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Vangansewinkel T, Lemmens S, Tiane A, Geurts N, Dooley D, Vanmierlo T, Pejler G, Hendrix S. Therapeutic administration of mouse mast cell protease 6 improves functional recovery after traumatic spinal cord injury in mice by promoting remyelination and reducing glial scar formation. FASEB J 2023; 37:e22939. [PMID: 37130013 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202201942rr] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2022] [Revised: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) most often leads to permanent paralysis due to the inability of axons to regenerate in the adult mammalian central nervous system (CNS). In the past, we have shown that mast cells (MCs) improve the functional outcome after SCI by suppressing scar tissue formation at the lesion site via mouse mast cell protease 6 (mMCP6). In this study, we investigated whether recombinant mMCP6 can be used therapeutically to improve the functional outcome after SCI. Therefore, we applied mMCP6 locally via an intrathecal catheter in the subacute phase after a spinal cord hemisection injury in mice. Our findings showed that hind limb motor function was significantly improved in mice that received recombinant mMCP6 compared with the vehicle-treated group. In contrast to our previous findings in mMCP6 knockout mice, the lesion size and expression levels of the scar components fibronectin, laminin, and axon-growth-inhibitory chondroitin sulfate proteoglycans were not affected by the treatment with recombinant mMCP6. Surprisingly, no difference in infiltration of CD4+ T cells and reactivity of Iba-1+ microglia/macrophages at the lesion site was observed between the mMCP6-treated mice and control mice. Additionally, local protein levels of the pro- and anti-inflammatory mediators IL-1β, IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, IL-10, TNF-α, IFNγ, and MCP-1 were comparable between the two treatment groups, indicating that locally applied mMCP6 did not affect inflammatory processes after injury. However, the increase in locomotor performance in mMCP6-treated mice was accompanied by reduced demyelination and astrogliosis in the perilesional area after SCI. Consistently, we found that TNF-α/IL-1β-astrocyte activation was decreased and that oligodendrocyte precursor cell (OPC) differentiation was increased after recombinant mMCP6 treatment in vitro. Mechanistically, this suggests effects of mMCP6 on reducing astrogliosis and improving (re)myelination in the spinal cord after injury. In conclusion, these data show for the first time that recombinant mMCP6 is therapeutically active in enhancing recovery after SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tim Vangansewinkel
- Cardio and Organ Systems, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium
- VIB, Center for Brain & Disease Research, Laboratory of Neurobiology, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Stefanie Lemmens
- Department of Immunology and Infection, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Assia Tiane
- Department of Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Hasselt, Belgium
- Department Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- University MS Center (UMSC) Hasselt-Pelt, Hasselt, Belgium
| | - Nathalie Geurts
- Department of Immunology and Infection, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Dearbhaile Dooley
- School of Medicine, Health Sciences Centre, University College Dublin, Belfield, Ireland
- UCD Conway Institute of Biomolecular & Biomedical Research University College Dublin, Belfield, Ireland
| | - Tim Vanmierlo
- Department of Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Hasselt, Belgium
- Department Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- University MS Center (UMSC) Hasselt-Pelt, Hasselt, Belgium
| | - Gunnar Pejler
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Sven Hendrix
- Institute for Translational Medicine, Medical School Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
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Lemmens S, Nelissen S, Dooley D, Geurts N, Peters EMJ, Hendrix S. Stress Pathway Modulation Is Detrimental or Ineffective for Functional Recovery after Spinal Cord Injury in Mice. J Neurotrauma 2019; 37:564-571. [PMID: 31210094 DOI: 10.1089/neu.2018.6211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
