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Duthie MS, Machado BAS, Badaró R, Kaye PM, Reed SG. Leishmaniasis Vaccines: Applications of RNA Technology and Targeted Clinical Trial Designs. Pathogens 2022; 11:pathogens11111259. [PMID: 36365010 PMCID: PMC9695603 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11111259] [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: 08/31/2022] [Revised: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Leishmania parasites cause a variety of discrete clinical diseases that present in regions where their specific sand fly vectors sustain transmission. Clinical and laboratory research indicate the potential of immunization to prevent leishmaniasis and a wide array of vaccine candidates have been proposed. Unfortunately, multiple factors have precluded advancement of more than a few Leishmania targeting vaccines to clinical trial. The recent maturation of RNA vaccines into licensed products in the context of COVID-19 indicates the likelihood of broader use of the technology. Herein, we discuss the potential benefits provided by RNA technology as an approach to address the bottlenecks encountered for Leishmania vaccines. Further, we outline a variety of strategies that could be used to more efficiently evaluate Leishmania vaccine efficacy, including controlled human infection models and initial use in a therapeutic setting, that could prioritize candidates before evaluation in larger, longer and more complicated field trials.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Bruna A S Machado
- SENAI Institute of Innovation (ISI) in Health Advanced Systems (CIMATEC ISI SAS), University Center SENAI/CIMATEC, Salvador 41650-010, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Roberto Badaró
- SENAI Institute of Innovation (ISI) in Health Advanced Systems (CIMATEC ISI SAS), University Center SENAI/CIMATEC, Salvador 41650-010, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Paul M Kaye
- York Biomedical Research Institute, Hull York Medical School, University of York, York YO10 5DD, UK
| | - Steven G Reed
- HDT Bio, 1616 Eastlake Ave E, Seattle, WA 98102, USA
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Jones GR, Brown SL, Phythian-Adams AT, Ivens AC, Cook PC, MacDonald AS. The Methyl-CpG-Binding Protein Mbd2 Regulates Susceptibility to Experimental Colitis via Control of CD11c + Cells and Colonic Epithelium. Front Immunol 2020; 11:183. [PMID: 32117307 PMCID: PMC7033935 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.00183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2019] [Accepted: 01/23/2020] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Methyl-CpG-binding domain-2 (Mbd2) acts as an epigenetic regulator of gene expression, by linking DNA methylation to repressive chromatin structure. Although Mbd2 is widely expressed in gastrointestinal immune cells and is implicated in regulating intestinal cancer, anti-helminth responses and colonic inflammation, the Mbd2-expressing cell types that control these responses are incompletely defined. Indeed, epigenetic control of gene expression in cells that regulate intestinal immunity is generally poorly understood, even though such mechanisms may explain the inability of standard genetic approaches to pinpoint the causes of conditions like inflammatory bowel disease. In this study we demonstrate a vital role for Mbd2 in regulating murine colonic inflammation. Mbd2−/− mice displayed dramatically worse pathology than wild type controls during dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) induced colitis, with increased inflammatory (IL-1β+) monocytes. Profiling of mRNA from innate immune and epithelial cell (EC) populations suggested that Mbd2 suppresses inflammation and pathology via control of innate-epithelial cell crosstalk and T cell recruitment. Consequently, restriction of Mbd2 deficiency to CD11c+ dendritic cells and macrophages, or to ECs, resulted in increased DSS colitis severity. Our identification of this dual role for Mbd2 in regulating the inflammatory capacity of both CD11c+ cells and ECs highlights how epigenetic control mechanisms may limit intestinal inflammatory responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gareth-Rhys Jones
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Manchester Collaborative Centre for Inflammation Research, Lydia Becker Institute of Immunology and Inflammation, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom.,Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, United Kingdom.,Centre for Inflammation Research, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Sheila L Brown
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Manchester Collaborative Centre for Inflammation Research, Lydia Becker Institute of Immunology and Inflammation, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom.,Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Alexander T Phythian-Adams
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Manchester Collaborative Centre for Inflammation Research, Lydia Becker Institute of Immunology and Inflammation, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom.,Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Alasdair C Ivens
- Centre for Immunity, Infection and Evolution, School of Biological Sciences, Institute of Immunology and Infection Research, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Peter C Cook
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Manchester Collaborative Centre for Inflammation Research, Lydia Becker Institute of Immunology and Inflammation, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom.,Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew S MacDonald
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Manchester Collaborative Centre for Inflammation Research, Lydia Becker Institute of Immunology and Inflammation, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom.,Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, United Kingdom
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3
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Duthie MS, Van Hoeven N, MacMillen Z, Picone A, Mohamath R, Erasmus J, Hsu FC, Stinchcomb DT, Reed SG. Heterologous Immunization With Defined RNA and Subunit Vaccines Enhances T Cell Responses That Protect Against Leishmania donovani. Front Immunol 2018; 9:2420. [PMID: 30386348 PMCID: PMC6199377 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.02420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2018] [Accepted: 10/01/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The rapid generation of strong T cell responses is highly desirable and viral vectors can have potent CD8+ T cell-inducing activity. Immunity to leishmaniasis requires selective T cell responses, with immunization schemes that raise either CD4 or CD8 T cell responses being protective in small animal models. We have defined the leishmaniasis vaccine candidate recombinant fusion antigens, LEISH-F2 and LEISH-F3+, that when formulated in a stable emulsion with a Toll-like receptor (TLR) 4 agonist, induce protective CD4+ T cell responses in animal models as well as providing therapeutic efficacy in canine leishmaniasis and in clinical trials in leishmaniasis patients. We used the genetic sequences of these validated vaccine antigens to design RNA vaccine constructs. Immunization of mice with the RNA replicons induced potent, local innate responses that were surprisingly independent of TLR7 and activated antigen-presenting cells (APC) to prime for extremely potent antigen-specific T helper 1 type responses upon heterologous boosting with either of the subunit vaccines (recombinant antigen with second generation glucopyranosyl lipid A in stable oil-in-water emulsion; SLA-SE). Inclusion of RNA in the immunization schedule also generated MHCI-restricted T cell responses. Immunization with LEISH-F2-expressing RNA vaccine followed later by subunit vaccine afforded protection against challenge with Leishmania donovani. Together, these data indicate the utility of heterologous prime-boost immunization schemes for the induction of potent antigen-specific CD4 and CD8 T cell responses for protection against intracellular pathogens.
