Specific leukotriene receptors couple to distinct G proteins to effect stimulation of alveolar macrophage host defense functions

A complex immune communication between eicosanoids and pulmonary macrophages

Respiratory viral infections represent a constant threat for human health and urge for a better understanding of the pulmonary immune response to prevent disease severity. Macrophages are at the center of pulmonary immunity, where they play a pivotal role in orchestrating beneficial and/or pathological outcomes during infection. Eicosanoids, the host bioactive lipid mediators, have re-emerged as important regulators of pulmonary immunity during respiratory viral infections. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge linking eicosanoids' and pulmonary macrophages' homeostatic and antimicrobial functions and discuss eicosanoids as emerging targets for immunotherapy in viral infection.

The Multifarious Functions of Leukotrienes in Bone Metabolism

Leukotrienes (LTs) are derived from arachidonic acid metabolism by the 5-lipoxygenase (5-LO) enzyme. The production of LTs is stimulated in the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), osteoarthritis, and periodontitis, with a relevant contribution to bone resorption. However, its role in bone turnover, particularly the suppression of bone formation by modulating the function of osteoclasts and osteoblasts, remains unclear. We investigated the effects of LTs on bone metabolism and their impact on osteogenic differentiation and osteoclastogenesis using a 5-LO knockout (KO) mouse model. Results from micro-computed tomography (μCT) analysis of femur from 8-week-old 5-LO-deficient mice showed increased cortical bone and medullary region in females and males and decreased trabecular bone in females. In the vertebra, we observed increased marrow area in both females and males 5-LO KO and decreased trabecular bone only in females 5-LO KO. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) analysis showed higher levels of osteogenic markers tissue-nonspecific alkaline phosphatase (TNAP) and osteopontin (OPN) and lower expression of osteoclastogenic marker tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) in the femurs of 5-LO KO mice versus wild-type (WT). Alkaline phosphatase activity and mineralization assay results showed that the 5-LO absence enhances osteoblasts differentiation and mineralization but decreases the proliferation. Alkaline phosphatase (ALP), Bglap, and Sp7 gene expression were higher in 5-LO KO osteoblasts compared to WT cells. Eicosanoids production was higher in 5-LO KO osteoblasts except for thromboxane 2, which was lower in 5-LO-deficient mice. Proteomic analysis identified the downregulation of proteins related to adenosine triphosphate (ATP) metabolism in 5-LO KO osteoblasts, and the upregulation of transcription factors such as the adaptor-related protein complex 1 (AP-1 complex) in long bones from 5-LO KO mice leading to an increased bone formation pattern in 5-LO-deficient mice. We observed enormous differences in the morphology and function of osteoclasts with reduced bone resorption markers and impaired osteoclasts in 5-LO KO compared to WT osteoclasts. Altogether, these results demonstrate that the absence of 5-LO is related to the greater osteogenic profile. © 2023 The Authors. Journal of Bone and Mineral Research published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR).

Leukotrienes in Innate Immunity: Still Underappreciated after All These Years?

Leukotrienes (LTs) are lipid mediators derived from the 5-lipoxygenase pathway of arachidonate metabolism. Though best known for their role in asthma, they have broad actions that touch on virtually every aspect of mammalian biology. In a Brief Review published in the journal in 2005, we presented the existing evidence supporting a role for LTs in host defense. In this updated Brief Review, we focus on selected advances since then. We detail new insights into mechanisms and regulation of LT biosynthesis; the protective roles of LTs in the host response to diverse classes of pathogens, with an emphasis on viruses, including SARS-CoV-2; the phagocyte signal transduction mechanisms by which LTs exert their antimicrobial actions; the capacity for overexuberant LT production to promote tissue damage; and roles of LTs in the noninfectious immune-relevant conditions neuroinflammation and cancer.

Recent advances in function and structure of two leukotriene B4 receptors: BLT1 and BLT2

Leukotriene B₄ (LTB₄) is generated by the enzymatic oxidation of arachidonic acid, which is then released from the cell membrane and acts as a potent activator of leukocytes and other inflammatory cells. Numerous studies have demonstrated the physiological and pathophysiological significance of this lipid in various diseases. LTB₄ exerts its activities by binding to its specific G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs): BLT1 and BLT2. In mouse disease models, treatment with BLT1 antagonists or BLT1 gene ablation attenuated various diseases, including bronchial asthma, arthritis, and psoriasis, whereas BLT2 deficiency exacerbated several diseases in the skin, cornea, and small intestine. Therefore, BLT1 inhibitors and BLT2 activators could be beneficial for the treatment of several inflammatory and immune disorders. As a result, attractive compounds targeting LTB₄ receptors have been developed by several pharmaceutical companies. This review aims to understand the potential of BLT1 and BLT2 as therapeutic targets for the treatment of various inflammatory diseases. In addition, recent topics are discussed with major focuses on the structure and post-translational modifications of BLT1 and BLT2. Collectively, current evidence on modulating LTB₄ receptor functions provides new strategies for the treatment of various diseases.

Targeting Leukotrienes as a Therapeutic Strategy to Prevent Comorbidities Associated with Metabolic Stress

Leukotrienes (LTs) are potent lipid mediators that exert a variety of functions, ranging from maintaining the tone of the homeostatic immune response to exerting potent proinflammatory effects. Therefore, LTs are essential elements in the development and maintenance of different chronic diseases, such as asthma, arthritis, and atherosclerosis. Due to the pleiotropic effects of LTs in the pathogenesis of inflammatory diseases, studies are needed to discover potent and specific LT synthesis inhibitors and LT receptor antagonists. Even though most clinical trials using LT inhibitors or antagonists have failed due to low efficacy and/or toxicity, new drug development strategies are driving the discovery for LT inhibitors to prevent inflammatory diseases. A newly important detrimental role for LTs in comorbidities associated with metabolic stress has emerged in the last few years and managing LT production and/or actions could represent an exciting new strategy to prevent or treat inflammatory diseases associated with metabolic disorders. This review is intended to shed light on the synthesis and actions of leukotrienes, the most common drugs used in clinical trials, and discuss the therapeutic potential of preventing LT function in obesity, diabetes, and hyperlipidemia.

ILC2 Activation by Protozoan Commensal Microbes

Group 2 innate lymphoid cells (ILC2s) are a member of the ILC family and are involved in protective and pathogenic type 2 responses. Recent research has highlighted their involvement in modulating tissue and immune homeostasis during health and disease and has uncovered critical signaling circuits. While interactions of ILC2s with the bacterial microbiome are rather sparse, other microbial members of our microbiome, including helminths and protozoans, reveal new and exciting mechanisms of tissue regulation by ILC2s. Here we summarize the current field on ILC2 activation by the tissue and immune environment and highlight particularly new intriguing pathways of ILC2 regulation by protozoan commensals in the intestinal tract.

Gi/o-Protein Coupled Receptors in the Aging Brain

Cells translate extracellular signals to regulate processes such as differentiation, metabolism and proliferation, via transmembranar receptors. G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) belong to the largest family of transmembrane receptors, with over 800 members in the human species. Given the variety of key physiological functions regulated by GPCRs, these are main targets of existing drugs. During normal aging, alterations in the expression and activity of GPCRs have been observed. The central nervous system (CNS) is particularly affected by these alterations, which results in decreased brain functions, impaired neuroregeneration, and increased vulnerability to neuropathologies, such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson diseases. GPCRs signal via heterotrimeric G proteins, such as G_o, the most abundant heterotrimeric G protein in CNS. We here review age-induced effects of GPCR signaling via the G_i/o subfamily at the CNS. During the aging process, a reduction in protein density is observed for almost half of the G_i/o-coupled GPCRs, particularly in age-vulnerable regions such as the frontal cortex, hippocampus, substantia nigra and striatum. G_i/o levels also tend to decrease with aging, particularly in regions such as the frontal cortex. Alterations in the expression and activity of GPCRs and coupled G proteins result from altered proteostasis, peroxidation of membranar lipids and age-associated neuronal degeneration and death, and have impact on aging hallmarks and age-related neuropathologies. Further, due to oligomerization of GPCRs at the membrane and their cooperative signaling, down-regulation of a specific G_i/o-coupled GPCR may affect signaling and drug targeting of other types/subtypes of GPCRs with which it dimerizes. G_i/o-coupled GPCRs receptorsomes are thus the focus of more effective therapeutic drugs aiming to prevent or revert the decline in brain functions and increased risk of neuropathologies at advanced ages.

