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Mashayekhi K, Khazaie K, Faubion WA, Kim GB. Biomaterial-enhanced treg cell immunotherapy: A promising approach for transplant medicine and autoimmune disease treatment. Bioact Mater 2024; 37:269-298. [PMID: 38694761 PMCID: PMC11061617 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioactmat.2024.03.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2024] [Revised: 03/20/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Regulatory T cells (Tregs) are crucial for preserving tolerance in the body, rendering Treg immunotherapy a promising treatment option for both organ transplants and autoimmune diseases. Presently, organ transplant recipients must undergo lifelong immunosuppression to prevent allograft rejection, while autoimmune disorders lack definitive cures. In the last years, there has been notable advancement in comprehending the biology of both antigen-specific and polyclonal Tregs. Clinical trials involving Tregs have demonstrated their safety and effectiveness. To maximize the efficacy of Treg immunotherapy, it is essential for these cells to migrate to specific target tissues, maintain stability within local organs, bolster their suppressive capabilities, and ensure their intended function's longevity. In pursuit of these goals, the utilization of biomaterials emerges as an attractive supportive strategy for Treg immunotherapy in addressing these challenges. As a result, the prospect of employing biomaterial-enhanced Treg immunotherapy holds tremendous promise as a treatment option for organ transplant recipients and individuals grappling with autoimmune diseases in the near future. This paper introduces strategies based on biomaterial-assisted Treg immunotherapy to enhance transplant medicine and autoimmune treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazem Mashayekhi
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran
- Immunology of Infectious Diseases Research Center, Research Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran
| | | | - William A. Faubion
- Department of Immunology, Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale, AZ, USA
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Gloria B. Kim
- Department of Immunology, Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale, AZ, USA
- Department of Physiology and Biomedical Engineering, Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale, AZ, USA
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2
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Kabelitz D, Cierna L, Juraske C, Zarobkiewicz M, Schamel WW, Peters C. Empowering γδ T-cell functionality with vitamin C. Eur J Immunol 2024; 54:e2451028. [PMID: 38616772 DOI: 10.1002/eji.202451028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2024] [Revised: 04/02/2024] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024]
Abstract
Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is a potent antioxidant and a cofactor for various enzymes including histone demethylases and methylcytosine dioxygenases. Vitamin C also exerts direct cytotoxicity toward selected tumor cells including colorectal carcinoma. Moreover, vitamin C has been shown to impact immune cell differentiation at various levels including maturation and/or functionality of T cells and their progenitors, dendritic cells, B cells, and NK cells. γδ T cells have recently attracted great interest as effector cells for cell-based cancer immunotherapy, due to their HLA-independent recognition of a large variety of tumor cells. While γδ T cells can thus be also applied as an allogeneic off-the-shelf product, it is obvious that the effector function of γδ T cells needs to be optimized to ensure the best possible clinical efficacy. Here we review the immunomodulatory mechanisms of vitamin C with a special focus on how vitamin C enhances the effector function of γδ T cells. We also discuss future directions of how vitamin C can be used in the clinical setting to boost the efficacy of adoptive cell therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dieter Kabelitz
- Institute of Immunology, Christian-Albrechts University and University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein Campus Kiel, Kiel, Germany
- Institute of Immunology, UKSH Campus Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | - Lea Cierna
- Institute of Immunology, Christian-Albrechts University and University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein Campus Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | - Claudia Juraske
- Signalling Research Centres BIOSS and CIBSS, and Faculty of Biology, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- Spemann Graduate School of Biology and Medicine (SGBM), University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Michal Zarobkiewicz
- Institute of Immunology, Christian-Albrechts University and University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein Campus Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | - Wolfgang W Schamel
- Signalling Research Centres BIOSS and CIBSS, and Faculty of Biology, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- Spemann Graduate School of Biology and Medicine (SGBM), University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- Centre for Chronic Immunodeficiency (CCI), Medical Centre Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Christian Peters
- Institute of Immunology, Christian-Albrechts University and University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein Campus Kiel, Kiel, Germany
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Golonko A, Pienkowski T, Swislocka R, Orzechowska S, Marszalek K, Szczerbinski L, Swiergiel AH, Lewandowski W. Dietary factors and their influence on immunotherapy strategies in oncology: a comprehensive review. Cell Death Dis 2024; 15:254. [PMID: 38594256 PMCID: PMC11004013 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-024-06641-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2023] [Revised: 03/26/2024] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
Immunotherapy is emerging as a promising avenue in oncology, gaining increasing importance and offering substantial advantages when compared to chemotherapy or radiotherapy. However, in the context of immunotherapy, there is the potential for the immune system to either support or hinder the administered treatment. This review encompasses recent and pivotal studies that assess the influence of dietary elements, including vitamins, fatty acids, nutrients, small dietary molecules, dietary patterns, and caloric restriction, on the ability to modulate immune responses. Furthermore, the article underscores how these dietary factors have the potential to modify and enhance the effectiveness of anticancer immunotherapy. It emphasizes the necessity for additional research to comprehend the underlying mechanisms for optimizing the efficacy of anticancer therapy and defining dietary strategies that may reduce cancer-related morbidity and mortality. Persistent investigation in this field holds significant promise for improving cancer treatment outcomes and maximizing the benefits of immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleksandra Golonko
- Prof. Waclaw Dabrowski Institute of Agricultural and Food Biotechnology State Research Institute, Rakowiecka 36, 02-532, Warsaw, Poland
- Clinical Research Center, Medical University of Bialystok, M. Skłodowskiej-Curie 24a, 15-276, Bialystok, Poland
| | - Tomasz Pienkowski
- Clinical Research Center, Medical University of Bialystok, M. Skłodowskiej-Curie 24a, 15-276, Bialystok, Poland.
| | - Renata Swislocka
- Department of Chemistry, Biology and Biotechnology, Bialystok University of Technology, Wiejska 45 E, 15-351, Bialystok, Poland
| | - Sylwia Orzechowska
- Faculty of Chemistry, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 2, 30-387, Krakow, Poland
| | - Krystian Marszalek
- Prof. Waclaw Dabrowski Institute of Agricultural and Food Biotechnology State Research Institute, Rakowiecka 36, 02-532, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Lukasz Szczerbinski
- Clinical Research Center, Medical University of Bialystok, M. Skłodowskiej-Curie 24a, 15-276, Bialystok, Poland
| | - Artur Hugo Swiergiel
- Prof. Waclaw Dabrowski Institute of Agricultural and Food Biotechnology State Research Institute, Rakowiecka 36, 02-532, Warsaw, Poland
- Faculty of Biology, Department of Animal and Human Physiology, University of Gdansk, W. Stwosza 59, 80-308, Gdansk, Poland
| | - Wlodzimierz Lewandowski
- Prof. Waclaw Dabrowski Institute of Agricultural and Food Biotechnology State Research Institute, Rakowiecka 36, 02-532, Warsaw, Poland
- Department of Chemistry, Biology and Biotechnology, Bialystok University of Technology, Wiejska 45 E, 15-351, Bialystok, Poland
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4
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Yahsi B, Palaz F, Dincer P. Applications of CRISPR Epigenome Editors in Tumor Immunology and Autoimmunity. ACS Synth Biol 2024; 13:413-427. [PMID: 38298016 DOI: 10.1021/acssynbio.3c00524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2024]
Abstract
Over the past decade, CRISPR-Cas systems have become indispensable tools for genetic engineering and have been used in clinical trials for various diseases. Beyond genome editing, CRISPR-Cas systems can also be used for performing programmable epigenetic modifications. Recent efforts in enhancing CRISPR-based epigenome modifiers have yielded potent tools enabling targeted DNA methylation/demethylation capable of sustaining epigenetic memory through numerous cell divisions. Moreover, it has been understood that during chronic inflammatory states, including cancer, T cells encounter a state called T cell exhaustion that involves elevated inhibitory receptors (e.g., LAG-3, TIM3, PD-1, CD39) and reduced effector T cell-related protein levels (IFN-γ, granzyme B, and perforin). Importantly, epigenetic dysregulation has been identified as one of the key drivers of T cell exhaustion, and it remains one of the biggest obstacles in the field of immunotherapy and decreases the efficiency of chimeric antigen receptor T (CAR-T) cell therapy. Similarly, autoimmune diseases exhibit epigenetically dysfunctional regulatory T (Treg) cells. For instance, FOXP3 intronic regions, known as conserved noncoding sequences, display hypomethylation in healthy states but hypermethylation in pathological contexts. Therefore, the reversal of epigenetic dysregulation in cancer and autoimmune diseases using CRISPR-based epigenome modifiers has important therapeutic implications. In this review, we outline the progressive refinement of CRISPR-based epigenome modifiers and explore their potential therapeutic applications in tumor immunology and autoimmunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Berkay Yahsi
- Hacettepe University School of Medicine, Ankara 06100, Turkey
| | - Fahreddin Palaz
- Faculty of Medicine, Hacettepe University, Ankara 06100, Turkey
| | - Pervin Dincer
- Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Hacettepe University, Ankara 06100, Turkey
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5
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Kawakami R, Sakaguchi S. Regulatory T Cells for Control of Autoimmunity. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2024; 1444:67-82. [PMID: 38467973 DOI: 10.1007/978-981-99-9781-7_5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/13/2024]
Abstract
Regulatory T (Treg) cells, which specifically express the master transcription factor FoxP3, are indispensable for the maintenance of immunological self-tolerance and homeostasis. Their functional or numerical anomalies can be causative of autoimmune and other inflammatory diseases. Recent advances in the research of the cellular and molecular basis of how Treg cells develop, exert suppression, and maintain their function have enabled devising various ways for controlling physiological and pathological immune responses by targeting Treg cells. It is now envisaged that Treg cells as a "living drug" are able to achieve antigen-specific immune suppression of various immune responses and reestablish immunological self-tolerance in the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryoji Kawakami
- Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
- Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
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6
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Christofi P, Pantazi C, Psatha N, Sakellari I, Yannaki E, Papadopoulou A. Promises and Pitfalls of Next-Generation Treg Adoptive Immunotherapy. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:5877. [PMID: 38136421 PMCID: PMC10742252 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15245877] [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: 11/18/2023] [Revised: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Regulatory T cells (Tregs) are fundamental to maintaining immune homeostasis by inhibiting immune responses to self-antigens and preventing the excessive activation of the immune system. Their functions extend beyond immune surveillance and subpopulations of tissue-resident Treg cells can also facilitate tissue repair and homeostasis. The unique ability to regulate aberrant immune responses has generated the concept of harnessing Tregs as a new cellular immunotherapy approach for reshaping undesired immune reactions in autoimmune diseases and allo-responses in transplantation to ultimately re-establish tolerance. However, a number of issues limit the broad clinical applicability of Treg adoptive immunotherapy, including the lack of antigen specificity, heterogeneity within the Treg population, poor persistence, functional Treg impairment in disease states, and in vivo plasticity that results in the loss of suppressive function. Although the early-phase clinical trials of Treg cell therapy have shown the feasibility and tolerability of the approach in several conditions, its efficacy has remained questionable. Leveraging the smart tools and platforms that have been successfully developed for primary T cell engineering in cancer, the field has now shifted towards "next-generation" adoptive Treg immunotherapy, where genetically modified Treg products with improved characteristics are being generated, as regards antigen specificity, function, persistence, and immunogenicity. Here, we review the state of the art on Treg adoptive immunotherapy and progress beyond it, while critically evaluating the hurdles and opportunities towards the materialization of Tregs as a living drug therapy for various inflammation states and the broad clinical translation of Treg therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Panayiota Christofi
- Gene and Cell Therapy Center, Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation Unit, Hematology Department, George Papanikolaou Hospital, 57010 Thessaloniki, Greece; (P.C.); (C.P.); (I.S.); (E.Y.)
- University General Hospital of Patras, 26504 Rio, Greece
| | - Chrysoula Pantazi
- Gene and Cell Therapy Center, Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation Unit, Hematology Department, George Papanikolaou Hospital, 57010 Thessaloniki, Greece; (P.C.); (C.P.); (I.S.); (E.Y.)
- Department of Genetics, Development and Molecular Biology, School of Biology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece;
- Institute of Applied Biosciences (INAB), Centre for Research and Technology Hellas (CERTH), 57001 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Nikoleta Psatha
- Department of Genetics, Development and Molecular Biology, School of Biology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece;
| | - Ioanna Sakellari
- Gene and Cell Therapy Center, Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation Unit, Hematology Department, George Papanikolaou Hospital, 57010 Thessaloniki, Greece; (P.C.); (C.P.); (I.S.); (E.Y.)
| | - Evangelia Yannaki
- Gene and Cell Therapy Center, Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation Unit, Hematology Department, George Papanikolaou Hospital, 57010 Thessaloniki, Greece; (P.C.); (C.P.); (I.S.); (E.Y.)
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195-7710, USA
| | - Anastasia Papadopoulou
- Gene and Cell Therapy Center, Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation Unit, Hematology Department, George Papanikolaou Hospital, 57010 Thessaloniki, Greece; (P.C.); (C.P.); (I.S.); (E.Y.)