A mounting body of evidence suggests that stress plays a major role in the injury progression after spinal cord injury (SCI). Injury activates the stress systems; this in turn may augment the generation of pro-inflammatory cytokines, stimulate pro-inflammatory immune cells, and alter the balance between the pro- and anti-inflammatory immune response. As a result, it is suggested that stress pathways may augment neuronal damage and loss after SCI. Considering these potential detrimental effects of stress after SCI, we hypothesized that inhibition of stress pathways immediately after SCI may offer protection from damage and improve recovery. To investigate the relevance of stress responses in SCI recovery, we investigated the effects of blocking three well-studied stress response axes in a mouse model of SCI. Propranolol, RU-486, and CP-99994 were administered to inhibit the sympathetic axis, the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis, and the neuropeptide axis, respectively. Surprisingly, assessing functional recovery by the Basso Mouse Scale revealed that RU-486 and CP-99994 did not affect functional outcome, indicating that these pathways are dispensable for neuroprotection or repair after SCI. Moreover, the beta-blocker propranolol worsened functional outcome in the mouse SCI model. In conclusion, immediate inhibition of three major stress axes has no beneficial effects on functional recovery after SCI in mice. These results suggest that injury-induced stress responses do not interfere with the healing process and hence, pharmacological targeting of stress responses is not a recommended treatment option for SCI. These findings are of great importance for other researchers to avoid unnecessary and potentially futile animal experiments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefanie Lemmens
- Department of Morphology, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Sofie Nelissen
- Department of Morphology, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Dearbhaile Dooley
- Health Science Centre, School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Nathalie Geurts
- Department of Morphology, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Eva Milena Johanne Peters
- Psychoneuroimmunology Laboratory, Department of Psychosomatic Medicine, Justus Liebig University and Charité Berlin, Germany
| | - Sven Hendrix
- Department of Morphology, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium
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Lemmens S, Kusters L, Bronckaers A, Geurts N, Hendrix S. The β2-Adrenoceptor Agonist Terbutaline Stimulates Angiogenesis via Akt and ERK Signaling. J Cell Physiol 2016; 232:298-308. [PMID: 27403604 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.25483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2016] [Accepted: 07/11/2016] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Angiogenesis is associated with changes in endothelial cell (EC) proliferation and tube formation, controlled by extracellular receptor-activated kinase (ERK)/mitogen activated protein kinase (MAPK) and Akt signaling. Important regulators of these systems include hormones acting on G-protein-coupled receptors, such as beta 2-adrenoceptors (β2-ARs). In central nervous system (CNS) trauma, the importance of β2-AR modulation has been highlighted, although the effects on revascularization remain unclear. Vascular protection and revascularization are, however, key to support regeneration. We have investigated the angiogenic capacity of the specific β2-AR agonist terbutaline on ECs derived from the CNS, namely bEnd.3-cells. As angiogenesis is a multistep process involving increased proliferation and tube formation of ECs, we investigated the effects of terbutaline on these processes. We show that terbutaline significantly induced bEnd.3 tube formation in a matrigel in vitro assay. Moreover, administration of specific inhibitors of ERK and Akt signaling both inhibited terbutaline-induced tube formation. The proliferation rate of the ECs was not affected. In order to investigate the general effects of terbutaline in an organotypic system, we have used the chick chorioallantoic membrane (CAM)-assay. Most importantly, terbutaline increased the number of blood vessels in this in ovo setting. Although we observed a positive trend, the systemic administration of terbutaline did not significantly improve the functional outcome, nor did it affect revascularization in our spinal cord injury model. In conclusion, these data indicate that terbutaline is promising to stimulate blood vessel formation, underscoring the importance of further research into the angiotherapeutic relevance of terbutaline and β2-AR signaling after CNS-trauma. J. Cell. Physiol. 232: 298-308, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefanie Lemmens
- Department of Morphology and Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Lauren Kusters
- Department of Morphology and Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Annelies Bronckaers
- Department of Morphology and Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Nathalie Geurts
- Department of Morphology and Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Sven Hendrix
- Department of Morphology and Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium.