IL-33 Upregulates Cysteinyl Leukotriene Receptor Type 1 Expression in Human Peripheral Blood CD4+ T Lymphocytes

IL-33 and cysteinyl leukotrienes (cysLTs) are key components of asthma pathogenesis, and both contribute to the initiation and maintenance of the type 2 inflammatory environment. However, little is known about the potential interactions between the two mediators. In this work, we aimed at studying the regulation of expression of the cysLT receptors CysLT1 and CysLT2 by IL-33 in human PBLs. Our results show that the IL-33/ST2L axis increases CysLT1 but not CysLT2 expression in a concentration- and time-dependent manner in PBLs. IL-33-induced CysLT1 upregulation was observed at the protein but not at the mRNA level and was accompanied by an increase in LTD₄-induced calcium mobilization and migration of CD4⁺ T lymphocytes. We also show that purified naive CD4⁺ T lymphocytes expressed ST2L and responded to IL-33 in the absence of Ag or TCR stimulation, suggesting a mechanism independent of Ag presentation. These results contribute to expanding our knowledge in the field of IL-33 by proposing a new mode of action of the cytokine on T cells and by extending its role to the regulation of naive T cell trafficking, therefore reinforcing its interest as a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of asthma.

Too much of a good thing: How modulating LTB4 actions restore host defense in homeostasis or disease

The ability to regulate inflammatory pathways and host defense mechanisms is critical for maintaining homeostasis and responding to infections and tissue injury. While unbalanced inflammation is detrimental to the host; inadequate inflammation might not provide effective signals required to eliminate pathogens. On the other hand, aberrant inflammation could result in organ damage and impair host defense. The lipid mediator leukotriene B₄ (LTB₄) is a potent neutrophil chemoattractant and recently, its role as a dominant molecule that amplifies many arms of phagocyte antimicrobial effector function has been unveiled. However, excessive LTB₄ production contributes to disease severity in chronic inflammatory diseases such as diabetes and arthritis, which could potentially be involved in poor host defense in these groups of patients. In this review we discuss the cellular and molecular programs elicited during LTB₄ production and actions on innate immunity host defense mechanisms as well as potential therapeutic strategies to improve host defense.

IL-17-producing ST2+ group 2 innate lymphoid cells play a pathogenic role in lung inflammation

BACKGROUND

IL-17 plays a pathogenic role in asthma. ST2^- inflammatory group 2 innate lymphoid cells (ILC2s) driven by IL-25 can produce IL-17, whereas ST2⁺ natural ILC2s produce little IL-17.

OBJECTIVE

We characterized ST2⁺IL-17⁺ ILC2s during lung inflammation and determined the pathogenesis and molecular regulation of ST2⁺IL-17⁺ ILC2s.

METHODS

Lung inflammation was induced by papain or IL-33. IL-17 production by lung ILC2s from wild-type, Rag1^-/-, Rorc^gfp/gfp, and aryl hydrocarbon receptor (Ahr)^-/- mice was examined by using flow cytometry. Bone marrow transfer experiments were performed to evaluate hematopoietic myeloid differentiation primary response gene-88 (MyD88) signaling in regulating IL-17 production by ILC2s. mRNA expression of IL-17 was analyzed in purified naive ILC2s treated with IL-33, leukotrienes, and inhibitors for nuclear factor of activated T cells, p38, c-Jun N-terminal kinase, or nuclear factor κ light-chain enhancer of activated B cells. The pathogenesis of IL-17⁺ ILC2s was determined by transferring wild-type or Il17^-/- ILC2s to Rag2^-/-Il2rg^-/- mice, which further induced lung inflammation. Finally, expression of 106 ILC2 signature genes was compared between ST2⁺IL-17⁺ ILC2s and ST2⁺IL-17^- ILC2s.

RESULTS

Papain or IL-33 treatment boosted IL-17 production from ST2⁺ ILC2s (referred to by us as ILC2₁₇s) but not ST2^- ILC2s. Ahr, but not retinoic acid receptor-related orphan receptor γt, facilitated the production of IL-17 by ILC2₁₇s. The hematopoietic compartment of MyD88 signaling is essential for ILC2₁₇ induction. IL-33 works in synergy with leukotrienes, which signal through nuclear factor of activated T-cell activation to promote IL-17 in ILC2₁₇s. Il17^-/- ILC2s were less pathogenic in lung inflammation. ILC2₁₇s concomitantly expressed IL-5 and IL-13 but expressed little GM-CSF.

CONCLUSION

During lung inflammation, IL-33 and leukotrienes synergistically induce ILC2₁₇s. ILC2₁₇s are a highly pathogenic and unexpected source for IL-17 in lung inflammation.

Leukotriene B4 is essential for lung host defence and alpha-defensin-1 production during Achromobacter xylosoxidans infection

Leukotriene B₄ (LTB₄) is essential for host immune defence. It increases neutrophil recruitment, phagocytosis and pathogen clearance, and decreases oedema and inflammasome activation. The host response and the role of LTB₄ during Achromobacter xylosoxidans infection remain unexplored. Wild-type (129sv) and LTB₄ deficient (Alox5 ^-/-) mice were intratracheally infected with A. xylosoxidans. Wild-type 129sv infected mice survived beyond the 8^th day post-infection, exhibited increased levels of LTB₄ in the lung on the 1^st day, while levels of PGE₂ increased on the 7^th day post-infection. Infected Alox5 ^-/- mice showed impaired bacterial clearance, increased lung inflammation, and succumbed to the infection by the 7^th day. We found that exogenous LTB₄ does not affect the phagocytosis of A. xylosoxidans by alveolar macrophages in vitro. However, treatment of infected animals with LTB₄ protected from mortality, by reducing the bacterial load and inflammation via BLT₁ signalling, the high affinity receptor for LTB₄. Of importance, we uncovered that LTB₄ induces gene and protein expression of α-defensin-1 during the infection. This molecule is essential for bacterial clearance and exhibits potent antimicrobial activity by disrupting A. xylosoxidans cell wall. Taken together, our data demonstrate a major role for LTB₄ on the control of A. xylosoxidans infection.

Prostaglandins D2 and E2 have opposite effects on alveolar macrophages infected with Histoplasma capsulatum

Prostaglandin E₂ (PGE₂) suppresses macrophage effector mechanisms; however, little is known about the function of PGD₂ in infected alveolar macrophages (AMs). Using serum-opsonized Histoplasma capsulatum (Ops-H. capsulatum) in vitro, we demonstrated that AMs produced PGE₂ and PGD₂ in a time-dependent manner, with PGE₂ levels exceeding those of PGD₂ by 48 h postinfection. Comparison of the effects of both exogenous PGs on AMs revealed that PGD₂ increased phagocytosis and killing through the chemoattractant receptor-homologous molecule expressed on Th2 lymphocytes receptor, whereas PGE₂ had opposite effects, through E prostanoid (EP) receptor 2 (EP2)/EP4-dependent mechanisms. Moreover, PGD₂ inhibited phospholipase C-γ (PLC-γ) phosphorylation, reduced IL-10 production, and increased leukotriene B4 receptor expression. In contrast, exogenous PGE₂ treatment reduced PLC-γ phosphorylation, p38 and nuclear factor κB activation, TNF-α, H₂O₂, and leukotriene B₄, but increased IL-1β production. Using specific compounds to inhibit the synthesis of each PG in vitro and in vivo, we found that endogenous PGD₂ contributed to fungicidal mechanisms and controlled inflammation, whereas endogenous PGE₂ decreased phagocytosis and killing of the fungus and induced inflammation. These findings demonstrate that, although PGD₂ acts as an immunostimulatory mediator to control H. capsulatum infection, PGE₂ has immunosuppressive effects, and the balance between these two PGs may limit collateral immune damage at the expense of microbial containment.