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7
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Sandeep, Subba R, Mondal AC. Does COVID-19 Trigger the Risk for the Development of Parkinson's Disease? Therapeutic Potential of Vitamin C. Mol Neurobiol 2023:10.1007/s12035-023-03756-3. [PMID: 37957424 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-023-03756-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) causes coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), which was proclaimed a pandemic by the World Health Organization (WHO) in March 2020. There is mounting evidence that older patients with multimorbidity are more susceptible to COVID-19 complications than are younger, healthy people. Having neuroinvasive potential, SARS-CoV-2 infection may increase susceptibility toward the development of Parkinson's disease (PD), a progressive neurodegenerative disorder with extensive motor deficits. PD is characterized by the aggregation of α-synuclein in the form of Lewy bodies and the loss of dopaminergic neurons in the dorsal striatum and substantia nigra pars compacta (SNpc) of the nigrostriatal pathway in the brain. Increasing reports suggest that SARS-CoV-2 infection is linked with the worsening of motor and non-motor symptoms with high rates of hospitalization and mortality in PD patients. Common pathological changes in both diseases involve oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, neuroinflammation, and neurodegeneration. COVID-19 exacerbates the damage ensuing from the dysregulation of those processes, furthering neurological complications, and increasing the severity of PD symptomatology. Phytochemicals have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic properties. Vitamin C supplementation is found to ameliorate the common pathological changes in both diseases to some extent. This review aims to present the available evidence on the association between COVID-19 and PD, and discusses the therapeutic potential of vitamin C for its better management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandeep
- Laboratory of Cellular & Molecular Neurobiology, School of Life Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, 110067, India
| | - Rhea Subba
- Laboratory of Cellular & Molecular Neurobiology, School of Life Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, 110067, India
| | - Amal Chandra Mondal
- Laboratory of Cellular & Molecular Neurobiology, School of Life Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, 110067, India.
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Maity J, Majumder S, Pal R, Saha B, Mukhopadhyay PK. Ascorbic acid modulates immune responses through Jumonji-C domain containing histone demethylases and Ten eleven translocation (TET) methylcytosine dioxygenase. Bioessays 2023; 45:e2300035. [PMID: 37694689 DOI: 10.1002/bies.202300035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2023] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Abstract
Ascorbic acid is a redox regulator in many physiological processes. Besides its antioxidant activity, many intriguing functions of ascorbic acid in the expression of immunoregulatory genes have been suggested. Ascorbic acid acts as a co-factor for the Fe+2 -containing α-ketoglutarate-dependent Jumonji-C domain-containing histone demethylases (JHDM) and Ten eleven translocation (TET) methylcytosine dioxygenasemediated epigenetic modulation. By influencing JHDM and TET, ascorbic acid facilitates the differentiation of double negative (CD4- CD8- ) T cells to double positive (CD4+ CD8+ ) T cells and of T-helper cells to different effector subsets. Ascorbic acid modulates plasma cell differentiation and promotes early differentiation of hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) to NK cells. These findings indicate that ascorbic acid plays a significant role in regulating both innate and adaptive immune cells, opening up new research areas in Immunonutrition. Being a water-soluble vitamin and a safe micro-nutrient, ascorbic acid can be used as an adjunct therapy for many disorders of the immune system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeet Maity
- Department of Life Sciences, Presidency University, Kolkata, India
| | | | - Ranjana Pal
- Department of Life Sciences, Presidency University, Kolkata, India
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Kang JH, Zappasodi R. Modulating Treg stability to improve cancer immunotherapy. Trends Cancer 2023; 9:911-927. [PMID: 37598003 DOI: 10.1016/j.trecan.2023.07.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2023] [Revised: 07/23/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 08/21/2023]
Abstract
Immunosuppressive regulatory T cells (Tregs) provide a main mechanism of tumor immune evasion. Targeting Tregs, especially in the tumor microenvironment (TME), continues to be investigated to improve cancer immunotherapy. Recent studies have unveiled intratumoral Treg heterogeneity and plasticity, furthering the complexity of the role of Tregs in tumor immunity and immunotherapy response. The phenotypic and functional diversity of intratumoral Tregs can impact their response to therapy and may offer new targets to modulate specific Treg subsets. In this review we provide a unifying framework of critical factors contributing to Treg heterogeneity and plasticity in the TME, and we discuss how this information can guide the development of more specific Treg-targeting therapies for cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jee Hye Kang
- Weill Cornell Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College of Cornell University, New York, NY, USA; Immunology and Microbial Pathogenesis Program, Weill Cornell Graduate School, New York, NY, USA
| | - Roberta Zappasodi
- Weill Cornell Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College of Cornell University, New York, NY, USA; Immunology and Microbial Pathogenesis Program, Weill Cornell Graduate School, New York, NY, USA.
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Medof ME, Rieder SA, Shevach EM. Disabled C3ar1/C5ar1 Signaling in Foxp3+ T Regulatory Cells Leads to TSDR Demethylation and Long-Term Stability. JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY (BALTIMORE, MD. : 1950) 2023; 211:1359-1366. [PMID: 37756526 PMCID: PMC10591991 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.2300184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
Demethylation of the T regulatory cell (Treg)-specific demethylation region (TSDR) of the Foxp3 gene is the hallmark of Foxp3+ Treg stability, but the cellular signaling that programs this epigenetic state remains undefined. In this article, we show that suppressed C3a and C5a receptor (C3ar1/C5ar1) signaling in murine Tregs plays an obligate role. Murine C3ar1-/-C5ar1-/- Foxp3+ cells showed increased suppressor of cytokine signaling 1/2/3 expression, vitamin C stabilization, and ten-eleven translocation (TET) 1, TET2, and TET3 expression, all of which are linked to Treg stability. C3ar1-/-C5ar1-/- Foxp3+ cells additionally were devoid of BRD4 signaling that primes Th17 cell lineage commitment. Orally induced OVA-specific C3ar1-/-C5ar1-/- Foxp3+ OT-II Tregs transferred to OVA-immunized wild-type recipients remained >90% Foxp3+ out to 4 mo, whereas identically generated CD55-/- (DAF-/-) Foxp3+ OT-II Tregs (in which C3ar1/C5ar1 signaling is potentiated) lost >75% of Foxp3 expression by 14 d. After 4 mo in vivo, the C3ar1-/-C5ar1-/- Foxp3+ OT-II Tregs fully retained Foxp3 expression even with OVA challenge and produced copious TGF-β and IL-10. Their TSDR was demethylated comparably with that of thymic Tregs. They exhibited nuclear translocation of NFAT and NF-κB reported to stabilize thymic Tregs by inducing hairpin looping of the TSDR to the Foxp3 promoter. Thus, disabled CD4+ cell C3ar1/C5ar1 signaling triggers the sequential cellular events that lead to demethylation of the Foxp3 TSDR.
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Affiliation(s)
- M. Edward Medof
- Institute of Pathology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Sadiye A. Rieder
- Laboratory of Immune System Biology, NIAID, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda MD USA
| | - Ethan M. Shevach
- Laboratory of Immune System Biology, NIAID, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda MD USA
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Mikami N, Sakaguchi S. Regulatory T cells in autoimmune kidney diseases and transplantation. Nat Rev Nephrol 2023; 19:544-557. [PMID: 37400628 DOI: 10.1038/s41581-023-00733-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/05/2023]
Abstract
Regulatory T (Treg) cells that express the transcription factor forkhead box protein P3 (FOXP3) are naturally present in the immune system and have roles in the maintenance of immunological self-tolerance and immune system and tissue homeostasis. Treg cells suppress T cell activation, expansion and effector functions by various mechanisms, particularly by controlling the functions of antigen-presenting cells. They can also contribute to tissue repair by suppressing inflammation and facilitating tissue regeneration, for example, via the production of growth factors and the promotion of stem cell differentiation and proliferation. Monogenic anomalies of Treg cells and genetic variations of Treg cell functional molecules can cause or predispose patients to the development of autoimmune diseases and other inflammatory disorders, including kidney diseases. Treg cells can potentially be utilized or targeted to treat immunological diseases and establish transplantation tolerance, for example, by expanding natural Treg cells in vivo using IL-2 or small molecules or by expanding them in vitro for adoptive Treg cell therapy. Efforts are also being made to convert antigen-specific conventional T cells into Treg cells and to generate chimeric antigen receptor Treg cells from natural Treg cells for adoptive Treg cell therapies with the aim of achieving antigen-specific immune suppression and tolerance in the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Norihisa Mikami
- Laboratory of Experimental Immunology, Immunology Frontier Research Center, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Shimon Sakaguchi
- Laboratory of Experimental Immunology, Immunology Frontier Research Center, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan.
- Institute for Life and Medical Sciences, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan.
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12
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Zhang H, Wu T, Ren C, Dong N, Wu Y, Yao Y. p53 promotes the expansion of regulatory T cells via DNMT3a- and TET2- mediated Foxp3 expression in sepsis. BURNS & TRAUMA 2023; 11:tkad021. [PMID: 37564681 PMCID: PMC10410290 DOI: 10.1093/burnst/tkad021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2022] [Revised: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023]
Abstract
Background Immunosuppression is an important characteristic of sepsis and is closely related to poor outcomes. Regulatory T cells (Tregs) contribute to immune suppression by inhibiting effector T cell (Teff) proliferation and differentiation. We aimed to investigate the role of p53 in Treg expansion after sepsis. Methods We constructed a sepsis model in wild-type (WT) and p53f/f/CD4-Cre+ mice by cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) and evaluated the proportions of CD4+CD25+ Foxp3+ Tregs by flow cytometry. The expression levels of forkhead/winged helix transcription factor p3 (Foxp3), DNA methyltransferase enzyme (DMNT)3a and ten-eleven translocation (TET)2 were examined using quantitative real-time PCR and Western blot analysis. Treg-specific demethylation region (TSDR) methylation sites in cells were analyzed by bisulfite-sequencing PCR. Furthermore, the direct binding of p53 to the Dnmt3a and TET2 promoters was illustrated using a luciferase assay. The suppressive ability of Tregs was indicated by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay analysis of cytokine levels and the proliferation of cocultured Teffs. Finally, mortality rates after CLP were compared among WT and p53f/f/CD4-Cre+ mice. Results The proportion of CD4+CD25+ Foxp3+ Tregs was significantly reduced in p53f/f/CD4-Cre+ mice compared to WT mice after CLP. The enhanced expression of Foxp3 in WT mice was downregulated in the p53f/f/CD4-Cre+ group. We found decreased DMNT3a and increased TET2 levels after CLP. However, the dysregulation of DNMT3a and TET2 was significantly reversed in p53f/f/CD4-Cre+ mice. TSDR underwent increased demethylation in p53f/f/CD4-Cre+ mice. Luciferase activity indicated direct binding of p53 to the promoter regions of DNMT3a and TET2 to regulate their transcription. Consequently, Tregs from p53f/f/CD4-Cre+ CLP mice exhibited limited suppressive ability, as indicated by the reduced production of transforming growth factor-β and interleukin 10 (IL-10). In the coculture system, Teffs showed preserved production of IL-2, differentiation into Th1 cells and proliferation in the presence of Tregs isolated from p53f/f/CD4-Cre+ CLP mice. Finally, the mortality rate of the p53f/f/CD4-Cre+ group after CLP was significantly reduced in comparison to that of the WT group. Conclusion p53 appears to be critical for Foxp3 expression and consequent Treg expansion by regulating the induction of DNMT3a and TET2, thereby resulting in Foxp3-TSDR demethylation in the context of sepsis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Zhang
- Translational Medicine Research Center, Medical Innovation Research Division and Fourth Medical Center of the Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Tiantian Wu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Peking University International Hospital, No. 1 Science Park Road, Life Science Park, Changping District, Beijing 100034, People’s Republic of China
| | - Chao Ren
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Beijing Institute of Respiratory Medicine, Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, No. 8 Worker's Stadium South Road, Chao-yang District, Beijing, China
| | - Ning Dong
- Translational Medicine Research Center, Medical Innovation Research Division and Fourth Medical Center of the Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yao Wu