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4
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Xu L, Sun WJ, Jia AJ, Qiu LL, Xiao B, Mu L, Li JM, Zhang XF, Wei Y, Peng C, Zhang DS, Xiang XD. MBD2 regulates differentiation and function of Th17 cells in neutrophils- dominant asthma via HIF-1α. JOURNAL OF INFLAMMATION-LONDON 2018; 15:15. [PMID: 30150897 PMCID: PMC6102869 DOI: 10.1186/s12950-018-0191-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2018] [Accepted: 08/07/2018] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Background T helper 17 (Th17) cells have proven to be crucial in the pathogenesis of neutrophils-dominant asthma. Hypoxia inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) is involved in allergic responses in asthma. Our previous studies indicated that Methtyl-CpG binding domain protein 2 (MBD2) expression was increased in asthma patients. The aim of the present study is to understand how MBD2 interacts with HIF-1α to regulate Th17 cell differentiation and IL-17 expression in neutrophils-dominant asthma. Methods A neutrophils-dominant asthma mouse model was established using female C57BL/6 mice to investigate Th17 cell differentiation and MBD2 and HIF-1α expression regulation using flow cytometry, western blot or qRT-PCR. MBD2 and HIF-1α genes were silenced or overexpressed through lentiviral transduction to explore the roles of MBD2 in Th17 cell differentiation and IL-17 release in neutrophils-dominant asthma. Results A neutrophilic inflammatory asthma phenotype model was established successfully. This was characterized by airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR), increased BALF neutrophil granulocytes, activated Th17 cell differentiation, and high IL-17 levels. MBD2 and HIF-1α expression were significantly increased in the lung and spleen cells of mice with neutrophils-dominant asthma. Through overexpression or silencing of MBD2 and HIF-1α genes, we have concluded that MBD2 and HIF-1α regulate Th17 cell differentiation and IL-17 secretion. Moreover, MBD2 was also found to regulate HIF-1α expression. Conclusions Our findings have uncovered new roles for MBD2 and HIF-1α, and provide novel insights into the epigenetic regulation of neutrophils-dominant asthma. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12950-018-0191-x) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Xu
- 1Department of the Second Thoracic Medicine, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine and Hunan Cancer Hospital, Central South University, 283 Tongzipo Road, Changsha, 410006 Hunan China
| | - Wen J Sun
- 2Department of Respiratory Medicine, Hunan Centre for Evidence-based Medicine, Research Unit of Respiratory Diseases, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 139 Middle Renmin Road, Changsha, 410011 Hunan China
| | - Ai J Jia
- 2Department of Respiratory Medicine, Hunan Centre for Evidence-based Medicine, Research Unit of Respiratory Diseases, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 139 Middle Renmin Road, Changsha, 410011 Hunan China
| | - Lu L Qiu
- 2Department of Respiratory Medicine, Hunan Centre for Evidence-based Medicine, Research Unit of Respiratory Diseases, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 139 Middle Renmin Road, Changsha, 410011 Hunan China
| | - Bing Xiao
- 3Department of Emergency, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 139 Middle Renmin Road, Changsha, Hunan 410011 People's Republic of China
| | - Lin Mu
- 2Department of Respiratory Medicine, Hunan Centre for Evidence-based Medicine, Research Unit of Respiratory Diseases, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 139 Middle Renmin Road, Changsha, 410011 Hunan China.,4Department of Respiratory Medicine, Peace Hospital, Changzhi Medical College, Changzhi, 046000 Shanxi China
| | - Jian M Li
- 2Department of Respiratory Medicine, Hunan Centre for Evidence-based Medicine, Research Unit of Respiratory Diseases, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 139 Middle Renmin Road, Changsha, 410011 Hunan China.,5Department of Respiratory Medicine, Hunan Provincial People's Hospital, 61 West Jiefang Road, Changsha, 410005 Hunan China
| | - Xiu F Zhang
- 2Department of Respiratory Medicine, Hunan Centre for Evidence-based Medicine, Research Unit of Respiratory Diseases, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 139 Middle Renmin Road, Changsha, 410011 Hunan China.,6Department of Respiratory Medicine, The Second Hospital, University of South China, 30 Jiefang Road, Hengyang, 421001 Hunan China
| | - Yan Wei
- Department of Respiratory, The First Hospital of Guangyuan City, 490 Juguo Road, Guangyuan, 628000 Sichuan China
| | - Cong Peng
- 8Dermatology and Venereology Department, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410008 Hunan China
| | - Dong S Zhang
- 3Department of Emergency, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 139 Middle Renmin Road, Changsha, Hunan 410011 People's Republic of China
| | - Xu D Xiang
- 3Department of Emergency, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 139 Middle Renmin Road, Changsha, Hunan 410011 People's Republic of China
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5
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May S, Owen H, Phesse TJ, Greenow KR, Jones G, Blackwood A, Cook PC, Towers C, Gallimore AM, Williams GT, Stürzl M, Britzen‐Laurent N, Sansom OJ, MacDonald AS, Bird AP, Clarke AR, Parry L. Mbd2 enables tumourigenesis within the intestine while preventing tumour-promoting inflammation. J Pathol 2018; 245:270-282. [PMID: 29603746 PMCID: PMC6032908 DOI: 10.1002/path.5074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2017] [Revised: 02/22/2018] [Accepted: 03/08/2018] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Epigenetic regulation plays a key role in the link between inflammation and cancer. Here we examine Mbd2, which mediates epigenetic transcriptional silencing by binding to methylated DNA. In separate studies the Mbd2-/- mouse has been shown (1) to be resistant to intestinal tumourigenesis and (2) to have an enhanced inflammatory/immune response, observations that are inconsistent with the links between inflammation and cancer. To clarify its role in tumourigenesis and inflammation, we used constitutive and conditional models of Mbd2 deletion to explore its epithelial and non-epithelial roles in the intestine. Using a conditional model, we found that suppression of intestinal tumourigenesis is due primarily to the absence of Mbd2 within the epithelia. Next, we demonstrated, using the DSS colitis model, that non-epithelial roles of Mbd2 are key in preventing the transition from acute to tumour-promoting chronic inflammation. Combining models revealed that prior to inflammation the altered Mbd2-/- immune response plays a role in intestinal tumour suppression. However, following inflammation the intestine converts from tumour suppressive to tumour promoting. To summarise, in the intestine the normal function of Mbd2 is exploited by cancer cells to enable tumourigenesis, while in the immune system it plays a key role in preventing tumour-enabling inflammation. Which role is dominant depends on the inflammation status of the intestine. As environmental interactions within the intestine can alter DNA methylation patterns, we propose that Mbd2 plays a key role in determining whether these interactions are anti- or pro-tumourigenic and this makes it a useful new epigenetic model for inflammation-associated carcinogenesis. © 2018 The Authors. The Journal of Pathology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie May
