1
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Hamkour S, van der Heijden EH, Lopes AP, Blokland SLM, Bekker CPJ, Van Helden-Meeuwsen CG, Versnel MA, Kruize AA, Radstake TR, Leavis HL, Hillen MR, van Roon JA. Leflunomide/hydroxychloroquine combination therapy targets type I IFN-associated proteins in patients with Sjögren's syndrome that show potential to predict and monitor clinical response. RMD Open 2023; 9:e002979. [PMID: 37532471 PMCID: PMC10401261 DOI: 10.1136/rmdopen-2023-002979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To assess to what extent leflunomide (LEF) and hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) therapy in patients with primary Sjögren's syndrome (RepurpSS-I) targets type I IFN-associated responses and to study the potential of several interferon associated RNA-based and protein-based biomarkers to predict and monitor treatment. METHODS In 21 patients treated with LEF/HCQ and 8 patients treated with placebo, blood was drawn at baseline, 8, 16 and 24 weeks. IFN-signatures based on RNA expression of five IFN-associated genes were quantified in circulating mononuclear cells and in whole blood. MxA protein levels were measured in whole blood, and protein levels of CXCL10 and Galectin-9 were quantified in serum. Differences between responders and non-responders were assessed and receiver operating characteristic analysis was used to determine the capacity of baseline expression and early changes (after 8 weeks of treatment) in biomarkers to predict treatment response at the clinical endpoint. RESULTS IFN-signatures in peripheral blood mononuclear cell and whole blood decreased after 24 weeks of LEF/HCQ treatment, however, changes in IFN signatures only poorly correlated with changes in disease activity. In contrast to baseline IFN signatures, baseline protein concentrations of galectin-9 and decreases in circulating MxA and Galectin-9 were robustly associated with clinical response. Early changes in serum Galectin-9 best predicted clinical response at 24 weeks (area under the curve 0.90). CONCLUSIONS LEF/HCQ combination therapy targets type-I IFN-associated proteins that are associated with strongly decreased B cell hyperactivity and disease activity. IFN-associated Galectin-9 is a promising biomarker for treatment prediction and monitoring in pSS patients treated with LEF/HCQ.
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Affiliation(s)
- Safae Hamkour
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Laboratory of Translational Immunology, UMC, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Eefje Hm van der Heijden
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Laboratory of Translational Immunology, UMC, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Ana P Lopes
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Laboratory of Translational Immunology, UMC, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Sofie L M Blokland
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Laboratory of Translational Immunology, UMC, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Cornelis P J Bekker
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Laboratory of Translational Immunology, UMC, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | | | - Aike A Kruize
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Timothy Rdj Radstake
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Laboratory of Translational Immunology, UMC, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Helen L Leavis
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Laboratory of Translational Immunology, UMC, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Maarten R Hillen
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Laboratory of Translational Immunology, UMC, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Joel Ag van Roon
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Laboratory of Translational Immunology, UMC, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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2
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Servaas NH, Hiddingh S, Chouri E, Wichers CGK, Affandi AJ, Ottria A, Bekker CPJ, Cossu M, Silva-Cardoso SC, van der Kroef M, Hinrichs AC, Carvalheiro T, Vazirpanah N, Beretta L, Rossato M, Bonte-Mineur F, Radstake TRDJ, Kuiper JJW, Boes M, Pandit A. Nuclear Receptor Subfamily 4A Signaling as a Key Disease Pathway of CD1c+ Dendritic Cell Dysregulation in Systemic Sclerosis. Arthritis Rheumatol 2023; 75:279-292. [PMID: 36482877 PMCID: PMC10108054 DOI: 10.1002/art.42319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2021] [Revised: 06/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study was undertaken to identify key disease pathways driving conventional dendritic cell (cDC) alterations in systemic sclerosis (SSc). METHODS Transcriptomic profiling was performed on peripheral blood CD1c+ cDCs (cDC2s) isolated from 12 healthy donors and 48 patients with SSc, including all major disease subtypes. We performed differential expression analysis for the different SSc subtypes and healthy donors to uncover genes dysregulated in SSc. To identify biologically relevant pathways, we built a gene coexpression network using weighted gene correlation network analysis. We validated the role of key transcriptional regulators using chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) sequencing and in vitro functional assays. RESULTS We identified 17 modules of coexpressed genes in cDCs that correlated with SSc subtypes and key clinical traits, including autoantibodies, skin score, and occurrence of interstitial lung disease. A module of immunoregulatory genes was markedly down-regulated in patients with the diffuse SSc subtype characterized by severe fibrosis. Transcriptional regulatory network analysis performed on this module predicted nuclear receptor 4A (NR4A) subfamily genes (NR4A1, NR4A2, NR4A3) as the key transcriptional regulators of inflammation. Indeed, ChIP-sequencing analysis indicated that these NR4A members target numerous differentially expressed genes in SSc cDC2s. Inclusion of NR4A receptor agonists in culture-based experiments provided functional proof that dysregulation of NR4As affects cytokine production by cDC2s and modulates downstream T cell activation. CONCLUSION NR4A1, NR4A2, and NR4A3 are important regulators of immunosuppressive and fibrosis-associated pathways in SSc cDCs. Thus, the NR4A family represents novel potential targets to restore cDC homeostasis in SSc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nila H Servaas
- Center for Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Sanne Hiddingh
- Center for Translational Immunology and Ophthalmo-Immunology Unit, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Eleni Chouri
- Center for Translational Immunology and Department of Rheumatology & Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Catharina G K Wichers
- Center for Translational Immunology and Department of Rheumatology & Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Alsya J Affandi
- Center for Translational Immunology and Department of Rheumatology & Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Andrea Ottria
- Center for Translational Immunology and Department of Rheumatology & Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Cornelis P J Bekker
- Center for Translational Immunology and Department of Rheumatology & Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Marta Cossu
- Center for Translational Immunology and Department of Rheumatology & Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Sandra C Silva-Cardoso
- Center for Translational Immunology and Department of Rheumatology & Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Maarten van der Kroef
- Center for Translational Immunology and Department of Rheumatology & Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Anneline C Hinrichs
- Center for Translational Immunology and Department of Rheumatology & Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Tiago Carvalheiro
- Center for Translational Immunology and Department of Rheumatology & Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Nadia Vazirpanah
- Center for Translational Immunology and Department of Rheumatology & Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Lorenzo Beretta
- Scleroderma Unit, Referral Center for Systemic Autoimmune Diseases, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Marzia Rossato
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Femke Bonte-Mineur
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Maasstad Hospital, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Timothy R D J Radstake
- Center for Translational Immunology and Department of Rheumatology & Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Jonas J W Kuiper
- Center for Translational Immunology and Ophthalmo-Immunology Unit, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Marianne Boes
- Department of Pediatrics, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, The Netherlands
| | - Aridaman Pandit
- Center for Translational Immunology and Department of Rheumatology & Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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3
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Vincken NLA, Welsing PMJ, Silva-Cardoso SC, Bekker CPJ, Lopes AP, Nordkamp MO, Leijten EFA, Radstake TRDJ, Angiolilli C. Suppression of IL-12/IL-23 p40 subunit in the skin and blood of psoriasis patients by Tofacitinib is dependent on active interferon-γ signaling in dendritic cells: implications for the treatment of psoriasis and interferon-driven diseases. Exp Dermatol 2022; 31:962-969. [PMID: 35297512 PMCID: PMC9313893 DOI: 10.1111/exd.14566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Revised: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Interleukin (IL)‐12 and IL‐23 are pro‐inflammatory cytokines produced by dendritic cells (DCs) and associated with Psoriasis (Pso) and Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA) pathogenesis. Tofacitinib, a Janus kinase inhibitor, effectively suppresses inflammatory cascades downstream the IL‐12/IL‐23 axis in Pso and PsA patients. Here, we investigated whether Tofacitinib directly regulates IL‐12/IL‐23 production in DCs, and how this regulation reflects responses to Tofacitinib in Pso patients. We treated monocyte‐derived dendritic cells and myeloid dendritic cells with Tofacitinib and stimulated cells with either lipopolysaccharide (LPS) or a combination of LPS and IFN‐γ. We assessed gene expression by qPCR, obtained skin microarray and blood Olink data and clinical parameters of Pso patients treated with Tofacitinib from public data sets. Our results indicate that in DCs co‐stimulated with LPS and IFN‐γ, but not with LPS alone, Tofacitinib leads to the decreased expression of IL‐23/IL‐12 shared subunit IL12B (p40). In Tofacitinib‐treated Pso patients, IL‐12 expression and psoriasis area and severity index (PASI) are significantly reduced in patients with higher IFN‐γ at baseline. These findings demonstrate for the first time that Tofacitinib suppresses IL‐23/IL‐12 shared subunit IL12B in DCs upon active IFN‐γ signaling, and that Pso patients with higher IFN‐γ baseline levels display improved clinical response after Tofacitinib treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nanette L A Vincken