Deficiency of the G protein Gαq ameliorates experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis with impaired DC-derived IL-6 production and Th17 differentiation

Many G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are reported to be involved in the pathogenesis of multiple sclerosis (MS), and ~40% of all identified GPCRs rely on the Gαq/11 G protein family to stimulate inositol lipid signaling. However, the function of Gα subunits in MS pathogenesis is still unknown. In this study, we attempted to determine the role of Gαq in the pathogenesis of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), a well-known mouse model of MS. We discovered that compared with wild-type mice, Gαq-knockout mice exhibited less severe EAE symptoms, with lower clinical scores, reduced leukocyte infiltration and less extensive demyelination. Moreover, a significantly lower percentage of Th17 cells, one of the key players in MS pathogenesis, was observed in Gαq-knockout EAE mice. Studies in vitro demonstrated that deficiency of Gαq in CD4⁺ T cells directly impaired Th17 differentiation. In addition, deficiency of Gαq significantly impaired DC-derived IL-6 production, thus inhibiting Th17 differentiation and the Gαq-PLCβ-PKC and Gαq-MAPKs signaling pathways involved in the reduced IL-6 production by DCs. In summary, our data highlighted the critical role of Gαq in regulating Th17 differentiation and MS pathogenesis.

Adipose tissue B2 cells promote insulin resistance through leukotriene LTB4/LTB4R1 signaling

Tissue inflammation is a key component of obesity-induced insulin resistance, with a variety of immune cell types accumulating in adipose tissue. Here, we have demonstrated increased numbers of B2 lymphocytes in obese adipose tissue and have shown that high-fat diet-induced (HFD-induced) insulin resistance is mitigated in B cell-deficient (Bnull) mice. Adoptive transfer of adipose tissue B2 cells (ATB2) from wild-type HFD donor mice into HFD Bnull recipients completely restored the effect of HFD to induce insulin resistance. Recruitment and activation of ATB2 cells was mediated by signaling through the chemokine leukotriene B4 (LTB4) and its receptor LTB4R1. Furthermore, the adverse effects of ATB2 cells on glucose homeostasis were partially dependent upon T cells and macrophages. These results demonstrate the importance of ATB2 cells in obesity-induced insulin resistance and suggest that inhibition of the LTB4/LTB4R1 axis might be a useful approach for developing insulin-sensitizing therapeutics.

Leukotrienes provide an NFAT-dependent signal that synergizes with IL-33 to activate ILC2s

von Moltke et al. demonstrate that optimal cytokine induction in group 2 innate lymphocytes results from synergy between NFAT-dependent leukotriene signaling and IL-33 signaling. This integration of signaling pathways may represent an innate substitute for the T cell receptor.

Group 2 innate lymphoid cells (ILC2s) and type 2 helper T cells (Th2 cells) are the primary source of interleukin 5 (IL-5) and IL-13 during type 2 (allergic) inflammation in the lung. In Th2 cells, T cell receptor (TCR) signaling activates the transcription factors nuclear factor of activated T cells (NFAT), nuclear factor κB (NF-κB), and activator protein 1 (AP-1) to induce type 2 cytokines. ILC2s lack a TCR and respond instead to locally produced cytokines such as IL-33. Although IL-33 induces AP-1 and NF-κB, NFAT signaling has not been described in ILC2s. In this study, we report a nonredundant NFAT-dependent role for lipid-derived leukotrienes (LTs) in the activation of lung ILC2s. Using cytokine reporter and LT-deficient mice, we find that complete disruption of LT signaling markedly diminishes ILC2 activation and downstream responses during type 2 inflammation. Type 2 responses are equivalently attenuated in IL-33– and LT-deficient mice, and optimal ILC2 activation reflects potent synergy between these pathways. These findings expand our understanding of ILC2 regulation and may have important implications for the treatment of airways disease.

Calcitonin Peptide Family Members Are Differentially Regulated by LPS and Inhibit Functions of Rat Alveolar NR8383 Macrophages

Members of the calcitonin peptide family—calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP), adrenomedullin (AM), and adrenomedullin2/intermedin (IMD)–exert modulatory effects upon monocytes and macrophages of various extrapulmonary origins. Utilizing the rat alveolar macrophage (AMφ) cell line NR8383, we here set out to determine to which extent these three peptides and their receptors are differentially regulated in AMφ and what specific effects they have on AMφ key functions. LPS treatment differentially up-regulated expression of the peptides and receptors. Among the three peptides, IMD mRNA content was lowest both in primary rat AMφ and NR8383 cells, whereas IMD peptide dominated in basal and LPS-stimulated secretion from NR8383 cells. Fcγ receptor-mediated phagocytosis and TNF-α production were inhibited by AM, IMD, and CGRP, whereas pro-IL-1β mRNA was slightly down-regulated exclusively by CGRP. Neither of these peptides affected IL-6 or IL-10 production. None increased intracellular calcium concentration, but AM significantly inhibited store-operated calcium entry. In conclusion, the rat AMφ cell line NR8383 is both a source and a target of the calcitonin peptide family members AM, IMD, and CGRP. Despite sharing proteins of the receptor complexes, AM, IMD, and CGRP each showed a characteristic pattern of effects and regulation, suggesting that these closely related peptides are not just redundant members of one common signaling pathway but act in concert by addressing parallel signaling cascades. Since peptide and receptor expression are up-regulated by LPS, these signaling pathways might act as inhibitory feedback mechanisms in pulmonary bacterial infection.

Opposing roles of LTB4 and PGE2 in regulating the inflammasome-dependent scorpion venom-induced mortality

Tityus serrulatus sting causes thousands of deaths annually worldwide. T. serrulatus-envenomed victims exhibit local or systemic reaction that culminates in pulmonary oedema, potentially leading to death. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying T. serrulatus venom (TsV) activity remain unknown. Here we show that TsV triggers NLRP3 inflammasome activation via K(+) efflux. Mechanistically, TsV triggers lung-resident cells to release PGE2, which induces IL-1β production via E prostanoid receptor 2/4-cAMP-PKA-NFκB-dependent mechanisms. IL-1β/IL-1R actions account for oedema and neutrophil recruitment to the lungs, leading to TsV-induced mortality. Inflammasome activation triggers LTB4 production and further PGE2 via IL-1β/IL-1R signalling. Activation of LTB4-BLT1/2 pathway decreases cAMP generation, controlling TsV-induced inflammation. Exogenous administration confirms LTB4 anti-inflammatory activity and abrogates TsV-induced mortality. These results suggest that the balance between LTB4 and PGE2 determines the amount of IL-1β inflammasome-dependent release and the outcome of envenomation. We suggest COX1/2 inhibition as an effective therapeutic intervention for scorpion envenomation.