- European Cancer Stem Cell Research InstituteCardiff University, School of BiosciencesCardiffUK
| | - Heather Owen
- Wellcome Trust Centre for Cell BiologyUniversity of Edinburgh, Michael Swann BuildingEdinburghUK
| | - Toby J Phesse
- European Cancer Stem Cell Research InstituteCardiff University, School of BiosciencesCardiffUK
| | - Kirsty R Greenow
- European Cancer Stem Cell Research InstituteCardiff University, School of BiosciencesCardiffUK
| | - Gareth‐Rhys Jones
- Manchester Collaborative Centre for Inflammation ResearchManchesterUK
| | - Adam Blackwood
- European Cancer Stem Cell Research InstituteCardiff University, School of BiosciencesCardiffUK
| | - Peter C Cook
- Manchester Collaborative Centre for Inflammation ResearchManchesterUK
| | - Christopher Towers
- European Cancer Stem Cell Research InstituteCardiff University, School of BiosciencesCardiffUK
| | - Awen M Gallimore
- Cardiff Institute of Infection and Immunity, Henry Wellcome BuildingCardiffUK
| | - Geraint T Williams
- Institute of Cancer and GeneticsCardiff University School of MedicineCardiffUK
| | - Michael Stürzl
- Division of Molecular and Experimental Surgery, Department of SurgeryFriedrich‐Alexander‐Universität (FAU) Erlangen‐Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum ErlangenErlangenGermany
| | - Nathalie Britzen‐Laurent
- Division of Molecular and Experimental Surgery, Department of SurgeryFriedrich‐Alexander‐Universität (FAU) Erlangen‐Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum ErlangenErlangenGermany
| | | | | | - Adrian P Bird
- Wellcome Trust Centre for Cell BiologyUniversity of Edinburgh, Michael Swann BuildingEdinburghUK
| | - Alan R Clarke
- European Cancer Stem Cell Research InstituteCardiff University, School of BiosciencesCardiffUK
| | - Lee Parry
- European Cancer Stem Cell Research InstituteCardiff University, School of BiosciencesCardiffUK
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6
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Zeng Z, Li M, Chen J, Li Q, Ning Q, Zhao J, Xu Y, Xie J, Yu J. Reduced MBD2 expression enhances airway inflammation in bronchial epithelium in COPD. Int J Chron Obstruct Pulmon Dis 2018. [PMID: 29535511 PMCID: PMC5836663 DOI: 10.2147/copd.s148595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a common inflammatory lung disease characterized by inflammatory cells activation and production of inflammatory mediators. Methyl-CpG-binding domain protein 2 (MBD2) plays an important role in diverse immunological disorders by regulating immune cell functions, such as differentiation and mediator secretion. However, the role of MBD2 in COPD remains unknown. Methods MBD2 protein expression in lung tissues of patients with COPD and cigarette smoke (CS)-exposed mice were evaluated by Western blot and immunohistochemistry. The role of MBD2 in cigarette smoke extract (CSE)-induction of inflammatory mediator expression in the human bronchial epithelial (HBE) cell line was assessed by silencing MBD2 expression in vitro. The involvement of signaling pathways in mediation of inflammation was tested with signaling inhibitors. Results Compared with controls, MBD2 expression was distinctly reduced in the bronchial epithelium of both patients with COPD and CS-exposed mice. Moreover, MBD2 expression was decreased in HBE after CSE stimulation in vitro. Moreover, MBD2 knockdown enhanced interleukin (IL)-6 and IL-8 expression in HBE in the presence and absence of CSE treatment by the ERK signaling pathway. Conclusion MBD2 protein expression was reduced in the airway epithelium of COPD. In HBE, this reduced expression was associated with increased levels of IL-6 and IL-8 mediated by the ERK pathway. These results suggest that MBD2 could contribute to chronic airway inflammation in COPD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhilin Zeng
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, National Clinical Research Center of Respiratory Disease.,Department of Infectious Disease, Institute of Infectious Disease, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, People's Republic of China
| | - Miao Li
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, National Clinical Research Center of Respiratory Disease
| | - Jinkun Chen
- Acadia Junior High School, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Qinghai Li
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, National Clinical Research Center of Respiratory Disease
| | - Qin Ning
- Department of Infectious Disease, Institute of Infectious Disease, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, People's Republic of China
| | - Jianping Zhao
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, National Clinical Research Center of Respiratory Disease
| | - Yongjian Xu
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, National Clinical Research Center of Respiratory Disease
| | - Jungang Xie
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, National Clinical Research Center of Respiratory Disease
| | - Jun Yu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, People's Republic of China
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Wood KH, Zhou Z. Emerging Molecular and Biological Functions of MBD2, a Reader of DNA Methylation. Front Genet 2016; 7:93. [PMID: 27303433 PMCID: PMC4880565 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2016.00093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2016] [Accepted: 05/10/2016] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
DNA methylation is an epigenetic mark that is essential for many biological processes and is linked to diseases such as cancer. Methylation is usually associated with transcriptional silencing, but new research has challenged this model. Both transcriptional activation and repression have recently been found to be associated with DNA methylation in a context-specific manner. How DNA methylation patterns are interpreted into different functional output remains poorly understood. One mechanism involves the protein ‘readers’ of methylation, which includes the methyl-CpG binding domain (MBD) family of proteins. This review examines the molecular and biological functions of MBD2, which binds to CpG methylation and is an integral part of the nucleosome remodeling and histone deacetylation (NuRD) complex. MBD2 has been linked to immune system function and tumorigenesis, yet little is known about its functions in vivo. Recent studies have found the MBD2 protein is ubiquitously expressed, with relatively high levels in the lung, liver, and colon. Mbd2 null mice surprisingly show relatively mild phenotypes compared to mice with loss of function of other MBD proteins. This evidence has previously been interpreted as functional redundancy between the MBD proteins. Here, we examine and contextualize research that suggests MBD2 has unique properties and functions among the MBD proteins. These functions translate to recently described roles in the development and differentiation of multiple cell lineages, including pluripotent stem cells and various cell types of the immune system, as well as in tumorigenesis. We also consider possible models for the dynamic interactions between MBD2 and NuRD in different tissues in vivo. The functions of MBD2 may have direct therapeutic implications for several areas of human disease, including autoimmune conditions and cancer, in addition to providing insights into the actions of NuRD and chromatin regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathleen H Wood