- Center for Translational Immunology, Department of Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands.,Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Paco M J Welsing
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Sandra C Silva-Cardoso
- Center for Translational Immunology, Department of Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands.,Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Cornelis P J Bekker
- Center for Translational Immunology, Department of Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands.,Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Ana P Lopes
- Center for Translational Immunology, Department of Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands.,Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Michel Olde Nordkamp
- Center for Translational Immunology, Department of Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands.,Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Emmerik F A Leijten
- Center for Translational Immunology, Department of Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands.,Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Timothy R D J Radstake
- Center for Translational Immunology, Department of Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands.,Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Chiara Angiolilli
- Center for Translational Immunology, Department of Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands.,Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
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4
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Ottria A, Zimmermann M, Paardekooper LM, Carvalheiro T, Vazirpanah N, Silva-Cardoso S, Affandi AJ, Chouri E, V D Kroef M, Tieland RG, Bekker CPJ, Wichers CGK, Rossato M, Mocholi-Gimeno E, Tekstra J, Ton E, van Laar JM, Cossu M, Beretta L, Garcia Perez S, Pandit A, Bonte-Mineur F, Reedquist KA, van den Bogaart G, Radstake TRDJ, Marut W. Hypoxia and TLR9 activation drive CXCL4 production in systemic sclerosis plasmacytoid dendritic cells via mtROS and HIF-2α. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2021; 61:2682-2693. [PMID: 34559222 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/keab532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2021] [Revised: 05/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a complex disease characterized by vascular abnormalities and inflammation culminating in hypoxia and excessive fibrosis. Previously, we identified CXCL4 as a novel predictive biomarker in SSc. Although CXCL4 is well-studied, the mechanisms driving its production are unclear. The aim of this study was to elucidate the mechanisms leading to CXCL4 production. METHODS Plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs) from 97 healthy controls and 70 SSc patients were cultured in the presence of hypoxia or atmospheric oxygen level and/or stimulated with several TLR-agonists. Further, pro-inflammatory cytokine production, CXCL4, HIF-1α and HIF-2α gene and protein expression were assessed using ELISA, Luminex, qPCR, FACS and western blot assays. RESULTS CXCL4 release was potentiated only when pDCs were simultaneously exposed to hypoxia and TLR9 agonist (p < 0.0001). Here, we demonstrated that CXCL4 production is dependent on the overproduction of mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (mtROS) (p = 0.0079) leading to stabilization of HIF-2α (p = 0.029). In addition, we show that hypoxia is fundamental for CXCL4 production by umbilical cord (uc)CD34 derived pDCs. CONCLUSION TLR-mediated activation of immune cells in the presence of hypoxia underpins the pathogenic production of CXCL4 in SSc. Blocking either mtROS or HIF-2α pathways may therapeutically attenuate the contribution of CXCL4 to SSc and other inflammatory diseases driven by CXCL4.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Ottria
- Laboratory of Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands.,Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Maili Zimmermann
- Laboratory of Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands.,Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Laurent M Paardekooper
- Department of Tumor Immunology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Tiago Carvalheiro
- Laboratory of Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands.,Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Nadia Vazirpanah
- Laboratory of Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands.,Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Sandra Silva-Cardoso
- Laboratory of Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands.,Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Alsya J Affandi
- Laboratory of Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands.,Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Eleni Chouri
- Laboratory of Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands.,Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Maarten V D Kroef
- Laboratory of Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands.,Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Ralph G Tieland
- Laboratory of Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands.,Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Cornelis P J Bekker
- Laboratory of Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands.,Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Catharina G K Wichers
- Laboratory of Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands.,Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Marzia Rossato
- Laboratory of Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands.,Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Enric Mocholi-Gimeno
- Laboratory of Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands.,Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Janneke Tekstra
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Evelien Ton
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Jaap M van Laar
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Marta Cossu
- Laboratory of Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands.,Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Lorenzo Beretta
- Referral Center for Systemic Autoimmune Diseases, University of Milan & Fondazione IRCCS Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Mangiagalli e Regina Elena, Via Pace 9, Milan, Italy
| | - Samuel Garcia Perez
- Laboratory of Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands.,Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Aridaman Pandit
- Laboratory of Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands.,Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Femke Bonte-Mineur
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Maasstad Hospital, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Kris A Reedquist
- Laboratory of Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands.,Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Geert van den Bogaart
- Department of Tumor Immunology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands.,Department of Molecular Immunology, Groningen Biomolecular Sciences and Biotechnology Institute, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Timothy R D J Radstake
- Laboratory of Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands.,Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Wioleta Marut
- Laboratory of Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands.,Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
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5
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Lopes AP, Bekker CPJ, Hillen MR, Blokland SLM, Hinrichs AC, Pandit A, Kruize AA, Radstake TRDJ, van Roon JAG. The Transcriptomic Profile of Monocytes from Patients With Sjögren's Syndrome Is Associated With Inflammatory Parameters and Is Mimicked by Circulating Mediators. Front Immunol 2021; 12:701656. [PMID: 34413853 PMCID: PMC8368727 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.701656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS) is a systemic autoimmune disease characterized by infiltration of the exocrine glands and prominent B cell hyperactivity. Considering the key role of monocytes in promoting B cell hyperactivity, we performed RNA-sequencing analysis of CD14+ monocytes from patients with pSS, non-Sjögren's sicca (nSS), and healthy controls (HC). We demonstrated that the transcriptomic profile of pSS patients is enriched in intermediate and non-classical monocyte profiles, and confirmed the increased frequency of non-classical monocytes in pSS patients by flow-cytometry analysis. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis identified four molecular signatures in monocytes from pSS patients, functionally annotated for processes related with translation, IFN-signaling, and toll-like receptor signaling. Systemic and local inflammatory features significantly correlated with the expression of these signatures. Furthermore, genes highly associated with clinical features in pSS were identified as hub-genes for each signature. Unsupervised hierarchical cluster analysis of the hub-genes identified four clusters of nSS and pSS patients, each with distinct inflammatory and transcriptomic profiles. One cluster showed a significantly higher percentage of pSS patients with higher prevalence of anti-SSA autoantibodies, interferon-score, and erythrocyte sedimentation rate compared to the other clusters. Finally, we showed that the identified transcriptomic differences in pSS monocytes were induced in monocytes of healthy controls by exposure to serum of pSS patients. Representative hub-genes of all four signatures were partially inhibited by interferon-α/β receptor blockade, indicating that the circulating inflammatory mediators, including type I interferons have a significant contribution to the altered transcriptional profile of pSS-monocytes. Our study suggests that targeting key circulating inflammatory mediators, such as type I interferons, could offer new insights into the important pathways and mechanisms driving pSS, and holds promise for halting immunopathology in Sjögren's Syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana P Lopes