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Vangansewinkel T, Geurts N, Quanten K, Nelissen S, Lemmens S, Geboes L, Dooley D, Vidal PM, Pejler G, Hendrix S. Mast cells promote scar remodeling and functional recovery after spinal cord injury via mouse mast cell protease 6. FASEB J 2016; 30:2040-57. [PMID: 26917739 DOI: 10.1096/fj.201500114r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [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: 10/16/2015] [Accepted: 01/28/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
An important barrier for axon regeneration and recovery after traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) is attributed to the scar that is formed at the lesion site. Here, we investigated the effect of mouse mast cell protease (mMCP) 6, a mast cell (MC)-specific tryptase, on scarring and functional recovery after a spinal cord hemisection injury. Functional recovery was significantly impaired in both MC-deficient and mMCP6-knockout (mMCP6(-/-)) mice after SCI compared with wild-type control mice. This decrease in locomotor performance was associated with an increased lesion size and excessive scarring at the injury site. Axon growth-inhibitory chondroitin sulfate proteoglycans and the extracellular matrix components fibronectin, laminin, and collagen IV were significantly up-regulated in MC-deficient and mMCP6(-/-) mice, with an increase in scar volume between 23 and 32%. A degradation assay revealed that mMCP6 directly cleaves fibronectin and collagen IV in vitro In addition, gene expression levels of the scar components fibronectin, aggrecan, and collagen IV were increased up to 6.8-fold in mMCP6(-/-) mice in the subacute phase after injury. These data indicate that endogenous mMCP6 has scar-suppressing properties after SCI via indirect cleavage of axon growth-inhibitory scar components and alteration of the gene expression profile of these factors.-Vangansewinkel, T., Geurts, N., Quanten, K., Nelissen, S., Lemmens, S., Geboes, L., Dooley, D., Vidal, P. M., Pejler, G., Hendrix, S. Mast cells promote scar remodeling and functional recovery after spinal cord injury via mouse mast cell protease 6.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tim Vangansewinkel
- Department of Morphology, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Nathalie Geurts
- Department of Morphology, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Kirsten Quanten
- Department of Morphology, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Sofie Nelissen
- Department of Morphology, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Stefanie Lemmens
- Department of Morphology, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Lies Geboes
- Department of Morphology, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Dearbhaile Dooley
- Department of Morphology, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Pia M Vidal
- Department of Morphology, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Gunnar Pejler
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Biochemistry, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden; and Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Sven Hendrix
- Department of Morphology, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium;
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Geurts N, Vangansewinkel T, Lemmens S, Nelissen S, Geboes L, Schwartz C, Voehringer D, Hendrix S. Basophils are dispensable for the recovery of gross locomotion after spinal cord hemisection injury. J Leukoc Biol 2015; 99:579-82. [PMID: 26578647 DOI: 10.1189/jlb.3ab0815-370r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [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: 08/20/2015] [Accepted: 10/25/2015] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Basophils are the smallest population of granulocytes found in the circulation. They have crucial and nonredundant roles in allergic disorders, in protection from parasite infections, in autoimmunity, and in the regulation of type 2 immunity. They share phenotypic and functional properties with mast cells, which exert substantial protective effects after traumatic brain injury and spinal cord injury, although they are considered one of the most proinflammatory cell types in the body. In contrast, the in vivo functions of basophils in central nervous system trauma are still obscure and not well studied. In this study, we show that by comparing spinal cord injury in wild type vs. basophil-deficient Mcpt8Cre transgenic mice, the locomotor recovery is not affected in mice depleted in basophils. In addition, no substantial differences were observed in the lesion size and in the astrocytic and macrophage/microglia reaction between both mouse strains. Hence, despite the multiple properties shared with mast cells, these data show, for the first time, to our knowledge, that basophils are dispensable for the functional recovery process after hemisection injury to the spinal cord in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathalie Geurts
- Departments of *Morphology and Cell Physiology, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium; Department of Infection Biology, Institute of Clinical Microbiology, Immunology and Hygiene, University Clinic Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany; and Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nüremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Tim Vangansewinkel
- Departments of *Morphology and Cell Physiology, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium; Department of Infection Biology, Institute of Clinical Microbiology, Immunology and Hygiene, University Clinic Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany; and Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nüremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Stefanie Lemmens
- Departments of *Morphology and Cell Physiology, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium; Department of Infection Biology, Institute of Clinical Microbiology, Immunology and Hygiene, University Clinic Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany; and Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nüremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Sofie Nelissen
- Departments of *Morphology and Cell Physiology, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium; Department of Infection Biology, Institute of Clinical Microbiology, Immunology and Hygiene, University Clinic Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany; and Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nüremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Lies Geboes
- Departments of *Morphology and Cell Physiology, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium; Department of Infection Biology, Institute of Clinical Microbiology, Immunology and Hygiene, University Clinic Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany; and Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nüremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Christian Schwartz
