lewis ST, Holder U, Du SW, Liu Y, Hou B, Acharya M, Jackson SW. NADPH oxidase exerts a B cell-intrinsic contribution to lupus risk by modulating endosomal TLR signals. J Exp Med 2024; 221:e20230774. [PMID: 38442270 PMCID: PMC10913815 DOI: 10.1084/jem.20230774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2023] [Revised: 11/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Genome-wide association studies in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) have linked loss-of-function mutations in phagocytic NADPH oxidase complex (NOX2) genes, including NCF1 and NCF2, to disease pathogenesis. The prevailing model holds that reduced NOX2 activity promotes SLE via defective efferocytosis, the immunologically silent clearance of apoptotic cells. Here, we describe a parallel B cell-intrinsic mechanism contributing to breaks in tolerance. In keeping with an important role for B cell Toll-like receptor (TLR) pathways in lupus pathogenesis, NOX2-deficient B cells exhibit enhanced signaling downstream of endosomal TLRs, increased humoral responses to nucleic acid-containing antigens, and the propensity toward humoral autoimmunity. Mechanistically, TLR-dependent NOX2 activation promotes LC3-mediated maturation of TLR-containing endosomes, resulting in signal termination. CRISPR-mediated disruption of NCF1 confirmed a direct role for NOX2 in regulating endosomal TLR signaling in primary human B cells. Together, these data highlight a new B cell-specific mechanism contributing to autoimmune risk in NCF1 and NCF2 variant carriers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuozhi Liu
- Seattle Children’s Research Institute, Seattle, WA, USA
| | | | | | | | | | - Ursula Holder
- Seattle Children’s Research Institute, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Samuel W. Du
- Seattle Children’s Research Institute, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Yifan Liu
- Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Baidong Hou
- Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Mridu Acharya
- Seattle Children’s Research Institute, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Shaun W. Jackson
- Seattle Children’s Research Institute, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA
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4
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Tangye SG. For whom the B(c)ell tolls: CXCL4 AIDs human autoimmunity. J Exp Med 2023; 220:e20231397. [PMID: 37773044 PMCID: PMC10533362 DOI: 10.1084/jem.20231397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/30/2023] Open
Abstract
In this issue of JEM, Çakan et al. (2023. J. Exp. Med.https://doi.org/10.1084/jem.20230944) explore a CXCL4-mediated mechanism by which TLRs cause autoimmunity in human B cells, breaching bone marrow tolerance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stuart G. Tangye
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Darlinghurst, Australia
- School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales Sydney, Sydney, Australia
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Englert KA, Dyduch G, Kłosowicz A, Spałkowska M, Jaworek AK, Migacz-Gruszka K, Jarosz-Chudek A, Mercuri SR, Szpor J, Mazzoccoli G, Damiani G, Wojas-Pelc A. Cutaneous Toll-like Receptor 9 Pre-Defines Hydroxychloroquine Dosage in Patients with Both Discoid and Subacute Lupus Erythematosus. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2023; 59:2022. [PMID: 38004071 PMCID: PMC10673105 DOI: 10.3390/medicina59112022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023]
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CLE) presents clinically heterogeneous manifestations, partially explained by the different expression of Toll-like receptors (TLRs) type 8 and 9, located to endosomal compartments where they are poised to recognize microbial nucleic acids. This disease is empirically treated with hydroxychloroquine (HCQ), which is hallmarked with a safe and effective profile, but induces a slow and sometimes clinically insufficient therapeutic response. Currently, no biomarkers predictive of response are validated or even proposed in the scientific literature. We aimed to evaluate endosomal TLR type 7, 8 and 9 as predictive biomarkers of HCQ efficacy. Materials and Methods: We conducted a case-control study comparing CLE patients retrospectively assigned to three subgroups based on 3-6-month Cutaneous LE Disease Area and Severity Index (CLASI) reduction upon treatment with HCQ (I = <40% vs. II = 40-80% vs. III = >80%). Before HCQ, lesional skin specimens were collected in untreated CLE and through immunohistochemistry; TLR-7, -8 and -9 expression was evaluated in the epidermis and the lymphocytic infiltrate was evaluated in the dermis. Results: Sixty-six lesional skin biopsies were compared with healthy controls. CLE patients displayed lower epidermal expression of total TLR 8 and 9 as well as infiltrating TLR-8, TLR9 + lymphocytes compared to controls. High HCQ responders differed from low responders for TLR-9 positivity (high vs. low) and for the lymphocytic dermal infiltrate (high vs. low). Conclusions: TLR9 could be envisaged as a possible biomarker to predict HCQ response level and dosage in CLE patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karolina A. Englert
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital in Krakow, 31-501 Kraków, Poland; (K.A.E.); (A.K.); (M.S.); (A.K.J.); (K.M.-G.); (A.J.-C.); (A.W.-P.)
| | - Grzegorz Dyduch
- Department of Pathomorphology, Jagiellonian University Medical College in Krakow, 33-332 Kraków, Poland; (G.D.); (J.S.)
| | - Agata Kłosowicz
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital in Krakow, 31-501 Kraków, Poland; (K.A.E.); (A.K.); (M.S.); (A.K.J.); (K.M.-G.); (A.J.-C.); (A.W.-P.)
| | - Magdalena Spałkowska
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital in Krakow, 31-501 Kraków, Poland; (K.A.E.); (A.K.); (M.S.); (A.K.J.); (K.M.-G.); (A.J.-C.); (A.W.-P.)
| | - Andrzej Kazimierz Jaworek
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital in Krakow, 31-501 Kraków, Poland; (K.A.E.); (A.K.); (M.S.); (A.K.J.); (K.M.-G.); (A.J.-C.); (A.W.-P.)
| | - Kamila Migacz-Gruszka
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital in Krakow, 31-501 Kraków, Poland; (K.A.E.); (A.K.); (M.S.); (A.K.J.); (K.M.-G.); (A.J.-C.); (A.W.-P.)
| | - Aleksandra Jarosz-Chudek
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital in Krakow, 31-501 Kraków, Poland; (K.A.E.); (A.K.); (M.S.); (A.K.J.); (K.M.-G.); (A.J.-C.); (A.W.-P.)
| | - Santo Raffaele Mercuri
- Unit of Dermatology, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, 20132 Milan, Italy;
- Italian Center of Precision Medicine and Chronic Inflammation, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Joanna Szpor
- Department of Pathomorphology, Jagiellonian University Medical College in Krakow, 33-332 Kraków, Poland; (G.D.); (J.S.)
| | - Gianluigi Mazzoccoli
- Division of Internal Medicine and Chronobiology Laboratory, Department of Medical Sciences, Fondazione IRCCS “Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza”, 71013 San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy
| | - Giovanni Damiani
- Unit of Dermatology, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, 20132 Milan, Italy;
- Italian Center of Precision Medicine and Chronic Inflammation, 20122 Milan, Italy
- Department of Biomedical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Anna Wojas-Pelc
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital in Krakow, 31-501 Kraków, Poland; (K.A.E.); (A.K.); (M.S.); (A.K.J.); (K.M.-G.); (A.J.-C.); (A.W.-P.)
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6
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McCaw TR, Lofftus SY, Crompton JG. Clonal redemption of B cells in cancer. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1277597. [PMID: 37965337 PMCID: PMC10640973 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1277597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Potentially self-reactive B cells constitute a large portion of the peripheral B cell repertoire in both mice and humans. Maintenance of autoreactive B cell populations could conceivably be detrimental to the host but their conservation throughout evolution suggests performance of a critical and beneficial immune function. We discuss herein how the process of clonal redemption may provide insight to preservation of an autoreactive B cell pool in the context of infection and autoimmunity. Clonal redemption refers to additional recombination or hypermutation events decreasing affinity for self-antigen, while increasing affinity for foreign antigens. We then review findings in murine models and human patients to consider whether clonal redemption may be able to provide tumor antigen-specific B cells and how this may or may not predispose patients to autoimmunity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Joseph G. Crompton
- Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, United States
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Li SJ, Ruan DD, Wu WZ, Wu M, Wu QY, Wang HL, Ji YY, Zhang YP, Lin XF, Fang ZT, Liao LS, Luo JW, Gao MZ, Wu JB. Potential regulatory role of the Nrf2/HMGB1/TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway in lupus nephritis. Pediatr Rheumatol Online J 2023; 21:130. [PMID: 37872565 PMCID: PMC10594751 DOI: 10.1186/s12969-023-00909-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/25/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Systemic lupus erythematosus is an autoimmune disease that involves multiple organ systems. One of its major complications, lupus nephritis (LN), is associated with a high mortality rate, and children-onset LN have a more severe course and worse prognosis than adults. Oxidative stress and inflammatory responses are involved in LN development and pathogenesis. Thus, this study aimed to explore the role of signaling regulation of the Nrf2/HMGB1/TLR/NF-κB pathway in LN pathogenesis and unravel the expression of TLR4+CXCR4+ plasma cells subset (PCs) in LN. METHODS C57BL/6 and MRL/lpr mice were divided into four groups: control, model, vector control, and Nrf2 overexpression groups. The vector control and Nrf2 overexpression groups were injected with adenoviral vectors into the kidney in situ. Pathological changes in kidney tissues were observed by hematoxylin-eosin staining. The expression of Nrf2, HMGB1, TLR4, NF-κB, and downstream inflammatory factors in kidney samples was analyzed by quantitative polymerase chain reaction, western blotting, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The ratios of TLR4+CXCR4+ PC subsets in the blood and kidneys of mice were determined by flow cytometry. RESULTS In MRL/lpr mice, Nrf2 was downregulated while HMGB1/TLR4/NF-κB pathway proteins were upregulated. Nrf2 overexpression decreased the expression of HMGB1, TLR4, NF-κB, and its downstream inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β and TNFα). These cytokines were negatively correlated with an increase in Nrf2 content. PC and TLR4 + CXCR4 + PCs in the blood and kidney samples were significantly increased in MRL/lpr mice; however, they were decreased upon Nrf2 overexpression. CONCLUSION This study showed severe kidney injury in an LN mouse model and an increased ratio of TLR4 + CXCR4 + PCs. Furthermore, we observed that Nrf2 regulates LN immune response through the Nrf2/HMGB1/TLR4/NF-κB pathway, which can be considered an important target for LN treatment. The clinical value of the findings of our study requires further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shi-Jie Li
- Fujian Provincial Hospital, Shengli Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350001, China
| | - Dan-Dan Ruan
- Fujian Provincial Hospital, Shengli Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350001, China
| | - Wei-Zhen Wu
- Xiyuan Clinical Medical College of Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Min Wu
- Fujian Provincial Hospital, Shengli Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350001, China
| | - Qiu-Yan Wu
- Fujian Provincial Hospital, Shengli Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350001, China
| | - Han-Lu Wang
- Fujian Provincial Hospital, Shengli Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350001, China
| | - Yuan-Yuan Ji
- Fujian Provincial Hospital, Shengli Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350001, China
| | - Yan-Ping Zhang
- Fujian Provincial Hospital, Shengli Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350001, China
| | - Xin-Fu Lin
- Fujian Provincial Hospital, Shengli Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350001, China
| | - Zhu-Ting Fang
- Fujian Provincial Hospital, Shengli Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350001, China
| | - Li-Sheng Liao
- Fujian Provincial Hospital, Shengli Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350001, China
- Department of Hematology, Fujian Provincial Hospital, Fuzhou, 350001, China
| | - Jie-Wei Luo
- Fujian Provincial Hospital, Shengli Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350001, China.
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fujian Provincial Hospital, Fuzhou, 350001, China.
| | - Mei-Zhu Gao
- Fujian Provincial Hospital, Shengli Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350001, China.
- Department of Nephrology, Fujian Provincial Hospital, Fuzhou, 350001, China.
| | - Jia-Bin Wu
- Fujian Provincial Hospital, Shengli Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350001, China.
- School of Medicine, Fuzhou Second Hospital, Xiamen University, Fuzhou, 350007, China.
- The Third Clinical Medical College, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350007, China.