- Center for Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands.,Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Cornelis P J Bekker
- Center for Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands.,Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Maarten R Hillen
- Center for Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands.,Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Sofie L M Blokland
- Center for Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands.,Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Anneline C Hinrichs
- Center for Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands.,Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Aridaman Pandit
- Center for Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands.,Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Aike A Kruize
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Timothy R D J Radstake
- Center for Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands.,Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Joel A G van Roon
- Center for Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands.,Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
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6
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Silva-Cardoso SC, Tao W, Angiolilli C, Lopes AP, Bekker CPJ, Devaprasad A, Giovannone B, van Laar J, Cossu M, Marut W, Hack E, de Boer RJ, Boes M, Radstake TRDJ, Pandit A. CXCL4 Links Inflammation and Fibrosis by Reprogramming Monocyte-Derived Dendritic Cells in vitro. Front Immunol 2020; 11:2149. [PMID: 33042127 PMCID: PMC7527415 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.02149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2020] [Accepted: 08/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Fibrosis is a condition shared by numerous inflammatory diseases. Our incomplete understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying fibrosis has severely hampered effective drug development. CXCL4 is associated with the onset and extent of fibrosis development in multiple inflammatory and fibrotic diseases. Here, we used monocyte-derived cells as a model system to study the effects of CXCL4 exposure on dendritic cell development by integrating 65 longitudinal and paired whole genome transcriptional and methylation profiles. Using data-driven gene regulatory network analyses, we demonstrate that CXCL4 dramatically alters the trajectory of monocyte differentiation, inducing a novel pro-inflammatory and pro-fibrotic phenotype mediated via key transcriptional regulators including CIITA. Importantly, these pro-inflammatory cells directly trigger a fibrotic cascade by producing extracellular matrix molecules and inducing myofibroblast differentiation. Inhibition of CIITA mimicked CXCL4 in inducing a pro-inflammatory and pro-fibrotic phenotype, validating the relevance of the gene regulatory network. Our study unveils that CXCL4 acts as a key secreted factor driving innate immune training and forming the long-sought link between inflammation and fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra C Silva-Cardoso
- Center for Translational Immunology, Department of Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands.,Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Weiyang Tao
- Center for Translational Immunology, Department of Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands.,Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Chiara Angiolilli
- Center for Translational Immunology, Department of Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands.,Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Ana P Lopes
- Center for Translational Immunology, Department of Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands.,Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Cornelis P J Bekker
- Center for Translational Immunology, Department of Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands.,Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Abhinandan Devaprasad
- Center for Translational Immunology, Department of Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands.,Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Barbara Giovannone
- Department of Dermatology and Allergology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Jaap van Laar
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Marta Cossu
- Center for Translational Immunology, Department of Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands.,Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Wioleta Marut
- Center for Translational Immunology, Department of Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands.,Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Erik Hack
- Center for Translational Immunology, Department of Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Rob J de Boer
- Theoretical Biology, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Marianne Boes
- Center for Translational Immunology, Department of Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands.,Department of Pediatrics, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Timothy R D J Radstake
- Center for Translational Immunology, Department of Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands.,Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Aridaman Pandit
- Center for Translational Immunology, Department of Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands.,Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
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7
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Laban KG, Kalmann R, Bekker CPJ, Hiddingh S, van der Veen RLP, Eenhorst CAE, Genders SW, Mourits MP, Verhagen FH, Leijten EFA, Haitjema S, de Groot MCH, Radstake TRDJ, de Boer JH, Kuiper JJW. A pan-inflammatory microRNA-cluster is associated with orbital non-Hodgkin lymphoma and idiopathic orbital inflammation. Eur J Immunol 2020; 50:86-96. [PMID: 31713839 PMCID: PMC6973116 DOI: 10.1002/eji.201948343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2019] [Revised: 09/20/2019] [Accepted: 11/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Non-Hodgkin orbital lymphoma (NHOL) and idiopathic orbital inflammation (IOI) are common orbital conditions with largely unknown pathophysiology that can be difficult to diagnose. In this study we aim to identify serum miRNAs associated with NHOL and IOI. We performed OpenArray® miRNA profiling in 33 patients and controls. Differentially expressed miRNAs were technically validated across technology platforms and replicated in an additional cohort of 32 patients and controls. We identified and independently validated a serum miRNA profile of NHOL that was remarkably similar to IOI and characterized by an increased expression of a cluster of eight miRNAs. Pathway enrichment analysis indicated that the miRNA-cluster is associated with immune-mediated pathways, which we supported by demonstrating the elevated expression of this cluster in serum of patients with other inflammatory conditions. The cluster contained miR-148a, a key driver of B-cell tolerance, and miR-365 that correlated with serum IgG and IgM concentrations. In addition, miR-29a and miR-223 were associated with blood lymphocyte and neutrophil populations, respectively. NHOL and IOI are characterized by an abnormal serum miRNA-cluster associated with immune pathway activation and linked to B cell and neutrophil dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kamil G. Laban
- Ophthalmo‐Immunology UnitUniversity Medical Center UtrechtUniversity UtrechtUtrechtThe Netherlands
- Department of OphthalmologyUniversity Medical Center UtrechtUniversity UtrechtUtrechtThe Netherlands
- Laboratory of Translational ImmunologyUniversity Medical Center UtrechtUniversity UtrechtUtrechtThe Netherlands
| | - Rachel Kalmann
- Ophthalmo‐Immunology UnitUniversity Medical Center UtrechtUniversity UtrechtUtrechtThe Netherlands
- Department of OphthalmologyUniversity Medical Center UtrechtUniversity UtrechtUtrechtThe Netherlands
| | - Cornelis P. J. Bekker
- Laboratory of Translational ImmunologyUniversity Medical Center UtrechtUniversity UtrechtUtrechtThe Netherlands
- Department of Rheumatology & Clinical ImmunologyUniversity Medical Center UtrechtUniversity UtrechtUtrechtThe Netherlands
| | - Sanne Hiddingh
- Ophthalmo‐Immunology UnitUniversity Medical Center UtrechtUniversity UtrechtUtrechtThe Netherlands
- Department of OphthalmologyUniversity Medical Center UtrechtUniversity UtrechtUtrechtThe Netherlands
- Laboratory of Translational ImmunologyUniversity Medical Center UtrechtUniversity UtrechtUtrechtThe Netherlands
| | - Rob L. P. van der Veen
- Department of OphthalmologyUniversity Medical Center UtrechtUniversity UtrechtUtrechtThe Netherlands
| | - Christine A. E. Eenhorst
- Department of OphthalmologyUniversity Medical Center UtrechtUniversity UtrechtUtrechtThe Netherlands
| | - Stijn W. Genders
- Department of OphthalmologyLeiden University Medical CenterLeidenThe Netherlands
| | - Maarten P. Mourits
- Department of OphthalmologyAcademic Medical CenterAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Fleurieke H. Verhagen
- Ophthalmo‐Immunology UnitUniversity Medical Center UtrechtUniversity UtrechtUtrechtThe Netherlands
- Department of OphthalmologyUniversity Medical Center UtrechtUniversity UtrechtUtrechtThe Netherlands
- Laboratory of Translational ImmunologyUniversity Medical Center UtrechtUniversity UtrechtUtrechtThe Netherlands
| | - Emmerik F. A. Leijten
- Laboratory of Translational ImmunologyUniversity Medical Center UtrechtUniversity UtrechtUtrechtThe Netherlands
- Department of Rheumatology & Clinical ImmunologyUniversity Medical Center UtrechtUniversity UtrechtUtrechtThe Netherlands
| | - Saskia Haitjema