- Translational Medicine Research Center, Medical Innovation Research Division and Fourth Medical Center of the Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yongming Yao
- Translational Medicine Research Center, Medical Innovation Research Division and Fourth Medical Center of the Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
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13
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Jovisic M, Mambetsariev N, Singer BD, Morales-Nebreda L. Differential roles of regulatory T cells in acute respiratory infections. J Clin Invest 2023; 133:e170505. [PMID: 37463441 PMCID: PMC10348770 DOI: 10.1172/jci170505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Acute respiratory infections trigger an inflammatory immune response with the goal of pathogen clearance; however, overexuberant inflammation causes tissue damage and impairs pulmonary function. CD4+FOXP3+ regulatory T cells (Tregs) interact with cells of both the innate and the adaptive immune system to limit acute pulmonary inflammation and promote its resolution. Tregs also provide tissue protection and coordinate lung tissue repair, facilitating a return to homeostatic pulmonary function. Here, we review Treg-mediated modulation of the host response to respiratory pathogens, focusing on mechanisms underlying how Tregs promote resolution of inflammation and repair of acute lung injury. We also discuss potential strategies to harness and optimize Tregs as a cellular therapy for patients with severe acute respiratory infection and discuss open questions in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milica Jovisic
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine
- Simpson Querrey Lung Institute for Translational Science
| | | | - Benjamin D. Singer
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine
- Simpson Querrey Lung Institute for Translational Science
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, and
- Simpson Querrey Institute for Epigenetics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Luisa Morales-Nebreda
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine
- Simpson Querrey Lung Institute for Translational Science
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14
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Peng L, Chen L, Wan J, Liu W, Lou S, Shen Z. Single-cell transcriptomic landscape of immunometabolism reveals intervention candidates of ascorbate and aldarate metabolism, fatty-acid degradation and PUFA metabolism of T-cell subsets in healthy controls, psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1179877. [PMID: 37492568 PMCID: PMC10363747 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1179877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction The modulation of immunometabolic pathways is emerging as a promising therapeutic target for immune-mediated diseases. However, the immunometabolic features of psoriatic disease and the potential targets for immunometabolic intervention in the different T-cell subsets involved in its pathogenesis remain unclear. Methods In this study, we analyzed circulating blood single-cell data from healthy controls (HC), psoriasis (PSO), and psoriatic arthritis (PSA) patients, and revealed their metabolic features of T-cell subsets: CD4+ central memory T cells (TCMs), CD8+ effective memory T cells (TEMs), regulatory T cells (Tregs), mucosal-associated invariant T cells (MAITs ), and γδ T cells. Pearson test was performed to determine the linkages between differential metabolic and inflammatory pathways. Based on these results, we also analyzed the potential impacts of biological antibodies on differential metabolic pathways by comparing the immunometabolism differences between PSA patients without and with biological treatment. Results Our results suggest that upregulation of ascorbate and aldarate metabolism, as well as fatty acid degradation, may enhance the immune suppression of Tregs. Enhanced metabolism of alpha-linolenic acid, linoleic acid, and arachidonic acid may inhibit the pro-inflammatory functions of CD4+ TCMs and CD8+ TEMs in PSO and PSA, and protect the immune suppression of Tregs in PSA. We propose that supporting ascorbic acid and fatty acid metabolic pathways may be an adjunctive reprogramming strategy with adalimumab and etanercept therapy. Discussion These findings not only provide insights into immunometabolism characteristics of psoriatic disease, but also offer preliminary options for the auxiliary treatment of psoriasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Peng
- Department of Dermatology, Guangdong Provincial People’s Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ling Chen
- Department of Dermatology, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jianji Wan
- Department of Dermatology, Guangdong Provincial People’s Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wenqi Liu
- Department of Dermatology, Guangdong Provincial People’s Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shuang Lou
- Department of Dermatology, Guangdong Provincial People’s Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhu Shen
- Department of Dermatology, Guangdong Provincial People’s Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
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15
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Al Mahmud A, Shafayet Ahmed Siddiqui, Karim MR, Al-Mamun MR, Akhter S, Sohel M, Hasan M, Bellah SF, Amin MN. Clinically proven natural products, vitamins and mineral in boosting up immunity: A comprehensive review. Heliyon 2023; 9:e15292. [PMID: 37089292 PMCID: PMC10079597 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e15292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2022] [Revised: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/31/2023] [Indexed: 03/26/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND and Purposes: The terminology "immune boost-up" was the talk of the topic in this Covid-19 pandemic. A significant number of the people took initiative to increase the body's defense capacity through boosting up immunity worldwide. Considering this, the study was designed to explain the natural products, vitamins and mineral that were proved by clinical trail as immunity enhancer. METHODS Information was retrieved from SciVerse Scopus ® (Elsevier Properties S. A, USA), Web of Science® (Thomson Reuters, USA), and PubMed based on immunity, nutrients, natural products in boosting up immunity, minerals and vitamins in boosting up immunity, and immune booster agents. RESULT A well-defined immune cells response provide a-well functioning defense system for the human physiological system. Cells of the immune system must require adequate stimulation so that these cells can prepare themselves competent enough to fight against any unintended onslaught. Several pharmacologically active medicinal plants and plants derived probiotics or micronutrients have played a pivotal role in enhancing the immune boost-up process. Their role has been well established from the previous study. Immune stimulating cells, especially cells of acquired immunity are closely associated with the immune-boosting up process because all the immunological reactions and mechanisms are mediated through these cells. CONCLUSION This article highlighted the mechanism of action of different natural products, vitamins and mineral in boosting up the immunity of the human body and strengthening the body's defense system. Therefore, it is recommended that until the specific immune-boosting drugs are available in pharma markets, anyone can consider the mentioned products as dietary supplements to boost up the immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdullah Al Mahmud
- Department of Pharmacy, Manarat International University, Ashulia, Dhaka, 1341, Bangladesh
- Pratyasha Health Biomedical Research Center, Dhaka, 1230, Bangladesh
| | - Shafayet Ahmed Siddiqui
- Department of Pharmacy, Manarat International University, Ashulia, Dhaka, 1341, Bangladesh
- Pratyasha Health Biomedical Research Center, Dhaka, 1230, Bangladesh
| | - Md Rezaul Karim
- Department of Pharmacy, Manarat International University, Ashulia, Dhaka, 1341, Bangladesh
| | | | - Shammi Akhter
- Department of Pharmacy, Varendra University, Rajshahi, 6204, Bangladesh
| | - Md Sohel
- Pratyasha Health Biomedical Research Center, Dhaka, 1230, Bangladesh
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Primeasia University, Dhaka, 1213, Bangladesh
| | - Mahedi Hasan
- Department of Pharmacy, Manarat International University, Ashulia, Dhaka, 1341, Bangladesh
| | - Sm Faysal Bellah
- Department of Pharmacy, Manarat International University, Ashulia, Dhaka, 1341, Bangladesh
| | - Mohammad Nurul Amin
- Pratyasha Health Biomedical Research Center, Dhaka, 1230, Bangladesh
- Department of Pharmacy, Atish Dipankar University of Science and Technology, Dhaka, 1230, Bangladesh
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16
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Uresti-Rivera EE, Méndez-Frausto G, Medina-Rosales MN, Ventura-Juárez J, García-Hernández MH. Sodium Selenite Diminished the Regulatory T Cell Differentiation In Vitro. Biol Trace Elem Res 2023; 201:1559-1566. [PMID: 35486317 DOI: 10.1007/s12011-022-03263-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 04/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Sodium selenite modulates the activity of lymphocytes. It negatively regulates the suppressive activity of cells and increases the immune response. In this study, we evaluated whether the regulatory T cell differentiation was modulated by sodium selenite. The percentages of CD4+CD25+Foxp3+, CD4+CD25+, and CD4+CTLA-4+ cells in CD4+ T cells cultures stimulated with IL-2 and TGF-β in the presence or absence of selenium, in the form of sodium selenite (2.0×10-6M), were evaluated by flow cytometry. The mRNA expression of TET2/3 enzymes and IL-10 was analyzed by RT-qPCR and the levels of IL-10 were measured by an ELISA. We observed a decrease in CD4+CD25+Foxp3+ and CD4+CTLA-4+ cells in presence of selenium. However, normal percentages were reached again after selenium removal. An increase in CD4+CTL4-4+ cells was detected in selenium-primed cell cultures in absence of IL-2 and TGF-β. In addition, we observed a decrease in TET3 in presence of selenium. Finally, we observed an augment in IL-10 transcription and protein levels and relative expression of TET2 in cultures exposed to selenium. We suggest that selenium reversibly affects the regulatory T cell differentiation in vitro. Likewise, selenium may modulate Treg percentages promoting optimal immune responses and, at the same time, the expression of specific suppressor molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- E E Uresti-Rivera
- Laboratory of Immunology and Cellular and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Chemical Sciences, Autonomous University of San Luis Potosí, UASLP, San Luis Potosí, Mexico
| | - G Méndez-Frausto
- Unidad de Investigación Biomédica, Delegación Zacatecas, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, IMSS, Interior de la Alameda No.45, 98000, Zacatecas, Zac, México
| | - M N Medina-Rosales
- Departamento de Morfología, Centro de Ciencias Básicas, Universidad Autónoma de Aguascalientes, Aguascalientes, Mexico
| | - J Ventura-Juárez
- Departamento de Morfología, Centro de Ciencias Básicas, Universidad Autónoma de Aguascalientes, Aguascalientes, Mexico
| | - M H García-Hernández
- Unidad de Investigación Biomédica, Delegación Zacatecas, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, IMSS, Interior de la Alameda No.45, 98000, Zacatecas, Zac, México.
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17
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Gholami H, Chmiel JA, Burton JP, Maleki Vareki S. The Role of Microbiota-Derived Vitamins in Immune Homeostasis and Enhancing Cancer Immunotherapy. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15041300. [PMID: 36831641 PMCID: PMC9954268 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15041300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2023] [Revised: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Not all cancer patients who receive immunotherapy respond positively and emerging evidence suggests that the gut microbiota may be linked to treatment efficacy. Though mechanisms of microbial contributions to the immune response have been postulated, one likely function is the supply of basic co-factors to the host including selected vitamins. Bacteria, fungi, and plants can produce their own vitamins, whereas humans primarily obtain vitamins from exogenous sources, yet despite the significance of microbial-derived vitamins as crucial immune system modulators, the microbiota is an overlooked source of these nutrients in humans. Microbial-derived vitamins are often shared by gut bacteria, stabilizing bioenergetic pathways amongst microbial communities. Compositional changes in gut microbiota can affect metabolic pathways that alter immune function. Similarly, the immune system plays a pivotal role in maintaining the gut microbiota, which parenthetically affects vitamin biosynthesis. Here we elucidate the immune-interactive mechanisms underlying the effects of these microbially derived vitamins and how they can potentially enhance the activity of immunotherapies in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hasti Gholami
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada
| | - John A. Chmiel
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada
- Canadian Research and Development Centre for Probiotics, Lawson Research Health Research Institute, London, ON N6A 5W9, Canada
| | - Jeremy P. Burton
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada
- Canadian Research and Development Centre for Probiotics, Lawson Research Health Research Institute, London, ON N6A 5W9, Canada
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada
- Correspondence: (J.P.B.); (S.M.V.); Tel.: +1-519-685-8500 (ext. 55769) (S.M.V.)
| | - Saman Maleki Vareki
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada
- London Regional Cancer Program, Lawson Health Research Institute, London, ON N6A 5W9, Canada
- Department of Oncology, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada
- Department of Medical Biophysics, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada
- Correspondence: (J.P.B.); (S.M.V.); Tel.: +1-519-685-8500 (ext. 55769) (S.M.V.)