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8
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Ren W, Zhao L, Sun Y, Wang X, Shi X. HMGB1 and Toll-like receptors: potential therapeutic targets in autoimmune diseases. Mol Med 2023; 29:117. [PMID: 37667233 PMCID: PMC10478470 DOI: 10.1186/s10020-023-00717-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/06/2023] Open
Abstract
HMGB1, a nucleoprotein, is expressed in almost all eukaryotic cells. During cell activation and cell death, HMGB1 can function as an alarm protein (alarmin) or damage-associated molecular pattern (DAMP) and mediate early inflammatory and immune response when it is translocated to the extracellular space. The binding of extracellular HMGB1 to Toll-like receptors (TLRs), such as TLR2 and TLR4 transforms HMGB1 into a pro-inflammatory cytokine, contributing to the occurrence and development of autoimmune diseases. TLRs, which are members of a family of pattern recognition receptors, can bind to endogenous DAMPs and activate the innate immune response. Additionally, TLRs are key signaling molecules mediating the immune response and play a critical role in the host defense against pathogens and the maintenance of immune balance. HMGB1 and TLRs are reported to be upregulated in several autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, type 1 diabetes mellitus, and autoimmune thyroid disease. The expression levels of HMGB1 and some TLRs are upregulated in tissues of patients with autoimmune diseases and animal models of autoimmune diseases. The suppression of HMGB1 and TLRs inhibits the progression of inflammation in animal models. Thus, HMGB1 and TLRs are indispensable biomarkers and important therapeutic targets for autoimmune diseases. This review provides comprehensive strategies for treating or preventing autoimmune diseases discovered in recent years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenxuan Ren
- Department of Endocrinology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110001, Liaoning, China
| | - Lei Zhao
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110001, Liaoning, China
| | - Ying Sun
- Department of Endocrinology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110001, Liaoning, China
| | - Xichang Wang
- Department of Endocrinology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110001, Liaoning, China
| | - Xiaoguang Shi
- Department of Endocrinology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110001, Liaoning, China.
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Cosgrove HA, Gingras S, Kim M, Bastacky S, Tilstra JS, Shlomchik MJ. B cell-intrinsic TLR7 expression drives severe lupus in TLR9-deficient mice. JCI Insight 2023; 8:e172219. [PMID: 37606042 PMCID: PMC10543715 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.172219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/23/2023] Open
Abstract
The endosomal Toll-like receptor 7 (TLR7) is a major driver of murine and human systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). The role of TLR7 in lupus pathogenesis is enhanced when the regulatory role of TLR9 is absent. TLR7 signaling in plasmacytoid DCs (pDC) is generally thought to be a major driver of the IFN response and disease pathology; however, the cell types in which TLR7 acts to mediate disease have not been distinguished. To address this, we selectively deleted TLR7 in either CD11c+ cells or CD19+ cells; using a TLR7-floxed allele, we created on the lupus-prone MRL/lpr background, along with a BM chimera strategy. Unexpectedly, TLR7 deficiency in CD11c+ cells had no impact on disease, while TLR7 deficiency in CD19+ B cells yielded mild suppression of proteinuria and a trend toward reduced glomerular disease. However, in TLR9-deficient MRL/lpr mice with accelerated SLE, B cell-specific TLR7 deficiency greatly improved disease. These results support revision of the mechanism by which TLR7 drives lupus and highlight a cis regulatory interaction between the protective TLR9 and the pathogenic TLR7 within the B cell compartment. They suggest B cell-directed, dual TLR7 antagonism/TLR9 agonism or dual TLR7/9 antagonism as a potential future therapeutic strategy to treat SLE.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Jeremy S. Tilstra
- Department of Immunology
- Department of Medicine, and
- Lupus Center of Excellence, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
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10
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Gavin AL, Blane TR, Thinnes TC, Gerlt E, Marshak-Rothstein A, Huang D, Nemazee D. Disease in the Pld4thss/thss Model of Murine Lupus Requires TLR9. Immunohorizons 2023; 7:577-586. [PMID: 37555846 PMCID: PMC10441812 DOI: 10.4049/immunohorizons.2300058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Phospholipase D4 (PLD4) is an endolysosomal exonuclease of ssRNA and ssDNA, rather than a phospholipase as its name suggests. Human polymorphisms in the PLD4 gene have been linked by genome-wide association studies to systemic sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, and systemic lupus erythematosus. However, B6.129 Pld4-/- mice develop features of a distinct disease, macrophage activation syndrome, which is reversed in mice mutated in TLR9. In this article, we compare a Pld4 null mutant identified on the BALB/c background, Pld4thss/thss, which has distinct phenotypes: short stature, thin hair, and features of systemic lupus erythematosus. All phenotypes analyzed were largely normalized in Pld4thss/thssTlr9-/- mice. Thus, Pld4thss/thss represents a rare model in which mouse lupus etiology is TLR9 dependent. Compared with PLD4-deficient B6 mice, Pld4thss/thss mice had elevated levels of serum IgG, IgG anti-dsDNA autoantibodies, BAFF, and IFN-γ and elevated B cell numbers. Overall, the data suggest that PLD4 deficiency can lead to a diverse array of rheumatological abnormalities depending upon background-modifying genes, and that these diseases of PLD4 deficiency are largely driven by TLR9 recognition of ssDNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda L. Gavin
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Tanya R. Blane
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Theresa C. Thinnes
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | | | | | - Deli Huang
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
- Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - David Nemazee
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
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11
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Mohan C, Zhang T, Putterman C. Pathogenic cellular and molecular mediators in lupus nephritis. Nat Rev Nephrol 2023:10.1038/s41581-023-00722-z. [PMID: 37225921 DOI: 10.1038/s41581-023-00722-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/21/2023] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Kidney involvement in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus - lupus nephritis (LN) - is one of the most important and common clinical manifestations of this disease and occurs in 40-60% of patients. Current treatment regimens achieve a complete kidney response in only a minority of affected individuals, and 10-15% of patients with LN develop kidney failure, with its attendant morbidity and considerable prognostic implications. Moreover, the medications most often used to treat LN - corticosteroids in combination with immunosuppressive or cytotoxic drugs - are associated with substantial side effects. Advances in proteomics, flow cytometry and RNA sequencing have led to important new insights into immune cells, molecules and mechanistic pathways that are instrumental in the pathogenesis of LN. These insights, together with a renewed focus on the study of human LN kidney tissue, suggest new therapeutic targets that are already being tested in lupus animal models and early-phase clinical trials and, as such, are hoped to eventually lead to meaningful improvements in the care of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus-associated kidney disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chandra Mohan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, TX, USA.
| | - Ting Zhang
- Division of Rheumatology, the Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Chaim Putterman
- Azrieli Faculty of Medicine, Bar-Ilan University, Safed, Israel.
- Division of Rheumatology and Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA.
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12
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Jackson SW, Rovin BH. Resolving a paradox between mouse and man: a genetic link between TLR7 and the pathogenesis of human lupus nephritis. Kidney Int 2023; 103:824-826. [PMID: 37085253 DOI: 10.1016/j.kint.2023.01.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2023] [Accepted: 01/13/2023] [Indexed: 04/23/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Shaun W Jackson
- Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, Washington, USA; Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington, USA; Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington, USA.
| | - Brad H Rovin
- Nephrology Division, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio, USA
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13
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Mauro D, Manou-Stathopoulou S, Rivellese F, Sciacca E, Goldmann K, Tsang V, Lucey-Clayton I, Pagani S, Alam F, Pyne D, Rajakariar R, Gordon PA, Whiteford J, Bombardieri M, Pitzalis C, Lewis MJ. UBE2L3 regulates TLR7-induced B cell autoreactivity in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus. J Autoimmun 2023; 136:103023. [PMID: 37001433 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaut.2023.103023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/31/2023]
Abstract
Both TLR7 and NF-κB hyperactivity are known to contribute to pathogenesis in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE), driving a pro-interferon response, autoreactive B cell expansion and autoantibody production. UBE2L3 is an SLE susceptibility gene which drives plasmablast/plasma cell expansion in SLE, but its role in TLR7 signalling has not been elucidated. We aimed to investigate the role of UBE2L3 in TLR7-mediated NF-κB activation, and the effect of UBE2L3 inhibition by Dimethyl Fumarate (DMF) on SLE B cell differentiation in vitro. Our data demonstrate that UBE2L3 is critical for activation of NF-κB downstream of TLR7 stimulation, via interaction with LUBAC. DMF, which directly inhibits UBE2L3, significantly inhibited TLR7-induced NF-κB activation, differentiation of memory B cells and plasmablasts, and autoantibody secretion in SLE. DMF also downregulated interferon signature genes and plasma cell transcriptional programmes. These results demonstrate that UBE2L3 inhibition could potentially be used as a therapy in SLE through repurposing of DMF, thus preventing TLR7-driven autoreactive B cell maturation.
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14
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Wen L, Zhang B, Wu X, Liu R, Fan H, Han L, Zhang Z, Ma X, Chu CQ, Shi X. Toll-like receptors 7 and 9 regulate the proliferation and differentiation of B cells in systemic lupus erythematosus. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1093208. [PMID: 36875095 PMCID: PMC9975558 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1093208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune illness marked by the loss of immune tolerance and the production of autoantibodies against nucleic acids and other nuclear antigens (Ags). B lymphocytes are important in the immunopathogenesis of SLE. Multiple receptors control abnormal B-cell activation in SLE patients, including intrinsic Toll-like receptors (TLRs), B-cell receptors (BCRs), and cytokine receptors. The role of TLRs, notably TLR7 and TLR9, in the pathophysiology of SLE has been extensively explored in recent years. When endogenous or exogenous nucleic acid ligands are recognized by BCRs and internalized into B cells, they bind TLR7 or TLR9 to activate related signalling pathways and thus govern the proliferation and differentiation of B cells. Surprisingly, TLR7 and TLR9 appear to play opposing roles in SLE B cells, and the interaction between them is still poorly understood. In addition, other cells can enhance TLR signalling in B cells of SLE patients by releasing cytokines that accelerate the differentiation of B cells into plasma cells. Therefore, the delineation of how TLR7 and TLR9 regulate the abnormal activation of B cells in SLE may aid the understanding of the mechanisms of SLE and provide directions for TLR-targeted therapies for SLE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luyao Wen
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, The First Affiliated Hospital, and College of Clinical Medicine of Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, China
| | - Bei Zhang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, The First Affiliated Hospital, and College of Clinical Medicine of Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, China
| | - Xinfeng Wu
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, The First Affiliated Hospital, and College of Clinical Medicine of Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, China
| | - Rongzeng Liu
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, China
| | - Hua Fan
- Office of Research & Innovation, The First Affiliated Hospital, and College of Clinical Medicine of Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, China
| | - Lei Han
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, The First Affiliated Hospital, and College of Clinical Medicine of Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, China
| | - Zhibo Zhang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, The First Affiliated Hospital, and College of Clinical Medicine of Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, China
| | - Xin Ma
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, The First Affiliated Hospital, and College of Clinical Medicine of Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, China
| | - Cong-Qiu Chu
- Division of Arthritis and Rheumatic Diseases, Oregon Health & Science University and VA Portland Health Care System, Portland, OR, United States
| | - Xiaofei Shi
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, The First Affiliated Hospital, and College of Clinical Medicine of Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, China
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15
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Epigenetic regulation of B cells and its role in autoimmune pathogenesis. Cell Mol Immunol 2022; 19:1215-1234. [PMID: 36220996 PMCID: PMC9622816 DOI: 10.1038/s41423-022-00933-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2022] [Accepted: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
B cells play a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases. Although previous studies have shown many genetic polymorphisms associated with B-cell activation in patients with various autoimmune disorders, progress in epigenetic research has revealed new mechanisms leading to B-cell hyperactivation. Epigenetic mechanisms, including those involving histone modifications, DNA methylation, and noncoding RNAs, regulate B-cell responses, and their dysregulation can contribute to the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases. Patients with autoimmune diseases show epigenetic alterations that lead to the initiation and perpetuation of autoimmune inflammation. Moreover, many clinical and animal model studies have shown the promising potential of epigenetic therapies for patients. In this review, we present an up-to-date overview of epigenetic mechanisms with a focus on their roles in regulating functional B-cell subsets. Furthermore, we discuss epigenetic dysregulation in B cells and highlight its contribution to the development of autoimmune diseases. Based on clinical and preclinical evidence, we discuss novel epigenetic biomarkers and therapies for patients with autoimmune disorders.