- Laboratory of Clinical Chemistry and HaematologyUniversity Medical Center UtrechtUtrecht UniversityUtrechtNetherlands
| | - Mark C. H. de Groot
- Laboratory of Clinical Chemistry and HaematologyUniversity Medical Center UtrechtUtrecht UniversityUtrechtNetherlands
| | - Timothy R. D. J. Radstake
- Ophthalmo‐Immunology UnitUniversity Medical Center UtrechtUniversity UtrechtUtrechtThe Netherlands
- Laboratory of Translational ImmunologyUniversity Medical Center UtrechtUniversity UtrechtUtrechtThe Netherlands
- Department of Rheumatology & Clinical ImmunologyUniversity Medical Center UtrechtUniversity UtrechtUtrechtThe Netherlands
| | - Joke H. de Boer
- Ophthalmo‐Immunology UnitUniversity Medical Center UtrechtUniversity UtrechtUtrechtThe Netherlands
- Department of OphthalmologyUniversity Medical Center UtrechtUniversity UtrechtUtrechtThe Netherlands
| | - Jonas J. W. Kuiper
- Ophthalmo‐Immunology UnitUniversity Medical Center UtrechtUniversity UtrechtUtrechtThe Netherlands
- Department of OphthalmologyUniversity Medical Center UtrechtUniversity UtrechtUtrechtThe Netherlands
- Laboratory of Translational ImmunologyUniversity Medical Center UtrechtUniversity UtrechtUtrechtThe Netherlands
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8
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van der Kroef M, van den Hoogen LL, Mertens JS, Blokland SLM, Haskett S, Devaprasad A, Carvalheiro T, Chouri E, Vazirpanah N, Cossu M, Wichers CGK, Silva-Cardoso SC, Affandi AJ, Bekker CPJ, Lopes AP, Hillen MR, Bonte-Mineur F, Kok MR, Beretta L, Rossato M, Mingueneau M, van Roon JAG, Radstake TRDJ. Cytometry by time of flight identifies distinct signatures in patients with systemic sclerosis, systemic lupus erythematosus and Sjögrens syndrome. Eur J Immunol 2019; 50:119-129. [PMID: 31424086 DOI: 10.1002/eji.201948129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2019] [Revised: 07/06/2019] [Accepted: 08/16/2019] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and primary Sjögrens syndrome (pSS) are clinically distinct systemic autoimmune diseases (SADs) that share molecular pathways. We quantified the frequency of circulating immune-cells in 169 patients with these SADs and 44 healty controls (HC) using mass-cytometry and assessed the diagnostic value of these results. Alterations in the frequency of immune-cell subsets were present in all SADs compared to HC. Most alterations, including a decrease of CD56hi NK-cells in SSc and IgM+ Bcells in pSS, were disease specific; only a reduced frequency of plasmacytoid dendritic cells was common between all SADs Strikingly, hierarchical clustering of SSc patients identified 4 clusters associated with different clinical phenotypes, and 9 of the 12 cell subset-alterations in SSc were also present during the preclinical-phase of the disease. Additionally, we found a strong association between the use of prednisone and alterations in B-cell subsets. Although differences in immune-cell frequencies between these SADs are apparent, the discriminative value thereof is too low for diagnostic purposes. Within each disease, mass cytometry analyses revealed distinct patterns between endophenotypes. Given the lack of tools enabling early diagnosis of SSc, our results justify further research into the value of cellular phenotyping as a diagnostic aid.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maarten van der Kroef
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Laboratory of Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Lucas L van den Hoogen
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Laboratory of Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Jorre S Mertens
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Laboratory of Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Department of Dermatology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Sofie L M Blokland
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Laboratory of Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | - Abhinandan Devaprasad
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Laboratory of Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Tiago Carvalheiro
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Laboratory of Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Eleni Chouri
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Laboratory of Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Nadia Vazirpanah
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Laboratory of Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Marta Cossu
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Laboratory of Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Catherina G K Wichers
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Laboratory of Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Sandra C Silva-Cardoso
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Laboratory of Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Alsya J Affandi
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Laboratory of Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Cornelis P J Bekker
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Laboratory of Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Ana P Lopes
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Laboratory of Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Maarten R Hillen
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Laboratory of Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Femke Bonte-Mineur
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Maasstad Hospital, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Marc R Kok
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Maasstad Hospital, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Lorenzo Beretta
- Scleroderma Unit, Referral Center for Systemic Autoimmune Diseases, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Marzia Rossato
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Laboratory of Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Department of Biotechnology, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | | | - Joel A G van Roon
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Laboratory of Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Timothy R D J Radstake
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Laboratory of Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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9
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Hillen MR, Pandit A, Blokland SLM, Hartgring SAY, Bekker CPJ, van der Heijden EHM, Servaas NH, Rossato M, Kruize AA, van Roon JAG, Radstake TRDJ. Plasmacytoid DCs From Patients With Sjögren's Syndrome Are Transcriptionally Primed for Enhanced Pro-inflammatory Cytokine Production. Front Immunol 2019; 10:2096. [PMID: 31552042 PMCID: PMC6736989 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.02096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2019] [Accepted: 08/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS) is a systemic auto-immune disease typified by dryness of the mouth and eyes. A majority of patients with pSS have a type-I interferon (IFN)-signature, which is defined as the increased expression of IFN-induced genes in circulating immune cells and is associated with increased disease activity. As plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDC) are the premier type-I IFN-producing cells and are present at the site of inflammation, they are thought to play a significant role in pSS pathogenesis. Considering the lack of data on pDC regulation and function in pSS patients, we here provided the first in-depth molecular characterization of pSS pDCs. In addition, a group of patients with non-Sjögren's sicca (nSS) was included; these poorly studied patients suffer from complaints similar to pSS patients, but are not diagnosed with Sjögren's syndrome. We isolated circulating pDCs from two independent cohorts of patients and controls (each n = 31) and performed RNA-sequencing, after which data-driven networks and modular analysis were used to identify robustly reproducible transcriptional “signatures” of differential and co-expressed genes. Four signatures were identified, including an IFN-induced gene signature and a ribosomal protein gene-signature, that indicated pDC activation. Comparison with a dataset of in vitro activated pDCs showed that pSS pDCs have higher expression of many genes also upregulated upon pDC activation. Corroborating this transcriptional profile, pSS pDCs produced higher levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, including type-I IFN, upon in vitro stimulation with endosomal Toll-like receptor ligands. In this setting, cytokine production was associated with expression of hub-genes from the IFN-induced and ribosomal protein gene-signatures, indicating that the transcriptional profile of pSS pDCs underlies their enhanced cytokine production. In all transcriptional analyses, nSS patients formed an intermediate group in which some patients were molecularly similar to pSS patients. Furthermore, we used the identified transcriptional signatures to develop a discriminative classifier for molecular stratification of patients with sicca. Altogether, our data provide in-depth characterization of the aberrant regulation of pDCs from patients with nSS and pSS and substantiate their perceived role in the immunopathology of pSS, supporting studies that target pDCs, type-I IFNs, or IFN-signaling in pSS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maarten R Hillen
- Laboratory of Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands.,Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Aridaman Pandit
- Laboratory of Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands.,Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Sofie L M Blokland
- Laboratory of Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands.,Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Sarita A Y Hartgring
- Laboratory of Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands.,Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Cornelis P J Bekker
- Laboratory of Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands.,Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Eefje H M van der Heijden
- Laboratory of Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands.,Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Nila H Servaas
- Laboratory of Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands.,Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Marzia Rossato