Quantitative proteome analysis of temporally resolved phagosomes following uptake via key phagocytic receptors

Macrophages operate at the forefront of innate immunity and their discrimination of foreign versus "self" particles is critical for a number of responses including efficient pathogen killing, antigen presentation, and cytokine induction. In order to efficiently destroy the particles and detect potential threats, macrophages express an array of receptors to sense and phagocytose prey particles. In this study, we accurately quantified a proteomic time-course of isolated phagosomes from murine bone marrow-derived macrophages induced by particles conjugated to seven different ligands representing pathogen-associated molecular patterns, immune opsonins or apoptotic cell markers. We identified a clear functional differentiation over the three timepoints and detected subtle differences between certain ligand-phagosomes, indicating that triggering of receptors through a single ligand type has mild, but distinct, effects on phagosome proteome and function. Moreover, our data shows that uptake of phosphatidylserine-coated beads induces an active repression of NF-κB immune responses upon Toll-like receptor (TLR)-activation by recruitment of anti-inflammatory regulators to the phagosome. This data shows for the first time a systematic time-course analysis of bone marrow-derived macrophages phagosomes and how phagosome fate is regulated by the receptors triggered for phagocytosis.

Leukotriene B4-mediated sterile inflammation promotes susceptibility to sepsis in a mouse model of type 1 diabetes

Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is associated with chronic systemic inflammation and enhanced susceptibility to systemic bacterial infection (sepsis). We hypothesized that low insulin concentrations in T1DM trigger the enzyme 5-lipoxygenase (5-LO) to produce the lipid mediator leukotriene B4 (LTB4), which triggers systemic inflammation that may increase susceptibility to polymicrobial sepsis. Consistent with chronic inflammation, peritoneal macrophages from two mouse models of T1DM had greater abundance of the adaptor MyD88 (myeloid differentiation factor 88) and its direct transcriptional effector STAT-1 (signal transducer and activator of transcription 1) than macrophages from nondiabetic mice. Expression of Alox5, which encodes 5-LO, and the concentration of the proinflammatory cytokine interleukin-1β (IL-1β) were also increased in peritoneal macrophages and serum from T1DM mice. Insulin treatment reduced LTB4 concentrations in the circulation and Myd88 and Stat1 expression in the macrophages from T1DM mice. T1DM mice treated with a 5-LO inhibitor had reduced Myd88 mRNA in macrophages and increased abundance of IL-1 receptor antagonist and reduced production of IL-β in the circulation. T1DM mice lacking 5-LO or the receptor for LTB4 also produced less proinflammatory cytokines. Compared to wild-type or untreated diabetic mice, T1DM mice lacking the receptor for LTB4 or treated with a 5-LO inhibitor survived polymicrobial sepsis, had reduced production of proinflammatory cytokines, and had decreased bacterial counts. These results uncover a role for LTB4 in promoting sterile inflammation in diabetes and the enhanced susceptibility to sepsis in T1DM.

Prostaglandin E2 reduces Toll-like receptor 4 expression in alveolar macrophages by inhibition of translation

Alveolar macrophages (AMs) represent the first line of innate immune defense in the lung. AMs use pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) to sense pathogens. The best studied PRR is Toll-like receptor (TLR)4, which detects LPS from gram-negative bacteria. The lipid mediator prostaglandin (PG)E2 dampens AM immune responses by inhibiting the signaling events downstream of PRRs. We examined the effect of PGE2 on TLR4 expression in rat AMs. Although PGE2 did not reduce the mRNA levels of TLR4, it decreased TLR4 protein levels. The translation inhibitor cycloheximide reduced TLR4 protein levels with similar kinetics as PGE2, and its effects were not additive with those of the prostanoid, suggesting that PGE2 inhibits TLR at the translational level. The action of PGE2 could be mimicked by the direct stimulator of cAMP formation, forskolin, and involved E prostanoid receptor 2 ligation and cAMP-dependent activation of unanchored type I protein kinase A. Cells pretreated with PGE2 for 24 hours exhibited decreased TNF-α mRNA and protein levels in response to LPS stimulation. Knockdown of TLR4 protein by small interfering RNA to the levels achieved by PGE2 treatment likewise decreased TNF-α mRNA and protein in response to LPS, establishing the functional significance of this PGE2 effect. We provide the first evidence of a lipid mediator acting through its cognate G protein-coupled receptor to affect PRR translation. Because PGE2 is produced in abundance at sites of infection, its inhibitory effects on AM TLR4 expression have important implications for host defense in the lung.

Leukotriene B4 enhances the generation of proinflammatory microRNAs to promote MyD88-dependent macrophage activation

MicroRNAs are known to control TLR activation in phagocytes. We have shown that leukotriene (LT) B4 (LTB4) positively regulates macrophage MyD88 expression by decreasing suppressor of cytokine signaling-1 (SOCS-1) mRNA stability. In this study, we investigated the possibility that LTB4 control of MyD88 expression involves the generation of microRNAs. Our data show that LTB4, via its receptor B leukotriene receptor 1 (BLT1) and Gαi signaling, increased macrophage expression of inflammatory microRNAs, including miR-155, miR-146b, and miR-125b. LTB4-mediated miR-155 generation was attributable to activating protein-1 activation. Furthermore, macrophage transfection with antagomirs against miR-155 and miR-146b prevented both the LTB4-mediated decrease in SOCS-1 and increase in MyD88. Transfection with miR-155 and miR-146b mimics decreased SOCS-1 levels, increased MyD88 expression, and restored TLR4 responsiveness in both wild type and LT-deficient macrophages. To our knowledge, our data unveil a heretofore unrecognized role for the GPCR BLT1 in controlling expression of microRNAs that regulate MyD88-dependent activation of macrophages.

Intracellular secretory leukoprotease inhibitor modulates inositol 1,4,5-triphosphate generation and exerts an anti-inflammatory effect on neutrophils of individuals with cystic fibrosis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Secretory leukoprotease inhibitor (SLPI) is an anti-inflammatory protein present in respiratory secretions. Whilst epithelial cell SLPI is extensively studied, neutrophil associated SLPI is poorly characterised. Neutrophil function including chemotaxis and degranulation of proteolytic enzymes involves changes in cytosolic calcium (Ca²⁺) levels which is mediated by production of inositol 1,4,5-triphosphate (IP₃) in response to G-protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) stimuli. The aim of this study was to investigate the intracellular function of SLPI and the mechanism-based modulation of neutrophil function by this antiprotease. Neutrophils were isolated from healthy controls (n = 10), individuals with cystic fibrosis (CF) (n = 5) or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) (n = 5). Recombinant human SLPI significantly inhibited fMet-Leu-Phe (fMLP) and interleukin(IL)-8 induced neutrophil chemotaxis (P < 0.05) and decreased degranulation of matrix metalloprotease-9 (MMP-9), hCAP-18, and myeloperoxidase (MPO) (P < 0.05). The mechanism of inhibition involved modulation of cytosolic IP₃ production and downstream Ca²⁺ flux. The described attenuation of Ca²⁺ flux was overcome by inclusion of exogenous IP₃ in electropermeabilized cells. Inhibition of IP₃ generation and Ca²⁺ flux by SLPI may represent a novel anti-inflammatory mechanism, thus strengthening the attractiveness of SLPI as a potential therapeutic molecule in inflammatory airway disease associated with excessive neutrophil influx including CF, non-CF bronchiectasis, and COPD.