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18
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Braband KL, Kaufmann T, Floess S, Zou M, Huehn J, Delacher M. Stepwise acquisition of unique epigenetic signatures during differentiation of tissue Treg cells. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1082055. [PMID: 36569861 PMCID: PMC9772052 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1082055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2022] [Accepted: 11/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Regulatory T cells in non-lymphoid tissues are not only critical for maintaining self-tolerance, but are also important for promoting organ homeostasis and tissue repair. It is proposed that the generation of tissue Treg cells is a stepwise, multi-site process, accompanied by extensive epigenome remodeling, finally leading to the acquisition of unique tissue-specific epigenetic signatures. This process is initiated in the thymus, where Treg cells acquire core phenotypic and functional properties, followed by a priming step in secondary lymphoid organs that permits Treg cells to exit the lymphoid organs and seed into non-lymphoid tissues. There, a final specialization process takes place in response to unique microenvironmental cues in the respective tissue. In this review, we will summarize recent findings on this multi-site tissue Treg cell differentiation and highlight the importance of epigenetic remodeling during these stepwise events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathrin L. Braband
- Institute for Immunology, University Medical Center Mainz, Mainz, Germany,Research Center for Immunotherapy, University Medical Center Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Tamara Kaufmann
- Institute for Immunology, University Medical Center Mainz, Mainz, Germany,Research Center for Immunotherapy, University Medical Center Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Stefan Floess
- Department of Experimental Immunology, Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Mangge Zou
- Department of Experimental Immunology, Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Jochen Huehn
- Department of Experimental Immunology, Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Braunschweig, Germany,Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Michael Delacher
- Institute for Immunology, University Medical Center Mainz, Mainz, Germany,Research Center for Immunotherapy, University Medical Center Mainz, Mainz, Germany,*Correspondence: Michael Delacher,
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19
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Morante-Palacios O, Godoy-Tena G, Calafell-Segura J, Ciudad L, Martínez-Cáceres EM, Sardina JL, Ballestar E. Vitamin C enhances NF-κB-driven epigenomic reprogramming and boosts the immunogenic properties of dendritic cells. Nucleic Acids Res 2022; 50:10981-10994. [PMID: 36305821 PMCID: PMC9638940 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkac941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2022] [Revised: 09/23/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Dendritic cells (DCs), the most potent antigen-presenting cells, are necessary for effective activation of naïve T cells. DCs’ immunological properties are modulated in response to various stimuli. Active DNA demethylation is crucial for DC differentiation and function. Vitamin C, a known cofactor of ten-eleven translocation (TET) enzymes, drives active demethylation. Vitamin C has recently emerged as a promising adjuvant for several types of cancer; however, its effects on human immune cells are poorly understood. In this study, we investigate the epigenomic and transcriptomic reprogramming orchestrated by vitamin C in monocyte-derived DC differentiation and maturation. Vitamin C triggers extensive demethylation at NF-κB/p65 binding sites, together with concordant upregulation of antigen-presentation and immune response-related genes during DC maturation. p65 interacts with TET2 and mediates the aforementioned vitamin C-mediated changes, as demonstrated by pharmacological inhibition. Moreover, vitamin C increases TNFβ production in DCs through NF-κB, in concordance with the upregulation of its coding gene and the demethylation of adjacent CpGs. Finally, vitamin C enhances DC’s ability to stimulate the proliferation of autologous antigen-specific T cells. We propose that vitamin C could potentially improve monocyte-derived DC-based cell therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Octavio Morante-Palacios
- Epigenetics and Immune Disease Group, Josep Carreras Research Institute (IJC), 08916, Badalona, Barcelona, Spain
- Germans Trias i Pujol Research Institute (IGTP), 08916, Badalona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Gerard Godoy-Tena
- Epigenetics and Immune Disease Group, Josep Carreras Research Institute (IJC), 08916, Badalona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Josep Calafell-Segura
- Epigenetics and Immune Disease Group, Josep Carreras Research Institute (IJC), 08916, Badalona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Laura Ciudad
- Epigenetics and Immune Disease Group, Josep Carreras Research Institute (IJC), 08916, Badalona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Eva M Martínez-Cáceres
- Division of Immunology, Germans Trias i Pujol Hospital, LCMN, Germans Trias iPujol Research Institute (IGTP), 08916, Badalona, Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Cell Biology, Physiology, Immunology, Autonomous University of Barcelona, 08193, Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - José Luis Sardina
- Epigenetic Control of Haematopoiesis Group, Josep Carreras Research Institute (IJC), 08916, Badalona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Esteban Ballestar
- To whom correspondence should be addressed. Tel: +34 935572800; Fax: +34 934651472;
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20
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Phadke I, Pouzolles M, Machado A, Moraly J, Gonzalez-Menendez P, Zimmermann VS, Kinet S, Levine M, Violet PC, Taylor N. Vitamin C deficiency reveals developmental differences between neonatal and adult hematopoiesis. Front Immunol 2022; 13:898827. [PMID: 36248829 PMCID: PMC9562198 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.898827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2022] [Accepted: 09/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Hematopoiesis, a process that results in the differentiation of all blood lineages, is essential throughout life. The production of 1x1012 blood cells per day, including 200x109 erythrocytes, is highly dependent on nutrient consumption. Notably though, the relative requirements for micronutrients during the perinatal period, a critical developmental window for immune cell and erythrocyte differentiation, have not been extensively studied. More specifically, the impact of the vitamin C/ascorbate micronutrient on perinatal as compared to adult hematopoiesis has been difficult to assess in animal models. Even though humans cannot synthesize ascorbate, due to a pseudogenization of the L-gulono-γ-lactone oxidase (GULO) gene, its generation from glucose is an ancestral mammalian trait. Taking advantage of a Gulo-/- mouse model, we show that ascorbic acid deficiency profoundly impacts perinatal hematopoiesis, resulting in a hypocellular bone marrow (BM) with a significant reduction in hematopoietic stem cells, multipotent progenitors, and hematopoietic progenitors. Furthermore, myeloid progenitors exhibited differential sensitivity to vitamin C levels; common myeloid progenitors and megakaryocyte-erythrocyte progenitors were markedly reduced in Gulo-/- pups following vitamin C depletion in the dams, whereas granulocyte-myeloid progenitors were spared, and their frequency was even augmented. Notably, hematopoietic cell subsets were rescued by vitamin C repletion. Consistent with these data, peripheral myeloid cells were maintained in ascorbate-deficient Gulo-/- pups while other lineage-committed hematopoietic cells were decreased. A reduction in B cell numbers was associated with a significantly reduced humoral immune response in ascorbate-depleted Gulo-/- pups but not adult mice. Erythropoiesis was particularly sensitive to vitamin C deprivation during both the perinatal and adult periods, with ascorbate-deficient Gulo-/- pups as well as adult mice exhibiting compensatory splenic differentiation. Furthermore, in the pathological context of hemolytic anemia, vitamin C-deficient adult Gulo-/- mice were not able to sufficiently increase their erythropoietic activity, resulting in a sustained anemia. Thus, vitamin C plays a pivotal role in the maintenance and differentiation of hematopoietic progenitors during the neonatal period and is required throughout life to sustain erythroid differentiation under stress conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ira Phadke
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD, United States
- Institut de Génétique Moléculaire de Montpellier, University of Montpellier, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), Montpellier, France
- Laboratory of Excellence GR-Ex, Paris, France
| | - Marie Pouzolles
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Alice Machado
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD, United States
- Institut de Génétique Moléculaire de Montpellier, University of Montpellier, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), Montpellier, France
- Laboratory of Excellence GR-Ex, Paris, France
| | - Josquin Moraly
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Pedro Gonzalez-Menendez
- Institut de Génétique Moléculaire de Montpellier, University of Montpellier, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), Montpellier, France
- Laboratory of Excellence GR-Ex, Paris, France
| | - Valérie S. Zimmermann
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD, United States
- Institut de Génétique Moléculaire de Montpellier, University of Montpellier, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), Montpellier, France
- Laboratory of Excellence GR-Ex, Paris, France
| | - Sandrina Kinet
- Institut de Génétique Moléculaire de Montpellier, University of Montpellier, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), Montpellier, France
- Laboratory of Excellence GR-Ex, Paris, France
| | - Mark Levine
- Molecular and Clinical Nutrition Section, Intramural Research Program, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
- *Correspondence: Mark Levine, ; Pierre-Christian Violet, ; Naomi Taylor,
| | - Pierre-Christian Violet
- Molecular and Clinical Nutrition Section, Intramural Research Program, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
- *Correspondence: Mark Levine, ; Pierre-Christian Violet, ; Naomi Taylor,
| | - Naomi Taylor
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD, United States
- Institut de Génétique Moléculaire de Montpellier, University of Montpellier, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), Montpellier, France
- *Correspondence: Mark Levine, ; Pierre-Christian Violet, ; Naomi Taylor,
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21
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Regulatory T cells in rheumatoid arthritis: functions, development, regulation, and therapeutic potential. Cell Mol Life Sci 2022; 79:533. [PMID: 36173485 PMCID: PMC9522664 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-022-04563-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2022] [Revised: 08/31/2022] [Accepted: 09/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease that mainly affects the joints but also leads to systemic inflammation. Auto-reactivity and dysregulation of self-tolerance are thought to play a vital role in disease onset. In the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases, disturbed immunosuppressive properties of regulatory T cells contribute to the dysregulation of immune homeostasis. In RA patients, the functions of Treg cells and their frequency are reduced. Therefore, focusing on the re-establishment of self-tolerance by increasing Treg cell frequencies and preventing a loss of function is a promising strategy for the treatment of RA. This approach could be especially beneficial for those patients who do not respond well to current therapies. In this review, we summarize and discuss the current knowledge about the function, differentiation and regulation of Treg cells in RA patients and in animal models of autoimmune arthritis. In addition, we highlight the therapeutic potential as well as the challenges of Treg cell targeting treatment strategies.
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22
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Protocol to evaluate cell lineage stability of mouse natural and induced regulatory T cells using bisulfite sequencing. STAR Protoc 2022; 3:101694. [PMID: 36121747 PMCID: PMC9489535 DOI: 10.1016/j.xpro.2022.101694] [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: 07/06/2022] [Revised: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 08/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
The establishment of regulatory T cells (Treg)-specific demethylation regions (TSDRs) is essential for the Treg-lineage stability. Here, we present a protocol using bisulfite sequencing to assess Treg-lineage stability. The protocol describes the isolation of lymphocytes and DNA extraction, followed by bisulfite conversion in unmethylated CpG DNA, bisulfite PCR and cloning, and sequencing to define the TSDR methylation. This protocol uses lymph nodes and spleen tissues and can be adapted to assess the methylation status of Tregs in other tissue types.
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23
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Intravenous Ascorbic Acid and Lung Function in Severely IllCOVID-19 Patients. Metabolites 2022; 12:metabo12090865. [PMID: 36144269 PMCID: PMC9505837 DOI: 10.3390/metabo12090865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Revised: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Current evidence suggests that ascorbic acid improves the host’s immune system and, therefore, may play a role in reducing the severity of infectious diseases. Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a potentially life-threatening viral infection that mainly infects the lungs. The objective of this review was to synthesize the existing findings from studies related to the effect of intravenous ascorbic acid on lung function in COVID-19 patients. For this review, PubMed, Cochrane, SCOPUS, EMBASE, Clinical Trial Registry, and Google Scholar databases were searched from December 2019 to May 2022. There was a total of six studies that investigated the large dose of ascorbic acid infusion intravenously on lung function in severely ill subjects with COVID-19. Out of six, three studies found that high-dose intravenous ascorbic acid improved lung function markers, and three studies found null results. Infusions of 12 g/d and 24 g/d of intravenous ascorbic acid had shown a significant improvement in lung function markers in two clinical trials. Studies that administered 8 g/d, 2 g/d, and 50 mg/kg/d of intravenous ascorbic acid found no influence on mechanical ventilation need and other lung function markers in critically ill subjects with COVID-19. Overall, the effect of intravenous ascorbic acid on the lung function of subjects with COVID yielded equivocal findings. More double-blinded, randomized, clinical studies with a larger sample size are required to confirm the effect of ascorbic acid in ameliorating the lung pathologies associated with COVID infection.
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DNA Methylation in Regulatory T Cell Differentiation and Function: Challenges and Opportunities. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12091282. [PMID: 36139121 PMCID: PMC9496199 DOI: 10.3390/biom12091282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2022] [Revised: 09/04/2022] [Accepted: 09/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
As a bona fide epigenetic marker, DNA methylation has been linked to the differentiation and function of regulatory T (Treg) cells, a subset of CD4 T cells that play an essential role in maintaining immune homeostasis and suppressing autoimmunity and antitumor immune response. DNA methylation undergoes dynamic regulation involving maintenance of preexisting patterns, passive and active demethylation, and de novo methylation. Scattered evidence suggests that these processes control different stages of Treg cell lifespan ranging from lineage induction to cell fate maintenance, suppression of effector T cells and innate immune cells, and transdifferentiation. Despite significant progress, it remains to be fully explored how differential DNA methylation regulates Treg cell fate and immunological function. Here, we review recent progress and discuss the questions and challenges for further understanding the immunological roles and mechanisms of dynamic DNA methylation in controlling Treg cell differentiation and function. We also explore the opportunities that these processes offer to manipulate Treg cell suppressive function for therapeutic purposes by targeting DNA methylation.