- Laboratory of Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands.,Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands.,Department of Biotechnology, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Aike A Kruize
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Joel A G van Roon
- Laboratory of Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands.,Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Timothy R D J Radstake
- Laboratory of Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands.,Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
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10
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van der Kroef M, Castellucci M, Mokry M, Cossu M, Garonzi M, Bossini-Castillo LM, Chouri E, Wichers CGK, Beretta L, Trombetta E, Silva-Cardoso S, Vazirpanah N, Carvalheiro T, Angiolilli C, Bekker CPJ, Affandi AJ, Reedquist KA, Bonte-Mineur F, Zirkzee EJM, Bazzoni F, Radstake TRDJ, Rossato M. Histone modifications underlie monocyte dysregulation in patients with systemic sclerosis, underlining the treatment potential of epigenetic targeting. Ann Rheum Dis 2019; 78:529-538. [PMID: 30793699 DOI: 10.1136/annrheumdis-2018-214295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2018] [Revised: 12/24/2018] [Accepted: 01/02/2019] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a severe autoimmune disease, in which the pathogenesis is dependent on both genetic and epigenetic factors. Altered gene expression in SSc monocytes, particularly of interferon (IFN)-responsive genes, suggests their involvement in SSc development. We investigated the correlation between epigenetic histone marks and gene expression in SSc monocytes. METHODS Chromatin immunoprecipitation followed by sequencing (ChIPseq) for histone marks H3K4me3 and H3K27ac was performed on monocytes of nine healthy controls and 14 patients with SSc. RNA sequencing was performed in parallel to identify aberrantly expressed genes and their correlation with the levels of H3K4me3 and H3K27ac located nearby their transcription start sites. ChIP-qPCR assays were used to verify the role of bromodomain proteins, H3K27ac and STATs on IFN-responsive gene expression. RESULTS 1046 and 534 genomic loci showed aberrant H3K4me3 and H3K27ac marks, respectively, in SSc monocytes. The expression of 381 genes was directly and significantly proportional to the levels of such chromatin marks present near their transcription start site. Genes correlated to altered histone marks were enriched for immune, IFN and antiviral pathways and presented with recurrent binding sites for IRF and STAT transcription factors at their promoters. IFNα induced the binding of STAT1 and STAT2 at the promoter of two of these genes, while blocking acetylation readers using the bromodomain BET family inhibitor JQ1 suppressed their expression. CONCLUSION SSc monocytes have altered chromatin marks correlating with their IFN signature. Enzymes modulating these reversible marks may provide interesting therapeutic targets to restore monocyte homeostasis to treat or even prevent SSc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maarten van der Kroef
- Laboratory of Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Monica Castellucci
- Division of General Pathology, Department of Medicine, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Michal Mokry
- Laboratory of Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Pediatric Gastroenterology, Wilhelmina Children's Hospital, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Marta Cossu
- Laboratory of Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Marianna Garonzi
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Lara M Bossini-Castillo
- Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (IPBLN-CSIC), Instituto de Parasitología y Biomedicina López-Neyra, PTS Granada, Granada, Spain.,Department of cellular genetics, Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Cambridge, UK
| | - Eleni Chouri
- Laboratory of Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Catharina G K Wichers
- Laboratory of Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Lorenzo Beretta
- Referral Center for Systemic Autoimmune Diseases, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Elena Trombetta
- Flow Cytometry Service, Analysis Laboratory, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Sandra Silva-Cardoso
- Laboratory of Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Nadia Vazirpanah
- Laboratory of Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Tiago Carvalheiro
- Laboratory of Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Chiara Angiolilli
- Laboratory of Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Cornelis P J Bekker
- Laboratory of Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Alsya J Affandi
- Laboratory of Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Kris A Reedquist
- Laboratory of Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Femke Bonte-Mineur
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Maasstad Hospital, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Els J M Zirkzee
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Maasstad Hospital, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Flavia Bazzoni
- Division of General Pathology, Department of Medicine, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Timothy R D J Radstake
- Laboratory of Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands .,Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Marzia Rossato
- Laboratory of Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Department of Biotechnology, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
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11
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Verhagen FH, Bekker CPJ, Rossato M, Hiddingh S, de Vries L, Devaprasad A, Pandit A, Ossewaarde-van Norel J, Ten Dam N, Moret-Pot MCA, Imhof SM, de Boer JH, Radstake TRDJ, Kuiper JJW. A Disease-Associated MicroRNA Cluster Links Inflammatory Pathways and an Altered Composition of Leukocyte Subsets to Noninfectious Uveitis. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2018; 59:878-888. [PMID: 29435587 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.17-23643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose The cause of noninfectious uveitis (NIU) is poorly understood but is considered to be mediated by a complex interplay between genetic, environmental, and-relatively unexplored-epigenetic factors. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are noncoding small RNAs that are important epigenetic regulators implicated in pathologic signaling. Therefore, we mapped the circulating miRNA-ome of NIU patients and studied miRNA perturbations within the broader context of the immune system. Methods We designed a strategy to robustly identify changes in the miRNA profiles of two independent cohorts totaling 54 untreated patients with active and eye-restricted disease and 26 age-matched controls. High-resolution miRNA-ome data were obtained by TaqMan OpenArray technology and subsequent RT-qPCR. Flow cytometry data, and proteomic data spanning the cellular immune system, were used to map the uveitis-miRNA signature to changes in the composition of specific leukocyte subsets in blood. Results Using stringent selection criteria, we identified and independently validated an miRNA cluster that is associated with NIU. Pathway enrichment analysis for genes targeted by this cluster revealed significant enrichment for the PI3K/Akt, MAPK, FOXO, and VEGF signaling pathways, and photoreceptor development. In addition, unsupervised multidomain analyses linked the presence of the uveitis-associated miRNA cluster to a different composition of leukocyte subsets, more specifically, CD16+CD11c+HLA-DR- cells. Conclusions Together, this study identified a unique miRNA cluster associated with NIU that was related to changes in leukocyte subsets demonstrating systemic changes in epigenetic regulation underlying NIU.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fleurieke H Verhagen
- Ophthalmo-Immunology Unit, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Department of Ophthalmology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Laboratory of Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Cornelis P J Bekker
- Laboratory of Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Marzia Rossato
- Laboratory of Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Sanne Hiddingh
- Ophthalmo-Immunology Unit, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Laboratory of Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Lieuwe de Vries
- Department of Ophthalmology, Radboud University Medical Center Nijmegen, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Abhinandan Devaprasad
- Laboratory of Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Aridaman Pandit
- Laboratory of Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | - Ninette Ten Dam
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Maartje C A Moret-Pot
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Saskia M Imhof
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Joke H de Boer
- Ophthalmo-Immunology Unit, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Department of Ophthalmology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Timothy R D J Radstake
- Ophthalmo-Immunology Unit, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Laboratory of Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Department of Rheumatology & Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Jonas J W Kuiper
- Ophthalmo-Immunology Unit, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Department of Ophthalmology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Laboratory of Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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12
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van den Hoogen LL, Palla G, Bekker CPJ, Fritsch-Stork RDE, Radstake TRDJ, van Roon JAG. Increased B-cell activating factor (BAFF)/B-lymphocyte stimulator (BLyS) in primary antiphospholipid syndrome is associated with higher adjusted global antiphospholipid syndrome scores. RMD Open 2018; 4:e000693. [PMID: 30018806 PMCID: PMC6045704 DOI: 10.1136/rmdopen-2018-000693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2018] [Revised: 06/02/2018] [Accepted: 06/25/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Lucas L van den Hoogen