- Department of Genetics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia PA, USA
| | - Zhaolan Zhou
- Department of Genetics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia PA, USA
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Atilano SR, Malik D, Chwa M, Cáceres-Del-Carpio J, Nesburn AB, Boyer DS, Kuppermann BD, Jazwinski SM, Miceli MV, Wallace DC, Udar N, Kenney MC. Mitochondrial DNA variants can mediate methylation status of inflammation, angiogenesis and signaling genes. Hum Mol Genet 2015; 24:4491-503. [PMID: 25964427 PMCID: PMC4512622 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddv173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2015] [Accepted: 05/05/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Mitochondrial (mt) DNA can be classified into haplogroups representing different geographic and/or racial origins of populations. The H haplogroup is protective against age-related macular degeneration (AMD), while the J haplogroup is high risk for AMD. In the present study, we performed comparison analyses of human retinal cell cybrids, which possess identical nuclei, but mtDNA from subjects with either the H or J haplogroups, and demonstrate differences in total global methylation, and expression patterns for two genes related to acetylation and five genes related to methylation. Analyses revealed that untreated-H and -J cybrids have different expression levels for nuclear genes (CFH, EFEMP1, VEGFA and NFkB2). However, expression levels for these genes become equivalent after treatment with a methylation inhibitor, 5-aza-2'-deoxycytidine. Moreover, sequencing of the entire mtDNA suggests that differences in epigenetic status found in cybrids are likely due to single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) within the haplogroup profiles rather than rare variants or private SNPs. In conclusion, our findings indicate that mtDNA variants can mediate methylation profiles and transcription for inflammation, angiogenesis and various signaling pathways, which are important in several common diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Anthony B Nesburn
- Gavin Herbert Eye Institute and Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - David S Boyer
- Retina-Vitreous Associates Medical Group, Beverly Hills, CA 90211, USA
| | | | - S Michal Jazwinski
- Tulane Center for Aging and Department of Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA 70118, USA and
| | - Michael V Miceli
- Tulane Center for Aging and Department of Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA 70118, USA and
| | - Douglas C Wallace
- Center of Mitochondrial and Epigenomic Medicine, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | | | - M Cristina Kenney
- Gavin Herbert Eye Institute and Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA,
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9
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Dege C, Hagman J. Mi-2/NuRD chromatin remodeling complexes regulate B and T-lymphocyte development and function. Immunol Rev 2015; 261:126-40. [PMID: 25123281 DOI: 10.1111/imr.12209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Mi-2/nucleosomal remodeling and deacetylase (NuRD) complexes are important epigenetic regulators of chromatin structure and gene expression. Mi-2/NuRD complexes are an assemblage of proteins that combine key epigenetic regulators necessary for (i) histone deacetylation and demethylation, (ii) binding to methylated DNA, (iii) mobilization of nucleosomes, and (iv) recruitment of additional regulatory proteins. Depending on their context in chromatin, Mi-2/NuRD complexes either activate or repress gene transcription. In this regard, they are important regulators of hematopoiesis and lymphopoiesis. Mi-2/NuRD complexes maintain pools of hematopoietic stem cells. Specifically, components of these complexes control multiple stages of B-cell development by regulating B-cell specific transcription. With one set of components, they inhibit terminal differentiation of germinal center B cells into plasma B cells. They also mediate gene repression together with Blimp-1 during plasma cell differentiation. In cooperation with Ikaros, Mi-2/NuRD complexes also play important roles in T-cell development, including CD4 versus CD8 fate decisions and peripheral T-cell responses. Dysregulation of NuRD during lymphopoiesis promotes leukemogenesis. Here, we review general properties of Mi-2/NuRD complexes and focus on their functions in gene regulation and development of lymphocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carissa Dege
- Integrated Department of Immunology, National Jewish Health and School of Medicine, University of Colorado, Denver, Aurora, CO, USA
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10
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A dominant role for the methyl-CpG-binding protein Mbd2 in controlling Th2 induction by dendritic cells. Nat Commun 2015; 6:6920. [PMID: 25908537 PMCID: PMC4413429 DOI: 10.1038/ncomms7920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2015] [Accepted: 03/13/2015] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Dendritic cells (DCs) direct CD4(+) T-cell differentiation into diverse helper (Th) subsets that are required for protection against varied infections. However, the mechanisms used by DCs to promote Th2 responses, which are important both for immunity to helminth infection and in allergic disease, are currently poorly understood. We demonstrate a key role for the protein methyl-CpG-binding domain-2 (Mbd2), which links DNA methylation to repressive chromatin structure, in regulating expression of a range of genes that are associated with optimal DC activation and function. In the absence of Mbd2, DCs display reduced phenotypic activation and a markedly impaired capacity to initiate Th2 immunity against helminths or allergens. These data identify an epigenetic mechanism that is central to the activation of CD4(+) T-cell responses by DCs, particularly in Th2 settings, and reveal methyl-CpG-binding proteins and the genes under their control as possible therapeutic targets for type-2 inflammation.