RanBPM protein acts as a negative regulator of BLT2 receptor to attenuate BLT2-mediated cell motility

BLT2, a low affinity receptor for leukotriene B4 (LTB4), is a member of the G protein-coupled receptor family and is involved in many signal transduction pathways associated with various cellular phenotypes, including chemotactic motility. However, the regulatory mechanism for BLT2 has not yet been demonstrated. To understand the regulatory mechanism of BLT2, we screened and identified the proteins that bind to BLT2. Using a yeast two-hybrid assay with the BLT2 C-terminal domain as bait, we found that RanBPM, a previously proposed scaffold protein, interacts with BLT2. We demonstrated the specific interaction between BLT2 and RanBPM by GST pulldown assay and co-immunoprecipitation assay. To elucidate the biological function of the RanBPM-BLT2 interaction, we evaluated the effects of RanBPM overexpression or knockdown. We found that BLT2-mediated motility was severely attenuated by RanBPM overexpression and that knockdown of endogenous RanBPM by shRNA strongly promoted BLT2-mediated motility, suggesting a negative regulatory function of RanBPM toward BLT2. Furthermore, we observed that the addition of BLT2 ligands caused the dissociation of BLT2 and RanBPM, thus releasing the negative regulatory effect of RanBPM. Finally, we propose that Akt-induced BLT2 phosphorylation at residue Thr(355), which occurs after the addition of BLT2 ligands, is a potential mechanism by which BLT2 dissociates from RanBPM, resulting in stimulation of BLT2 signaling. Taken together, our results suggest that RanBPM acts as a negative regulator of BLT2 signaling to attenuate BLT2-mediated cell motility.

Intrauterine group A streptococcal infections are exacerbated by prostaglandin E2

Streptococcus pyogenes (Group A Streptococcus; GAS) is a major cause of severe postpartum sepsis, a re-emerging cause of maternal morbidity and mortality worldwide. Immunological alterations occur during pregnancy to promote maternofetal tolerance, which may increase the risk for puerperal infection. PGE2 is an immunomodulatory lipid that regulates maternofetal tolerance, parturition, and innate immunity. The extent to which PGE2 regulates host immune responses to GAS infections in the context of endometritis is unknown. To address this, both an in vivo mouse intrauterine (i.u.) GAS infection model and an in vitro human macrophage-GAS interaction model were used. In C57BL/6 mice, i.u. GAS inoculation resulted in local and systemic inflammatory responses and triggered extensive changes in the expression of eicosanoid pathway genes. The i.u. administration of PGE2 increased the mortality of infected mice, suppressed local IL-6 and IL-17A levels, enhanced neutrophilic inflammation, reduced uterine macrophage populations, and increased bacterial dissemination. A role for endogenous PGE2 in the modulation of antistreptococcal host defense was suggested, because mice lacking the genes encoding the microsomal PGE2 synthase-1 or the EP2 receptor were protected from death, as were mice treated with the EP4 receptor antagonist, GW627368X. PGE2 also regulated GAS-macrophage interactions. In GAS-infected human THP-1 (macrophage-like) cells, PGE2 inhibited the production of MCP-1 and TNF-α while augmenting IL-10 expression. PGE2 also impaired the phagocytic ability of human placental macrophages, THP-1 cells, and mouse peritoneal macrophages in vitro. Exploring the targeted disruption of PGE2 synthesis and signaling to optimize existing antimicrobial therapies against GAS may be warranted.

The role of leukotrienes in immunopathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disorder of joints for which there is no strict cure. However, conventional medications can reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and slow joint damage. Leukotrienes are a family of paracrine agents derived from oxidative metabolism of arachidonic acid. Synthesis of lipid mediators and subsequent induction of receptor activity are tightly regulated under normal physiological conditions, so that enzyme and/or receptor dysfunction can lead to a variety of clinical signs and symptoms of disease, such as local pain and tissue edema. In these tissues, immunocompetent cells accumulate at the site of injury, contributing to tissue damage and perpetuation of the disease process. Leukotrienes (often leukotriene B4) as potent chemotactic agents can provoke most signs and symptoms in rheumatoid arthritis by initiating, coordinating, sustaining, and amplifying the inflammatory response, through recruitment of leukocytes. A number of studies have reported that pharmacological modulation in this field can significantly attenuate clinical manifestations associated with different inflammatory pathologies.

Leukotriene B4 enhances innate immune defense against the puerperal sepsis agent Streptococcus pyogenes

Puerperal sepsis is a leading cause of maternal mortality worldwide. Streptococcus pyogenes [group A Streptococcus; (GAS)] is a major etiologic agent of severe postpartum sepsis, yet little is known regarding the pathogenesis of these infections. Tissue macrophages provide innate defense against GAS, and their actions are highly regulated. The intracellular second messenger cAMP can negatively regulate macrophage actions against GAS. Because leukotriene (LT) B(4) has been shown to suppress intracellular cAMP in macrophages, we hypothesized that it could enhance innate defenses against GAS. We assessed the capacity of LTB(4) to modulate antistreptococcal actions of human macrophages, including placental and decidual macrophages and used a novel intrauterine infection model of GAS in mice lacking the 5-lipoxygenase enzyme to determine the role of endogenous LTs in host defense against this pathogen. Animals lacking 5-lipoxygenase were significantly more vulnerable to intrauterine GAS infection than were wild-type mice and showed enhanced dissemination of bacteria out of the uterus and a more robust inflammatory response than did wild-type mice. In addition, LTB(4) reduced intracellular cAMP levels via the BLT1 receptor and was a potent stimulant of macrophage phagocytosis and NADPH oxidase-dependent intracellular killing of GAS. Importantly, interference was observed between the macrophage immunomodulatory actions of LTB(4) and the cAMP-inducing lipid PGE(2), suggesting that interplay between pro- and anti-inflammatory compounds may be important in vivo. This work underscores the potential for pharmacological targeting of lipid mediator signaling cascades in the treatment of invasive GAS infections.

Macrophage dectin-1 expression is controlled by leukotriene B4 via a GM-CSF/PU.1 axis

Pattern recognition receptors for fungi include dectin-1 and mannose receptor, and these mediate phagocytosis, as well as production of cytokines, reactive oxygen species, and the lipid mediator leukotriene B(4) (LTB(4)). The influence of G protein-coupled receptor ligands such as LTB(4) on fungal pattern recognition receptor expression is unknown. In this study, we investigated the role of LTB(4) signaling in dectin-1 expression and responsiveness in macrophages. Genetic and pharmacologic approaches showed that LTB(4) production and signaling through its high-affinity G protein-coupled receptor leukotriene B(4) receptor 1 (BLT1) direct dectin-1-dependent binding, ingestion, and cytokine production both in vitro and in vivo. Impaired responses to fungal glucans correlated with lower dectin-1 expression in macrophages from leukotriene (LT)- and BLT1-deficent mice than their wild-type counterparts. LTB(4) increased the expression of the transcription factor responsible for dectin-1 expression, PU.1, and PU.1 small interfering RNA abolished LTB(4)-enhanced dectin-1 expression. GM-CSF controls PU.1 expression, and this cytokine was decreased in LT-deficient macrophages. Addition of GM-CSF to LT-deficient cells restored expression of dectin-1 and PU.1, as well as dectin-1 responsiveness. In addition, LTB(4) effects on dectin-1, PU.1, and cytokine production were blunted in GM-CSF(-/-) macrophages. Our results identify LTB(4)-BLT1 signaling as an unrecognized controller of dectin-1 transcription via GM-CSF and PU.1 that is required for fungi-protective host responses.

Eicosanoids and respiratory viral infection: coordinators of inflammation and potential therapeutic targets

Viruses are frequent causes of respiratory infection, and viral respiratory infections are significant causes of hospitalization, morbidity, and sometimes mortality in a variety of patient populations. Lung inflammation induced by infection with common respiratory pathogens such as influenza and respiratory syncytial virus is accompanied by increased lung production of prostaglandins and leukotrienes, lipid mediators with a wide range of effects on host immune function. Deficiency or pharmacologic inhibition of prostaglandin and leukotriene production often results in a dampened inflammatory response to acute infection with a respiratory virus. These mediators may, therefore, serve as appealing therapeutic targets for disease caused by respiratory viral infection.