- Laboratory of Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Giovanni Palla
- Laboratory of Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Cornelis P J Bekker
- Laboratory of Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Ruth D E Fritsch-Stork
- 1st Medical Department and Ludwig Boltzmann Institute of Osteology at the Hanusch Hospital of WGKK, AUVA Trauma Centre Meidling, Hanusch Hospital, Sigmund Freud University, Vienna, Austria
| | - Timothy R D J Radstake
- Laboratory of Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Joel A G van Roon
- Laboratory of Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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13
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van den Hoogen LL, Rossato M, Lopes AP, Pandit A, Bekker CPJ, Fritsch-Stork RDE, van Roon JAG, Radstake TRDJ. microRNA downregulation in plasmacytoid dendritic cells in interferon-positive systemic lupus erythematosus and antiphospholipid syndrome. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2018; 57:1669-1674. [DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/key159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Lucas L van den Hoogen
- Laboratory of Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Marzia Rossato
- Laboratory of Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Ana P Lopes
- Laboratory of Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Aridaman Pandit
- Laboratory of Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Cornelis P J Bekker
- Laboratory of Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Ruth D E Fritsch-Stork
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Joel A G van Roon
- Laboratory of Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Timothy R D J Radstake
- Laboratory of Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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14
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Rossato M, Affandi AJ, Thordardottir S, Wichers CGK, Cossu M, Broen JCA, Moret FM, Bossini-Castillo L, Chouri E, van Bon L, Wolters F, Marut W, van der Kroef M, Silva-Cardoso S, Bekker CPJ, Dolstra H, van Laar JM, Martin J, van Roon JAG, Reedquist KA, Beretta L, Radstake TRDJ. Association of MicroRNA-618 Expression With Altered Frequency and Activation of Plasmacytoid Dendritic Cells in Patients With Systemic Sclerosis. Arthritis Rheumatol 2017; 69:1891-1902. [PMID: 28556560 DOI: 10.1002/art.40163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2016] [Accepted: 05/23/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Plasmacytoid dendritic cells (PDCs) are a critical source of type I interferons (IFNs) that can contribute to the onset and maintenance of autoimmunity. Molecular mechanisms leading to PDC dysregulation and a persistent type I IFN signature are largely unexplored, especially in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc), a disease in which PDCs infiltrate fibrotic skin lesions and produce higher levels of IFNα than those in healthy controls. This study was undertaken to investigate potential microRNA (miRNA)-mediated epigenetic mechanisms underlying PDC dysregulation and type I IFN production in SSc. METHODS We performed miRNA expression profiling and validation in highly purified PDCs obtained from the peripheral blood of 3 independent cohorts of healthy controls and SSc patients. Possible functions of miRNA-618 (miR-618) on PDC biology were identified by overexpression in healthy PDCs. RESULTS Expression of miR-618 was up-regulated in PDCs from SSc patients, including those with early disease who did not present with skin fibrosis. IFN regulatory factor 8, a crucial transcription factor for PDC development and activation, was identified as a target of miR-618. Overexpression of miR-618 reduced the development of PDCs from CD34+ cells in vitro and enhanced their ability to secrete IFNα, mimicking the PDC phenotype observed in SSc patients. CONCLUSION Up-regulation of miR-618 suppresses the development of PDCs and increases their ability to secrete IFNα, potentially contributing to the type I IFN signature observed in SSc patients. Considering the importance of PDCs in the pathogenesis of SSc and other diseases characterized by a type I IFN signature, miR-618 potentially represents an important epigenetic target to regulate immune system homeostasis in these conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marzia Rossato
- University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | | | | | - Marta Cossu
- University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | | | - Lara Bossini-Castillo
- Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, Granada, Spain, and Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Cambridge, UK
| | - Eleni Chouri
- University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Lenny van Bon
- University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Femke Wolters
- University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Wioleta Marut
- University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | | | | | - Harry Dolstra
- Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | | | - Javier Martin
- Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, Granada, Spain
| | | | | | - Lorenzo Beretta
- Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico di Milano, Milan, Italy
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15
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van Loosdregt J, Fleskens V, Fu J, Brenkman AB, Bekker CPJ, Pals CEGM, Meerding J, Berkers CR, Barbi J, Gröne A, Sijts AJAM, Maurice MM, Kalkhoven E, Prakken BJ, Ovaa H, Pan F, Zaiss DMW, Coffer PJ. Stabilization of the transcription factor Foxp3 by the deubiquitinase USP7 increases Treg-cell-suppressive capacity. Immunity 2013; 39:259-71. [PMID: 23973222 DOI: 10.1016/j.immuni.2013.05.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 232] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2012] [Accepted: 05/06/2013] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Stable Foxp3 expression is required for the development of functional regulatory T (Treg) cells. Here, we demonstrate that the expression of the transcription factor Foxp3 can be regulated through the polyubiquitination of multiple lysine residues, resulting in proteasome-mediated degradation. Expression of the deubiquitinase (DUB) USP7 was found to be upregulated and active in Treg cells, being associated with Foxp3 in the nucleus. Ectopic expression of USP7 decreased Foxp3 polyubiquitination and increased Foxp3 expression. Conversely, either treatment with DUB inhibitor or USP7 knockdown decreased endogenous Foxp3 protein expression and decreased Treg-cell-mediated suppression in vitro. Furthermore, in a murine adoptive-transfer-induced colitis model, either inhibition of DUB activity or USP7 knockdown in Treg cells abrogated their ability to resolve inflammation in vivo. Our data reveal a molecular mechanism in which rapid temporal control of Foxp3 expression in Treg cells can be regulated by USP7, thereby modulating Treg cell numbers and function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorg van Loosdregt
- Department of Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht 3584EA, The Netherlands
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16
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Zaiss DMW, van Loosdregt J, Gorlani A, Bekker CPJ, Gröne A, Sibilia M, van Bergen en Henegouwen PMP, Roovers RC, Coffer PJ, Sijts AJAM. Amphiregulin enhances regulatory T cell-suppressive function via the epidermal growth factor receptor. Immunity 2013. [PMID: 23333074 DOI: 10.1016/j.immuni.2012.09.023.] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/30/2022]
Abstract
Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is known to be critically involved in tissue development and homeostasis as well as in the pathogenesis of cancer. Here we showed that Foxp3(+) regulatory T (Treg) cells express EGFR under inflammatory conditions. Stimulation with the EGF-like growth factor Amphiregulin (AREG) markedly enhanced Treg cell function in vitro, and in a colitis and tumor vaccination model we showed that AREG was critical for efficient Treg cell function in vivo. In addition, mast cell-derived AREG fully restored optimal Treg cell function. These findings reveal EGFR as a component in the regulation of local immune responses and establish a link between mast cells and Treg cells. Targeting of this immune regulatory mechanism may contribute to the therapeutic successes of EGFR-targeting treatments in cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dietmar M W Zaiss
- Department of Infectious Diseases & Immunology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Utrecht, 3584 CL Utrecht, The Netherlands.
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17
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Zaiss DMW, van Loosdregt J, Gorlani A, Bekker CPJ, Gröne A, Sibilia M, van Bergen en Henegouwen PMP, Roovers RC, Coffer PJ, Sijts AJAM. Amphiregulin enhances regulatory T cell-suppressive function via the epidermal growth factor receptor. Immunity 2013; 38:275-84. [PMID: 23333074 DOI: 10.1016/j.immuni.2012.09.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 267] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2012] [Accepted: 09/27/2012] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is known to be critically involved in tissue development and homeostasis as well as in the pathogenesis of cancer. Here we showed that Foxp3(+) regulatory T (Treg) cells express EGFR under inflammatory conditions. Stimulation with the EGF-like growth factor Amphiregulin (AREG) markedly enhanced Treg cell function in vitro, and in a colitis and tumor vaccination model we showed that AREG was critical for efficient Treg cell function in vivo. In addition, mast cell-derived AREG fully restored optimal Treg cell function. These findings reveal EGFR as a component in the regulation of local immune responses and establish a link between mast cells and Treg cells. Targeting of this immune regulatory mechanism may contribute to the therapeutic successes of EGFR-targeting treatments in cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dietmar M W Zaiss
- Department of Infectious Diseases & Immunology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Utrecht, 3584 CL Utrecht, The Netherlands.