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Chen HY, Almonte-Loya A, Lay FY, Hsu M, Johnson E, González-Avalos E, Yin J, Bruno RS, Ma Q, Ghoneim HE, Wozniak DJ, Harrison FE, Lio CWJ. Epigenetic remodeling by vitamin C potentiates plasma cell differentiation. eLife 2022; 11:73754. [PMID: 36069787 PMCID: PMC9451539 DOI: 10.7554/elife.73754] [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: 09/09/2021] [Accepted: 08/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Ascorbate (vitamin C) is an essential micronutrient in humans. The severe chronic deficiency of ascorbate, termed scurvy, has long been associated with increased susceptibility to infections. How ascorbate affects the immune system at the cellular and molecular levels remained unclear. From a micronutrient analysis, we identified ascorbate as a potent enhancer for antibody response by facilitating the IL-21/STAT3-dependent plasma cell differentiation in mouse and human B cells. The effect of ascorbate is unique as other antioxidants failed to promote plasma cell differentiation. Ascorbate is especially critical during early B cell activation by poising the cells to plasma cell lineage without affecting the proximal IL-21/STAT3 signaling and the overall transcriptome. As a cofactor for epigenetic enzymes, ascorbate facilitates TET2/3-mediated DNA modification and demethylation of multiple elements at the Prdm1 locus. DNA demethylation augments STAT3 association at the Prdm1 promoter and a downstream enhancer, thus ensuring efficient gene expression and plasma cell differentiation. The results suggest that an adequate level of ascorbate is required for antibody response and highlight how micronutrients may regulate the activity of epigenetic enzymes to regulate gene expression. Our findings imply that epigenetic enzymes can function as sensors to gauge the availability of metabolites and influence cell fate decisions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heng-Yi Chen
- Department of Microbial Infection and Immunity, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Ana Almonte-Loya
- Department of Microbial Infection and Immunity, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States.,Division of Gene Expression and Signaling, La Jolla Institute for Immunology, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Fang-Yun Lay
- Department of Microbial Infection and Immunity, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Michael Hsu
- Department of Microbial Infection and Immunity, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Eric Johnson
- Division of Gene Expression and Signaling, La Jolla Institute for Immunology, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Edahí González-Avalos
- Division of Gene Expression and Signaling, La Jolla Institute for Immunology, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Jieyun Yin
- Division of Gene Expression and Signaling, La Jolla Institute for Immunology, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Richard S Bruno
- Human Nutrition Program, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Qin Ma
- Biomedical Informatics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States.,Pelotonia Institute for Immuno-Oncology, The James Comprehensive Cancer Center, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Hazem E Ghoneim
- Department of Microbial Infection and Immunity, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States.,Pelotonia Institute for Immuno-Oncology, The James Comprehensive Cancer Center, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Daniel J Wozniak
- Department of Microbial Infection and Immunity, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Fiona E Harrison
- Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States
| | - Chan-Wang Jerry Lio
- Department of Microbial Infection and Immunity, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States.,Division of Gene Expression and Signaling, La Jolla Institute for Immunology, San Diego, CA, United States.,Pelotonia Institute for Immuno-Oncology, The James Comprehensive Cancer Center, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
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26
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Zaher A, Stephens LM, Miller AM, Hartwig SM, Stolwijk JM, Petronek MS, Zacharias ZR, Wadas TJ, Monga V, Cullen JJ, Furqan M, Houtman JCD, Varga SM, Spitz DR, Allen BG. Pharmacological ascorbate as a novel therapeutic strategy to enhance cancer immunotherapy. Front Immunol 2022; 13:989000. [PMID: 36072595 PMCID: PMC9444023 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.989000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Pharmacological ascorbate (i.e., intravenous infusions of vitamin C reaching ~ 20 mM in plasma) is under active investigation as an adjuvant to standard of care anti-cancer treatments due to its dual redox roles as an antioxidant in normal tissues and as a prooxidant in malignant tissues. Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are highly promising therapies for many cancer patients but face several challenges including low response rates, primary or acquired resistance, and toxicity. Ascorbate modulates both innate and adaptive immune functions and plays a key role in maintaining the balance between pro and anti-inflammatory states. Furthermore, the success of pharmacological ascorbate as a radiosensitizer and a chemosensitizer in pre-clinical studies and early phase clinical trials suggests that it may also enhance the efficacy and expand the benefits of ICIs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amira Zaher
- Cancer Biology Program, Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, United States
| | - Laura M. Stephens
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, United States
| | - Ann M. Miller
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, United States
| | - Stacey M. Hartwig
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, United States
| | - Jeffrey M. Stolwijk
- Free Radical and Radiation Biology Program, Department of Radiation Oncology, Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, United States
| | - Michael S. Petronek
- Free Radical and Radiation Biology Program, Department of Radiation Oncology, Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, United States
| | - Zeb R. Zacharias
- Human Immunology Core & Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, United States
| | - Thaddeus J. Wadas
- Department of Radiology, Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, United States
| | - Varun Monga
- Division of Hematology, Oncology, and Blood & Marrow Transplantation, Department of Internal Medicine, Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, United States
| | - Joseph J. Cullen
- Department of Surgery, Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, United States
| | - Muhammad Furqan
- Division of Hematology, Oncology, and Blood & Marrow Transplantation, Department of Internal Medicine, Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, United States
| | - Jon C. D. Houtman
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, United States
| | - Steven M. Varga
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, United States
| | - Douglas R. Spitz
- Free Radical and Radiation Biology Program, Department of Radiation Oncology, Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, United States
| | - Bryan G. Allen
- Free Radical and Radiation Biology Program, Department of Radiation Oncology, Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, United States
- *Correspondence: Bryan G. Allen,
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Zhang H, Liu K, Gong Y, Zhu W, Zhu J, Pan F, Chao Y, Xiao Z, Liu Y, Wang X, Liu Z, Yang Y, Chen Q. Vitamin C supramolecular hydrogel for enhanced cancer immunotherapy. Biomaterials 2022; 287:121673. [PMID: 35839587 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2022.121673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2022] [Revised: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Vitamin C (VitC) has shown great promise to promote cancer immunotherapy, however, its high hydrophilicity makes it quickly excreted, leading to limited therapeutic efficiency even with frequent high-dose administration. Herein, we provide a pioneering report about the employment of VitC amphiphile self-assembled nanofiber hydrogels for enhanced cancer immunotherapy. Specifically, driven by hydrogen bonding and hydrophobic interactions, the synthesized VitC amphiphile, consisting of a hydrophilic VitC headgroup and a hydrophobic alkyl chain, could self-assemble into an injectable nanofiber hydrogel with self-healing properties. The formed VitC hydrogel not only serves as a reservoir for VitC but also acts as an effective delivery platform for stimulator of interferon genes (STING) agonist-4 (SA). Interestingly, the VitC hydrogel itself exhibits antitumor effects by upregulating genes related to interferon (IFN) signaling, apoptotic signaling and viral recognition and defense. Moreover, the SA-encapsulated VitC hydrogel (SA@VitC hydrogel) synergistically activated the immune system to inhibit the progression of both local and abscopal tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han Zhang
- Institute of Functional Nano & Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Carbon-Based Functional Materials & Devices, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Kai Liu
- Centre for Systems Chemistry, Stratingh Institute, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Yimou Gong
- Institute of Functional Nano & Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Carbon-Based Functional Materials & Devices, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Wenjun Zhu
- Institute of Functional Nano & Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Carbon-Based Functional Materials & Devices, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Jiafei Zhu
- Institute of Functional Nano & Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Carbon-Based Functional Materials & Devices, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Feng Pan
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Yu Chao
- Institute of Functional Nano & Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Carbon-Based Functional Materials & Devices, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Zhishen Xiao
- Institute of Functional Nano & Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Carbon-Based Functional Materials & Devices, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Yanbin Liu
- Institute of Functional Nano & Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Carbon-Based Functional Materials & Devices, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Xianwen Wang
- Institute of Functional Nano & Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Carbon-Based Functional Materials & Devices, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Zhuang Liu
- Institute of Functional Nano & Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Carbon-Based Functional Materials & Devices, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Yang Yang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200433, China.
| | - Qian Chen
- Institute of Functional Nano & Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Carbon-Based Functional Materials & Devices, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China.
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Premkumar K, Shankar BS. Identification of EPZ004777 and FG2216 as inhibitors of TGF-β1 induced Treg cells by screening a library of epigenetic compounds. Life Sci 2022; 301:120643. [DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2022.120643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2022] [Revised: 05/04/2022] [Accepted: 05/10/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Long X, Luo C, Zhu Z. Role of CNSs Conserved Distal Cis-Regulatory Elements in CD4 + T Cell Development and Differentiation. Front Immunol 2022; 13:919550. [PMID: 35812386 PMCID: PMC9260786 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.919550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2022] [Accepted: 05/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Naïve CD4+ T cells differentiate into diverse subsets of effector cells and perform various homeostatic and immune functions. The differentiation and maintenance of these different subsets are controlled through the upregulation and silencing of master genes. Mechanistic studies of the regulation of these master genes identified conserved and distal intronic regulatory elements, which are accessible subsets of conserved non-coding sequences (CNSs), acting as cis-regulatory elements in a lineage-specific manner that controls the function of CD4+ T cells. Abnormal CNS activity is associated with incorrect expression of master genes and development of autoimmune diseases or immune suppression. Here, we describe the function of several conserved, distal cis-regulatory elements at the Foxp3, Rorc, Il-4, Il-10 and Il-17 gene locus were shown to play important roles in CD4+ T cells differentiation. Together, this review briefly outlines currently known CNSs, with a focus on their regulations and functions in complexes modulating the differentiation and maintenance of various CD4+ T cells subsets, in health and disease contexts, as well as during the conversion of T regulatory cells to T helper 17 cells. This article will provide a comprehensive view of CNSs conserved distal cis-regulatory elements at a few loci that control aspects of CD4+ T cells function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xunyi Long
- Department of General Surgery, Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
- Jiangxi Medical College of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Chen Luo
- Department of General Surgery, Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
- Jiangxi Medical College of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
- *Correspondence: Zhengming Zhu, ; Chen Luo,
| | - Zhengming Zhu
- Department of General Surgery, Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
- *Correspondence: Zhengming Zhu, ; Chen Luo,
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30
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Gong Z, Jia H, Xue L, Li D, Zeng X, Wei M, Liu Z, Tong MCF, Chen GG. The emerging role of transcription factor FOXP3 in thyroid cancer. Rev Endocr Metab Disord 2022; 23:421-429. [PMID: 34463908 DOI: 10.1007/s11154-021-09684-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Transcription factor FOXP3 is a crucial regulator in the development and function of regulatory T cells (Treg) that are essential for immunological tolerance and homeostasis. Numerous studies have indicated the correlation of tumor infiltrating FOXP3+ Treg upregulation with poor prognostic parameters in thyroid cancer, including lymph node metastases, extrathyroidal extension, and multifocality. Most immune-checkpoint molecules are expressed in Treg. The blockage of such signals with checkpoint inhibitors has been approved for several solid tumors, but not yet for thyroid cancer. Thyroid abnormalities may be induced by checkpoint inhibitors. For example, hypothyroidism, thyrotoxicosis, painless thyroiditis, or even thyroid storm are more frequently associated with anti-PD-1 antibodies (pembrolizumab and nivolumab). Therefore, Targeting FOXP3+ Treg may have impacts on checkpoint molecules and the growth of thyroid cancer. Several factors may impact the role and stability of FOXP3, such as alternative RNA splicing, mutations, and post-translational modification. In addition, the role of FOXP3+ Treg in the tumor microenvironment is also affected by the complex regulatory network formed by FOXP3 and its transcriptional partners. Here we discussed how the expression and function of FOXP3 were regulated and how FOXP3 interacted with its targets in Treg, aiming to help the development of FOXP3 as a potential therapeutic target for thyroid cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhongqin Gong
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Hong Kong, China
| | - Hao Jia
- Department of Thyroid and Breast Surgery, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Lingbin Xue
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Hong Kong, China
| | - Dongcai Li
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of ENT, Institute of ENT & Longgang, ENT Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xianhai Zeng
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of ENT, Institute of ENT & Longgang, ENT Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Minghui Wei
- Department of Head & Neck Surgery, Cancer Hospital Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shenzhen Center, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhimin Liu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Michael C F Tong
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Hong Kong, China.
| | - George G Chen
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Hong Kong, China.
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Enhancement of Antiviral T-Cell Responses by Vitamin C Suggests New Strategies to Improve Manufacturing of Virus-Specific T Cells for Adoptive Immunotherapy. BIOLOGY 2022; 11:biology11040536. [PMID: 35453735 PMCID: PMC9032103 DOI: 10.3390/biology11040536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Revised: 03/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Allogeneic and autologous transplantation of hematopoietic stem cells (HSCT) are being routinely used to treat patients with leukemia and lymphoma. Due to the required immunosuppression after stem cell transplantation, infection and reactivation by viruses are life-threatening complications. In recent years, adoptive transfer using virus-specific T cells (VSTs) has emerged as alternative to conventional therapies. Since vitamins are described to influence the immune system and its cellular components, the aim of this study was to examine whether vitamins modulate VST function and thereby enable an improvement of therapy. For that, we investigated the impact of vitamin C and D on the functionality of cytomegalovirus (CMV)-specific T cells isolated from CMV-seropositive healthy donors. We were able to show that vitamin C increases the expansion and activation state of CMV-specific T cells, and an increased influence of vitamin C was observed on cells isolated from male donors and donors above 40 years of age. A higher frequency of the terminally differentiated effector memory CD8+ T-cell population in these donors indicates a connection between these cells and the enhanced response to vitamin C. Thus, here we provide insights into the impact of vitamin C on cytotoxic T cells as well as possible additional selection criteria and strategies to improve VST functionality.
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Gao R, Shi GP, Wang J. Functional Diversities of Regulatory T Cells in the Context of Cancer Immunotherapy. Front Immunol 2022; 13:833667. [PMID: 35371055 PMCID: PMC8969660 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.833667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2021] [Accepted: 02/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Regulatory T cells (Tregs) are a subset of CD4+ T cells with their immunosuppressive activities to block abnormal or excessive immune responses to self and non-autoantigens. Tregs express the transcription factor Foxp3, maintain the immune homeostasis, and prevent the initiation of anti-tumor immune effects in various ways as their mechanisms to modulate tumor development. Recognition of different phenotypes and functions of intratumoral Tregs has offered the possibilities to develop therapeutic strategies by selectively targeting Tregs in cancers with the aim of alleviating their immunosuppressive activities from anti-tumor immune responses. Several Treg-based immunotherapeutic approaches have emerged to target cytotoxic T lymphocyte antigen-4, glucocorticoid-induced tumor necrosis factor receptor, CD25, indoleamine-2, 3-dioxygenase-1, and cytokines. These immunotherapies have yielded encouraging outcomes from preclinical studies and early-phase clinical trials. Further, dual therapy or combined therapy has been approved to be better choices than single immunotherapy, radiotherapy, or chemotherapy. In this short review article, we discuss our current understanding of the immunologic characteristics of Tregs, including Treg differentiation, development, therapeutic efficacy, and future potential of Treg-related therapies among the general cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ran Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Biology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Department of Pathophysiology, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Guo-Ping Shi
- Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Jing Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Biology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Department of Pathophysiology, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
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Multiple Micronutrient Supplementation: As a Supportive Therapy in the Treatment of COVID-19. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 2022:3323825. [PMID: 35355818 PMCID: PMC8960013 DOI: 10.1155/2022/3323825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2021] [Revised: 02/03/2022] [Accepted: 02/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
During the infection and treatment of the SARS-CoV-2 viral infection, age and comorbidities play a major role in the successful management of COVID-19. The nutritional status changes which occur in the body vary with the age and underlying conditions and has a vital role in the functioning of the immune system and cellular membrane integrity, thus minimizing the vulnerability to the infection. Considering the data already published by eminent researchers, a few micronutrients have shown outstanding results as supportive therapies in the treatment of viral infections. Micronutrient like zinc improves the membrane barrier integrity, has anti-inflammatory activity, and is involved in antibody production. Vitamin A supports the phagocytic activity of macrophages, while vitamin C reduces the worsening of respiratory tract infections by restoring the dysfunctional epithelial barrier of the lungs. Vitamin D, vitamin E, selenium, and omega-3 fatty acid metabolites play a major role in immunomodulation and in the inhibition of proinflammatory cytokine production. Magnesium is involved in the synthesis of antibodies, while copper, vitamin B12, and folate have significant effects on immune cells. A few researchers suggest that iron supplementation has reduced the risk of acquiring respiratory tract infections in children. As the age of the patient increases, the need for micronutrients increases, thus leading to an imbalanced nutritional status which in turn increases the risk and fatality of the infections. The use of micronutrients in modulating the inflammatory, immune responses, and the epithelial barrier integrity is explored during the treatment of viral infections for faster recovery.