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis: pathobiology of novel approaches to treatment

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a progressive disease of unknown cause that conveys a dismal prognosis. In the United States there are currently no licensed therapies for treatment of IPF. The development of effective IPF clinical trials networks across the United States and Europe, however, has led to key developments in the treatment of IPF. Advances in understanding of the pathogenetic processes involved in the development of pulmonary fibrosis have led to novel therapeutic targets. These developments offer hope that there may, in the near future, be therapeutic options available for treatment of this devastating disease.

Bacterial toll-like receptor agonists induce sequential NF-κB-mediated leukotriene B4 and prostaglandin E2 production in chicken heterophils

Studies of the response of the primary avian polymorphonuclear leukocyte, the heterophil, to microbe associated molecular patterns (MAMPs) through toll-like receptors (TLR) has concentrated on the activation of the respiratory burst, release of intracellular granules, and the induction of cytokine and chemokine expression. Virtually no studies have been described on the role of lipid mediators, leukotrienes and prostaglandins, as effectors of the avian inflammatory response. We have previously shown that flagellin (FLG), the bacterial lipoprotein mimic palmitoly-3-cysteine-serine-lysine-4 (PAM), and unmethylated CpG motifs of bacteria DNA (CpG) are all potent activators of the avian innate immune system. In the present studies, we hypothesized that FLG, PAM, and CpG are also capable of eliciting the production of these lipid mediators of inflammation by avian heterophils. Compared to non-stimulated control heterophils, all three TLR agonists were potent inducers (3-5-fold increase) of a rapid production (30 min) of leukotriene B(4) (LTB(4)) followed by a later release (60-120 min) of prostaglandin (PGE(2)) by the heterophils. LTB(4) and PGE(2) production were derived from lipoxygenase-5 (5-LO) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) enzymatic activities, respectively, as the selective 5-LO (caffeic acid) and COX-2 (NS-398) inhibitors eliminated LTB(4) and PGE(2) production from the MAMP-stimulated heterophils. These results demonstrate that both the lipoxygenase and cycloxygenase pathways are operational in avian heterophils in response to bacterial MAMPs. Treatment of heterophils with either FLG, PAM, or CpG also induced a significant increase in DNA binding by NF-κB family members' p50, c-Rel, and RelB. Additionally, the production of LTB(4) and PGE(2) were inhibited following treatment of heterophils with the specific pharmacologic inhibitor of NF-κB (Bay 11-7086), thus suggesting that TLR pathway activation of NF-κB controls LTB(4) and PGE(2) production. This the first report of the production of lipid mediators of inflammation by avian heterophils in response to PAMPs. Since FLG, lipoproteins, and bacterial CpG DNA are abundant during bacterial infections, these data support their role in the inflammatory response mediated by avian heterophils.

Leukotrienes target F-actin/cofilin-1 to enhance alveolar macrophage anti-fungal activity

Candida albicans is the most common opportunistic fungal pathogen and causes local and systemic disease in immunocompromised patients. Alveolar macrophages (AMs) are pivotal for the clearance of C. albicans from the lung. Activated AMs secrete 5-lipoxygenase-derived leukotrienes (LTs), which in turn enhance phagocytosis and microbicidal activity against a diverse array of pathogens. Our aim was to investigate the role of LTB(4) and LTD(4) in AM antimicrobial functions against C. albicans and the signaling pathways involved. Pharmacologic and genetic inhibition of LT biosynthesis as well as receptor antagonism reduced phagocytosis of C. albicans when compared with untreated or WT controls. Conversely, exogenous LTs of both classes augmented base-line C. albicans phagocytosis by AMs. Although LTB(4) enhanced mainly mannose receptor-dependent fungal ingestion, LTD(4) enhanced mainly dectin-1 receptor-mediated phagocytosis. LT enhancement of yeast ingestion was dependent on protein kinase C-δ (PKCδ) and PI3K but not PKCα and MAPK activation. Both LTs reduced activation of cofilin-1, whereas they enhanced total cellular F-actin; however, LTB(4) accomplished this through the activation of LIM kinases (LIMKs) 1 and 2, whereas LTD(4) did so exclusively via LIMK-2. Finally, both exogenous LTB(4) and LTD(4) enhanced AM fungicidal activity in an NADPH oxidase-dependent manner. Our data identify LTB(4) and LTD(4) as key mediators of innate immunity against C. albicans, which act by both distinct and conserved signaling mechanisms to enhance multiple antimicrobial functions of AMs.

Control of experimental pulmonary tuberculosis depends more on immunostimulatory leukotrienes than on the absence of immunosuppressive prostaglandins

Prostaglandins (PGs) and leukotrienes (LTs) are produced in Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb)-infected lungs and have immune suppressive and protective effects, respectively. Considering that both of these mediators are produced during mycobacterial infection, we investigated the specific and relative biological importance of each in regulating host response in experimental tuberculosis. Administration of celecoxib, which was found to reduce lung levels of PGE(2) and increase LTB(4), enhanced the 60-day survival of Mtb-infected mice in 14%. However administration of MK-886, which reduced levels of LTB(4) but did not enhance PGE(2), reduced 60-day survival from 86% to 43% in Mtb-infected mice, and increased lung bacterial burden. MK-886 plus celecoxib reduced survival to a lesser extent than MK-886 alone. MK-886- and MK-886 plus celecoxib-treated animals exhibited reduced levels of the protective interleukin-12 and gamma-interferon. Our findings indicate that in this model, the protective effect of LTs dominates over the suppressive effect of PGs.

Leukotriene B4 amplifies NF-κB activation in mouse macrophages by reducing SOCS1 inhibition of MyD88 expression

Activation of NF-κB and 5-lipoxygenase-mediated (5-LO-mediated) biosynthesis of the lipid mediator leukotriene B4 (LTB4) are pivotal components of host defense and inflammatory responses. However, the role of LTB4 in mediating innate immune responses elicited by specific TLR ligands and cytokines is unknown. Here we have shown that responses dependent on MyD88 (an adaptor protein that mediates signaling through all of the known TLRs, except TLR3, as well as IL-1β and IL-18) are reduced in mice lacking either 5-LO or the LTB4 receptor BTL1, and that macrophages from these mice are impaired in MyD88-dependent activation of NF-κB. This macrophage defect was associated with lower basal and inducible expression of MyD88 and reflected impaired activation of STAT1 and overexpression of the STAT1 inhibitor SOCS1. Expression of MyD88 and responsiveness to the TLR4 ligand LPS were decreased by Stat1 siRNA silencing in WT macrophages and restored by Socs1 siRNA in 5-LO-deficient macrophages. These results uncover a pivotal role in macrophages for the GPCR BLT1 in regulating activation of NF-κB through Stat1-dependent expression of MyD88.

Montelukast in the treatment of asthma and beyond

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease affecting over 300 million people worldwide. The common association with allergic rhinitis and the presence of proinflammatory cells and mediators in the circulation of patients qualify asthma as a systemic disease. This characteristic and the fact that the gold-standard therapy for persistent asthma, inhaled corticosteroids, cannot suppress all components of airway inflammation and fail to adequately penetrate into the small airways, warrant the quest for effective systemic anti-asthma therapies. This review describes the most important controlled studies of montelukast, a once-daily leukotriene receptor antagonist, in asthma and allergic rhinitis in both adults and children. Montelukast is a systemically active drug with a targeted, dual mechanism of action, acting both as a bronchodilator and anti-inflammatory. In patients of all ages, montelukast has shown a favorable safety profile and was well-tolerated. Both as monotherapy or in combination with inhaled corticosteroids, montelukast produced clinically relevant improvements in asthma-related parameters, including symptoms, lung function parameters, quality of life and the number of asthma exacerbations. Furthermore, bronchoprotective effects have been reported both against specific and nonspecific bronchoactive stimuli. Similarly, in patients with allergic rhinitis, montelukast produced substantial improvements in symptoms and quality of life. Long-term studies aimed to determine its effects on airway remodeling are still lacking.