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18
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van Helden MJG, van Kooten PJS, Bekker CPJ, Gröne A, Topham DJ, Easton AJ, Boog CJP, Busch DH, Zaiss DMW, Sijts AJAM. Pre-existing virus-specific CD8(+) T-cells provide protection against pneumovirus-induced disease in mice. Vaccine 2012; 30:6382-8. [PMID: 22940382 PMCID: PMC3465553 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2012.08.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2012] [Revised: 07/25/2012] [Accepted: 08/15/2012] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Pneumoviruses such as pneumonia virus of mice (PVM), bovine respiratory syncytial virus (bRSV) or human (h)RSV are closely related pneumoviruses that cause severe respiratory disease in their respective hosts. It is well-known that T-cell responses are essential in pneumovirus clearance, but pneumovirus-specific T-cell responses also are important mediators of severe immunopathology. In this study we determined whether memory- or pre-existing, transferred virus-specific CD8+ T-cells provide protection against PVM-induced disease. We show that during infection with a sublethal dose of PVM, both natural killer (NK) cells and CD8+ T-cells expand relatively late. Induction of CD8+ T-cell memory against a single CD8+ T-cell epitope, by dendritic cell (DC)-peptide immunization, leads to partial protection against PVM challenge and prevents Th2 differentiation of PVM-induced CD4 T-cells. In addition, adoptively transferred PVM-specific CD8+ T-cells, covering the entire PVM-specific CD8+ T-cell repertoire, provide partial protection from PVM-induced disease. From these data we infer that antigen-specific memory CD8+ T-cells offer significant protection to PVM-induced disease. Thus, CD8+ T-cells, despite being a major cause of PVM-associated pathology during primary infection, may offer promising targets of a protective pneumovirus vaccine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary J G van Helden
- Division of Immunology, University of Utrecht, Yalelaan 1, 3584 CL Utrecht, The Netherlands
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19
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van Helden MJG, de Graaf N, Bekker CPJ, Boog CJP, Zaiss DMW, Sijts AJAM. Immunoproteasome-deficiency has no effects on NK cell education, but confers lymphocytes into targets for NK cells in infected wild-type mice. PLoS One 2011; 6:e23769. [PMID: 21887316 PMCID: PMC3161060 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0023769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2011] [Accepted: 07/25/2011] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells are part of the innate immune system and contribute to the eradication of virus infected cells and tumors. NK cells express inhibitory and activating receptors and their decision to kill a target cell is based on the balance of signals received through these receptors. MHC class I molecules are recognized by inhibitory receptors, and their presence during NK cell education influences the responsiveness of peripheral NK cells. We here demonstrate that mice with reduced MHC class I cell surface expression, due to deficiency of immunoproteasomes, have responsive NK cells in the periphery, indicating that the lower MHC class I levels do not alter NK cell education. Following adoptive transfer into wild-type (wt) recipients, immunoproteasome-deficient splenocytes are tolerated in naive but rejected in virus-infected recipients, in an NK cell dependent fashion. These results indicate that the relatively low MHC class I levels are sufficient to protect these cells from rejection by wt NK cells, but that this tolerance is broken in infection, inducing an NK cell-dependent rejection of immunoproteasome-deficient cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary J. G. van Helden
- Division of Immunology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Natascha de Graaf
- Division of Immunology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Cornelis P. J. Bekker
- Division of Immunology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Claire J. P. Boog
- Department of Vaccinology, Centre for Infectious Disease Control, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Bilthoven, The Netherlands
| | - Dietmar M. W. Zaiss
- Division of Immunology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- * E-mail: (AS); (DZ)
| | - Alice J. A. M. Sijts
- Division of Immunology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- * E-mail: (AS); (DZ)
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20
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Zaiss DMW, Bekker CPJ, Gröne A, Lie BA, Sijts AJAM. Proteasome immunosubunits protect against the development of CD8 T cell-mediated autoimmune diseases. J Immunol 2011; 187:2302-9. [PMID: 21804012 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.1101003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Exposure of cells to inflammatory cytokines induces the expression of three proteasome immunosubunits, two of which are encoded in the MHC class II region. The induced subunits replace their constitutive homologs in newly formed "so-called" immunoproteasomes. Immunosubunit incorporation enhances the proteasome's proteolytic activity and modifies the proteasome's cleavage-site preferences, which improves the generation of many MHC class I-presented peptides and shapes the fine specificity of pathogen-specific CD8 T cell responses. In this article, we report on a second effect of immunoproteasome formation on CD8 T cell responses. We show that mice deficient for the immunosubunits β5i/low molecular mass polypeptide (LMP7) and β2i/multicatalytic endopeptidase complex-like-1 develop early-stage multiorgan autoimmunity following irradiation and bone marrow transplantation. Disease symptoms are caused by CD8 T cells and are transferable into immunosubunit-deficient, RAG1-deficient mice. Moreover, using the human Type 1 Diabetes Genetics Consortium MHC dataset, we identified two single nucleotide polymorphisms within the β5i/LMP7-encoding gene sequences, which were in strong linkage disequilibrium, as independent genetic risk factors for type 1 diabetes development in humans. Strikingly, these single nucleotide polymorphisms significantly enhanced the risk conferred by HLA haplotypes that were previously shown to predispose for type 1 diabetes. These data suggested that inflammation-induced immunosubunit expression in peripheral tissues constitutes a mechanism that prevents the development of CD8 T cell-mediated autoimmune diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dietmar M W Zaiss
- Division of Immunology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Utrecht, 3584CL Utrecht, The Netherlands
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21
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Vogel L, Van der Lubben M, te Lintelo EG, Bekker CPJ, Geerts T, Schuijff LS, Grinwis GCM, Egberink HF, Rottier PJM. Pathogenic characteristics of persistent feline enteric coronavirus infection in cats. Vet Res 2010; 41:71. [PMID: 20663472 PMCID: PMC2939696 DOI: 10.1051/vetres/2010043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2010] [Accepted: 07/20/2010] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Feline coronaviruses (FCoV) comprise two biotypes: feline enteric coronaviruses (FECV) and feline infectious peritonitis viruses (FIPV). FECV is associated with asymptomatic persistent enteric infections, while FIPV causes feline infectious peritonitis (FIP), a usually fatal systemic disease in domestic cats and some wild Felidae. FIPV arises from FECV by mutation. FCoV also occur in two serotypes, I and II, of which the serotype I viruses are by far the most prevalent in the field. Yet, most of our knowledge about FCoV infections relates to serotype II viruses, particularly about the FIPV, mainly because type I viruses grow poorly in cell culture. Hence, the aim of the present work was the detailed study of the epidemiologically most relevant viruses, the avirulent serotype I viruses. Kittens were inoculated oronasally with different doses of two independent FECV field strains, UCD and RM. Persistent infection could be reproducibly established. The patterns of clinical symptoms, faecal virus shedding and seroconversion were monitored for up to 10 weeks revealing subtle but reproducible differences between the two viruses. Faecal virus, i.e. genomic RNA, was detected during persistent FECV infection only in the large intestine, downstream of the appendix, and could occasionally be observed also in the blood. The implications of our results, particularly our insights into the persistently infected state, are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liesbeth Vogel
- Virology Division, Department of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 1, 3584 CL Utrecht, The Netherlands
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Bekker CPJ, Postigo M, Taoufik A, Bell-Sakyi L, Ferraz C, Martinez D, Jongejan F. Transcription analysis of the major antigenic protein 1 multigene family of three in vitro-cultured Ehrlichia ruminantium isolates. J Bacteriol 2005; 187:4782-91. [PMID: 15995193 PMCID: PMC1169525 DOI: 10.1128/jb.187.14.4782-4791.2005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Ehrlichia ruminantium, an obligate intracellular bacterium transmitted by ticks of the genus Amblyomma, causes heartwater disease in ruminants. The gene coding for the major antigenic protein MAP1 is part of a multigene family consisting of a cluster containing 16 paralogs. In the search for differentially regulated genes between E. ruminantium grown in endothelial and tick cell lines that could be used in vaccine development and to determine if differences in the map1 gene cluster exist between different isolates of E. ruminantium, we analyzed the map1 gene cluster of the Senegal and Gardel isolates of E. ruminantium. Both isolates contained the same number of genes, and the same organization as found in the genome sequence of the Welgevonden isolate (H. Van Heerden, N. E. Collins, K. A. Brayton, C. Rademeyer, and B. A. Allsopp, Gene 330:159-168, 2004). However, comparison of two subpopulations of the Gardel isolate maintained in different laboratories demonstrated that recombination between map1-3 and map1-2 had occurred in one subpopulation with deletion of one entire gene. Reverse transcription-PCR on E. ruminantium derived mRNA from infected cells using gene-specific primers revealed that all 16 map1 paralogs were transcribed in endothelial cells. In one vector (Amblyomma variegatum) and several nonvector tick cell lines infected with E. ruminantium, transcripts were found for between 4 and 11 paralogs. In all these cases the transcript for the map1-1 gene was detected and was predominant. Our results indicate that the map1 gene cluster is relatively conserved but can be subject to recombination, and differences in the transcription of map1 multigenes in host and vector cell environments exist.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cornelis P J Bekker
- Division of Parasitology and Tropical Veterinary Medicine, Department of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, The Netherlands.