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Yu S, Chen X, Liu Y, Zhuang XY, Wang AC, Liu XM, Zhu S. Exosomes derived from stem cells from the apical papilla alleviate inflammation in rat pulpitis by upregulating regulatory T cells. Int Endod J 2022; 55:517-530. [PMID: 35274316 DOI: 10.1111/iej.13721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2021] [Accepted: 03/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
AIM To evaluate the effects of exosomes derived from stem cells from the apical papilla (SCAP-Exos) in rats with experimentally induced pulpitis and the effects of SCAP-Exos on the conversion of regulatory T cells (Tregs) and methylation status of the Foxp3 locus in Tregs in vitro. METHODOLOGY SCAP-Exos were isolated and identified using transmission electron microscopy, western blotting, and nanoparticle tracking analysis. Lipopolysaccharide was used to experimentally induced pulpitis in rats, and the effects of SCAP-Exos on the rats with pulpitis were detected using haematoxylin-eosin staining and immunofluorescence staining. CD4+CD25- T cells were treated with different doses of SCAP-Exos, and flow cytometric analysis was used to assess the effects of SCAP-Exos on Treg proliferation and conversion. An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to evaluate the expression of interleukin 10 (IL-10). MethylTarget® technology was used to measure the methylation level of the Foxp3 locus in T cells. The expression levels of ten-eleven-translocation (Tet) 1, Tet2, and Tet3 in T cells were detected by real-time PCR and western blotting. RESULTS SCAP-Exos had an elliptical vesicle-like structure with a diameter of approximately 143.7 nm and expressed the exosomal markers Alix and CD9. SCAP-Exo administration increased Treg accumulation in the inflamed dental pulp and alleviated inflammation in the dental pulp in vivo. SCAP-Exos promoted Treg conversion in vitro. Mechanistically, SCAP-Exos promoted Tet2-mediated Foxp3 demethylation to maintain the stable expression of Foxp3. CONCLUSIONS SCAP-Exos promoted Treg conversion and effectively alleviated inflammation in the dental pulp of rats. This study shows that SCAP-Exos can regulate the local immune microenvironment to favour tissue regeneration, thus providing a potential novel strategy utilising SCAP-Exos as a cell-free approach to treat early inflammation of dental pulp in immature permanent teeth in the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Yu
- Department of Paediatric Dentistry, School and Hospital of Stomatology, China Medical University, Shenyang, China; Liaoning Province Key Laboratory of Oral Disease, Shenyang, China
| | - X Chen
- Department of Paediatric Dentistry, School and Hospital of Stomatology, China Medical University, Shenyang, China; Liaoning Province Key Laboratory of Oral Disease, Shenyang, China
| | - Y Liu
- Department of Paediatric Dentistry, School and Hospital of Stomatology, China Medical University, Shenyang, China; Liaoning Province Key Laboratory of Oral Disease, Shenyang, China
| | - X Y Zhuang
- Department of Paediatric Dentistry, School and Hospital of Stomatology, China Medical University, Shenyang, China; Liaoning Province Key Laboratory of Oral Disease, Shenyang, China
| | - A C Wang
- Department of Paediatric Dentistry, School and Hospital of Stomatology, China Medical University, Shenyang, China; Liaoning Province Key Laboratory of Oral Disease, Shenyang, China
| | - X M Liu
- Department of Paediatric Dentistry, School and Hospital of Stomatology, China Medical University, Shenyang, China; Liaoning Province Key Laboratory of Oral Disease, Shenyang, China
| | - S Zhu
- Department of Paediatric Dentistry, School and Hospital of Stomatology, China Medical University, Shenyang, China; Liaoning Province Key Laboratory of Oral Disease, Shenyang, China
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Joudi AM, Reyes Flores CP, Singer BD. Epigenetic Control of Regulatory T Cell Stability and Function: Implications for Translation. Front Immunol 2022; 13:861607. [PMID: 35309306 PMCID: PMC8924620 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.861607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
FoxP3+ regulatory T (Treg) cells maintain immune homeostasis, promote self-tolerance, and have an emerging role in resolving acute inflammation, providing tissue protection, and repairing tissue damage. Some data suggest that FoxP3+ T cells are plastic, exhibiting susceptibility to losing their function in inflammatory cytokine-rich microenvironments and paradoxically contributing to inflammatory pathology. As a result, plasticity may represent a barrier to Treg cell immunotherapy. Here, we discuss controversies surrounding Treg cell plasticity and explore determinants of Treg cell stability in inflammatory microenvironments, focusing on epigenetic mechanisms that clinical protocols could leverage to enhance efficacy and limit toxicity of Treg cell-based therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony M. Joudi
- Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, United States
- Canning Thoracic Institute, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Carla P. Reyes Flores
- Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, United States
- Canning Thoracic Institute, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Benjamin D. Singer
- Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, United States
- Canning Thoracic Institute, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, United States
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, United States
- Simpson Querrey Institute for Epigenetics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, United States
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36
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Shen L, Xiao Y, Tian J, Lu Z. Remodeling metabolic fitness: Strategies for improving the efficacy of chimeric antigen receptor T cell therapy. Cancer Lett 2022; 529:139-152. [PMID: 35007698 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2022.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2021] [Revised: 12/31/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The dramatic success of adoptive transfer of engineered T cells expressing chimeric antigen receptor (CAR-T) has been achieved with effective responses in some relapsed or refractory hematologic malignancies, which is not yet met in solid tumors. The efficacy of CAR-T therapy is associated with its fate determination and their interaction with cancer cells in tumor microenvironment (TME), which is closely correlated with T cell metabolism fitness. Indeed, modulating T cell metabolism reprogramming has been proven crucial for their survival and reinvigorating antitumor immunity, and thus is considered as a promising strategy to improve the clinical performance of CAR-T cell therapy in difficult-to-treat cancers. This review briefly summarizes the T cell metabolic profiles and key metabolic challenges it faces in TME such as nutrient depletion, hypoxia, and toxic metabolites, then emphatically discusses the potential strategies to modulate metabolic properties of CAR-T cells including improving CARs construct design, optimizing manufacture process via addition of exogenous cytokines or targeting specific signaling pathway, manipulating ROS levels balance or relieve the unfavorable metabolic TME including adaptation to hypoxia and relieving inhibitory effect of toxic metabolites, eventually strengthening the anti-tumor response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luyan Shen
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), Laboratory of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Peking University Cancer Hospital and Institute, Beijing, 100142, People's Republic of China
| | - Yefei Xiao
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), Laboratory of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Peking University Cancer Hospital and Institute, Beijing, 100142, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiahe Tian
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, 90007, USA
| | - Zheming Lu
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), Laboratory of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Peking University Cancer Hospital and Institute, Beijing, 100142, People's Republic of China.
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Chen HY, Hsu M, Lio CWJ. Micro but mighty-Micronutrients in the epigenetic regulation of adaptive immune responses. Immunol Rev 2022; 305:152-164. [PMID: 34820863 PMCID: PMC8766944 DOI: 10.1111/imr.13045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2021] [Revised: 11/11/2021] [Accepted: 11/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Micronutrients are essential small molecules required by organisms in minute quantity for survival. For instance, vitamins and minerals, the two major categories of micronutrients, are central for biological processes such as metabolism, cell replication, differentiation, and immune response. Studies estimated that around two billion humans worldwide suffer from micronutrient deficiencies, also known as "hidden hunger," linked to weakened immune responses. While micronutrients affect the immune system at multiple levels, recent studies showed that micronutrients potentially impact the differentiation and function of immune cells as cofactors for epigenetic enzymes, including the 2-oxoglutarate-dependent dioxygenase (2OGDD) family involved in histone and DNA demethylation. Here, we will first provide an overview of the role of DNA methylation in T cells and B cells, followed by the micronutrients ascorbate (vitamin C) and iron, two critical cofactors for 2OGDD. We will discuss the emerging evidence of these micronutrients could regulate adaptive immune response by influencing epigenetic remodeling.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Chan-Wang Jerry Lio
- Corresponding author: Chan-Wang Jerry Lio (), Address: 460 W 12 Ave, Columbus, Ohio, USA 43064, Tel: (614)-247-5337
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38
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Bedhiafi T, Inchakalody VP, Fernandes Q, Mestiri S, Billa N, Uddin S, Merhi M, Dermime S. The potential role of vitamin C in empowering cancer immunotherapy. Biomed Pharmacother 2021; 146:112553. [PMID: 34923342 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2021.112553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2021] [Revised: 12/01/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Vitamin C also known as L-ascorbic acid is a nutrient naturally occurring in many fruits and vegetables and widely known for its potent antioxidant activity. Several studies have highlighted the importance of using high dose vitamin C as an adjuvant anti-cancer therapy. Interestingly, it has been shown that vitamin C is able to modulate the anti-cancer immune response and to help to overcome the resistance to immune checkpoints blockade (ICB) drugs such as cytotoxic T-lymphocyte antigen 4 (CLTA-4) and programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD-L1/PD-1) inhibitors. Indeed, it was reported that vitamin C regulates several mechanisms developed by cancer cells to escape T cells immune response and resist ICB. Understanding the role of vitamin C in the anti-tumor immune response will pave the way to the development of novel combination therapies that would enhance the response of cancer patients to ICB immunotherapy. In this review, we discuss the effect of vitamin C on the immune system and its potential role in empowering cancer immunotherapy through its pro-oxidant potential, its ability to modulate epigenetic factors and its capacity to regulate the expression of different cytokines involved in the immune response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takwa Bedhiafi
- Translational Cancer Research Facility, Translational Research Institute, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Varghese Philipose Inchakalody
- Translational Cancer Research Facility, Translational Research Institute, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar; National Center for Cancer Care and Research, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Queenie Fernandes
- Translational Cancer Research Facility, Translational Research Institute, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar; College of Medicine, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Sarra Mestiri
- Translational Cancer Research Facility, Translational Research Institute, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | | | - Shahab Uddin
- Translational Research Institute and dermatology Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar; Laboratory Animal Research Center, Qatar University, Doha 2713, Qatar
| | - Maysaloun Merhi
- Translational Cancer Research Facility, Translational Research Institute, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar; National Center for Cancer Care and Research, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar.
| | - Said Dermime
- Translational Cancer Research Facility, Translational Research Institute, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar; National Center for Cancer Care and Research, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar; College of Health and Life Sciences, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Doha, Qatar.
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39
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Li J, Xu B, He M, Zong X, Cunningham T, Sha C, Fan Y, Cross R, Hanna JH, Feng Y. Control of Foxp3 induction and maintenance by sequential histone acetylation and DNA demethylation. Cell Rep 2021; 37:110124. [PMID: 34910919 PMCID: PMC8711072 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2021.110124] [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: 01/04/2021] [Revised: 09/07/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Regulatory T (Treg) cells play crucial roles in suppressing deleterious immune response. Here, we investigate how Treg cells are mechanistically induced in vitro (iTreg) and stabilized via transcriptional regulation of Treg lineage-specifying factor Foxp3. We find that acetylation of histone tails at the Foxp3 promoter is required for inducing Foxp3 transcription. Upon induction, histone acetylation signals via bromodomain-containing proteins, particularly targets of inhibitor JQ1, and sustains Foxp3 transcription via a global or trans effect. Subsequently, Tet-mediated DNA demethylation of Foxp3 cis-regulatory elements, mainly enhancer CNS2, increases chromatin accessibility and protein binding, stabilizing Foxp3 transcription and obviating the need for the histone acetylation signal. These processes transform stochastic iTreg induction into a stable cell fate, with the former sensitive and the latter resistant to genetic and environmental perturbations. Thus, sequential histone acetylation and DNA demethylation in Foxp3 induction and maintenance reflect stepwise mechanical switches governing iTreg cell lineage specification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Li
- Department of Immunology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
| | - Beisi Xu
- Center for Applied Bioinformatics, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
| | - Minghong He
- Department of Immunology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
| | - Xinying Zong
- Department of Immunology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
| | - Trevor Cunningham
- Department of Immunology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
| | - Cher Sha
- Department of Immunology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
| | - Yiping Fan
- Center for Applied Bioinformatics, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
| | - Richard Cross
- Department of Immunology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
| | - Jacob H Hanna
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot 7610001, Israel
| | - Yongqiang Feng
- Department of Immunology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA.
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40
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Guo X, Li J, Xue J, Fenech M, Wang X. Loss of Y chromosome: An emerging next-generation biomarker for disease prediction and early detection? MUTATION RESEARCH. REVIEWS IN MUTATION RESEARCH 2021; 788:108389. [PMID: 34893154 DOI: 10.1016/j.mrrev.2021.108389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2021] [Revised: 07/01/2021] [Accepted: 07/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
As human life expectancy increases substantially and aging is the primary risk factor for most chronic diseases, there is an urgent need for advancing the development of post-genomic era biomarkers that can be used for disease prediction and early detection (DPED). Mosaic loss of Y chromosome (LOY) is the state of nullisomy Y in sub-groups of somatic cells acquired from different post-zygotic development stages and onwards throughout the lifespan. Multiple large-cohort based epidemiology studies have found that LOY in blood cells is a significant risk factor for future mortality and various diseases in males. Many features intrinsic to LOY analysis may be leveraged to enhance its use as a non-invasive, sensitive, reliable, high throughput-biomarker for DPED. Here, we review the emerging literatures in LOY studies and highlight ten strengths for using LOY as a novel biomarker for genomics-driven DPED diagnostics. Meanwhile, the current limitations in this area are also discussed. We conclude by identifying some important knowledge gaps regarding the consequences of malsegregation of the Y chromosome and propose further steps that are required before clinical implementation of LOY. Taken together, we think that LOY has substantial potential as a biomarker for DPED, despite some hurdles that still need to be addressed before its integration into healthcare becomes acceptable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xihan Guo
- School of Life Sciences, Yunnan Normal University, Kunming, Yunnan, 650500, China; Yunnan Environmental Mutagen Society, Kunming, Yunnan, 650500, China.
| | - Jianfei Li
- School of Life Sciences, Yunnan Normal University, Kunming, Yunnan, 650500, China
| | - Jinglun Xue
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Institute of Genetics, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Michael Fenech
- Genome Health Foundation, North Brighton, SA, 5048, Australia; University of South Australia, School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, Adelaide, SA, 5000, Australia; Centre of Healthy Ageing and Wellness, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
| | - Xu Wang
- School of Life Sciences, Yunnan Normal University, Kunming, Yunnan, 650500, China; Yunnan Environmental Mutagen Society, Kunming, Yunnan, 650500, China.