- Departments of *Morphology and Cell Physiology, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium; Department of Infection Biology, Institute of Clinical Microbiology, Immunology and Hygiene, University Clinic Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany; and Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nüremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - David Voehringer
- Departments of *Morphology and Cell Physiology, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium; Department of Infection Biology, Institute of Clinical Microbiology, Immunology and Hygiene, University Clinic Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany; and Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nüremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Sven Hendrix
- Departments of *Morphology and Cell Physiology, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium; Department of Infection Biology, Institute of Clinical Microbiology, Immunology and Hygiene, University Clinic Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany; and Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nüremberg, Erlangen, Germany
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Lemmens S, Brône B, Dooley D, Hendrix S, Geurts N. Alpha-adrenoceptor modulation in central nervous system trauma: pain, spasms, and paralysis--an unlucky triad. Med Res Rev 2014; 35:653-77. [PMID: 25546087 DOI: 10.1002/med.21337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Many researchers have attempted to pharmacologically modulate the adrenergic system to control locomotion, pain, and spasms after central nervous system (CNS) trauma, although such efforts have led to conflicting results. Despite this, multiple studies highlight that α-adrenoceptors (α-ARs) are promising therapeutic targets because in the CNS, they are involved in reactivity to stressors and regulation of locomotion, pain, and spasms. These functions can be activated by direct modulation of these receptors on neuronal networks in the brain and the spinal cord. In addition, these multifunctional receptors are also broadly expressed on immune cells. This suggests that they might play a key role in modulating immunological responses, which may be crucial in treating spinal cord injury and traumatic brain injury as both diseases are characterized by a strong inflammatory component. Reducing the proinflammatory response will create a more permissive environment for axon regeneration and may support neuromodulation in combination therapies. However, pharmacological interventions are hindered by adrenergic system complexity and the even more complicated anatomical and physiological changes in the CNS after trauma. This review is the first concise overview of the pros and cons of α-AR modulation in the context of CNS trauma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefanie Lemmens
- Department of Morphology, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Bert Brône
- Department of Physiology, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Dearbhaile Dooley
- Department of Morphology, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Sven Hendrix
- Department of Morphology, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Nathalie Geurts
- Department of Morphology, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium
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Nelissen S, Vangansewinkel T, Geurts N, Geboes L, Lemmens E, Vidal PM, Lemmens S, Willems L, Boato F, Dooley D, Pehl D, Pejler G, Maurer M, Metz M, Hendrix S. Mast cells protect from post-traumatic spinal cord damage in mice by degrading inflammation-associated cytokines via mouse mast cell protease 4. Neurobiol Dis 2013; 62:260-72. [PMID: 24075853 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2013.09.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [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: 01/12/2013] [Revised: 08/23/2013] [Accepted: 09/17/2013] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Mast cells (MCs) are found abundantly in the central nervous system and play a complex role in neuroinflammatory diseases such as multiple sclerosis and stroke. In the present study, we show that MC-deficient Kit(W-sh/W-sh) mice display significantly increased astrogliosis and T cell infiltration as well as significantly reduced functional recovery after spinal cord injury compared to wildtype mice. In addition, MC-deficient mice show significantly increased levels of MCP-1, TNF-α, IL-10 and IL-13 protein levels in the spinal cord. Mice deficient in mouse mast cell protease 4 (mMCP4), an MC-specific chymase, also showed increased MCP-1, IL-6 and IL-13 protein levels in spinal cord samples and a decreased functional outcome after spinal cord injury. A degradation assay using supernatant from MCs derived from either mMCP4(-/-) mice or controls revealed that mMCP4 cleaves MCP-1, IL-6, and IL-13 suggesting a protective role for MC proteases in neuroinflammation. These data show for the first time that MCs may be protective after spinal cord injury and that they may reduce CNS damage by degrading inflammation-associated cytokines via the MC-specific chymase mMCP4.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofie Nelissen
- Dept. of Morphology & Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Tim Vangansewinkel
- Dept. of Morphology & Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Nathalie Geurts
- Dept. of Morphology & Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Lies Geboes
- Dept. of Morphology & Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Evi Lemmens
- Dept. of Morphology & Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Pia M Vidal
- Dept. of Morphology & Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Stefanie Lemmens
- Dept. of Morphology & Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Leen Willems
- Dept. of Morphology & Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Francesco Boato
- Dept. of Morphology & Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Dearbhaile Dooley
- Dept. of Morphology & Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Debora Pehl
- Dept. of Dermatology and Allergy, Allergie-Centrum-Charité, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Germany
| | - Gunnar Pejler
- Dept. of Anatomy, Physiology and Biochemistry, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Marcus Maurer
- Dept. of Dermatology and Allergy, Allergie-Centrum-Charité, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Germany
| | - Martin Metz
- Dept. of Dermatology and Allergy, Allergie-Centrum-Charité, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Germany
| | - Sven Hendrix
- Dept. of Morphology & Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium.