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Matjila PT, Penzhorn BL, Bekker CPJ, Nijhof AM, Jongejan F. Confirmation of occurrence of Babesia canis vogeli in domestic dogs in South Africa. Vet Parasitol 2004; 122:119-25. [PMID: 15177716 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2004.03.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 110] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2003] [Revised: 03/02/2004] [Accepted: 03/15/2004] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The prevalence of Babesia infections in domestic dogs in South Africa was studied using reverse line blot hybridization and 18S sequence analysis. Babesia canis vogeli was confirmed for the first time in domestic dogs in South Africa. Out of a total of 297 blood samples collected from domestic dogs in Bloemfontein, East London, Johannesburg, Durban and from the Onderstepoort Veterinary Academic Hospital, 31 were positive for Babesia canis rossi, whereas B. c. vogeli was detected in 13 dogs. None of the dogs carried both parasites. The detection of B. c. vogeli has implications with regard to prevalence and varied clinical manifestation of canine babesiosis in South Africa.
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Affiliation(s)
- P T Matjila
- Department of Veterinary Tropical Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X04, 0110 Onderstepoort, South Africa.
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Nijhof AM, Penzhorn BL, Lynen G, Mollel JO, Morkel P, Bekker CPJ, Jongejan F. Babesia bicornis sp. nov. and Theileria bicornis sp. nov.: tick-borne parasites associated with mortality in the black rhinoceros (Diceros bicornis). J Clin Microbiol 2003; 41:2249-54. [PMID: 12734294 PMCID: PMC154668 DOI: 10.1128/jcm.41.5.2249-2254.2003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 106] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
A novel Babesia species, designated Babesia bicornis sp. nov., was identified in three black rhinoceroses (Diceros bicornis) that died in wildlife areas in Tanzania and South Africa. Screening of black rhinoceroses in South Africa revealed, in addition to B. bicornis, a second parasite, designated Theileria bicornis sp. nov.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ard M Nijhof
- Division of Parasitology and Tropical Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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Bekker CPJ, de Vos S, Taoufik A, Sparagano OAE, Jongejan F. Simultaneous detection of Anaplasma and Ehrlichia species in ruminants and detection of Ehrlichia ruminantium in Amblyomma variegatum ticks by reverse line blot hybridization. Vet Microbiol 2002; 89:223-38. [PMID: 12243899 DOI: 10.1016/s0378-1135(02)00179-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 155] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The detection of Anaplasma and Ehrlichia species is usually based on species-specific PCR assays, since no assay is yet available which can detect and identify these species simultaneously. To this end, we developed a reverse line blot (RLB) assay for simultaneous detection and identification of Anaplasma and Ehrlichia species in domestic ruminants and ticks. In a PCR the hypervariable V1 region of the 16S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) gene was amplified with a set of primers unique for members of the genera Anaplasma and Ehrlichia [Int. J. Syst. Evol. Microbiol. 51 (2001) 2145]. Amplified PCR products from blood of domestic ruminants or Amblyomma variegatum tick samples were hybridized onto a membrane to which eight species-specific oligonucleotide probes and one Ehrlichia and Anaplasma catch-all oligonucleotide probe were covalently linked. No DNA was amplified from uninfected blood, nor from other hemoparasites such as Theileria annulata, or Babesia bigemina. The species-specific probes did not cross-react with DNA amplified from other species. E. ruminantium, A. ovis and another Ehrlichia were identified by RLB in blood samples collected from small ruminants in Mozambique. Finally, A. variegatum ticks were tested after feeding on E. ruminantium infected sheep. E. ruminantium could be detected in adult ticks even if feeding of nymphs was carried out 3.5 years post-infection. In conclusion, the developed species-specific oligonucleotide probes used in an RLB assay can simultaneously detect and identify several Ehrlichia and Anaplasma species. However, as no quantitative data for the detection limit are available yet, only positive results are interpretable at this stage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cornelis P J Bekker
- Division of Bacteriology, Department of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, 3508 TD Utrecht, The Netherlands
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Bekker CPJ, Bell-Sakyi L, Paxton EA, Martinez D, Bensaid A, Jongejan F. Transcriptional analysis of the major antigenic protein 1 multigene family of Cowdria ruminantium. Gene 2002; 285:193-201. [PMID: 12039046 DOI: 10.1016/s0378-1119(02)00408-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
The major antigenic protein 1 (MAP1) of the tick-borne rickettsial pathogen Cowdria ruminantium is encoded by a multigene family containing conserved and variable genes. The part of a locus containing the map1 multigene family that was characterized contained three homologous, but non-identical map1 genes, designated map1-2, map1-1, and map1. Reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction was used to study the transcriptional activity of these genes in isolates of C. ruminantium grown in bovine endothelial cells, in two different tick cell lines, and in Amblyomma variegatum ticks. The map1 gene was always transcribed, whereas transcription of map1-2 was not detected under any of the tested conditions. The map1-1 gene transcript was detected in A. variegatum ticks, but was not found in virulent C. ruminantium Senegal grown in bovine endothelial cells at 30 or 37 degrees C. Interestingly, transcripts of map1-1 were also found in different passages of the in vitro attenuated Senegal isolate grown in bovine endothelial cells, as well as in the Gardel isolate grown in two tick cell lines. When transcribed, map1-1 was present on a polycistronic messenger together with map1.
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MESH Headings
- Amino Acid Sequence
- Animals
- Antigens, Bacterial
- Bacterial Outer Membrane Proteins/genetics
- Cattle
- Cell Line
- Cells, Cultured
- Cloning, Molecular
- DNA, Bacterial/chemistry
- DNA, Bacterial/genetics
- Ehrlichia ruminantium/genetics
- Endothelium, Vascular/cytology
- Endothelium, Vascular/microbiology
- Molecular Sequence Data
- Multigene Family/genetics
- RNA, Bacterial/genetics
- RNA, Bacterial/metabolism
- Sequence Alignment
- Sequence Analysis, DNA
- Sequence Homology, Amino Acid
- Ticks/cytology
- Ticks/microbiology
- Transcription, Genetic
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Affiliation(s)
- Cornelis P J Bekker
- Division of Bacteriology, Department of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Box 80165, 3508 TD, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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