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Zhong J, Yu Q, Yang P, Rao X, He L, Fang J, Tu Y, Zhang Z, Lai Q, Zhang S, Kuczma M, Kraj P, Xu JF, Gong F, Zhou J, Wen L, Eizirik DL, Du J, Wang W, Wang CY. MBD2 regulates TH17 differentiation and experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis by controlling the homeostasis of T-bet/Hlx axis. J Autoimmun 2014; 53:95-104. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jaut.2014.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2014] [Revised: 05/17/2014] [Accepted: 05/23/2014] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
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12
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Abstract
DNA methylation is a heritable, stable, and also reversible way of DNA modification; it can regulate gene expression without changing the nucleotide sequences. Because it takes part in regulation of immune responses, the loss of methylation homeostasis in immune cells will result in autoimmune disease by inducing aberrant gene expression. Primary immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) is an acquired autoimmune disease with many immune deficiencies. Recently, it was well documented that abnormal DNA methylation is also involved in the etiology of ITP. In this review, we elucidate the role of DNA methylation in autoimmune diseases by summarizing the DNA methylation-sensitive genes and the relationship between DNA methylation and ITP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huiyuan Li
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, Institute of Hematology & Blood Diseases Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, PR China
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13
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Sohrabi Y, Havelková H, Kobets T, Šíma M, Volkova V, Grekov I, Jarošíková T, Kurey I, Vojtíšková J, Svobodová M, Demant P, Lipoldová M. Mapping the genes for susceptibility and response to Leishmania tropica in mouse. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2013; 7:e2282. [PMID: 23875032 PMCID: PMC3708836 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0002282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2012] [Accepted: 05/09/2013] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Background L. tropica can cause both cutaneous and visceral leishmaniasis in humans. Although the L. tropica-induced cutaneous disease has been long known, its potential to visceralize in humans was recognized only recently. As nothing is known about the genetics of host responses to this infection and their clinical impact, we developed an informative animal model. We described previously that the recombinant congenic strain CcS-16 carrying 12.5% genes from the resistant parental strain STS/A and 87.5% genes from the susceptible strain BALB/c is more susceptible to L. tropica than BALB/c. We used these strains to map and functionally characterize the gene-loci regulating the immune responses and pathology. Methods We analyzed genetics of response to L. tropica in infected F2 hybrids between BALB/c×CcS-16. CcS-16 strain carries STS-derived segments on nine chromosomes. We genotyped these segments in the F2 hybrid mice and tested their linkage with pathological changes and systemic immune responses. Principal Findings We mapped 8 Ltr (Leishmania tropica response) loci. Four loci (Ltr2, Ltr3, Ltr6 and Ltr8) exhibit independent responses to L. tropica, while Ltr1, Ltr4, Ltr5 and Ltr7 were detected only in gene-gene interactions with other Ltr loci. Ltr3 exhibits the recently discovered phenomenon of transgenerational parental effect on parasite numbers in spleen. The most precise mapping (4.07 Mb) was achieved for Ltr1 (chr.2), which controls parasite numbers in lymph nodes. Five Ltr loci co-localize with loci controlling susceptibility to L. major, three are likely L. tropica specific. Individual Ltr loci affect different subsets of responses, exhibit organ specific effects and a separate control of parasite load and organ pathology. Conclusion We present the first identification of genetic loci controlling susceptibility to L. tropica. The different combinations of alleles controlling various symptoms of the disease likely co-determine different manifestations of disease induced by the same pathogen in individual mice. Leishmaniasis, a disease caused by Leishmania ssp. is among the most neglected infectious diseases. In humans, L. tropica causes cutaneous form of leishmaniasis, but can damage internal organs too. The reasons for this variability are not known, and its genetic basis was never investigated. Therefore, analysis of genes affecting host's responses to this infection can elucidate the characteristics of individual host-parasite interactions. Recombinant congenic strain CcS-16 carries 12.5% genes from the mouse strain STS/A on genetic background of the strain BALB/c, and it is more susceptible than BALB/c. In F2 hybrids between BALB/c and CcS-16 we detected and mapped eight gene-loci, Ltr1-8 (Leishmania tropica response 1-8) that control various manifestations of disease: skin lesions, splenomegaly, hepatomegaly, parasite numbers in spleen, liver, and inguinal lymph nodes, and serum level of CCL3, CCL5, and CCL7 after L. tropica infection. These loci are functionally heterogeneous - each influences a different set of responses to the pathogen. Five loci co-localize with the previously described loci that control susceptibility to L. major, three are species-specific. Ltr2 co-localizes not only with Lmr14 (Leishmania major response 14), but also with Ir2 influencing susceptibility to L. donovani and might therefore carry a common gene controlling susceptibility to leishmaniasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yahya Sohrabi
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Immunology, Institute of Molecular Genetics, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Helena Havelková
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Immunology, Institute of Molecular Genetics, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Tetyana Kobets
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Immunology, Institute of Molecular Genetics, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Matyáš Šíma
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Immunology, Institute of Molecular Genetics, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Valeriya Volkova
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Immunology, Institute of Molecular Genetics, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Igor Grekov
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Immunology, Institute of Molecular Genetics, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Taťána Jarošíková
- Faculty of Biomedical Engineering, Czech Technical University in Prague, Kladno, Czech Republic
| | - Iryna Kurey
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Immunology, Institute of Molecular Genetics, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Jarmila Vojtíšková
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Immunology, Institute of Molecular Genetics, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Prague, Czech Republic
| | | | - Peter Demant
- Roswell Park Cancer Institute, Buffalo, New York, United States of America
| | - Marie Lipoldová
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Immunology, Institute of Molecular Genetics, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Prague, Czech Republic
- * E-mail:
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14