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Nelissen S, Lemmens E, Geurts N, Kramer P, Maurer M, Hendriks J, Hendrix S. The role of mast cells in neuroinflammation. Acta Neuropathol 2013; 125:637-50. [PMID: 23404369 DOI: 10.1007/s00401-013-1092-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2012] [Revised: 01/21/2013] [Accepted: 01/27/2013] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Mast cells (MCs) are densely granulated perivascular resident cells of hematopoietic origin and well known for their pathogenetic role in allergic and anaphylactic reactions. In addition, they are also involved in processes of innate and adaptive immunity. MCs can be activated in response to a wide range of stimuli, resulting in the release of not only pro-inflammatory, but also anti-inflammatory mediators. The patterns of secreted mediators depend upon the given stimuli and microenvironmental conditions, accordingly MCs have the ability to promote or attenuate inflammatory processes. Their presence in the central nervous system (CNS) has been recognized for more than a century. Since then a participation of MCs in various pathological processes in the CNS has been well documented. They can aggravate CNS damage in models of brain ischemia and hemorrhage, namely through increased blood-brain barrier damage, brain edema and hemorrhage formation and promotion of inflammatory responses to such events. In contrast, recent evidence suggests that MCs may have a protective role following traumatic brain injury by degrading pro-inflammatory cytokines via specific proteases. In neuroinflammatory diseases such as multiple sclerosis, the role of MCs seems to be ambiguous. MCs have been shown to be damaging, neuroprotective, or even dispensable, depending on the experimental protocols used. The role of MCs in the formation and progression of CNS tumors such as gliomas is complex and both positive and negative relationships between MC activity and tumor progression have been reported. In summary, MCs and their secreted mediators modulate inflammatory processes in multiple CNS pathologies and can thereby either contribute to neurological damage or confer neuroprotection. This review intends to give a concise overview of the regulatory roles of MCs in brain disease.
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Namsolleck P, Boato F, Schwengel K, Paulis L, Matho KS, Geurts N, Thöne-Reineke C, Lucht K, Seidel K, Hallberg A, Dahlöf B, Unger T, Hendrix S, Steckelings UM. AT2-receptor stimulation enhances axonal plasticity after spinal cord injury by upregulating BDNF expression. Neurobiol Dis 2012; 51:177-91. [PMID: 23174180 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2012.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2012] [Revised: 10/22/2012] [Accepted: 11/09/2012] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
It is widely accepted that the angiotensin AT2-receptor (AT2R) has neuroprotective features. In the present study we tested pharmacological AT2R-stimulation as a therapeutic approach in a model of spinal cord compression injury (SCI) in mice using the novel non-peptide AT2R-agonist, Compound 21 (C21). Complementary experiments in primary neurons and organotypic cultures served to identify underlying mechanisms. Functional recovery and plasticity of corticospinal tract (CST) fibers following SCI were monitored after application of C21 (0.3mg/kg/dayi.p.) or vehicle for 4 weeks. Organotypic co-culture of GFP-positive entorhinal cortices with hippocampal target tissue served to evaluate the impact of C21 on reinnervation. Neuronal differentiation, apoptosis and expression of neurotrophins were investigated in primary murine astrocytes and neuronal cells. C21 significantly improved functional recovery after SCI compared to controls, and this significantly correlated with the increased number of CST fibers caudal to the lesion site. In vitro, C21 significantly promoted reinnervation in organotypic brain slice co-cultures (+50%) and neurite outgrowth of primary neurons (+25%). C21-induced neurite outgrowth was absent in neurons derived from AT2R-KO mice. In primary neurons, treatment with C21 further induced RNA expression of anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 (+75.7%), brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) (+53.7%), the neurotrophin receptors TrkA (+57.4%) and TrkB (+67.9%) and a marker for neurite growth, GAP43 (+103%), but not TrkC. Our data suggest that selective AT2R-stimulation improves functional recovery in experimental spinal cord injury through promotion of axonal plasticity and through neuroprotective and anti-apoptotic mechanisms. Thus, AT2R-stimulation may be considered for the development of a novel therapeutic approach for the treatment of spinal cord injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pawel Namsolleck
- Center for Cardiovascular Research, Institute of Pharmacology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Hessische Str. 3-4, 10115 Berlin, Germany