Intrapulmonary administration of leukotriene B4 enhances pulmonary host defense against pneumococcal pneumonia

Leukotriene B(4) (LTB(4)) is a potent lipid mediator of inflammation formed by the 5-lipoxygenase (5-LO)-catalyzed oxidation of arachidonic acid. We have previously shown that (i) LTB(4) is generated during infection, (ii) its biosynthesis is essential for optimal antimicrobial host defense, (iii) LT deficiency is associated with clinical states of immunocompromise, and (iv) exogenous LTB(4) augments antimicrobial functions in phagocytes. Here, we sought to determine whether the administration of LTB(4) has therapeutic potential in a mouse model of pneumonia. Wild-type and 5-LO knockout mice were challenged with Streptococcus pneumoniae via the intranasal route, and bacterial burdens, leukocyte counts, and cytokine levels were determined. LTB(4) was administered via the intraperitoneal, intravenous, and intranasal routes prior to pneumococcal infection and by aerosol 24 h following infection. Leukocytes recovered from mice given S. pneumoniae and treated with aerosolized LTB(4) were evaluated for expression levels of the p47phox subunit of NADPH oxidase. Intrapulmonary but not systemic pretreatment with LTB(4) significantly reduced the lung S. pneumoniae burden in wild-type mice. Aerosolized LTB(4) was effective at improving lung bacterial clearance when administered postinoculation in animals with established infection and exhibited greater potency in 5-LO knockout animals, which also exhibited greater baseline susceptibility. Augmented bacterial clearance in response to LTB(4) was associated with enhanced monocyte recruitment and leukocyte expression of p47phox. The results of the current study in an animal model serve as a proof of concept for the potential utility of treatment with aerosolized LTB(4) as an immunostimulatory strategy in patients with bacterial pneumonia.

5-lipoxygenase activating protein signals adipose tissue inflammation and lipid dysfunction in experimental obesity

The presence of the so-called low-grade inflammatory state is recognized as a critical event in adipose tissue dysfunction, leading to altered secretion of adipokines and free fatty acids (FFAs), insulin resistance, and development of hepatic complications associated with obesity. This study was designed to investigate the potential contribution of the proinflammatory 5-lipoxygenase (5-LO) pathway to adipose tissue inflammation and lipid dysfunction in experimental obesity. Constitutive expression of key components of the 5-LO pathway, as well as leukotriene (LT) receptors, was detected in adipose tissue as well as in adipocyte and stromal vascular fractions. Adipose tissue from obese mice, compared with that from lean mice, exhibited increased 5-LO activating protein (FLAP) expression and LTB(4) levels. Incubation of adipose tissue with 5-LO products resulted in NF-kappaB activation and augmented secretion of proinflammatory adipokines such as MCP-1, IL-6, and TNF-alpha. In addition, LTB(4), but not LTD(4), reduced FFA uptake in primary adipocytes, whereas 5-LO inhibition suppressed isoproterenol-induced adipose tissue lipolysis. In mice with dietary obesity, elevated FLAP expression in adipose tissue was paralleled with macrophage infiltration, increased circulating FFA levels, and hepatic steatosis, phenomena that were reversed by FLAP inhibition with Bay-X-1005. Interestingly, FLAP inhibition induced AMP-activated protein kinase phosphorylation in parallel with decreases in hormone-sensitive lipase activity and the expression and secretion of TNF-alpha and IL-6. Similar effects were observed in differentiated 3T3-L1 adipocytes incubated with either Bay-X-1005 or the selective LTB(4) receptor antagonist U-75302. Taken together, these findings indicate that the 5-LO pathway signals the adipose tissue low-grade inflammatory state and steatogenic potential in experimental obesity.

FcgammaRI ligation leads to a complex with BLT1 in lipid rafts that enhances rat lung macrophage antimicrobial functions

Leukotriene (LT) B(4) is generated in response to engagement of the Fc gamma receptor (Fc gamma R) and potently contributes to Fc gamma R-mediated antimicrobial functions in pulmonary alveolar macrophages. In this study, we report that the LTB(4) receptor leukotriene B(4) receptor 1 (BLT1) redistributes from nonlipid raft (LR) to LR membrane microdomains upon immunoglobulin G-red blood cell, but not LTB(4), challenge. Cholesterol depletion to disrupt LRs abolished LTB(4)-induced enhancement of phagocytosis, microbicidal activity, and signaling. The dependence on LR integrity for BLT1 signaling correlated with formation of a complex consisting of BLT1, its primary coupled G protein G alpha i3, Src kinase, and Fc gamma RI within LRs. This association was dependent on Src-mediated phosphorylation of BLT1. These data identify a novel form of regulation in which engagement of a macrophage immunoreceptor recruits a stimulatory G protein-coupled receptor into a LR microdomain with resultant enhanced antimicrobial signaling.

HTRF: A technology tailored for drug discovery - a review of theoretical aspects and recent applications

HTRF (Homogeneous Time Resolved Fluorescence) is the most frequently used generic assay technology to measure analytes in a homogenous format, which is the ideal platform used for drug target studies in high-throughput screening (HTS). This technology combines fluorescence resonance energy transfer technology (FRET) with time-resolved measurement (TR). In TR-FRET assays, a signal is generated through fluorescent resonance energy transfer between a donor and an acceptor molecule when in close proximity to each other. Buffer and media interference is dramatically reduced by dual-wavelength detection, and the final signal is proportional to the extent of product formation. The HTRF assay is usually sensitive and robust that can be miniaturized into the 384 and 1536-well plate formats. This assay technology has been applied to many antibody-based assays including GPCR signaling (cAMP and IP-One), kinases, cytokines and biomarkers, bioprocess (antibody and protein production), as well as the assays for protein-protein, proteinpeptide, and protein-DNA/RNA interactions.Since its introduction to the drug-screening world over ten years ago, researchers have used HTRF to expedite the study of GPCRs, kinases, new biomarkers, protein-protein interactions, and other targets of interest. HTRF has also been utilized as an alternative method for bioprocess monitoring. The first-generation HTRF technology, which uses Europium cryptate as a fluorescence donor to monitor reactions between biomolecules, was extended in 2008 through the introduction of a second-generation donor, Terbium cryptate (Tb), enhancing screening performance. Terbium cryptate possesses different photophysical properties compared to Europium, including increased quantum yield and a higher molar extinction coefficient. In addition to being compatible with the same acceptor fluorophors used with Europium, it can serve as a donor fluorophore to green-emitting fluors because it has multiple emission peaks including one at 490 nm. Moreover, all Terbium HTRF assays can be read on the same HTRF-compatible instruments as Europium HTRF assays.Overall, HTRF is a highly sensitive, robust technology for the detection of molecular interactions in vitro and is widely used for primary and secondary screening phases of drug development. This review addresses the general principles of HTRF and its current applications in drug discovery.

Differential kinase requirement for enhancement of Fc gammaR-mediated phagocytosis in alveolar macrophages by leukotriene B4 vs. D4

In alveolar macrophages, leukotriene (LT) B(4) and cysteinyl LTs (LTC(4), LTD(4) and LTE(4)) both enhance Fc gamma receptor (Fc gammaR)-mediated phagocytosis. In the present study we investigated the role of specific PKC isoforms (PKC-alpha and -delta), the MAP kinases p38 and ERK 1/2, and PI3K in mediating the potentiation of Fc gammaR-mediated phagocytosis induced by addition of leukotrienes to the AMs. It was found that exogenously added LTB(4) and LTD(4) both enhanced PKC-delta and -alpha phosphorylation during Fc gammaR engagement. Studies with isoform-selective inhibitors indicated that exogenous LTB(4) effects were dependent on both PKC-alpha and -delta, while LTD(4) effects were exclusively due to PKC-delta activation. Although both exogenous LTB(4) and LTD(4) enhanced p38 and ERK 1/2 activation, LTB(4) required only ERK 1/2, while LTD(4) required only p38 activation. Activation by both LTs was dependent on PI3K activation. Effects of endogenous LTs on kinase activation were also investigated using selective LT receptor antagonists. Endogenous LTB(4) contributed to Fc gammaR-mediated activation of PKC-alpha, ERK 1/2 and PI3K, while endogenous cysLTs contributes to activation of PKC-delta, p38 and PI3K. Taken together, our data show that the capacities of LTB(4) and LTD(4) to enhance Fc gammaR-mediated phagocytosis reflect their differential activation of specific kinase programs.