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Raman VS, Duthie MS, Fox CB, Matlashewski G, Reed SG. Adjuvants for Leishmania vaccines: from models to clinical application. Front Immunol 2012; 3:144. [PMID: 22701453 PMCID: PMC3371596 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2012.00144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2012] [Accepted: 05/18/2012] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Two million new cases of leishmaniasis occur every year, with the cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) presentation accounting for approximately two-thirds of all cases. Despite the high incidence rates and geographic expansion of the disease, CL remains a neglected tropical disease without effective intervention strategies. Efforts to address this deficit have given rise to the experimental murine model of CL. By virtue of its simplicity and pliability, the CL model has been used to provide substantial information regarding cellular immunity, as well as in the discovery and evaluation of various vaccine adjuvants. The CL model has facilitated in vivo studies of the mechanism of action of many adjuvants, including the TLR4 agonist monophosphoryl lipid A, the TLR7/8 agonist imiquimod, the TLR9 agonist CpG, adenoviral vectors, and the immunostimulatory complexes. Together, these studies have helped to unveil the requirement for certain types of immune responses at specific stages of CL disease and provide a basis to aid the design of effective second-generation vaccines for human CL. This review focuses on adjuvants that have been tested in experimental CL, outlining how they have helped advance our understanding of the disease and ultimately, how they have performed when applied within clinical trials against human CL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanitha S Raman
- Pre-clinical Biology, Infectious Disease Research Institute, Seattle, WA, USA
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15
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Abstract
The methyl-CpG binding proteins (MBPs) interpret the methylation of DNA and its components. The number of MBPs in the human body currently stands at 15, which are split into 3 branches, a reflection of the intricate mechanisms of gene regulation. Each branch utilizes a different mechanism for interacting with methylated DNA or its components. These interactions function to direct gene expression and maintain or alter DNA architecture. It is these functions that are commonly exploited in human disease. For this review, we will focus on each protein and any roles it may have in initiating, promoting, progressing, or inhibiting cancer. This will highlight common threads in the roles of these proteins, which will allow us to speculate on potentially productive directions for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lee Parry
- School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
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16
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Chen ZP, Gu DS, Zhou ZP, Chen XL, Guo ZX, Du WT, Ge J, Ren Q, Yang RC. Decreased expression of MBD2 and MBD4 gene and genomic-wide hypomethylation in patients with primary immune thrombocytopenia. Hum Immunol 2011; 72:486-91. [PMID: 21377502 DOI: 10.1016/j.humimm.2011.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2010] [Revised: 02/10/2011] [Accepted: 02/22/2011] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Genome-wide hypomethylation has been confirmed in patients with primary immune thrombocytopenia (ITP). Proteins containing methylcytosine-binding domain (MBD) are involved in promoter methylation as transcriptional repressors and promote the gene-silencing effect of DNA methylation. The purpose of this study was to investigate the methylation pattern of T cells and the relationship between genomic methylation and the expression of MBD2 and MBD4 in ITP patients. DNA deoxymethylcytosine content of CD4(+) cells from peripheral blood mononuclear cells was measured by enzyme-linked immunoassay. Real-time polymerase chain reaction was performed to quantify the transcription levels of MBD2 and MBD4 in peripheral blood mononuclear cells and CD4(+) cells. DNA dmC content in CD4(+) cells of ITP patients was significantly lower than in the controls (p = 0.001). The mRNA level of MBD2 and MBD4 in CD4(+) cells of ITP patients was statistically lower than those of the controls (p < 0.001). Positive correlations between methylation indexes and expression of each enzyme were observed in the control group (r(2) = 0.718, p = 0.004 for MBD2; r(2) = 0.608, p = 0.015 for MBD4). However, inverse correlations were found in ITP patients (r(2) = 0.604, p = 0.008 for MBD2; r(2) = 0.498, p = 0.027 for MBD4). Our results indicate that decreased expression of MBD2 and MBD4 might involve in the pathogenesis of ITP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhen-ping Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, Institute of Hematology and Blood Diseases Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin, China
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17
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Abstract
The world is now experiencing an epidemic of obesity. Although the effects of obesity on the development of metabolic and cardiovascular problems are well studied, much less is known about the impact of obesity on immune function and infectious disease. Studies in obese humans and with obese animal models have repeatedly demonstrated impaired immune function, including decreased cytokine production, decreased response to antigen/mitogen stimulation, reduced macrophage and dendritic cell function, and natural killer cell impairment. Recent studies have demonstrated that the impaired immune response in the obese host leads to increased susceptibility to infection with a number of different pathogens such as community-acquired tuberculosis, influenza, Mycobacterium tuberculosis, coxsackievirus, Helicobacter pylori and encephalomyocarditis virus. While no specific mechanism has been defined for the decreased immune response to infectious disease in the obese host, several obesity-associated changes such as excessive inflammation, altered adipokine signaling, metabolic changes and even epigenetic regulation could affect the immune response. This review will discuss what is currently known about the relationship between obesity and infectious disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erik A Karlsson
- Department of Infectious Diseases, St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105-3678
| | - Melinda A Beck
- Department of Nutrition, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599-7461, USA
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18
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Barnett M, Bermingham E, McNabb W, Bassett S, Armstrong K, Rounce J, Roy N. Investigating micronutrients and epigenetic mechanisms in relation to inflammatory bowel disease. Mutat Res 2010; 690:71-80. [PMID: 20188748 DOI: 10.1016/j.mrfmmm.2010.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2009] [Revised: 01/26/2010] [Accepted: 02/19/2010] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Epigenomic regulation, via DNA methylation, histone modification and non-coding RNA, is increasingly recognised as having a key role in normal development and function of an organism, acting to control cellular and tissue growth and differentiation. It is also thought to be involved in many complex diseases now common in the Western world, including cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, obesity and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). There is a range of evidence to suggest that nutrition plays a vital role in the protection from such diseases. However, there is little information about the role of nutrition on the epigenetic regulation of IBD. This review aims to elucidate the interactions of nutrients and the epigenome in IBD. More specifically, the plasticity of epigenetic modifications that occur due to low selenium and folate levels in the diet during gestation and lactation will be discussed. A better understanding of this plasticity, and of nutrient-epigenome interactions, will have important implications for enhancing human health through foods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Barnett
- Food, Metabolism & Microbiology Section, AgResearch Grasslands, Tennent Drive, Palmerston North 4474, New Zealand.