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16
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Kang N, Liu X, You X, Sun W, Haneef K, Sun X, Liu W. Aberrant B-Cell Activation in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus. KIDNEY DISEASES (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 8:437-445. [PMID: 36590680 PMCID: PMC9798842 DOI: 10.1159/000527213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Background B lymphocytes (B cells) are essential in humoral response, and their activation is an important first step for the production of antibodies. However, aberrant B-cell activation is common in the development and progression of autoimmune diseases including systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), which is characterized by the generation of superfluous autoantibodies. SLE exhibits clinical manifestation such as excessive inflammation and tissue damage. This review aims to summarize the recent emerging studies on aberrant B-cell activation and the associated concurrent therapeutic targets in SLE. Summary Aberrant B-cell activation is closely associated with the pathogenesis of SLE. Among a variety of mechanisms, dysregulations of B-cell receptor (BCR), toll-like receptor (TLR), and B-cell activating factor receptor (BAFF-R) pathways are the common and dominating factors involved in aberrant B-cell activation. These aberrant signaling transductions play diverse and integrated roles in the development and the pathogenesis of SLE. Therapies targeting aberrant B-cell activation have shown promising efficacy in achieving the clinical alleviation of SLE, suggesting the discovery of new drug targets from these aberrant signaling pathways is imminent. Here, an integrated survey or review of published high-throughput sequencing database covering RNAs of B cells from SLE versus criteria-matched healthy controls highlights that reported signaling molecules in BCR pathway (VAV2, PLC-γ2), TLR pathway (TLR9, P105, IRF7, TAB1), and BAFF-R pathway (SDF-1α) are attitudinally upregulated in SLE patients. This review thus suggests the concurrent and future therapeutic targets and potential biomarkers in both basic and clinical studies of SLE. Key Messages This review focuses on core B-cell signaling pathways, discussing the progress in the role of aberrant B-cell activation during the pathogenesis of SLE. This review also highlights the signaling molecules from published studies and database for the possible prevention and treatment targets serving the future clinical treatments of SLE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Kang
- Beijing Key Lab for Immunological Research on Chronic Diseases, School of Life Sciences, Institute for Immunology, MOE Key Laboratory of Protein Sciences, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Structural Biology, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China,Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaohang Liu
- Beijing Key Lab for Immunological Research on Chronic Diseases, School of Life Sciences, Institute for Immunology, MOE Key Laboratory of Protein Sciences, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Structural Biology, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China,Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xujie You
- Department of Rheumatology, National Centre for Children's Health, Beijing Children's Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Wenbo Sun
- Beijing Key Lab for Immunological Research on Chronic Diseases, School of Life Sciences, Institute for Immunology, MOE Key Laboratory of Protein Sciences, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Structural Biology, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China,Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Kabeer Haneef
- Beijing Key Lab for Immunological Research on Chronic Diseases, School of Life Sciences, Institute for Immunology, MOE Key Laboratory of Protein Sciences, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Structural Biology, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China,Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaolin Sun
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Beijing Key Lab for Rheumatism and Immune Diagnosis (BZ0135), Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China,*Xiaolin Sun,
| | - Wanli Liu
- Beijing Key Lab for Immunological Research on Chronic Diseases, School of Life Sciences, Institute for Immunology, MOE Key Laboratory of Protein Sciences, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Structural Biology, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China,Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, Beijing, China,**Wanli Liu,
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17
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Corneth OBJ, Neys SFH, Hendriks RW. Aberrant B Cell Signaling in Autoimmune Diseases. Cells 2022; 11:cells11213391. [PMID: 36359789 PMCID: PMC9654300 DOI: 10.3390/cells11213391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2022] [Revised: 10/15/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Aberrant B cell signaling plays a critical in role in various systemic and organ-specific autoimmune diseases. This is supported by genetic evidence by many functional studies in B cells from patients or specific animal models and by the observed efficacy of small-molecule inhibitors. In this review, we first discuss key signal transduction pathways downstream of the B cell receptor (BCR) that ensure that autoreactive B cells are removed from the repertoire or functionally silenced. We provide an overview of aberrant BCR signaling that is associated with inappropriate B cell repertoire selection and activation or survival of peripheral B cell populations and plasma cells, finally leading to autoantibody formation. Next to BCR signaling, abnormalities in other signal transduction pathways have been implicated in autoimmune disease. These include reduced activity of several phosphates that are downstream of co-inhibitory receptors on B cells and increased levels of BAFF and APRIL, which support survival of B cells and plasma cells. Importantly, pathogenic synergy of the BCR and Toll-like receptors (TLR), which can be activated by endogenous ligands, such as self-nucleic acids, has been shown to enhance autoimmunity. Finally, we will briefly discuss therapeutic strategies for autoimmune disease based on interfering with signal transduction in B cells.
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18
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Genetic dissection of TLR9 reveals complex regulatory and cryptic proinflammatory roles in mouse lupus. Nat Immunol 2022; 23:1457-1469. [PMID: 36151396 PMCID: PMC9561083 DOI: 10.1038/s41590-022-01310-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2021] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
In lupus, Toll-like receptor 7 (TLR7) and TLR9 mediate loss of tolerance to RNA and DNA, respectively. Yet, TLR7 promotes disease, while TLR9 protects from disease, implying differences in signaling. To dissect this 'TLR paradox', we generated two TLR9 point mutants (lacking either ligand (TLR9K51E) or MyD88 (TLR9P915H) binding) in lupus-prone MRL/lpr mice. Ameliorated disease of Tlr9K51E mice compared to Tlr9-/- controls revealed a TLR9 'scaffold' protective function that is ligand and MyD88 independent. Unexpectedly, Tlr9P915H mice were more protected than both Tlr9K51E and Tlr9WT mice, suggesting that TLR9 also possesses ligand-dependent, but MyD88-independent, regulatory signaling and MyD88-mediated proinflammatory signaling. Triple-mixed bone marrow chimeras showed that TLR9-MyD88-independent regulatory roles were B cell intrinsic and restrained differentiation into pathogenic age-associated B cells and plasmablasts. These studies reveal MyD88-independent regulatory roles of TLR9, shedding light on the biology of endosomal TLRs.
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19
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Zhang Y, Zhang F, Gao Y, Wang M, Gao Y, Li H, Sun J, Wen C, Xie Z. Triptolide in the treatment of systemic lupus erythematosus - regulatory effects on miR-146a in B cell TLR7 signaling pathway in mice. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:952775. [PMID: 36210830 PMCID: PMC9539794 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.952775] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: To clarify the mechanism of triptolide (TP) in alleviating the conditions underlying SLE. Methods: Eight-week-old MRL/lpr mice were randomly divided into a model group (n = 5), low-dose TP (TP-L) group (n = 5), and high-dose TP (TP-H) group (n = 5). Mice in these groups were gavaged with normal saline, low-dose TP solution, and high-dose TP solution for 8 weeks, respectively. The expression levels of anti-dsDNA, IgG, IgM, IgA, C3, C4, and CREA, BUN, ALT, AST, ALB, and ALP indexes in the serum of mice were detected. The proportion of CD19+CD138+B220− cells in the spleen and the pathological changes of kidney tissue in the mice were also evaluated. The possible signaling pathways and microRNA (miRNA) targets of TP in the treatment of SLE were analyzed using network pharmacology. The expressions of TLR7 mRNA and miR-146a in Raji cells (a B lymphocyte line) were detected using qPCR before and after intervention with a miR-146a inhibitor. The protein expression levels of TLR7, MyD88, p-IRAK1, and p-NF-κBp65 were detected using western blot analysis. Results: TP could significantly decrease the levels of ds-DNA and IgG, alleviate pathological injury in renal tissue, and upregulate miR-146a expression in the B cells of MRL/lpr mice without obvious liver and kidney toxicity. Network pharmacology analysis showed that TP could mainly regulate the Toll-like receptor signaling pathway, and NF-κB signaling pathway, among others. miRNA target prediction suggested that TP could regulate miRNAs such as miR-146a. In vitro cell experiments further confirmed that TP could significantly upregulate miR-146a expression and downregulate the expression of TLR7 mRNA and protein levels TLR7, MyD88, p-IRAK1, and p-NF-κBp65. After intervention with a miR-146a inhibitor, TP had no obvious inhibitory effects on TLR7, MyD88, p-IRAK1, and p-NF-κBp65 expression. Conclusion: TP may exert therapeutic effects on SLE by regulating miR-146a expression, inhibiting the TLR7/NF-κB signaling pathway, and affecting B cell activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Zhang
- School of Basic Medical Science, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - FengQi Zhang
- School of Basic Medical Science, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - YiNi Gao
- School of Basic Medical Science, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - MeiJiao Wang
- School of Basic Medical Science, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yan Gao
- School of Basic Medical Science, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - HaiChang Li
- School of Basic Medical Science, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jing Sun
- The Second School of Clinical Medicine, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - ChengPing Wen
- School of Basic Medical Science, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: ChengPing Wen, ; ZhiJun Xie,
| | - ZhiJun Xie
- School of Basic Medical Science, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: ChengPing Wen, ; ZhiJun Xie,
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20
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Woods J, Pemberton SE, Largent AD, Chiang K, Liggitt D, Oukka M, Rawlings DJ, Jackson SW. Cutting Edge: Systemic Autoimmunity in Murine STAT3 Gain-of-Function Syndrome Is Characterized by Effector T Cell Expansion in the Absence of Overt Regulatory T Cell Dysfunction. JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY (BALTIMORE, MD. : 1950) 2022; 209:1033-1038. [PMID: 35995509 PMCID: PMC9492649 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.2100920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2021] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Germline gain-of-function mutations in the transcriptional factor STAT3 promote early-onset multisystemic autoimmunity. To investigate how increased STAT3 promotes systemic inflammation, we generated a transgenic knock-in strain expressing a pathogenic human mutation STAT3K392R within the endogenous murine locus. As predicted, STAT3K392R mice develop progressive lymphoid hyperplasia and systemic inflammation, mirroring the human disease. However, whereas the prevailing model holds that increased STAT3 activity drives human autoimmunity by dysregulating the balance between regulatory T cells and Th17 cell differentiation, we observed increased Th17 cells in the absence of major defects in regulatory T cell differentiation or function. In addition, STAT3K392R animals exhibited a prominent accumulation of IFN-γ-producing CD4+ and CD8+ T cells. Together, these data provide new insights into this complex human genetic syndrome and highlight the diverse cellular mechanisms by which dysregulated STAT3 activity promotes breaks in immune tolerance.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Denny Liggitt
- Department of Comparative Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine Seattle, WA
| | - Mohamed Oukka
- Department of Immunology, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA; and
| | - David J Rawlings
- Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA
- Department of Immunology, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA; and
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA
| | - Shaun W Jackson
- Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA;
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA
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21
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Chen Z, Flores Castro D, Gupta S, Phalke S, Manni M, Rivera-Correa J, Jessberger R, Zaghouani H, Giannopoulou E, Pannellini T, Pernis AB. Interleukin-13 Receptor α1-Mediated Signaling Regulates Age-Associated/Autoimmune B Cell Expansion and Lupus Pathogenesis. Arthritis Rheumatol 2022; 74:1544-1555. [PMID: 35438841 PMCID: PMC9427689 DOI: 10.1002/art.42146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2021] [Revised: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Age-associated/autoimmune B cells (ABCs) are an emerging B cell subset with aberrant expansion in systemic lupus erythematosus. ABC generation and differentiation exhibit marked sexual dimorphism, and Toll-like receptor 7 (TLR-7) engagement is a key contributor to these sex differences. ABC generation is also controlled by interleukin-21 (IL-21) and its interplay with interferon-γ and IL-4. This study was undertaken to investigate whether IL-13 receptor α1 (IL-13Rα1), an X-linked receptor that transmits IL-4/IL-13 signals, regulates ABCs and lupus pathogenesis. METHODS Mice lacking DEF-6 and switch-associated protein 70 (double-knockout [DKO]), which preferentially develop lupus in females, were crossed with IL-13Rα1-knockout mice. IL-13Rα1-knockout male mice were also crossed with Y chromosome autoimmune accelerator (Yaa) DKO mice, which overexpress TLR-7 and develop severe disease. ABCs were assessed using flow cytometry and RNA-Seq. Lupus pathogenesis was evaluated using serologic and histologic analyses. RESULTS ABCs expressed higher levels of IL-13Rα1 than follicular B cells. The absence of IL-13Rα1 in either DKO female mice or Yaa DKO male mice decreased the accumulation of ABCs, the differentiation of ABCs into plasmablasts, and autoantibody production. Lack of IL-13Rα1 also prolonged survival and delayed the development of tissue inflammation. IL-13Rα1 deficiency diminished in vitro generation of ABCs, an effect that, surprisingly, could be observed in response to IL-21 alone. RNA-Seq revealed that ABCs lacking IL-13Rα1 down-regulated some histologic characteristics of B cells but up-regulated myeloid markers and proinflammatory mediators. CONCLUSION Our findings indicate a novel role for IL-13Rα1 in controlling ABC generation and differentiation, suggesting that IL-13Rα1 contributes to these effects by regulating a subset of IL-21-mediated signaling events. These results also suggest that X-linked genes besides TLR7 participate in the regulation of ABCs in lupus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhu Chen
- Autoimmunity and Inflammation Program, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, the First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, China
| | - Danny Flores Castro
- Autoimmunity and Inflammation Program, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, NY, USA
| | - Sanjay Gupta
- Autoimmunity and Inflammation Program, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, NY, USA
| | - Swati Phalke
- Autoimmunity and Inflammation Program, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, NY, USA
| | - Michela Manni
- Autoimmunity and Inflammation Program, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, NY, USA
| | - Juan Rivera-Correa
- Autoimmunity and Inflammation Program, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, NY, USA
| | - Rolf Jessberger
- Institute of Physiological Chemistry, Medical Faculty, Technische Universitat, Dresden, Germany
| | - Habib Zaghouani
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, University of Missouri School of Medicine, Columbia, MO
- Department of Neurology, University of Missouri School of Medicine, Columbia, MO
- Department of Child Health, University of Missouri School of Medicine, Columbia, MO
| | - Evgenia Giannopoulou
- David Z. Rosensweig Genomics Research Center, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, NY, USA
- Biological Sciences Department, New York City College of Technology, City University of New York, Brooklyn, NY, USA
| | - Tania Pannellini
- Research Division and Precision Medicine Laboratory, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, NY, USA
| | - Alessandra B. Pernis
- Autoimmunity and Inflammation Program, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, NY, USA
- David Z. Rosensweig Genomics Research Center, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
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22
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Gao X, Cockburn IA. The development and function of CD11c+ atypical B cells - insights from single cell analysis. Front Immunol 2022; 13:979060. [PMID: 36072594 PMCID: PMC9441955 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.979060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
CD11c+ T-bet+ atypical B cells (ABCs) have been identified in the context of vaccination, acute and chronic infections and autoimmune disease. However, the origins and functions of ABCs remain elusive. A major obstacle in the study of ABCs, and human MBCs more generally, has been the use of different phenotypic markers in different contexts to identify what appear to be phenotypically similar cells. Advances in single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) technology have allowed researchers to accurately identify ABCs in different immune contexts such as diseases and tissues. Notably, recent studies utilizing single cell techniques have demonstrated ABCs are a highly conserved memory B cell lineage. This analysis has also revealed that ABCs are more abundant in ostensibly healthy donors than previously thought. Nonetheless, the normal function of these cells remains elusive. In this review, we will focus on scRNA-seq studies to discuss recent advances in our understanding about the development and functions of ABCs.