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Geurts N, Becker-Pauly C, Martens E, Proost P, Van den Steen PE, Stöcker W, Opdenakker G. Meprins process matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9)/gelatinase B and enhance the activation kinetics by MMP-3. FEBS Lett 2012; 586:4264-9. [PMID: 23123160 DOI: 10.1016/j.febslet.2012.10.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2012] [Accepted: 10/18/2012] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Meprin α and β, members of the astacin family of zinc metalloproteinases, are unique plasma membrane and secreted proteases known to cleave a wide range of biological substrates involved in inflammation, cancer and fibrosis. In this study, we identified proMMP-9 as a novel substrate and show that aminoterminal meprin-mediated clipping improves the activation kinetics of proMMP-9 by MMP-3, an efficient activator of proMMP-9. Interestingly, the NH(2)-terminus LVLFPGDL, generated by incubation with meprin α, is identical to the form produced in conditioned media from human neutrophils and monocytes. Hence, this meprin-mediated processing and enhancement of MMP-9 activation kinetics may have biological relevance in the context of in vivo inflammatory processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathalie Geurts
- Laboratory of Immunobiology, Rega Institute for Medical Research, University of Leuven, Minderbroedersstraat 10, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
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Geurts N, Opdenakker G, Van den Steen PE. Matrix metalloproteinases as therapeutic targets in protozoan parasitic infections. Pharmacol Ther 2011; 133:257-79. [PMID: 22138604 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2011.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2011] [Accepted: 10/28/2011] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are associated with processes of tissue remodeling and are expressed in all infections with protozoan parasites. We here report the status of MMP research in malaria, trypanosomiasis, leishmaniasis and toxoplasmosis. In all these infections, the balances between MMPs and endogenous MMP inhibitors are disturbed, mostly in favor of active proteolysis. When the infection is associated with leukocyte influx into specific organs, immunopathology and collateral tissue damage may occur. These pathologies include cerebral malaria, sleeping sickness (human African trypanosomiasis), Chagas disease (human American trypanosomiasis), leishmaniasis and toxoplasmic encephalitis in immunocompromised hosts. Destruction of the integrity of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) is a common denominator that may be executed by leukocytic MMPs under the control of host cytokines and chemokines as well as influenced by parasite products. Mechanisms by which parasite-derived products alter host expression of MMP and endogenous MMP inhibitors, have only been described for hemozoin (Hz) in malaria. Hence, understanding these interactions in other parasitic infections remains an important challenge. Furthermore, the involved parasites are also known to produce their own metalloproteinases, and this forms an extra stimulus to investigate MMP inhibitory drugs as therapeutics. MMP inhibitors (MMPIs) may dampen collateral tissue damage, as is anecdotically reported for tetracyclines as MMP regulators in parasite infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathalie Geurts
- Laboratory of Immunobiology, Rega Institute for Medical Research, University of Leuven, Leuven, Minderbroedersstraat 10, B3000 Leuven, Belgium
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Geurts N, Martens E, Verhenne S, Lays N, Thijs G, Magez S, Cauwe B, Li S, Heremans H, Opdenakker G, Van den Steen PE. Insufficiently defined genetic background confounds phenotypes in transgenic studies as exemplified by malaria infection in Tlr9 knockout mice. PLoS One 2011; 6:e27131. [PMID: 22096530 PMCID: PMC3214040 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0027131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [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] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2011] [Accepted: 10/11/2011] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The use of genetically modified mice, i.e. transgenic as well as gene knockout (KO) and knock-in mice, has become an established tool to study gene function in many animal models for human diseases . However, a gene functions in a particular genomic context. This implies the importance of a well-defined homogenous genetic background for the analysis and interpretation of phenotypes associated with genetic mutations. By studying a Plasmodium chabaudi chabaudi AS (PcAS) malaria infection in mice bearing a TLR9 null mutation, we found an increased susceptibility to infection, i.e. higher parasitemia levels and increased mortality. However, this was not triggered by the deficient TLR9 gene itself. Instead, this disease phenotype was dependent on the heterogeneous genetic background of the mice, which appeared insufficiently defined as determined by single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) analysis. Hence, it is of critical importance to study gene KO phenotypes on a homogenous genetic background identical to that of their wild type (WT) control counterparts. In particular, to avoid problems related to an insufficiently defined genetic background, we advocate that for each study involving genetically modified mice, at least a detailed description of the origin and genetic background of both the WT control and the altered strain of mice is essential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathalie Geurts