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19
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Aoki K, Sato N, Yamaguchi A, Kaminuma O, Hosozawa T, Miyatake S. Regulation of DNA demethylation during maturation of CD4+ naive T cells by the conserved noncoding sequence 1. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2009; 182:7698-707. [PMID: 19494294 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.0801643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Demethylation of transcriptional regulatory elements and gene coding regions is an important step in the epigenetic regulation of gene expression. Several noncoding conserved regions are required for the efficient transcription of cytokine genes. In this paper, we show that the deletion of one such sequence, conserved noncoding sequence 1 (CNS-1), interferes with the efficient demethylation of Th2 cytokine genes but has little effect on histone modifications in the area. Th2 cells derived from CD4 single-positive (SP) mature thymocytes exhibit more rapid demethylation of CNS-1 and Th2-specific cytokine genes and produce more Th2 cytokines than do Th2 cells derived from CD4-positive peripheral naive T cells. De-repression of the Th1 cytokine IFN-gamma was also detected in Th2-primed CD4 SP thymocytes but not in naive T cells. Our results indicate that susceptibility to demethylation determines the efficiency and kinetics of cytokine gene transcription. The extrathymic maturation step undergone by naive T cells suppresses robust and rapid cytokine expression, whereas mature CD4 SP thymocytes maintain a rapid and less-specific cytokine expression profile. Finally, we detected the methyl cytosine binding protein MBD2 at CNS-1 in mature thymocytes, suggesting that this protein may regulate the demethylation of this region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazuhisa Aoki
- Cytokine Project, The Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science, Tokyo, Japan
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20
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Bäckdahl L, Bushell A, Beck S. Inflammatory signalling as mediator of epigenetic modulation in tissue-specific chronic inflammation. Int J Biochem Cell Biol 2008; 41:176-84. [PMID: 18793748 DOI: 10.1016/j.biocel.2008.08.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 102] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2008] [Revised: 08/18/2008] [Accepted: 08/19/2008] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Recent successes of therapeutic intervention in chronic inflammatory diseases using epigenetic modifiers such as histone deacetylase inhibitors and inhibitors of DNA methylation suggest that epigenetic reprogramming plays a role in the aetiology of these diseases. The epigenetic signature of a given immune cell is reflected in the history of modifications from different signals the cell has been subjected to during differentiation. Like other cells, differentiating immune cells are dependent on a complex combination of inter- and intracell signalling as well as transcription machineries to modulate their epigenomes in order to mediate differentiation. Despite extensive research into these processes, the link between cellular signalling and epigenetic modulation remains poorly understood. Here, we review recent progress and discuss key factors driving epigenetic modulation in chronic inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liselotte Bäckdahl
- Medical Genomics Group, UCL Cancer Institute, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, UK.
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21
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The role of the epigenetic signal, DNA methylation, in gene regulation during erythroid development. Curr Top Dev Biol 2008; 82:85-116. [PMID: 18282518 DOI: 10.1016/s0070-2153(07)00004-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The sequence complexity of the known vertebrate genomes alone is insufficient to account for the diversity between individuals of a species. Although our knowledge of vertebrate biology has evolved substantially with the growing compilation of sequenced genomes, understanding the temporal and spatial regulation of genes remains fundamental to fully exploiting this information. The importance of epigenetic factors in gene regulation was first hypothesized decades ago when biologists posited that methylation of DNA could heritably alter gene expression [Holliday and Pugh, 1975. Science 187(4173), 226-232; Riggs, 1975. Cytogenet. and Cell Genet.14(1), 9-25; Scarano et al., 1967. Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 57(5), 1394-1400)]. It was subsequently shown that vertebrate DNA methylation, almost exclusively at the 5' position of cytosine in the dinucleotide CpG, played a role in a number of processes including embryonic development, genetic imprinting, cell differentiation, and tumorigenesis. At the time of this writing, a large and growing list of genes is known to exhibit DNA methylation-dependent regulation, and we understand in some detail the mechanisms employed by cells in using methylation as a regulatory modality. In this context, we revisit one of the original systems in which the role of DNA methylation in vertebrate gene regulation during development was described and studied: erythroid cells. We briefly review the recent advances in our understanding of DNA methylation and, in particular, its regulatory role in red blood cells during differentiation and development. We also address DNA methylation as a component of erythroid chromatin architecture, and the interdependence of CpG methylation and histone modification.
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22
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Balada E, Ordi-Ros J, Vilardell-Tarrés M. DNA methylation and systemic lupus erythematosus. Ann N Y Acad Sci 2007; 1108:127-36. [PMID: 17893979 DOI: 10.1196/annals.1422.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Several studies have indicated the importance of DNA hypomethylation in the etiology of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Different enzymes linked to the DNA methylation process have been described. The identification of all these enzymes means that cells have the capacity to modify their methylation patterns. Therefore, to obtain a deeper understanding of the role this epigenetic mechanism may have on SLE, the enzymes involved in the DNA methylation mechanism must be thoughtfully analyzed. In fact, studies of enzymes (other than DNMT1) in this autoimmune disease are still lacking. We have recently investigated the simultaneous gene expression of DNMT1, DNMT3A, DNMT3B, MBD2, and MBD4 in SLE patients. Here we review some of the studies that focus on the relationship between DNA methylation and SLE as well as we report our recent findings in this field. We suggest some alternative hypothesis that could help to understand the causes of the global DNA hypomethylation observed in the CD4+ T cells of these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Balada
- Research Unit in Systemic Autoimmune Diseases, Vall d'Hebron Research Institute, Hospital Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona, Spain.
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23
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Balada E, Ordi-Ros J, Serrano-Acedo S, Martinez-Lostao L, Vilardell-Tarrés M. Transcript overexpression of the MBD2 and MBD4 genes in CD4+ T cells from systemic lupus erythematosus patients. J Leukoc Biol 2007; 81:1609-16. [PMID: 17360956 DOI: 10.1189/jlb.0107064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Global DNA hypomethylation in CD4+ T cells has been detected in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), and it seems to be linked to its pathogenesis. We investigated the relationship between overall DNA methylation and the expression of two methyl CpG-binding domain (MBD) proteins. DNA deoxymethylcytosine (d(m)C) content of purified CD4(+) T cells from 29 SLE patients and 30 healthy controls was measured by means of an ELISA. Transcript levels of two methyl CpG-binding proteins (MBD2 and MBD4) were quantified by real-time RT-PCR. Association studies were also carried out with several laboratory parameters, as well as with the patients' clinical manifestations. SLE patients had significantly less CD4+ T cell DNA d(m)C content than controls (0.802+/-0.134 vs. 0.901+/-0.133; P=0.007). MBD2 and MBD4 mRNA levels were considerably higher in the patients' group: 0.975 +/- 0683 versus 0.604 +/- 0.614 (P=0.004) and 0.359 +/- 0.330 versus 0.092 +/- 0.169, respectively (P<0.0005). It is interesting that SLE patients showed a negative correlation between methylation indices and MBD2 (r=-0.609, P<0.0005) and MBD4 (r=-0.395, P=0.034) transcript levels. MBD2 and MBD4 transcript overexpression and inverse correlations with DNA methylation indices indicate that both enzymes may really have a direct and active role on the genome-wide DNA hypomethylation observed in CD4+ T cells from SLE patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Balada