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23
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Schafer JM, Xiao T, Kwon H, Collier K, Chang Y, Abdel-Hafiz H, Bolyard C, Chung D, Yang Y, Sundi D, Ma Q, Theodorescu D, Li X, Li Z. Sex-biased adaptive immune regulation in cancer development and therapy. iScience 2022; 25:104717. [PMID: 35880048 PMCID: PMC9307950 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2022.104717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The cancer research field is finally starting to unravel the mystery behind why males have a higher incidence and mortality rate than females for nearly all cancer types of the non-reproductive systems. Here, we explain how sex - specifically sex chromosomes and sex hormones - drives differential adaptive immunity across immune-related disease states including cancer, and why males are consequently more predisposed to tumor development. We highlight emerging data on the roles of cell-intrinsic androgen receptors in driving CD8+ T cell dysfunction or exhaustion in the tumor microenvironment and summarize ongoing clinical efforts to determine the impact of androgen blockade on cancer immunotherapy. Finally, we outline a framework for future research in cancer biology and immuno-oncology, underscoring the importance of a holistic research approach to understanding the mechanisms of sex dimorphisms in cancer, so sex will be considered as an imperative factor for guiding treatment decisions in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johanna M. Schafer
- Pelotonia Institute for Immuno-Oncology, the Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – the James, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Tong Xiao
- Pelotonia Institute for Immuno-Oncology, the Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – the James, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Hyunwoo Kwon
- Pelotonia Institute for Immuno-Oncology, the Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – the James, Columbus, OH 43210, USA,Medical Scientist Training Program, College of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425, USA
| | - Katharine Collier
- Division of Medical Oncology, the Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – the James, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Yuzhou Chang
- Pelotonia Institute for Immuno-Oncology, the Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – the James, Columbus, OH 43210, USA,Department of Biomedical Informatics, the Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Hany Abdel-Hafiz
- Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA,Department of Medicine and Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
| | - Chelsea Bolyard
- Pelotonia Institute for Immuno-Oncology, the Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – the James, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Dongjun Chung
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, the Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Yuanquan Yang
- Division of Medical Oncology, the Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – the James, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Debasish Sundi
- Department of Urology, the Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Qin Ma
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, the Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Dan Theodorescu
- Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA,Department of Surgery, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
| | - Xue Li
- Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA,Department of Medicine and Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
| | - Zihai Li
- Pelotonia Institute for Immuno-Oncology, the Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – the James, Columbus, OH 43210, USA,Corresponding author
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24
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Phalke S, Rivera-Correa J, Jenkins D, Flores Castro D, Giannopoulou E, Pernis AB. Molecular mechanisms controlling age-associated B cells in autoimmunity. Immunol Rev 2022; 307:79-100. [PMID: 35102602 DOI: 10.1111/imr.13068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2021] [Revised: 01/10/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Age-associated B cells (ABCs) have emerged as critical components of immune responses. Their inappropriate expansion and differentiation have increasingly been linked to the pathogenesis of autoimmune disorders, aging-associated diseases, and infections. ABCs exhibit a distinctive phenotype and, in addition to classical B cell markers, often express the transcription factor T-bet and myeloid markers like CD11c; hence, these cells are also commonly known as CD11c+ T-bet+ B cells. Formation of ABCs is promoted by distinctive combinations of innate and adaptive signals. In addition to producing antibodies, these cells display antigen-presenting and proinflammatory capabilities. It is becoming increasingly appreciated that the ABC compartment exhibits a high degree of heterogeneity, plasticity, and sex-specific regulation and that ABCs can differentiate into effector progeny via several routes particularly in autoimmune settings. In this review, we will discuss the initial insights that have been obtained on the molecular machinery that controls ABCs and we will highlight some of the unique aspects of this control system that may enable ABCs to fulfill their distinctive role in immune responses. Given the expanding array of autoimmune disorders and pathophysiological settings in which ABCs are being implicated, a deeper understanding of this machinery could have important and broad therapeutic implications for the successful, albeit daunting, task of targeting these cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Swati Phalke
- Autoimmunity and Inflammation Program, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, New York, USA
| | - Juan Rivera-Correa
- Autoimmunity and Inflammation Program, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, New York, USA
| | - Daniel Jenkins
- Autoimmunity and Inflammation Program, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, New York, USA
| | - Danny Flores Castro
- Autoimmunity and Inflammation Program, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, New York, USA
| | - Evgenia Giannopoulou
- Arthritis and Tissue Degeneration Program, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, New York, USA
- Biological Sciences Department, New York City College of Technology, City University of New York, Brooklyn, New York, USA
- David Z. Rosensweig Genomics Research Center, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, New York, USA
| | - Alessandra B Pernis
- Autoimmunity and Inflammation Program, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, New York, USA
- David Z. Rosensweig Genomics Research Center, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, New York, USA
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
- Immunology & Microbial Pathogenesis, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
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25
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Acharya M, Jackson SW. Regulatory strategies limiting endosomal Toll-like receptor activation in B cells. Immunol Rev 2022; 307:66-78. [PMID: 35040152 PMCID: PMC8986562 DOI: 10.1111/imr.13065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2022] [Accepted: 01/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
The recognition of pathogen-associated nucleic acid (NA) promotes effective immunity against invading pathogens. However, endosomal Toll-like receptor (TLR) activation by self-NA also underlies the pathogenesis of systemic autoimmune diseases, such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). For this reason, the activation thresholds of NA-sensing TLRs must be tightly regulated to balance protective and pathogenic immune responses. In this study, we will provide an overview of the evolutionary mechanisms designed to limit the aberrant activation of endosomal TLRs by self-ligands, focusing on four broad strategies. These include the following: 1) the production of nucleases able to degrade self-DNA and RNA; 2) the cell-specific regulation of endosomal TLR expression; 3) the spatial and temporal control of TLR positioning at a sub-cellular level; and 4) the modulation of downstream TLR signaling cascades. Given the critical role of B cells in lupus pathogenesis, where possible, we will describe evidence for B cell-specific induction of these regulatory mechanisms. We will also highlight our own work showing how modulation of B cell endolysosomal flux tunes NA-sensing TLR activation signals. In the face of inevitable generation of self-NA during normal cellular turnover, these parallel mechanisms are vital to protect against pathogenic inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mridu Acharya
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington, USA.,Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Shaun W Jackson
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington, USA.,Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, Washington, USA
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26
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Tsubata T. Role of inhibitory B cell co-receptors in B cell self-tolerance to non-protein antigens. Immunol Rev 2022; 307:53-65. [PMID: 34989000 DOI: 10.1111/imr.13059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Revised: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Antibodies to non-protein antigens such as nucleic acids, polysaccharides, and glycolipids play important roles in both host defense against microbes and development of autoimmune diseases. Although non-protein antigens are not recognized by T cells, antibody production to non-protein antigens involve T cell-independent mechanisms such as signaling through TLR7 and TLR9 in antibody production to nucleic acids. Although self-reactive B cells are tolerized by various mechanisms including deletion, anergy, and receptor editing, T cell tolerance is also crucial in self-tolerance of B cells to protein self-antigen because self-reactive T cells induce autoantibody production to these self-antigens. However, presence of T cell-independent mechanism suggests that T cell tolerance is not able to maintain B cell tolerance to non-protein self-antigens. Lines of evidence suggest that B cell response to non-protein self-antigens such as nucleic acids and gangliosides, sialic acid-containing glycolipids, are suppressed by inhibitory B cell co-receptors CD72 and Siglec-G, respectively. These inhibitory co-receptors recognize non-protein self-antigens and suppress BCR signaling induced by these antigens, thereby inhibiting B cell response to these self-antigens. Inhibitory B cell co-receptors appear to be involved in B cell self-tolerance to non-protein self-antigens that can activate B cells by T cell-independent mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takeshi Tsubata
- Department of Immunology, Medical Research Institute, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
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27
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Mohammed SA, Al Kady LM, Boghdadi GS, Dawa GA, Gerges MA, El Shafai MA. Immunogenetic Relationship of HLA-G 14 bp Insertion/Deletion Polymorphism and Toll-Like Receptor 9 with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus in Egyptian Patients: A Case-Control Study. Int J Gen Med 2022; 15:661-674. [PMID: 35082516 PMCID: PMC8785136 DOI: 10.2147/ijgm.s344376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2021] [Accepted: 01/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction The level of expression of the immunoregulatory human leukocyte antigen-G (HLA-G) has been suggested to play a role in the immunopathogenesis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). A 14 bp insertion/deletion (ins/del) polymorphism in the 3ˊuntranslated region of HLA-G gene may influence the level of expression. The role of Toll-like receptor 9 (TLR9) in the pathogenesis of SLE has been highlighted. Data among Egyptian patients are quite limited. Purpose To detect the association of HLA-G 14 bp ins/del gene polymorphism with the susceptibility to SLE and to correlate TLR9 serum level with disease activity among Egyptian patients. Patients and Methods A case-control study that included 102 SLE female patients and 102 healthy matched volunteers as controls was carried out. Disease activity in patients was determined using the modified Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Index (SLEDAI). HLA-G 14 bp ins/del genotype was detected by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). TLR9 serum level was estimated using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) technique. Results The ins/ins genotype was significantly increased among SLE patients compared to healthy subjects (58.8% vs 9.8%; odds ratio [OR] = 11.79, P < 0.001). The 14 bp ins allele was significantly more frequent in SLE patients than in healthy subjects (65.7% vs 27.9%, respectively) and significantly associated with an increased risk of SLE (OR 4.94, P < 0.001). The mean TLR9 serum level showed a significant increase in SLE patients compared to healthy subjects (397.04±137.86 vs 195.22±45.14 ng/L, p < 0.001) and was significantly associated with disease activity as well as to patients’ HLA-G genotypes (p < 0.001). Conclusion Among Egyptian population, HLA-G 14 bp ins/ins homozygous genotype and ins allele may constitute a potential risk for SLE susceptibility, while TLR9 serum level is significantly associated with disease activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shrouk A Mohammed
- Medical Microbiology and Immunology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
| | - Laila M Al Kady
- Medical Microbiology and Immunology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
| | - Ghada S Boghdadi
- Medical Microbiology and Immunology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
| | - Ghada A Dawa
- Rheumatology and Rehabilitation Department, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
| | - Marian A Gerges
- Medical Microbiology and Immunology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