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41
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Lamarthée B, Marchal A, Charbonnier S, Blein T, Leon J, Martin E, Rabaux L, Vogt K, Titeux M, Delville M, Vinçon H, Six E, Pallet N, Michonneau D, Anglicheau D, Legendre C, Taupin JL, Nemazanyy I, Sawitzki B, Latour S, Cavazzana M, André I, Zuber J. Transient mTOR inhibition rescues 4-1BB CAR-Tregs from tonic signal-induced dysfunction. Nat Commun 2021; 12:6446. [PMID: 34750385 PMCID: PMC8575891 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-26844-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2020] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The use of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-engineered regulatory T cells (Tregs) has emerged as a promising strategy to promote immune tolerance. However, in conventional T cells (Tconvs), CAR expression is often associated with tonic signaling, which can induce CAR-T cell dysfunction. The extent and effects of CAR tonic signaling vary greatly according to the expression intensity and intrinsic properties of the CAR. Here, we show that the 4-1BB CSD-associated tonic signal yields a more dramatic effect in CAR-Tregs than in CAR-Tconvs with respect to activation and proliferation. Compared to CD28 CAR-Tregs, 4-1BB CAR-Tregs exhibit decreased lineage stability and reduced in vivo suppressive capacities. Transient exposure of 4-1BB CAR-Tregs to a Treg stabilizing cocktail, including an mTOR inhibitor and vitamin C, during ex vivo expansion sharply improves their in vivo function and expansion after adoptive transfer. This study demonstrates that the negative effects of 4-1BB tonic signaling in Tregs can be mitigated by transient mTOR inhibition.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- CD28 Antigens/immunology
- CD28 Antigens/metabolism
- Graft vs Host Disease/immunology
- Graft vs Host Disease/therapy
- HLA-A2 Antigen/immunology
- HLA-A2 Antigen/metabolism
- Humans
- Immunosuppressive Agents/pharmacology
- Immunotherapy, Adoptive/methods
- Jurkat Cells
- Male
- Mice, Inbred NOD
- Mice, Knockout
- Mice, SCID
- Receptors, Chimeric Antigen/immunology
- Receptors, Chimeric Antigen/metabolism
- Signal Transduction/drug effects
- Signal Transduction/immunology
- Sirolimus/pharmacology
- T-Lymphocytes, Regulatory/cytology
- T-Lymphocytes, Regulatory/immunology
- T-Lymphocytes, Regulatory/metabolism
- TOR Serine-Threonine Kinases/antagonists & inhibitors
- TOR Serine-Threonine Kinases/immunology
- TOR Serine-Threonine Kinases/metabolism
- Transplantation, Heterologous
- Tumor Necrosis Factor Receptor Superfamily, Member 9/immunology
- Tumor Necrosis Factor Receptor Superfamily, Member 9/metabolism
- Mice
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Affiliation(s)
- Baptiste Lamarthée
- Laboratoire de lymphohématopoïèse humaine, INSERM UMR 1163, IHU IMAGINE, Paris, France
| | - Armance Marchal
- Laboratoire de lymphohématopoïèse humaine, INSERM UMR 1163, IHU IMAGINE, Paris, France
| | - Soëli Charbonnier
- Laboratoire de lymphohématopoïèse humaine, INSERM UMR 1163, IHU IMAGINE, Paris, France
| | - Tifanie Blein
- Laboratoire de lymphohématopoïèse humaine, INSERM UMR 1163, IHU IMAGINE, Paris, France
| | - Juliette Leon
- Department of Immunology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Emmanuel Martin
- Lymphocyte activation and susceptibility to EBV, INSERM UMR 1163, IHU IMAGINE, Paris, France
| | - Lucas Rabaux
- Laboratoire de lymphohématopoïèse humaine, INSERM UMR 1163, IHU IMAGINE, Paris, France
| | - Katrin Vogt
- Department of Immunology, Charité University Hospital, Berlin, Germany
| | - Matthias Titeux
- Maladie génétique cutanée, INSERM UMR 1163, IHU IMAGINE, Paris, France
| | - Marianne Delville
- Laboratoire de lymphohématopoïèse humaine, INSERM UMR 1163, IHU IMAGINE, Paris, France
- Université de Paris, Paris, France
- Service de Biothérapie et Thérapie Génique Clinique, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Hôpital Necker, Paris, France
| | - Hélène Vinçon
- Laboratoire de lymphohématopoïèse humaine, INSERM UMR 1163, IHU IMAGINE, Paris, France
| | - Emmanuelle Six
- Laboratoire de lymphohématopoïèse humaine, INSERM UMR 1163, IHU IMAGINE, Paris, France
| | - Nicolas Pallet
- Université de Paris, INSERM U1138, Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, 75006, Paris, France
| | | | - Dany Anglicheau
- Université de Paris, Paris, France
- Service de Transplantation rénale adulte, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Hôpital Necker, Paris, France
- INSERM U1151, Institut Necker Enfants Malades, Paris, France
| | - Christophe Legendre
- Université de Paris, Paris, France
- Service de Transplantation rénale adulte, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Hôpital Necker, Paris, France
| | - Jean-Luc Taupin
- Université de Paris, Paris, France
- Laboratoire d'immunologie et histocompatibilité, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Hôpital Saint-Louis, Paris, France
| | - Ivan Nemazanyy
- Plateforme de Métabolique, Structure Fédérative de Recherche, Necker, INSERM US24/CNRS UMS, 3633, Paris, France
| | - Birgit Sawitzki
- Department of Immunology, Charité University Hospital, Berlin, Germany
| | - Sylvain Latour
- Lymphocyte activation and susceptibility to EBV, INSERM UMR 1163, IHU IMAGINE, Paris, France
| | - Marina Cavazzana
- Laboratoire de lymphohématopoïèse humaine, INSERM UMR 1163, IHU IMAGINE, Paris, France
- Université de Paris, Paris, France
- Service de Biothérapie et Thérapie Génique Clinique, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Hôpital Necker, Paris, France
| | - Isabelle André
- Laboratoire de lymphohématopoïèse humaine, INSERM UMR 1163, IHU IMAGINE, Paris, France
| | - Julien Zuber
- Laboratoire de lymphohématopoïèse humaine, INSERM UMR 1163, IHU IMAGINE, Paris, France.
- Université de Paris, Paris, France.
- Service de Transplantation rénale adulte, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Hôpital Necker, Paris, France.
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42
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Hatzioannou A, Boumpas A, Papadopoulou M, Papafragkos I, Varveri A, Alissafi T, Verginis P. Regulatory T Cells in Autoimmunity and Cancer: A Duplicitous Lifestyle. Front Immunol 2021; 12:731947. [PMID: 34539668 PMCID: PMC8446642 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.731947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2021] [Accepted: 08/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Regulatory T (Treg) cells, possess a strategic role in the maintenance of immune homeostasis, and their function has been closely linked to development of diverse pathologies including autoimmunity and cancer. Comprehensive studies in various disease contexts revealed an increased plasticity as a characteristic of Treg cells. Although Treg cell plasticity comes in various flavors, the major categories enclose the loss of Foxp3 expression, which is the master regulator of Treg cell lineage, giving rise to “ex-Treg” cells and the “fragile” Treg cells in which FOXP3 expression is retained but accompanied by the engagement of an inflammatory program and attenuation of the suppressive activity. Treg cell plasticity possess a tremendous therapeutic potential either by inducing Treg cell de-stabilization to promote anti-tumor immunity, or re-enforcing Treg cell stability to attenuate chronic inflammation. Herein, we review the literature on the Treg cell plasticity with lessons learned in autoimmunity and cancer and discuss challenges and open questions with potential therapeutic implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aikaterini Hatzioannou
- Institute for Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Athina Boumpas
- Center of Clinical, Experimental Surgery & Translational Research, Biomedical Research Foundation of the Academy of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Miranta Papadopoulou
- Center of Clinical, Experimental Surgery & Translational Research, Biomedical Research Foundation of the Academy of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Iosif Papafragkos
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (IMBB), Foundation for Research and Technology - Hellas (FORTH), Heraklion, Greece.,Laboratory of Immune Regulation and Tolerance, Division of Basic Sciences, Medical School, University of Crete, Heraklion, Greece
| | - Athina Varveri
- Center of Clinical, Experimental Surgery & Translational Research, Biomedical Research Foundation of the Academy of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Themis Alissafi
- Center of Clinical, Experimental Surgery & Translational Research, Biomedical Research Foundation of the Academy of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Panayotis Verginis
- Institute for Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany.,Center of Clinical, Experimental Surgery & Translational Research, Biomedical Research Foundation of the Academy of Athens, Athens, Greece.,Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (IMBB), Foundation for Research and Technology - Hellas (FORTH), Heraklion, Greece.,Laboratory of Immune Regulation and Tolerance, Division of Basic Sciences, Medical School, University of Crete, Heraklion, Greece
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43
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Gharipour M, Mani A, Amini Baghbahadorani M, de Souza Cardoso CK, Jahanfar S, Sarrafzadegan N, de Oliveira C, Silveira EA. How Are Epigenetic Modifications Related to Cardiovascular Disease in Older Adults? Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:9949. [PMID: 34576113 PMCID: PMC8470616 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22189949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2021] [Revised: 09/08/2021] [Accepted: 09/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The rate of aging has increased globally during recent decades and has led to a rising burden of age-related diseases such as cardiovascular disease (CVD). At the molecular level, epigenetic modifications have been shown recently to alter gene expression during the life course and impair cellular function. In this regard, several CVD risk factors, such as lifestyle and environmental factors, have emerged as key factors in epigenetic modifications within the cardiovascular system. In this study, we attempted to summarized recent evidence related to epigenetic modification, inflammation response, and CVD in older adults as well as the effect of lifestyle modification as a preventive strategy in this age group. Recent evidence showed that lifestyle and environmental factors may affect epigenetic mechanisms, such as DNA methylation, histone acetylation, and miRNA expression. Several substances or nutrients such as selenium, magnesium, curcumin, and caffeine (present in coffee and some teas) could regulate epigenetics. Similarly, physical inactivity, alcohol consumption, air pollutants, psychological stress, and shift working are well-known modifiers of epigenetic patterns. Understanding the exact ways that lifestyle and environmental factors could affect the expression of genes could help to influence the time of incidence and severity of aging-associated diseases. This review highlighted that a healthy lifestyle throughout the life course, such as a healthy diet rich in fibers, vitamins, and essential elements, and specific fatty acids, adequate physical activity and sleep, smoking cessation, and stress control, could be useful tools in preventing epigenetic changes that lead to impaired cardiovascular function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mojgan Gharipour
- Isfahan Cardiovascular Research Center, Cardiovascular Research Institute, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan 8158388994, Iran;
| | - Arya Mani
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Department of Internal Medicine, and Department of Genetics, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA;
| | - Mona Amini Baghbahadorani
- Interventional Cardiology Research Center, Cardiovascular Research Institute, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan 8158388994, Iran;
| | - Camila Kellen de Souza Cardoso
- School of Social Sciences and Health, Nutrition Course, Pontifical Catholic University of Goias, Goiânia 74605-010, Brazil;
| | - Shayesteh Jahanfar
- Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MI 02111, USA;
| | - Nizal Sarrafzadegan
- Isfahan Cardiovascular Research Center, Cardiovascular Research Institute, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan 8158388994, Iran;
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Population and Public Health, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Cesar de Oliveira
- Department of Epidemiology & Public Health, Institute of Epidemiology & Health Care, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, UK;
| | - Erika Aparecida Silveira
- Department of Epidemiology & Public Health, Institute of Epidemiology & Health Care, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, UK;
- Graduate Program in Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia 74690-900, Brazil
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44
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Hefazi M, Bolivar-Wagers S, Blazar BR. Regulatory T Cell Therapy of Graft-versus-Host Disease: Advances and Challenges. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:9676. [PMID: 34575843 PMCID: PMC8469916 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22189676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2021] [Revised: 09/03/2021] [Accepted: 09/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT). Immunomodulation using regulatory T cells (Tregs) offers an exciting option to prevent and/or treat GVHD as these cells naturally function to maintain immune homeostasis, can induce tolerance following HSCT, and have a tissue reparative function. Studies to date have established a clinical safety profile for polyclonal Tregs. Functional enhancement through genetic engineering offers the possibility of improved potency, specificity, and persistence. In this review, we provide the most up to date preclinical and clinical data on Treg cell therapy with a particular focus on GVHD. We discuss the different Treg subtypes and highlight the pharmacological and genetic approaches under investigation to enhance the application of Tregs in allo-HSCT. Lastly, we discuss the remaining challenges for optimal clinical translation and provide insights as to future directions of the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehrdad Hefazi
- Division of Hematology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA;
| | - Sara Bolivar-Wagers
- Division of Blood and Marrow Transplant & Cellular Therapy, Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55454, USA;
| | - Bruce R. Blazar
- Division of Blood and Marrow Transplant & Cellular Therapy, Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55454, USA;
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45
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Yue X, Samaniego-Castruita D, González-Avalos E, Li X, Barwick BG, Rao A. Whole-genome analysis of TET dioxygenase function in regulatory T cells. EMBO Rep 2021; 22:e52716. [PMID: 34288360 PMCID: PMC8339674 DOI: 10.15252/embr.202152716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2021] [Revised: 06/15/2021] [Accepted: 06/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