- Research Unit in Systemic Autoimmune Diseases, Vall d'Hebron Research Institute, Hospital Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona, Spain
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24
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Berger J, Sansom O, Clarke A, Bird A. MBD2 is required for correct spatial gene expression in the gut. Mol Cell Biol 2007; 27:4049-57. [PMID: 17353267 PMCID: PMC1900015 DOI: 10.1128/mcb.02023-06] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Gene expression in the gut is segmentally regulated, but little is known of the molecular origin of patterning. Analysis of gene expression in colons from mice lacking the methyl-CpG binding repressor MBD2 revealed frequent activation of genes that are normally only expressed in the exocrine pancreas and duodenum. Reduced DNA methylation activated the same gene set in the colon. No significant differences in DNA methylation between the colon and duodenum were detected, but MBD2 was significantly more abundant in the colon. The relevance of MBD2 concentration was tested in a human colon cancer cell line. Depletion of MBD2 was again found to activate exocrine pancreatic genes. Gene activation in this cell culture model was accompanied by loss of promoter-bound MBD2 and increased histone acetylation. The results suggest that modulation of MBD2 during gut development establishes a region-specific gene expression pattern that is essential for establishing correct segmental character.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Berger
- Wellcome Trust Centre for Cell Biology, Edinburgh University, The King's Buildings, Mayfield Road, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
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25
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Djuretic IM, Levanon D, Negreanu V, Groner Y, Rao A, Ansel KM. Transcription factors T-bet and Runx3 cooperate to activate Ifng and silence Il4 in T helper type 1 cells. Nat Immunol 2006; 8:145-53. [PMID: 17195845 DOI: 10.1038/ni1424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 404] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2006] [Accepted: 11/14/2006] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Cell differentiation involves activation and silencing of lineage-specific genes. Here we show that the transcription factor Runx3 is induced in T helper type 1 (T(H)1) cells in a T-bet-dependent manner, and that both transcription factors T-bet and Runx3 are required for maximal production of interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) and silencing of the gene encoding interleukin 4 (Il4) in T(H)1 cells. T-bet does not repress Il4 in Runx3-deficient T(H)2 cells, but coexpression of Runx3 and T-bet induces potent repression in those cells. Both T-bet and Runx3 bind to the Ifng promoter and the Il4 silencer, and deletion of the silencer decreases the sensitivity of Il4 to repression by either factor. Our data indicate that cytokine gene expression in T(H)1 cells may be controlled by a feed-forward regulatory circuit in which T-bet induces Runx3 and then 'partners' with Runx3 to direct lineage-specific gene activation and silencing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivana M Djuretic
- Harvard Medical School and the CBR Institute for Biomedical Research, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA
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26
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Kersh EN. Impaired memory CD8 T cell development in the absence of methyl-CpG-binding domain protein 2. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2006; 177:3821-6. [PMID: 16951344 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.177.6.3821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Intracellular differentiation events that determine which cells develop into memory CD8 T cells are currently incompletely understood. Methyl-CpG-binding domain protein 2 (MBD2) is a transcriptional repressor that binds to methylated DNA and mediates the biological consequences of epigenetic gene methylation. The role of MBD2 during the differentiation of naive CD8 T cells into effector and memory cells was determined following acute infection of MBD2-deficient mice with lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus. Despite rapid viral clearance and an efficient primary effector CD8 T cell response, reduced numbers of Ag-specific memory CD8 T cells were observed. Importantly, the appearance of precursor memory cells (IL-7Ralphahigh) was delayed. The remaining MBD2(-/-) memory cells were not fully protective during rechallenge, and memory cell characteristics were altered with regard to surface markers (IL-7Ralpha, KLRG-1, CD27, and others) and cytokine production. The defect was CD8 T cell intrinsic, because memory cell development was also delayed when MBD2(-/-) CD8 T cells were adoptively transferred into SCID mice. These data demonstrate that MBD2 is a previously unrecognized intracellular factor required for the efficient generation of protective memory CD8 T cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellen N Kersh
- Emory Vaccine Center and Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA.
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27
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Tan CP, Nakielny S. Control of the DNA methylation system component MBD2 by protein arginine methylation. Mol Cell Biol 2006; 26:7224-35. [PMID: 16980624 PMCID: PMC1592890 DOI: 10.1128/mcb.00473-06] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
DNA methylation is vital for proper chromatin structure and function in mammalian cells. Genetic removal of the enzymes that catalyze DNA methylation results in defective imprinting, transposon silencing, X chromosome dosage compensation, and genome stability. This epigenetic modification is interpreted by methyl-DNA binding domain (MBD) proteins. MBD proteins respond to methylated DNA by recruiting histone deacetylases (HDAC) and other transcription repression factors to the chromatin. The MBD2 protein is dispensable for animal viability, but it is implicated in the genesis of colon tumors. Here we report that the MBD2 protein is controlled by arginine methylation. We identify the protein arginine methyltransferase enzymes that catalyze this modification and show that arginine methylation inhibits the function of MBD2. Arginine methylation of MBD2 reduces MBD2-methyl-DNA complex formation, reduces MBD2-HDAC repression complex formation, and impairs the transcription repression function of MBD2 in cells. Our report provides a molecular description of a potential regulatory mechanism for an MBD protein family member. It is the first to demonstrate that protein arginine methyltransferases participate in the DNA methylation system of chromatin control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Choon Ping Tan
- Cancer Research UK, London Research Institute, Lincoln's Inn Fields Laboratories, London WC2A 3PX, United Kingdom
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28
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Wilson CB, Merkenschlager M. Chromatin structure and gene regulation in T cell development and function. Curr Opin Immunol 2006; 18:143-51. [PMID: 16472999 PMCID: PMC1820769 DOI: 10.1016/j.coi.2006.01.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2005] [Accepted: 01/31/2006] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Transcription factors control gene expression programs in the context of the chromatin structure of their target genes. DNA methylation, post-translational histone modifications such as acetylation and methylation, and higher order chromatin organization allow the maintenance of gene expression patterns through mitosis, but how do they accommodate developmentally regulated changes in gene expression programs? Although histone acetylation and deacetylation are in dynamic equilibrium and mechanisms for the removal of methyl groups from histones are emerging, the extent to which there is active demethylation of DNA remains controversial. Looking at chromatin in the three-dimensional space of the nucleus, recent work demonstrates that gene regulation involves contacts between regulatory elements within genes or gene clusters on the same chromosome (in cis) and between different chromosomes (in trans). Finally, non-coding RNAs make a significant contribution to transcriptional and post-transcriptional gene silencing. Together, these advances contribute to an understanding of how gene expression programs are established, maintained and modified during development.
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