- Correspondence: Marian A Gerges, Medical Microbiology and Immunology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, 44519, Egypt, Tel +20 1003819530, Email
| | - Maher A El Shafai
- Medical Microbiology and Immunology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
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28
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Green K, Wittenborn TR, Fahlquist-Hagert C, Terczynska-Dyla E, van Campen N, Jensen L, Reinert L, Hartmann R, Paludan SR, Degn SE. B Cell Intrinsic STING Signaling Is Not Required for Autoreactive Germinal Center Participation. Front Immunol 2021; 12:782558. [PMID: 34938294 PMCID: PMC8685402 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.782558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2021] [Accepted: 11/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Germinal centers (GCs) are induced microanatomical structures wherein B cells undergo affinity maturation to improve the quality of the antibody response. Although GCs are crucial to appropriate humoral responses to infectious challenges and vaccines, many questions remain about the molecular signals driving B cell participation in GC responses. The cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS)-stimulator of interferon genes (STING) pathway is an important mediator of type I interferon and proinflammatory cytokine responses during infection and cellular stress. Recent studies have reported important roles for STING in B cell responses, including an impact on GC B cells and downstream antibody responses, which could have great consequences for vaccine design and understanding STING-associated interferonopathies. GCs are also involved in untoward reactions to autoantigens in a plethora of autoimmune disorders, and it is generally thought that these responses coopt the mechanisms used in foreign antigen-directed GCs. Here, we set out to investigate the importance of the cGAS-STING pathway in autoreactive B cell responses. In a direct competition scenario in a murine mixed bone marrow chimera model of autoreactive GCs, we find that B cell intrinsic deficiency of cGAS, STING, or the type I interferon receptor IFNAR, does not impair GC participation, whereas Toll-like receptor (TLR)-7 deficiency mediates a near-complete block. Our findings suggest that physiological B cell responses are strictly sustained by signals linked to BCR-mediated endocytosis. This wiring of B cell signals may enable appropriate antibody responses, while at the same time restricting aberrant antibody responses during infections and in autoimmune or autoinflammatory settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth Green
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.,Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | | | | | | | - Nina van Campen
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Lisbeth Jensen
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Line Reinert
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Rune Hartmann
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Søren R Paludan
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Søren E Degn
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
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29
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Satterthwaite AB. TLR7 Signaling in Lupus B Cells: New Insights into Synergizing Factors and Downstream Signals. Curr Rheumatol Rep 2021; 23:80. [PMID: 34817709 DOI: 10.1007/s11926-021-01047-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF THE REVIEW Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is driven by nucleic acid-containing antigens that stimulate endosomal TLRs. We review new advances in our understanding of how TLR7 signaling in B cells drives autoimmunity. RECENT FINDINGS Pathogenic B cell responses to TLR7 engagement are shaped by the disease-associated cytokine environment. TLR7, IFNγ, and IL-21 together promote the formation of autoreactive germinal centers and the ABC/DN2 B cell subset. BAFF and type 1 IFNs enhance autoantibody production from transitional B cells in concert with TLR7. TLR7 signaling components STAT1, BANK1, IRF5, SLC15A4, and CXorf21/TASL are associated genetically with SLE and important for lupus development in mice, while role of T-bet is controversial. Proper control of TLR7 trafficking by UNC93B1, syntenin-1, and αvβ3 integrin is critical for preventing autoimmunity. A better understanding of TLR7 signaling has revealed potential new therapeutic approaches for SLE, several of which are being tested in animal models or clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne B Satterthwaite
- Department of Internal Medicine, Rheumatic Diseases Division and Department of Immunology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, 5323 Harry Hines Blvd, Dallas, TX, 75390-8884, USA.
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30
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Lee HY, Celhar T, Fairhurst AM. Assessing Lupus-Like Disease in Murine Model Systems. Curr Protoc 2021; 1:e272. [PMID: 34748281 DOI: 10.1002/cpz1.272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) is a complex and heterogenous autoimmune disease, where genetics, immunology, and environmental factors all play a role. Murine models have contributed critical information on mechanisms of disease and prospective therapeutics. The key features that have been used to study the disease include the development of anti-nuclear autoantibodies (ANAs), splenomegaly, and kidney disease. The loss of tolerance and subsequent autoimmune features, and the progression to severe disease, are all dependent on immune dysregulation. In this article, we will describe the methods used to evaluate the underlying immunological features of the disease, as a more sensitive strategy to understand the disease itself and the mechanisms of potential novel therapeutics. © 2021 The Authors. Current Protocols published by Wiley Periodicals LLC. Basic Protocol 1: End study protocols for tissue harvesting Basic Protocol 2: End study protocols for tissue processing Basic Protocol 3: Immunophenotyping using flow cytometry protocols Support Protocol: Tissue processing for cold storage Basic Protocol 4: Additional tissue processing for later analyses Basic Protocol 5: Analysis of serum auto-antibodies by ELISAs (ANAs, snRNP, and dsDNA).
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Yin Lee
- Institute of Molecular and Cellular Biology (IMCB), Agency of Science, Technology and Research, Singapore
| | - Teja Celhar
- Singapore Immunology Network (SIgN), Agency of Science, Technology and Research, Singapore
| | - Anna-Marie Fairhurst
- Institute of Molecular and Cellular Biology (IMCB), Agency of Science, Technology and Research, Singapore.,Singapore Immunology Network (SIgN), Agency of Science, Technology and Research, Singapore.,Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
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31
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Chiang K, Largent AD, Arkatkar T, Thouvenel CD, Du SW, Shumlak N, Woods J, Li QZ, Liu Y, Hou B, Rawlings DJ, Jackson SW. Cutting Edge: A Threshold of B Cell Costimulatory Signals Is Required for Spontaneous Germinal Center Formation in Autoimmunity. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2021; 207:2217-2222. [PMID: 34588220 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.2100548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Cognate interactions between autoreactive B and T cells promote systemic lupus erythematosus pathogenesis by inter alia facilitating spontaneous germinal center (GC) formation. Whereas both myeloid and B cell APCs express B7 ligands (CD80 and CD86), the prevailing model holds that dendritic cell costimulation is sufficient for CD28-dependent T cell activation. In this study, we report that B cell-intrinsic CD80/CD86 deletion unexpectedly abrogates GCs in murine lupus. Interestingly, absent GCs differentially impacted serum autoantibodies. In keeping with distinct extrafollicular and GC activation pathways driving lupus autoantibodies, lack of GCs correlated with loss of RNA-associated autoantibodies but preserved anti-dsDNA and connective tissue autoantibody titers. Strikingly, even heterozygous B cell CD80/CD86 deletion was sufficient to prevent autoimmune GCs and RNA-associated autoantibodies. Together, these findings identify a key mechanism whereby B cells promote lupus pathogenesis by providing a threshold of costimulatory signals required for autoreactive T cell activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristy Chiang
- Center for Immunity and Immunotherapies, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA
| | - Andrea D Largent
- Center for Immunity and Immunotherapies, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA
| | - Tanvi Arkatkar
- Center for Immunity and Immunotherapies, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA
| | | | - Samuel W Du
- Center for Immunity and Immunotherapies, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA
| | - Natali Shumlak
- Center for Immunity and Immunotherapies, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA
| | - Jonathan Woods
- Center for Immunity and Immunotherapies, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA
| | - Quan-Zhen Li
- Department of Immunology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
| | - Yifan Liu
- Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Baidong Hou
- Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - David J Rawlings
- Center for Immunity and Immunotherapies, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA.,Department of Immunology, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA; and.,Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA
| | - Shaun W Jackson
- Center for Immunity and Immunotherapies, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA; .,Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA
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32
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Regulation of B Cell Responses in SLE by Three Classes of Interferons. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms221910464. [PMID: 34638804 PMCID: PMC8508684 DOI: 10.3390/ijms221910464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2021] [Revised: 09/24/2021] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
There are three classes of interferons (type 1, 2, and 3) that can contribute to the development and maintenance of various autoimmune diseases, including systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Each class of interferons promotes the generation of autoreactive B cells and SLE-associated autoantibodies by distinct signaling mechanisms. SLE patients treated with various type 1 interferon-blocking biologics have diverse outcomes, suggesting that additional environmental and genetic factors may dictate how these cytokines contribute to the development of autoreactive B cells and SLE. Understanding how each class of interferons controls B cell responses in SLE is necessary for developing optimized B cell- and interferon-targeted therapeutics. In this review, we will discuss how each class of interferons differentially promotes the loss of peripheral B cell tolerance and leads to the development of autoreactive B cells, autoantibodies, and SLE.
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33
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Canny SP, Jackson SW. B Cells in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: From Disease Mechanisms to Targeted Therapies. Rheum Dis Clin North Am 2021; 47:395-413. [PMID: 34215370 PMCID: PMC8357318 DOI: 10.1016/j.rdc.2021.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
B cells exert a prominent contribution to the pathogenesis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Here, we review the immune mechanisms underlying autoreactive B cell activation in SLE, focusing on how B cell receptor and Toll-like receptor signals integrate to drive breaks in tolerance to nuclear antigens. In addition, we discuss autoantibody-dependent and autoantibody-independent B cell effector functions during lupus pathogenesis. Finally, we address efforts to target B cells therapeutically in human SLE. Despite initial disappointing clinical trials testing B cell depletion in lupus, more recent studies show promise, emphasizing how greater understanding of underlying immune mechanisms can yield clinical benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan P Canny
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA; Benaroya Research Institute, 1201 Ninth Avenue, Seattle, WA 98101, USA
| | - Shaun W Jackson
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA; Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA, USA.
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34
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Molecular Basis for the Activation of Human Innate Immune Response by the Flagellin Derived from Plant-Pathogenic Bacterium, Acidovorax avenae. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22136920. [PMID: 34203170 PMCID: PMC8268093 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22136920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2021] [Revised: 06/17/2021] [Accepted: 06/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Acidovorax avenae is a flagellated, pathogenic bacterium to various plant crops that has also been found in human patients with haematological malignancy, fever, and sepsis; however, the exact mechanism for infection in humans is not known. We hypothesized that the human innate immune system could be responsive to the purified flagellin isolated from A. avenae, named FLA-AA. We observed the secretion of inflammatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin (IL)-6, and IL-8 by treating FLA-AA to human dermal fibroblasts, as well as macrophages. This response was exclusively through TLR5, which was confirmed by using TLR5-overexpression cell line, 293/hTLR5, as well as TLR5-specific inhibitor, TH1020. We also observed the secretion of inflammatory cytokine, IL-1β, by the activation of NLRC4 with FLA-AA. Overall, our results provide a molecular basis for the inflammatory response caused by FLA-AA in cell-based assays.