TET methylcytosine dioxygenases are essential for the stability and function of regulatory T cells (Treg cells), which maintain immune homeostasis and self‐tolerance and express the lineage‐determining transcription factor Foxp3. Here, we use whole‐genome analyses to show that the transcriptional program and epigenetic features (DNA modification, chromatin accessibility) of Treg cells are attenuated in the absence of Tet2 and Tet3. Conversely, the addition of the TET activator vitamin C during TGFβ‐induced iTreg cell differentiation in vitro potentiates the expression of Treg signature genes and alters the epigenetic landscape to better resemble that of Treg cells generated in vivo. Vitamin C enhances IL‐2 responsiveness in iTreg cells by increasing IL2Rα expression, STAT5 phosphorylation, and STAT5 binding, mimicking the IL‐2/STAT5 dependence of Treg cells generated in vivo. In summary, TET proteins play essential roles in maintaining Treg molecular features and promoting their dependence on IL‐2. TET activity during endogenous Treg development and potentiation of TET activity by vitamin C during iTreg differentiation are necessary to maintain the transcriptional and epigenetic features of Treg cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaojing Yue
- Division of Signaling and Gene Expression, La Jolla Institute for Immunology, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Daniela Samaniego-Castruita
- Division of Signaling and Gene Expression, La Jolla Institute for Immunology, La Jolla, CA, USA.,Biological Sciences Graduate Program, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Edahí González-Avalos
- Division of Signaling and Gene Expression, La Jolla Institute for Immunology, La Jolla, CA, USA.,Bioinformatics and Systems Biology Program, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Xiang Li
- Division of Signaling and Gene Expression, La Jolla Institute for Immunology, La Jolla, CA, USA.,Sanford Consortium for Regenerative Medicine, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Benjamin G Barwick
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Anjana Rao
- Division of Signaling and Gene Expression, La Jolla Institute for Immunology, La Jolla, CA, USA.,Sanford Consortium for Regenerative Medicine, La Jolla, CA, USA.,Department of Pharmacology and Moores Cancer Center, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
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46
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Piotrowska M, Gliwiński M, Trzonkowski P, Iwaszkiewicz-Grzes D. Regulatory T Cells-Related Genes Are under DNA Methylation Influence. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:7144. [PMID: 34281195 PMCID: PMC8267835 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22137144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2021] [Revised: 06/25/2021] [Accepted: 06/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Regulatory T cells (Tregs) exert a highly suppressive function in the immune system. Disturbances in their function predispose an individual to autoimmune dysregulation, with a predominance of the pro-inflammatory environment. Besides Foxp3, which is a master regulator of these cells, other genes (e.g., Il2ra, Ctla4, Tnfrsf18, Ikzf2, and Ikzf4) are also involved in Tregs development and function. Multidimensional Tregs suppression is determined by factors that are believed to be crucial in the action of Tregs-related genes. Among them, epigenetic changes, such as DNA methylation, tend to be widely studied over the past few years. DNA methylation acts as a repressive mark, leading to diminished gene expression. Given the role of increased CpG methylation upon Tregs imprinting and functional stability, alterations in the methylation pattern can cause an imbalance in the immune response. Due to the fact that epigenetic changes can be reversible, so-called epigenetic modifiers are broadly used in order to improve Tregs performance. In this review, we place emphasis on the role of DNA methylation of the genes that are key regulators of Tregs function. We also discuss disease settings that have an impact on the methylation status of Tregs and systematize the usefulness of epigenetic drugs as factors able to influence Tregs functions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Dorota Iwaszkiewicz-Grzes
- Department of Medical Immunology, Medical University of Gdansk, 80-210 Gdańsk, Poland; (M.P.); (M.G.); (P.T.)
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47
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Miles EA, Calder PC. Effects of Citrus Fruit Juices and Their Bioactive Components on Inflammation and Immunity: A Narrative Review. Front Immunol 2021; 12:712608. [PMID: 34249019 PMCID: PMC8264544 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.712608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2021] [Accepted: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The immune system provides defence to the host against pathogenic organisms. A weak immune system increases susceptibility to infections and allows infections to become more severe. One component of the immune response is inflammation. Where inflammation is excessive or uncontrolled it can damage host tissues and cause pathology. Limitation of oxidative stress is one means of controlling inflammation. Citrus fruit juices are a particularly good source of vitamin C and folate, which both have roles in sustaining the integrity of immunological barriers and in supporting the function of many types of immune cell including phagocytes, natural killer cells, T-cells and B-cells. Vitamin C is an antioxidant and reduces aspects of the inflammatory response. Important bioactive polyphenols in citrus fruit juices include hesperidin, narirutin and naringin. Hesperidin is a glycoside of hesperetin while narirutin and naringin are glycosides of naringenin. Hesperidin, hesperetin, naringenin, naringin and narirutin have all been found to have anti-inflammatory effects in model systems, and human trials of hesperidin report reductions in inflammatory markers. In humans, orange juice was shown to limit the post-prandial inflammation induced by a high fat-high carbohydrate meal. Consuming orange juice daily for a period of weeks has been reported to reduce markers of inflammation, including C-reactive protein, as confirmed through a recent meta-analysis. A newly emerging topic is whether polyphenols from orange juice have direct anti-viral effects. In summary, micronutrients and other bioactives present in citrus fruit juices have established roles in controlling oxidative stress and inflammation and in supporting innate and acquired immune responses. Trials in humans demonstrate that orange juice reduces inflammation; its effects on innate and acquired immunity require further exploration in well-designed trials in appropriate population sub-groups such as older people.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth A Miles
- School of Human Development and Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Philip C Calder
- School of Human Development and Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom.,National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Southampton Biomedical Research Centre, University Hospital Southampton National Health Service (NHS) Foundation Trust and University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
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48
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Magrì A, Germano G, Lorenzato A, Lamba S, Chilà R, Montone M, Amodio V, Ceruti T, Sassi F, Arena S, Abrignani S, D'Incalci M, Zucchetti M, Di Nicolantonio F, Bardelli A. High-dose vitamin C enhances cancer immunotherapy. Sci Transl Med 2021; 12:12/532/eaay8707. [PMID: 32102933 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.aay8707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 121] [Impact Index Per Article: 40.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2019] [Revised: 12/23/2019] [Accepted: 02/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Vitamin C (VitC) is known to directly impair cancer cell growth in preclinical models, but there is little clinical evidence on its antitumoral efficacy. In addition, whether and how VitC modulates anticancer immune responses is mostly unknown. Here, we show that a fully competent immune system is required to maximize the antiproliferative effect of VitC in breast, colorectal, melanoma, and pancreatic murine tumors. High-dose VitC modulates infiltration of the tumor microenvironment by cells of the immune system and delays cancer growth in a T cell-dependent manner. VitC not only enhances the cytotoxic activity of adoptively transferred CD8 T cells but also cooperates with immune checkpoint therapy (ICT) in several cancer types. Combination of VitC and ICT can be curative in models of mismatch repair-deficient tumors with high mutational burden. This work provides a rationale for clinical trials combining ICT with high doses of VitC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Magrì
- Department of Oncology, University of Torino, 10060 Candiolo (TO), Italy.,Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO-IRCCS, 10060 Candiolo (TO), Italy
| | - Giovanni Germano
- Department of Oncology, University of Torino, 10060 Candiolo (TO), Italy.,Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO-IRCCS, 10060 Candiolo (TO), Italy
| | - Annalisa Lorenzato
- Department of Oncology, University of Torino, 10060 Candiolo (TO), Italy.,Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO-IRCCS, 10060 Candiolo (TO), Italy
| | - Simona Lamba
- Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO-IRCCS, 10060 Candiolo (TO), Italy
| | - Rosaria Chilà
- Department of Oncology, University of Torino, 10060 Candiolo (TO), Italy.,IFOM, The FIRC Institute of Molecular Oncology, 20139 Milan, Italy
| | - Monica Montone
- Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO-IRCCS, 10060 Candiolo (TO), Italy
| | - Vito Amodio
- Department of Oncology, University of Torino, 10060 Candiolo (TO), Italy.,Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO-IRCCS, 10060 Candiolo (TO), Italy
| | - Tommaso Ceruti
- Department of Oncology, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, 20156 Milan, Italy
| | - Francesco Sassi
- Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO-IRCCS, 10060 Candiolo (TO), Italy
| | - Sabrina Arena
- Department of Oncology, University of Torino, 10060 Candiolo (TO), Italy.,Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO-IRCCS, 10060 Candiolo (TO), Italy
| | - Sergio Abrignani
- Istituto Nazionale Genetica Molecolare INGM 'Romeo ed Enrica Invernizzi', 20122 Milan, Italy.,Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Maurizio D'Incalci
- Department of Oncology, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, 20156 Milan, Italy
| | - Massimo Zucchetti
- Department of Oncology, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, 20156 Milan, Italy
| | - Federica Di Nicolantonio
- Department of Oncology, University of Torino, 10060 Candiolo (TO), Italy. .,Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO-IRCCS, 10060 Candiolo (TO), Italy
| | - Alberto Bardelli
- Department of Oncology, University of Torino, 10060 Candiolo (TO), Italy. .,Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO-IRCCS, 10060 Candiolo (TO), Italy
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49
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Abstract
T lymphocytes undergo carefully orchestrated programming during development in the thymus and subsequently during differentiation in the periphery. This intricate specification allows for cell-type and context-specific transcriptional programs that regulate immune responses to infection and malignancy. Epigenetic changes, including histone modifications and covalent modification of DNA itself through DNA methylation, are now recognized to play a critical role in these cell-fate decisions. DNA methylation is mediated primarily by the actions of the DNA methyltransferase (DNMT) and ten-eleven-translocation (TET) families of epigenetic enzymes. In this review, we discuss the role of DNA methylation and its enzymatic regulators in directing the development and differentiation of CD4+ and CD8+ T-cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luis O Correa
- Graduate Program in Immunology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Martha S Jordan
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine; Institute for Immunology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Shannon A Carty
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hematology and Oncology; Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
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50
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Dikiy S, Li J, Bai L, Jiang M, Janke L, Zong X, Hao X, Hoyos B, Wang ZM, Xu B, Fan Y, Rudensky AY, Feng Y. A distal Foxp3 enhancer enables interleukin-2 dependent thymic Treg cell lineage commitment for robust immune tolerance. Immunity 2021; 54:931-946.e11. [PMID: 33838102 PMCID: PMC8317508 DOI: 10.1016/j.immuni.2021.03.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2020] [Revised: 01/04/2021] [Accepted: 03/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Activation of the STAT5 transcription factor downstream of the Interleukin-2 receptor (IL-2R) induces expression of Foxp3, a critical step in the differentiation of regulatory T (Treg) cells. Due to the pleiotropic effects of IL-2R signaling, it is unclear how STAT5 acts directly on the Foxp3 locus to promote its expression. Here, we report that IL-2 - STAT5 signaling converged on an enhancer (CNS0) during Foxp3 induction. CNS0 facilitated the IL-2 dependent CD25+Foxp3- precursor to Treg cell transition in the thymus. Its deficiency resulted in impaired Treg cell generation in neonates, which was partially mitigated with age. While the thymic Treg cell paucity caused by CNS0 deficiency did not result in autoimmunity on its own, it exacerbated autoimmune manifestations caused by disruption of the Aire gene. Thus, CNS0 enhancer activity ensures robust Treg cell differentiation early in postnatal life and cooperatively with other tolerance mechanisms minimizes autoimmunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stanislav Dikiy
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute and Immunology Program, Ludwig Center at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA; Immunology and Microbial Pathogenesis Program, Weill Cornell Graduate School of Medical Sciences, New York, NY 10021, USA
| | - Jun Li
- Department of Immunology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
| | - Lu Bai
- Department of Immunology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
| | - Menglin Jiang
- Department of Immunology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
| | - Laura Janke
- Department of Pathology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
| | - Xinying Zong
- Department of Immunology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
| | - Xiaolei Hao
- Department of Immunology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
| | - Beatrice Hoyos
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute and Immunology Program, Ludwig Center at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Zhong-Min Wang
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute and Immunology Program, Ludwig Center at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA; Gerstner Sloan Kettering Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Beisi Xu
- Center for Applied Bioinformatics, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
| | - Yiping Fan
- Center for Applied Bioinformatics, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
| | - Alexander Y Rudensky
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute and Immunology Program, Ludwig Center at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA.
| | - Yongqiang Feng
- Department of Immunology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA.
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