Inactivated parapoxvirus ovis activates canine blood phagocytes and T lymphocytes

Inactivated parapoxvirus ovis (iPPVO) shows strong immunomodulatory activities in several species and is used in veterinary medicine as an immunostimulatory biological for the prevention and/or treatment of infectious diseases. In this study the immunostimulatory capacity of iPPVO on the innate immune system was investigated in vitro by the evaluation of induction of the oxidative burst and modulation of phagocytosis by canine blood leukocytes (polymorphonuclear cells and monocytes) of dogs. In addition, the activation of canine T lymphocytes was also studied. After stimulation with iPPVO the phagocytosis of FITC-labeled Listeria monocytogenes was increased in canine blood monocytes and neutrophils. Enhanced burst rates by canine monocytes stimulated with iPPVO were observed and the MHC-II expression on canine CD14+ monocytes was elevated following stimulation with iPPVO compared to the stabiliser control. Canine CD4+ T cells were activated for oligoclonal proliferation in response to iPPVO. This study shows that iPPVO is able to stimulate both phagocytotic and T-cell-dependent immune mechanisms in canine blood leukocytes.

Crosstalk between prostaglandin E2 and leukotriene B4 regulates phagocytosis in alveolar macrophages via combinatorial effects on cyclic AMP

Eicosanoid lipid mediators, including prostaglandin E(2) (PGE(2)) and leukotrienes (LTs) B(4) and D(4), are produced in abundance in the infected lung. We have previously demonstrated that individually, PGE(2) suppresses while both classes of LTs augment alveolar macrophage (AM) innate immune functions. In this study, we sought to more appropriately model the milieu at a site of infection by studying the in vitro effects of these lipid mediators on Fc gammaR-mediated phagocytosis when they are present in combination. Consistent with their individual actions, both LTB(4) and LTD(4) opposed the suppressive effect of PGE(2) on phagocytosis, but only LTB(4) did so by mitigating the stimulatory effect of PGE(2) on intracellular cAMP production. Unexpectedly, we observed that IgG-opsonized targets themselves elicited a dose-dependent reduction in intracellular cAMP in AMs, but this was not observed in peritoneal macrophages or elicited peritoneal neutrophils; this effect in AMs was completely abolished by treatment with the LT synthesis inhibitor AA861, the BLT receptor 1 antagonist CP 105,696, and the G alpha i inhibitor pertussis toxin. Of two downstream cAMP effectors, protein kinase A and exchange protein activated by cAMP, the ability of PGE(2) to activate the latter but not the former was abrogated by both LTs B(4) and D(4). Taken together, our results indicate that both classes of LTs oppose the immune suppressive actions of PGE(2), with the stimulatory actions of LTB(4) reflecting combinatorial modulation of intracellular cAMP and those of LTD(4) being cAMP independent.

Rap1 activation is required for Fc gamma receptor-dependent phagocytosis

Phagocytosis of IgG-opsonized microbes via the Fc gamma receptor (Fc gammaR) requires the precise coordination of a number of signaling molecules, including the low-molecular mass GTPases. Little is known about the Ras-family GTPase Rap1 in this process. We therefore investigated its importance in mediating Fc gammaR-dependent phagocytosis in NR8383 rat alveolar macrophages. Pulldown of active Rap1 and fluorescence microscopic analysis of GFP-RalGDS (Ral guanine dissociation stimulator)-transfected macrophages revealed that Rap1 is indeed activated by Fc gammaR crosslinking. Inhibition of Rap1 activity, both by Rap1GAP (GTPase-activating protein) expression and liposome-delivered blocking Ab, severely impaired the ability of cells to ingest IgG-opsonized targets. Fc gammaR-induced Rap1 activation was found to be independent of both cAMP and Ca(2+), suggesting a role for the second messenger-independent guanosine exchange factor, C3G. This was supported by the facts that 1) liposome-delivered blocking Ab against C3G inhibited both Fc gammaR-dependent phagocytosis and Rap1 activation, and 2) both active Rap1GTP and C3G were found to translocate to the phagosome. Taken together, our data demonstrate a novel role for Rap1 and its exchange factor C3G in mediating Fc gammaR-dependent phagocytosis.

Leukotriene B4-loaded microspheres: a new therapeutic strategy to modulate cell activation

Background

Leukotriene B₄ (LTB₄) is a potent inflammatory mediator that also stimulates the immune response. In addition, it promotes polymorphonuclear leukocyte phagocytosis, chemotaxis, chemokinesis and modulates cytokines release. Regarding chemical instability of the leukotriene molecule, in the present study we assessed the immunomodulatory activities conferred by LTB₄ released from microspheres (MS). A previous oil-in-water emulsion solvent extraction-evaporation method was chosen to prepare LTB₄-loaded MS.

Results

In the mice cremasteric microcirculation, intraescrotal injection of 0.1 ml of LTB₄-loaded MS provoked significant increases in leukocyte rolling flux, adhesion and emigration besides significant decreases in the leukocyte rolling velocity. LTB₄-loaded MS also increase peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-α (PPARα) expression by murine peritoneal macrophages and stimulate them to generate nitrite levels. Monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) and nitric oxide (NO) productions were also increased when human umbilical vein and artery endothelial cells (HUVECs and HUAECs, respectively) were stimulated with LTB₄-loaded MS.

Conclusion

LTB₄-loaded MS preserve the biological activity of the encapsulated mediator indicating their use as a new strategy to modulate cell activation, especially in the innate immune response.

Activation of phosphatase and tensin homolog on chromosome 10 mediates the inhibition of FcgammaR phagocytosis by prostaglandin E2 in alveolar macrophages

PGE2 has important inhibitory effects on the macrophage host defense functions of phagocytosis and killing, yet the molecular mechanisms involved remain to be fully elucidated. PGE2 causes an elevation of cAMP in alveolar macrophages (AMs), which in turn activates the cAMP effector targets, protein kinase A and the exchange protein activated by cAMP (Epac)-1. We now report that FcgammaR-induced PI3K/Akt and ERK-1/2 activation are inhibited by PGE2 in AMs. By specifically inhibiting the phosphatase and tensin homolog deleted on chromosome 10 (PTEN) in AMs, we attenuated the inhibitory effects of both PGE2 and a specific Epac-1 agonist (8-pCPT-2'-O-Me-cAMP) on FcgammaR-mediated phagocytosis and Akt/ERK-1/2 activation; PTEN inhibition also decreased PGE2-induced suppression of bacterial killing by AMs. Moreover, PGE2 and the Epac-1 agonist induced an increase in PTEN lipid phosphatase activity, and this was associated with decreased tyrosine phosphorylation on PTEN-a mechanism known to regulate PTEN activity. Using a pharmacological approach, we demonstrated a role for Src homology 2-containing protein tyrosine phosphatase-1 in the PGE2-induced tyrosine dephosphorylation of PTEN. Collectively, these data reveal that PGE2, via Epac-1 activation, enhances SHP-1 activity, resulting in increased PTEN activity. We suggest that this mechanism contributes to the ability of PGE2 to inhibit PI3K-dependent innate immune signaling in primary macrophages.