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35
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Jacobs HM, Arkatkar T, Du SW, Scharping NE, Woods J, Li QZ, Hudkins KL, Alpers CE, Rawlings DJ, Jackson SW. TACI haploinsufficiency protects against BAFF-driven humoral autoimmunity in mice. Eur J Immunol 2021; 51:2225-2236. [PMID: 34146342 DOI: 10.1002/eji.202149244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2021] [Revised: 04/26/2021] [Accepted: 06/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Polymorphisms in TACI, a BAFF family cytokine receptor, are linked to diverse human immune disorders including common variable immunodeficiency (CVID) and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Functional studies of individual variants show modest impacts on surface TACI expression and/or downstream signal transduction, indicating that relatively subtle variation in TACI activity can impact human B-cell biology. However, significant complexity underlies TACI biology, including both positive and negative regulation of physiologic and pathogenic B-cell responses. To model these contradictory events, we compared the functional impact of TACI deletion on separate models of murine SLE driven by T cell-independent and -dependent breaks in B-cell tolerance. First, we studied whether reduced surface TACI expression was sufficient to protect against progressive BAFF-mediated systemic autoimmunity. Strikingly, despite a relatively modest impact on surface TACI levels, TACI haploinsufficiency markedly reduced pathogenic RNA-associated autoantibody titers and conferred long-term protection from BAFF-driven lupus nephritis. In contrast, B cell-intrinsic TACI deletion exerted a limited impact of autoantibody generation in murine lupus characterized by spontaneous germinal center formation and T cell-dependent humoral autoimmunity. Together, these combined data provide new insights into TACI biology and highlight how TACI signals must be tightly regulated during protective and pathogenic B-cell responses.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Samuel W Du
- Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA, USA
| | | | | | - Quan-Zhen Li
- Department of Immunology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Kelly L Hudkins
- Departments of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Immunology and Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine, Washington, WA, USA
| | - Charles E Alpers
- Departments of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Immunology and Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine, Washington, WA, USA
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36
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Schell SL, Bricker KN, Fike AJ, Chodisetti SB, Domeier PP, Choi NM, Fasnacht MJ, Luckenbill SA, Ziegler SF, Rahman ZSM. Context-Dependent miR-21 Regulation of TLR7-Mediated Autoimmune and Foreign Antigen-Driven Antibody-Forming Cell and Germinal Center Responses. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2021; 206:2803-2818. [PMID: 34039637 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.2001039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2020] [Accepted: 04/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are involved in healthy B cell responses and the loss of tolerance in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), although the role of many miRNAs remains poorly understood. Dampening miR-21 activity was previously shown to reduce splenomegaly and blood urea nitrogen levels in SLE-prone mice, but the detailed cellular responses and mechanism of action remains unexplored. In this study, using the TLR7 agonist, imiquimod-induced SLE model, we observed that loss of miR-21 in Sle1b mice prevented the formation of plasma cells and autoantibody-producing Ab-forming cells (AFCs) without a significant effect on the magnitude of the germinal center (GC) response. We further observed reduced dendritic cell and monocyte numbers in the spleens of miR-21-deficient Sle1b mice that were associated with reduced IFN, proinflammatory cytokines, and effector CD4+ T cell responses. RNA sequencing analysis on B cells from miR-21-deficient Sle1b mice revealed reduced activation and response to IFN, and cytokine and target array analysis revealed modulation of numerous miR-21 target genes in response to TLR7 activation and type I IFN stimulation. Our findings in the B6.Sle1bYaa (Sle1b Yaa) spontaneous model recapitulated the miR-21 role in TLR7-induced responses with an additional role in autoimmune GC and T follicular helper responses. Finally, immunization with T-dependent Ag revealed a role for miR-21 in foreign Ag-driven GC and Ab, but not AFC, responses. Our data suggest a potential multifaceted, context-dependent role for miR-21 in autoimmune and foreign Ag-driven AFC and GC responses. Further study is warranted to delineate the cell-intrinsic requirements and mechanisms of miR-21 during infection and SLE development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie L Schell
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA; and
| | - Kristen N Bricker
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA; and
| | - Adam J Fike
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA; and
| | - Sathi Babu Chodisetti
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA; and
| | | | - Nicholas M Choi
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA; and
| | - Melinda J Fasnacht
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA; and
| | - Sara A Luckenbill
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA; and
| | | | - Ziaur S M Rahman
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA; and
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37
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Elsner RA, Shlomchik MJ. Germinal Center and Extrafollicular B Cell Responses in Vaccination, Immunity, and Autoimmunity. Immunity 2021; 53:1136-1150. [PMID: 33326765 DOI: 10.1016/j.immuni.2020.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 205] [Impact Index Per Article: 68.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2020] [Revised: 10/19/2020] [Accepted: 11/11/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Activated B cells participate in either extrafollicular (EF) or germinal center (GC) responses. Canonical responses are composed of a short wave of plasmablasts (PBs) arising from EF sites, followed by GC producing somatically mutated memory B cells (MBC) and long-lived plasma cells. However, somatic hypermutation (SHM) and affinity maturation can take place at both sites, and a substantial fraction of MBC are produced prior to GC formation. Infection responses range from GC responses that persist for months to persistent EF responses with dominant suppression of GCs. Here, we review the current understanding of the functional output of EF and GC responses and the molecular switches promoting them. We discuss the signals that regulate the magnitude and duration of these responses, and outline gaps in knowledge and important areas of inquiry. Understanding such molecular switches will be critical for vaccine development, interpretation of vaccine efficacy and the treatment for autoimmune diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca A Elsner
- Department of Immunology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15216, USA
| | - Mark J Shlomchik
- Department of Immunology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15216, USA.
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38
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Motwani M, McGowan J, Antonovitch J, Gao KM, Jiang Z, Sharma S, Baltus GA, Nickerson KM, Marshak-Rothstein A, Fitzgerald KA. cGAS-STING Pathway Does Not Promote Autoimmunity in Murine Models of SLE. Front Immunol 2021; 12:605930. [PMID: 33854495 PMCID: PMC8040952 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.605930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2020] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Detection of DNA is an important determinant of host-defense but also a driver of autoinflammatory and autoimmune diseases. Failure to degrade self-DNA in DNAseII or III(TREX1)-deficient mice results in activation of the cGAS-STING pathway. Deficiency of cGAS or STING in these models ameliorates disease manifestations. However, the contribution of the cGAS-STING pathway, relative to endosomal TLRs, in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is controversial. In fact, STING deficiency failed to rescue, and actually exacerbated, disease manifestations in Fas-deficient SLE-prone mice. We have now extended these observations to a chronic model of SLE induced by the i.p. injection of TMPD (pristane). We found that both cGAS- and STING-deficiency not only failed to rescue mice from TMPD-induced SLE, but resulted in increased autoantibody production and higher proteinuria levels compared to cGAS STING sufficient mice. Further, we generated cGASKOFaslpr mice on a pure MRL/Faslpr background using Crispr/Cas9 and found slightly exacerbated, and not attenuated, disease. We hypothesized that the cGAS-STING pathway constrains TLR activation, and thereby limits autoimmune manifestations in these two models. Consistent with this premise, mice lacking cGAS and Unc93B1 or STING and Unc93B1 developed minimal systemic autoimmunity as compared to cGAS or STING single knock out animals. Nevertheless, TMPD-driven lupus in B6 mice was abrogated upon AAV-delivery of DNAse I, implicating a DNA trigger. Overall, this study demonstrated that the cGAS-STING pathway does not promote systemic autoimmunity in murine models of SLE. These data have important implications for cGAS-STING-directed therapies being developed for the treatment of systemic autoimmunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mona Motwani
- Program in Innate Immunity, Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, United States
| | - Jason McGowan
- Program in Innate Immunity, Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, United States
| | - Jennifer Antonovitch
- Program in Innate Immunity, Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, United States
| | - Kevin MingJie Gao
- Program in Innate Immunity, Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, United States
| | - Zhaozhao Jiang
- Program in Innate Immunity, Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, United States
| | - Shruti Sharma
- Program in Innate Immunity, Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, United States
| | | | - Kevin M Nickerson
- Department of Immunology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Ann Marshak-Rothstein
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, United States
| | - Katherine A Fitzgerald
- Program in Innate Immunity, Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, United States
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Seymour BJ, Singh S, Certo HM, Sommer K, Sather BD, Khim S, Clough C, Hale M, Pangallo J, Ryu BY, Khan IF, Adair JE, Rawlings DJ. Effective, safe, and sustained correction of murine XLA using a UCOE-BTK promoter-based lentiviral vector. MOLECULAR THERAPY-METHODS & CLINICAL DEVELOPMENT 2021; 20:635-651. [PMID: 33718514 PMCID: PMC7907679 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2021.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2020] [Accepted: 01/14/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
X-linked agammaglobulinemia (XLA) is an immune disorder caused by mutations in Bruton’s tyrosine kinase (BTK). BTK is expressed in B and myeloid cells, and its deficiency results in a lack of mature B cells and protective antibodies. We previously reported a lentivirus (LV) BTK replacement therapy that restored B cell development and function in Btk and Tec double knockout mice (a phenocopy of human XLA). In this study, with the goal of optimizing both the level and lineage specificity of BTK expression, we generated LV incorporating the proximal human BTK promoter. Hematopoietic stem cells from Btk−/−Tec−/− mice transduced with this vector rescued lineage-specific expression and restored B cell function in Btk−/−Tec−/− recipients. Next, we tested addition of candidate enhancers and/or ubiquitous chromatin opening elements (UCOEs), as well as codon optimization to improve BTK expression. An Eμ enhancer improved B cell rescue, but increased immunoglobulin G (IgG) autoantibodies. Addition of the UCOE avoided autoantibody generation while improving B cell development and function and reducing vector silencing. An optimized vector containing a truncated UCOE upstream of the BTK promoter and codon-optimized BTK cDNA resulted in stable, lineage-regulated BTK expression that mirrored endogenous BTK, making it a strong candidate for XLA therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brenda J Seymour
- Center for Immunity and Immunotherapies, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA 98101, USA
| | - Swati Singh
- Center for Immunity and Immunotherapies, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA 98101, USA
| | - Hannah M Certo
- Center for Immunity and Immunotherapies, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA 98101, USA
| | - Karen Sommer
- Center for Immunity and Immunotherapies, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA 98101, USA
| | - Blythe D Sather
- Center for Immunity and Immunotherapies, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA 98101, USA
| | - Socheath Khim
- Center for Immunity and Immunotherapies, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA 98101, USA
| | - Courtnee Clough
- Center for Immunity and Immunotherapies, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA 98101, USA
| | - Malika Hale
- Center for Immunity and Immunotherapies, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA 98101, USA
| | - Joseph Pangallo
- Center for Immunity and Immunotherapies, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA 98101, USA
| | - Byoung Y Ryu
- Center for Immunity and Immunotherapies, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA 98101, USA
| | - Iram F Khan
- Center for Immunity and Immunotherapies, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA 98101, USA
| | - Jennifer E Adair
- Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA 98109, USA.,Department of Medical Oncology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - David J Rawlings
- Center for Immunity and Immunotherapies, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA 98101, USA.,Departments of Pediatrics and Immunology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
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40
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Rasmussen NS, Nielsen CT, Nielsen CH, Jacobsen S. Microvesicles in active lupus nephritis show Toll-like receptor 9-dependent co-expression of galectin-3 binding protein and double-stranded DNA. Clin Exp Immunol 2021; 204:64-77. [PMID: 33354779 DOI: 10.1111/cei.13569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2020] [Revised: 12/16/2020] [Accepted: 12/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Circulating microvesicles (MVs) from patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) express the type 1 interferon (IFN)-inducible protein galectin-3 binding protein (G3BP), which may enhance their deposition in the glomerular basement membrane. The release of G3BP-expressing MVs from normal peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) is induced by Toll-like receptor 9 (TLR-9) ligands, and these vesicles contain autoantibody-accessible double-stranded DNA (dsDNA). This study compares the release of MVs expressing G3BP and dsDNA from PBMCs derived from SLE patients with or without active lupus nephritis (LN) and from healthy donors, and taps further into the potential dependency on IFN-α for their generation and impacts of TLR-7/TLR-9 co-stimulation. PBMCs from 10 healthy donors and 12 SLE patients, six of whom had active LN at study inclusion, were stimulated in-vitro with recombinant human IFN-α and the TLR-9 agonists oligodeoxynucleotide (ODN)2216 or ODN2395 alone or in combination with the TLR-7 agonist gardiquimod. MVs in the supernatants were subsequently isolated by differential centrifugation and their expression of G3BP and dsDNA was quantified by flow cytometry. Stimulation with ODN2395 significantly increased the release of MVs co-expressing G3BP and dsDNA from PBMCs isolated from healthy donors and SLE patients. The expression of G3BP on individual MVs and the proportion of G3BP and dsDNA double-positive MVs released were increased in active LN patients. Neither co-stimulation with gardiquimod nor with the IFN-α inhibitor IN-1 had any effect on the MV release induced by ODN2395. In conclusion, the TLR-9-mediated inducibility of MVs co-expressing G3BP and dsDNA is increased in SLE patients with active LN.