- Laboratory of Immunobiology, Rega Institute for Medical Research, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Erik Martens
- Laboratory of Immunobiology, Rega Institute for Medical Research, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Sebastien Verhenne
- Laboratory of Immunobiology, Rega Institute for Medical Research, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Natacha Lays
- Laboratory of Immunobiology, Rega Institute for Medical Research, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Greet Thijs
- Laboratory of Immunobiology, Rega Institute for Medical Research, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Stefan Magez
- Laboratory for Cellular and Molecular Immunology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Bénédicte Cauwe
- Laboratory of Immunobiology, Rega Institute for Medical Research, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Sandra Li
- Laboratory of Immunobiology, Rega Institute for Medical Research, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Hubertine Heremans
- Laboratory of Immunobiology, Rega Institute for Medical Research, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Ghislain Opdenakker
- Laboratory of Immunobiology, Rega Institute for Medical Research, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Philippe E. Van den Steen
- Laboratory of Immunobiology, Rega Institute for Medical Research, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- * E-mail:
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Cauwe B, Martens E, Sagaert X, Dillen C, Geurts N, Li S, Mertens J, Thijs G, Van den Steen PE, Heremans H, De Vos R, Blockmans D, Arnold B, Opdenakker G. Deficiency of gelatinase B/MMP-9 aggravates lpr-induced lymphoproliferation and lupus-like systemic autoimmune disease. J Autoimmun 2011; 36:239-52. [PMID: 21376533 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaut.2011.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2010] [Revised: 01/20/2011] [Accepted: 02/02/2011] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Gelatinase B/matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) is a key enzyme involved in inflammatory, hematological, vascular and neoplastic diseases. In previous studies, we explored the intracellular substrate set or 'degradome' of MMP-9 and found many systemic autoantigens as novel intracellular gelatinase B substrates. Little is known, however, about the functional role of MMP-9 in the development of systemic autoimmunity in vivo. B6(lpr/lpr) mice with defective Fas-mediated apoptosis were used to investigate the functions of MMP-9 in lymphocyte proliferation and in the development of systemic autoimmunity. Combined Fas and gelatinase B deficiency resulted in extreme lymphoproliferative disease with enhanced lymphadenopathy and splenomegaly, and significantly reduced survival compared with single Fas deficiency. At the cellular level, this was corroborated by increased lymph node accumulation of 'double negative' T cells, B cells and myeloid cells. In addition, higher autoantibody titers and more pronounced autoimmune tissue injury were found in the absence of MMP-9, culminating in chronically enhanced systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)-like autoimmunity. After cleavage by MMP-9 the SLE autoantigens U1snRNP A and ribosomal protein P0 were hardly recognized by plasma samples of both B6(lpr/lpr).MMP-9⁻/⁻ and B6(lpr/lpr).MMP-9+/+ mice, pointing to a destruction of B cell epitopes by MMP-9-mediated proteolysis. In addition, the same loss of immunodominant epitopes was observed with plasma samples from SLE patients, suggesting that MMP-9 suppresses systemic antibody-mediated autoimmunity by clearance of autoepitopes in immunogenic substrates. Thus, new protective functions for MMP-9 were revealed in the suppression of lymphoproliferation and dampening of systemic autoimmunity, cautioning against the long-term use of MMP inhibitors in autoimmune lymphoproliferative syndrome (ALPS) and SLE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bénédicte Cauwe
- Laboratory of Immunobiology, Rega Institute for Medical Research, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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Vandooren J, Geurts N, Martens E, Van den Steen PE, Jonghe SD, Herdewijn P, Opdenakker G. Gelatin degradation assay reveals MMP-9 inhibitors and function of O-glycosylated domain. World J Biol Chem 2011; 2:14-24. [PMID: 21537473 PMCID: PMC3083944 DOI: 10.4331/wjbc.v2.i1.14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2010] [Revised: 11/18/2010] [Accepted: 11/25/2010] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM: To establish a novel, sensitive and high-throughput gelatinolytic assay to define new inhibitors and compare domain deletion mutants of gelatinase B/matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9.