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Affiliation(s)
- N S Rasmussen
- Institute for Inflammation Research, Center for Rheumatology and Spine Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Copenhagen Lupus and Vasculitis Clinic, Center for Rheumatology and Spine Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - C T Nielsen
- Copenhagen Lupus and Vasculitis Clinic, Center for Rheumatology and Spine Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - C H Nielsen
- Institute for Inflammation Research, Center for Rheumatology and Spine Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - S Jacobsen
- Copenhagen Lupus and Vasculitis Clinic, Center for Rheumatology and Spine Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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41
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Paradowska-Gorycka A, Wajda A, Stypinska B, Walczuk E, Rzeszotarska E, Walczyk M, Haladyj E, Romanowska-Prochnicka K, Felis-Giemza A, Lewandowska A, Olesińska M. Variety of endosomal TLRs and Interferons (IFN-α, IFN-β, IFN-γ) expression profiles in patients with SLE, SSc and MCTD. Clin Exp Immunol 2021; 204:49-63. [PMID: 33336388 DOI: 10.1111/cei.13566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2020] [Revised: 10/21/2020] [Accepted: 11/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
We investigated Toll-like receptor (TLR)-3/-7/-8/-9 and interferon (IFN)-α/β/γ mRNA expression in whole blood and serum IFN-α/β/γ levels in patients with mixed connective tissue disease (MCTD), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and systemic sclerosis (SSc) and in healthy subjects to assess the association between the TLR-IFN expression and severity of and susceptibility to diseases, and identify potential biomarkers. Expression of the IFN-γ, TLR-3 and TLR-8 was detected only in SLE patients. TLR-7, IFN-α and IFN-β expression was highest in SLE, while TLR-9 expression was highest in SSc patients. In SLE and MCTD patients a strong correlation was observed between TLR-7 and IFN-α expression and IFN-β and IFN-α expression. In MCTD patients, negative correlation between IFN-α and TLR-9 and TLR-7 and TLR-9 was revealed. TLR-9 expression in anti-U1-70k-negative, anti-C negative and anti-SmB-negative MCTD patients was higher than in MCTD-positive patients. We observed negative correlations between serum IFN-α levels and TLR-7 expression and C3 and C4 levels in SLE patients. In SLE patients we observed that with increased IFN-γ, TLR-3 and TLR-8 expression increased the value of C3 and C4. Our results confirmed that the endosomal TLR-IFN pathway seems to be more important in SLE than in MCTD or SSc, and that IFN-α and IFN-β may be possible biomarkers for SLE.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Paradowska-Gorycka
- Department of Molecular Biology, National Institute of Geriatrics, Rheumatology and Rehabilitation, Warsaw, Poland
| | - A Wajda
- Department of Molecular Biology, National Institute of Geriatrics, Rheumatology and Rehabilitation, Warsaw, Poland
| | - B Stypinska
- Department of Molecular Biology, National Institute of Geriatrics, Rheumatology and Rehabilitation, Warsaw, Poland
| | - E Walczuk
- Department of Molecular Biology, National Institute of Geriatrics, Rheumatology and Rehabilitation, Warsaw, Poland
| | - E Rzeszotarska
- Department of Molecular Biology, National Institute of Geriatrics, Rheumatology and Rehabilitation, Warsaw, Poland
| | - M Walczyk
- Department of Connective Tissue Diseases, National Institute of Geriatrics, Rheumatology and Rehabilitation, Warsaw, Poland
| | - E Haladyj
- Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - K Romanowska-Prochnicka
- Department of Connective Tissue Diseases, National Institute of Geriatrics, Rheumatology and Rehabilitation, Warsaw, Poland.,Department of General and Experimental Pathology with Centre for Preclinical Research and Technology (CEPT), Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - A Felis-Giemza
- Department of Connective Tissue Diseases, National Institute of Geriatrics, Rheumatology and Rehabilitation, Warsaw, Poland
| | - A Lewandowska
- Department of Connective Tissue Diseases, National Institute of Geriatrics, Rheumatology and Rehabilitation, Warsaw, Poland
| | - M Olesińska
- Department of Connective Tissue Diseases, National Institute of Geriatrics, Rheumatology and Rehabilitation, Warsaw, Poland
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42
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Abstract
B lymphocytes have a central role in autoimmune diseases, which are often defined by specific autoantibody patterns and feature a loss of B cell tolerance. A prototypic disease associated with B cell hyperactivity is systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). In patients with SLE, the loss of B cell tolerance to autoantigens is controlled in a cell-intrinsic manner by Toll-like receptors (TLRs), which sense nucleic acids in endosomes. TLR7 drives the extrafollicular B cell response and the germinal centre reaction that are involved in autoantibody production and disease pathogenesis. Surprisingly, TLR9 seems to protect against SLE, even though it is required for the production of autoantibodies recognizing double-stranded DNA-associated antigens, which are abundant in SLE and are a hallmark of this disease. The protective function of TLR9 is at least partly mediated by its capacity to limit the stimulatory activity of TLR7. The roles of TLR7 and TLR9 in the effector function of B cells in lupus-like disease and in patients with SLE, and the unique features of TLR signalling in B cells, suggest that targeting TLR signalling in SLE might be therapeutically beneficial. Loss of B cell tolerance to autoantigens in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is driven by TLR7, whereas TLR9 appears to protect against SLE by limiting the stimulatory activity of TLR7. The unique features of Toll-like receptor signalling in B cells implicate it as a therapeutic target in SLE. Intrinsic TLR7 and TLR9 signalling in B cells plays an important role in the development and pathogenesis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). In patients with SLE, effector plasma cells are generated via the extrafollicular response and via the formation of spontaneous germinal centres. TLR7 plays key roles in the extrafollicular response and the response mediated by germinal centres. Some plasma cells produce IL-10 and can have protective roles in lupus-like disease.
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43
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Vlach J, Bender AT, Przetak M, Pereira A, Deshpande A, Johnson TL, Reissig S, Tzvetkov E, Musil D, Morse NT, Haselmayer P, Zimmerli SC, Okitsu SL, Walsky RL, Sherer B. Discovery of M5049: A Novel Selective Toll-Like Receptor 7/8 Inhibitor for Treatment of Autoimmunity. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2020; 376:397-409. [PMID: 33328334 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.120.000275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2020] [Accepted: 12/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Toll-like receptor (TLR) 7 and TLR8 are transmembrane receptors that recognize single-stranded RNA. Activation of these receptors results in immune cell stimulation and inflammatory cytokine production, which is normally a protective host response. However, aberrant activation of TLR7/8 is potentially pathogenic and linked to progression of certain autoimmune diseases such as lupus. Thus, we hypothesize that an inhibitor that blocks TLR7/8 would be an effective therapeutic treatment. Prior efforts to develop inhibitors of TLR7/8 have been largely unsuccessful as a result of the challenge of producing a small-molecule inhibitor for these difficult targets. Here, we report the characterization of M5049 and compound 2, molecules which were discovered in a medicinal chemistry campaign to produce dual TLR7/8 inhibitors with drug-like properties. Both compounds showed potent and selective activity in a range of cellular assays for inhibition of TLR7/8 and block synthetic ligands and natural endogenous RNA ligands such as microRNA and Alu RNA. M5049 was found to be potent in vivo as TLR7/8 inhibition efficaciously treated disease in several murine lupus models and, interestingly, was efficacious in a disease context in which TLR7/8 activity has not previously been considered a primary disease driver. Furthermore, M5049 had greater potency in disease models than expected based on its in vitro potency and pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic properties. Because of its preferential accumulation in tissues, and ability to block multiple TLR7/8 RNA ligands, M5049 may be efficacious in treating autoimmunity and has the potential to provide benefit to a variety of patients with varying disease pathogenesis. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: This study reports discovery of a novel toll-like receptor (TLR) 7 and TLR8 inhibitor (M5049); characterizes its binding mode, potency/selectivity, and pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties; and demonstrates its potential for treating autoimmune diseases in two mouse lupus models. TLR7/8 inhibition is unique in that it may block both innate and adaptive autoimmunity; thus, this study suggests that M5049 has the potential to benefit patients with autoimmune diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaromir Vlach
- EMD Serono (a business of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany), Billerica, Massachusetts (J.V., A.T.B., M.P., A.P., A.D., T.J., E.T., N.T.M., S.F.Z., S.L.O., R.W., B.S.) and Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany (S.R., D.M., P.H.)
| | - Andrew T Bender
- EMD Serono (a business of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany), Billerica, Massachusetts (J.V., A.T.B., M.P., A.P., A.D., T.J., E.T., N.T.M., S.F.Z., S.L.O., R.W., B.S.) and Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany (S.R., D.M., P.H.)
| | - Melinda Przetak
- EMD Serono (a business of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany), Billerica, Massachusetts (J.V., A.T.B., M.P., A.P., A.D., T.J., E.T., N.T.M., S.F.Z., S.L.O., R.W., B.S.) and Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany (S.R., D.M., P.H.)
| | - Albertina Pereira
- EMD Serono (a business of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany), Billerica, Massachusetts (J.V., A.T.B., M.P., A.P., A.D., T.J., E.T., N.T.M., S.F.Z., S.L.O., R.W., B.S.) and Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany (S.R., D.M., P.H.)
| | - Aditee Deshpande
- EMD Serono (a business of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany), Billerica, Massachusetts (J.V., A.T.B., M.P., A.P., A.D., T.J., E.T., N.T.M., S.F.Z., S.L.O., R.W., B.S.) and Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany (S.R., D.M., P.H.)
| | - Theresa L Johnson
- EMD Serono (a business of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany), Billerica, Massachusetts (J.V., A.T.B., M.P., A.P., A.D., T.J., E.T., N.T.M., S.F.Z., S.L.O., R.W., B.S.) and Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany (S.R., D.M., P.H.)
| | - Sonja Reissig
- EMD Serono (a business of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany), Billerica, Massachusetts (J.V., A.T.B., M.P., A.P., A.D., T.J., E.T., N.T.M., S.F.Z., S.L.O., R.W., B.S.) and Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany (S.R., D.M., P.H.)
| | - Evgeni Tzvetkov
- EMD Serono (a business of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany), Billerica, Massachusetts (J.V., A.T.B., M.P., A.P., A.D., T.J., E.T., N.T.M., S.F.Z., S.L.O., R.W., B.S.) and Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany (S.R., D.M., P.H.)
| | - Djordje Musil
- EMD Serono (a business of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany), Billerica, Massachusetts (J.V., A.T.B., M.P., A.P., A.D., T.J., E.T., N.T.M., S.F.Z., S.L.O., R.W., B.S.) and Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany (S.R., D.M., P.H.)
| | - Noune Tahmassian Morse
- EMD Serono (a business of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany), Billerica, Massachusetts (J.V., A.T.B., M.P., A.P., A.D., T.J., E.T., N.T.M., S.F.Z., S.L.O., R.W., B.S.) and Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany (S.R., D.M., P.H.)
| | - Philipp Haselmayer
- EMD Serono (a business of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany), Billerica, Massachusetts (J.V., A.T.B., M.P., A.P., A.D., T.J., E.T., N.T.M., S.F.Z., S.L.O., R.W., B.S.) and Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany (S.R., D.M., P.H.)
| | - Simone C Zimmerli
- EMD Serono (a business of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany), Billerica, Massachusetts (J.V., A.T.B., M.P., A.P., A.D., T.J., E.T., N.T.M., S.F.Z., S.L.O., R.W., B.S.) and Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany (S.R., D.M., P.H.)
| | - Shinji L Okitsu
- EMD Serono (a business of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany), Billerica, Massachusetts (J.V., A.T.B., M.P., A.P., A.D., T.J., E.T., N.T.M., S.F.Z., S.L.O., R.W., B.S.) and Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany (S.R., D.M., P.H.)
| | - Robert L Walsky
- EMD Serono (a business of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany), Billerica, Massachusetts (J.V., A.T.B., M.P., A.P., A.D., T.J., E.T., N.T.M., S.F.Z., S.L.O., R.W., B.S.) and Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany (S.R., D.M., P.H.)
| | - Brian Sherer
- EMD Serono (a business of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany), Billerica, Massachusetts (J.V., A.T.B., M.P., A.P., A.D., T.J., E.T., N.T.M., S.F.Z., S.L.O., R.W., B.S.) and Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany (S.R., D.M., P.H.)
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44
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Moskalec OV. Characteristics of the Immunoresponse in Elderly People and Autoimmunity. ADVANCES IN GERONTOLOGY 2020. [DOI: 10.1134/s2079057020040153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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45
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Garimella MG, He C, Chen G, Li QZ, Huang X, Karlsson MCI. The B cell response to both protein and nucleic acid antigens displayed on apoptotic cells are dependent on endosomal pattern recognition receptors. J Autoimmun 2020; 117:102582. [PMID: 33296829 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaut.2020.102582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2020] [Revised: 11/19/2020] [Accepted: 11/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
In systemic autoimmune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), B cell tolerance is lost and there is a production of autoantibodies that drive pathology. The specificities of these antibodies are towards a wide range of autoantigens including proteins such as serum factors including cytokines as well as towards nucleic acids and modified glycolipids. It is known that endosomal pattern recognition receptors are involved in specific responses but if they drive specificity towards a specific group of autoantigens is not known. Here, we used syngeneic apoptotic cells alone to break B cell tolerance and investigated the antibody response in Unc93b1 mutant mice that lack signalling from the TLR3, TLR7 and TLR9 receptors. We found that specific B cell responses known from patients with SLE including antibodies towards Ro-52/60, La, cardiolipin as well as DNA were all significantly lower in the knockout mice. Thus, we found that endosomal TLR receptors were involved in break of tolerance and drive B cell responses for protein, nucleic acid and modified lipid antigens. This pinpoints these receptors as key drivers for the full range of antibody driven pathology in SLE and suggests that targeting of endosomal TLR driven responses will quench all B cell driven autoreactivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manasa G Garimella
- Department of Microbiology, Tumour and Cell Biology, Karolinska Institutet Biomedicum, Stockholm, 17165, Sweden
| | - Chenfei He
- Department of Microbiology, Tumour and Cell Biology, Karolinska Institutet Biomedicum, Stockholm, 17165, Sweden
| | - Guangchun Chen
- Microarray Core, Department of Immunology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA
| | - Quan-Zhen Li
- Microarray Core, Department of Immunology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA
| | - Xin Huang
- Department of Dermatology, Hunan Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenomics, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Mikael C I Karlsson
- Department of Microbiology, Tumour and Cell Biology, Karolinska Institutet Biomedicum, Stockholm, 17165, Sweden.
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46
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Ren Q, Cheng L, Yi J, Ma L, Pan J, Gou SJ, Fu P. Toll-like Receptors as Potential Therapeutic Targets in Kidney Diseases. Curr Med Chem 2020; 27:5829-5854. [PMID: 31161985 DOI: 10.2174/0929867325666190603110907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2019] [Revised: 03/15/2019] [Accepted: 05/13/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Toll-like Receptors (TLRs) are members of pattern recognition receptors and serve a pivotal role in host immunity. TLRs response to pathogen-associated molecular patterns encoded by pathogens or damage-associated molecular patterns released by dying cells, initiating an inflammatory cascade, where both beneficial and detrimental effects can be exerted. Accumulated evidence has revealed that TLRs are closely associated with various kidney diseases but their roles are still not well understood. This review updated evidence on the roles of TLRs in the pathogenesis of kidney diseases including urinary tract infection, glomerulonephritis, acute kidney injury, transplant allograft dysfunction and chronic kidney diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Ren
- Kidney Research Laboratory, Division of Nephrology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Lu Cheng
- Kidney Research Laboratory, Division of Nephrology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Jing Yi
- Kidney Research Laboratory, Division of Nephrology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Liang Ma
- Kidney Research Laboratory, Division of Nephrology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Jing Pan
- Kidney Research Laboratory, Division of Nephrology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Shen-Ju Gou
- Kidney Research Laboratory, Division of Nephrology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Ping Fu
- Kidney Research Laboratory, Division of Nephrology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
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47
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Janssen M, Bruijstens AL, van Langelaar J, Wong Y, Wierenga-Wolf AF, Melief MJ, Rijvers L, van Pelt ED, Smolders J, Wokke BH, van Luijn MM. Naive B cells in neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders: impact of steroid use and relapses. Brain Commun 2020; 2:fcaa197. [PMID: 33305266 PMCID: PMC7714275 DOI: 10.1093/braincomms/fcaa197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2019] [Revised: 10/14/2020] [Accepted: 10/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders are a group of rare, but severe autoimmune diseases characterized by inflammation of the optic nerve(s) and/or spinal cord. Although naive B cells are considered key players by escaping central tolerance checkpoints, it remains unclear how their composition and outgrowth differ in patients with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders. Under complete treatment-naive circumstances, we found that naive mature/transitional B-cell ratios were reduced in the blood of 10 patients with aquaporin-4 immunoglobulin G-positive disease (neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders) as compared to 11 both age- and gender-matched healthy controls, eight patients with myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein-immunoglobulin G-associated disorders and 10 patients with multiple sclerosis. This was the result of increased proportions of transitional B cells, which were the highest in patients with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders with relapses and strongly diminished in a separate group of nine patients with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders and myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein-immunoglobulin G-associated disorders who received corticosteroid treatment. These findings need to be confirmed in longitudinal studies. For purified naive mature B cells of seven patients with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders and myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein-immunoglobulin G-associated disorders with relapses, Toll-like receptor 9 ligand synergized with interferon-γ to enhance plasmablast formation during germinal centre-like cultures. This was not seen for 11 patients without relapses and nine healthy controls. In the neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders group, in vitro plasmablast formation corresponded to total and anti-aquaporin-4 immunoglobulin G secretion, of which the latter was found only for relapsing cases. These data indicate that naive B-cell homoeostasis is different and selectively targeted by corticosteroids in patients with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders. This also supports further exploration of naive B cells for their use in Toll-like receptor 9-dependent in vitro platforms in order to predict the activity of neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malou Janssen
- Department of Immunology, MS Center ErasMS, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, 3015 GE, The Netherlands.,Department of Neurology, MS Center ErasMS, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, 3015 GD, The Netherlands
| | - Arlette L Bruijstens
- Department of Neurology, MS Center ErasMS, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, 3015 GD, The Netherlands
| | - Jamie van Langelaar
- Department of Immunology, MS Center ErasMS, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, 3015 GE, The Netherlands
| | - YuYi Wong
- Department of Neurology, MS Center ErasMS, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, 3015 GD, The Netherlands
| | - Annet F Wierenga-Wolf
- Department of Immunology, MS Center ErasMS, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, 3015 GE, The Netherlands
| | - Marie-José Melief
- Department of Immunology, MS Center ErasMS, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, 3015 GE, The Netherlands
| | - Liza Rijvers
- Department of Immunology, MS Center ErasMS, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, 3015 GE, The Netherlands
| | - E Daniëlle van Pelt
- Department of Neurology, MS Center ErasMS, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, 3015 GD, The Netherlands
| | - Joost Smolders
- Department of Immunology, MS Center ErasMS, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, 3015 GE, The Netherlands.,Department of Neurology, MS Center ErasMS, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, 3015 GD, The Netherlands
| | - Beatrijs H Wokke
- Department of Neurology, MS Center ErasMS, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, 3015 GD, The Netherlands
| | - Marvin M van Luijn
- Department of Immunology, MS Center ErasMS, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, 3015 GE, The Netherlands
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48
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Pouw JN, Leijten EFA, van Laar JM, Boes M. Revisiting B cell tolerance and autoantibodies in seropositive and seronegative autoimmune rheumatic disease (AIRD). Clin Exp Immunol 2020; 203:160-173. [PMID: 33090496 DOI: 10.1111/cei.13542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2020] [Revised: 10/15/2020] [Accepted: 10/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Autoimmune rheumatic diseases (AIRD) are categorized seropositive or seronegative, dependent upon the presence or absence of specific autoreactive antibodies, including rheumatoid factor and anti-citrullinated protein antibodies. Autoantibody-based diagnostics have proved helpful in patient care, not only for diagnosis but also for monitoring of disease activity and prediction of therapy responsiveness. Recent work demonstrates that AIRD patients develop autoantibodies beyond those contained in the original categorization. In this study we discuss key mechanisms that underlie autoantibody development in AIRD: defects in early B cell development, genetic variants involved in regulating B cell and T cell tolerance, environmental triggers and antigen modification. We describe how autoantibodies can directly contribute to AIRD pathogenesis through innate and adaptive immune mechanisms, eventually culminating in systemic inflammation and localized tissue damage. We conclude by discussing recent insights that suggest distinct AIRD have incorrectly been denominated seronegative.
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Affiliation(s)
- J N Pouw
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands.,Center for Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - E F A Leijten
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands.,Center for Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - J M van Laar
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - M Boes
- Center for Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands.,Department of Pediatrics, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
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49
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Acharya M, Raso F, Sagadiev S, Gilbertson E, Kadavy L, Li QZ, Yan M, Stuart LM, Hamerman JA, Lacy-Hulbert A. B Cell αv Integrins Regulate TLR-Driven Autoimmunity. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2020; 205:1810-1818. [PMID: 32859730 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.1901056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2019] [Accepted: 07/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is defined by loss of B cell tolerance, resulting in production of autoantibodies against nucleic acids and other cellular Ags. Aberrant activation of TLRs by self-derived RNA and DNA is strongly associated with SLE in patients and in mouse models, but the mechanism by which TLR signaling to self-ligands is regulated remains poorly understood. In this study, we show that αv integrin plays a critical role in regulating B cell TLR signaling to self-antigens in mice. We show that deletion of αv from B cells accelerates autoantibody production and autoimmune kidney disease in the Tlr7.1 transgenic mouse model of SLE. Increased autoimmunity was associated with specific expansion of transitional B cells, extrafollicular IgG2c-producing plasma cells, and activation of CD4 and CD8 T cells. Our data show that αv-mediated regulation of TLR signaling in B cells is critical for preventing autoimmunity and indicate that loss of αv promotes escape from tolerance. Thus, we identify a new regulatory pathway in autoimmunity and elucidate upstream signals that adjust B cell activation to prevent development of autoimmunity in a mouse model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mridu Acharya
- Immunology Program, Benaroya Research Institute at Virginia Mason, Seattle, WA 98101; .,Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA 98101
| | - Fiona Raso
- Immunology Program, Benaroya Research Institute at Virginia Mason, Seattle, WA 98101
| | - Sara Sagadiev
- Immunology Program, Benaroya Research Institute at Virginia Mason, Seattle, WA 98101.,Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA 98101
| | - Emily Gilbertson
- Immunology Program, Benaroya Research Institute at Virginia Mason, Seattle, WA 98101
| | - Lauren Kadavy
- Immunology Program, Benaroya Research Institute at Virginia Mason, Seattle, WA 98101
| | - Quan Z Li
- Department of Immunology and Internal Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390
| | - Mei Yan
- Department of Immunology and Internal Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390
| | - Lynda M Stuart
- Immunology Program, Benaroya Research Institute at Virginia Mason, Seattle, WA 98101.,Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, Seattle, WA 98109; and
| | - Jessica A Hamerman
- Immunology Program, Benaroya Research Institute at Virginia Mason, Seattle, WA 98101.,Department of Immunology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98109
| | - Adam Lacy-Hulbert
- Immunology Program, Benaroya Research Institute at Virginia Mason, Seattle, WA 98101; .,Department of Immunology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98109
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50
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Pisetsky DS, Lipsky PE. New insights into the role of antinuclear antibodies in systemic lupus erythematosus. Nat Rev Rheumatol 2020; 16:565-579. [PMID: 32884126 DOI: 10.1038/s41584-020-0480-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 132] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/16/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a prototypic autoimmune disease characterized by antinuclear antibodies (ANAs) that form immune complexes that mediate pathogenesis by tissue deposition or cytokine induction. Some ANAs bind DNA or associated nucleosome proteins, whereas other ANAs bind protein components of complexes of RNA and RNA-binding proteins (RBPs). Levels of anti-DNA antibodies can fluctuate widely, unlike those of anti-RBP antibodies, which tend to be stable. Because anti-DNA antibody levels can reflect disease activity, repeat testing is common; by contrast, a single anti-RBP antibody determination is thought to suffice for clinical purposes. Experience from clinical trials of novel therapies has provided a new perspective on ANA expression during disease, as many patients with SLE are ANA negative at screening despite previously testing positive. Because trial results suggest that patients who are ANA negative might not respond to certain agents, screening strategies now involve ANA and anti-DNA antibody testing to identify patients with so-called 'active, autoantibody-positive SLE'. Evidence suggests that ANA responses can decrease over time because of the natural history of disease or the effects of therapy. Together, these findings suggest that, during established disease, more regular serological testing could illuminate changes relevant to pathogenesis and disease status.
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Affiliation(s)
- David S Pisetsky
- Departments of Medicine and Immunology, Duke University Medical Center and Medical Research Service, Veterans Administration Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA.
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