METHODS: Fluorogenic Dye-quenched (DQ)™-gelatin was used as a substrate and biochemical parameters (substrate and enzyme concentrations, DMSO solvent concentrations) were optimized to establish a high-throughput assay system. Various small-sized libraries (ChemDiv, InterBioScreen and ChemBridge) of heterocyclic, drug-like substances were tested and compared with prototypic inhibitors.
RESULTS: First, we designed a test system with gelatin as a natural substrate. Second, the assay was validated by selecting a novel pyrimidine-2,4,6-trione (barbiturate) inhibitor. Third, and in line with present structural data on collagenolysis, it was found that deletion of the O-glycosylated region significantly decreased gelatinolytic activity (kcat/kM± 40% less than full-length MMP-9).
CONCLUSION: The DQ™-gelatin assay is useful in high-throughput drug screening and exosite targeting. We demonstrate that flexibility between the catalytic and hemopexin domain is functionally critical for gelatinolysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Vandooren
- Jennifer Vandooren, Nathalie Geurts, Erik Martens, Philippe E Van den Steen, Ghislain Opdenakker, Laboratory of Immunobiology, Rega Institute for Medical Research, University of Leuven, Minderbroederstraat 10, Leuven B-3000, Belgium
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Van Den Steen PE, Deroost K, Geurts N, Heremans H, Van Damme J, Opdenakker G. Malaria: host-pathogen interactions, immunopathological complications and therapy. VERHANDELINGEN - KONINKLIJKE ACADEMIE VOOR GENEESKUNDE VAN BELGIE 2011; 73:123-151. [PMID: 22276399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Malaria is a global tropical disease causing more than 1 million deaths and 300 million clinical cases every year. It is caused by parasites from the genus Plasmodium and is transmitted by Anopheles mosquitoes. Approximately 3 billion people live in malaria-endemic regions and a majority of them are infected. In this review, we discuss the life cycle of the parasite, the complex interactions with the human host and the ensuing immune reactions and complications. The immune system plays a dual role in malaria, by providing life-saving immunity against the parasite, but also by causing often lethal complications in a number of patients. Cytokines, chemokines and proteases are key players in the immunopathological complications, and we propose immunomodulation with dexamethasone as a promising strategy for the therapy of malaria-associated acute respiratory distress syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- P E Van Den Steen
- Laboratory of Immunobiology, Rega Institute for Medical Research--KULeuven, Minderbroedersstraat 10--B 3000 Leuven
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Van den Steen PE, Geurts N, Deroost K, Van Aelst I, Verhenne S, Heremans H, Van Damme J, Opdenakker G. Immunopathology and dexamethasone therapy in a new model for malaria-associated acute respiratory distress syndrome. Malar J 2010. [PMCID: PMC2963204 DOI: 10.1186/1475-2875-9-s2-i13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
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Geurts N, Hubens G, Wojciechowski M, Vaneerdeweg W. Encapsulating peritoneal sclerosis in a peritoneal dialysis patient with prune-belly syndrome: a case report. Acta Chir Belg 2010; 110:354-6. [PMID: 20690523 DOI: 10.1080/00015458.2010.11680633] [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] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
This case describes a prune-belly syndrome patient who had a kidney transplantation and was diagnosed with Encapsulating Peritoneal Sclerosis (EPS), a rare but potentially fatal condition, mostly associated with Peritoneal Dialysis (PD). The definition of EPS is based on the clinical findings linked to bowel obstruction and on the demonstration of peritoneal thickening. Surgical treatment is the only established basic treatment for the condition. Prune-belly syndrome is characterized by the triad of deficient abdominal musculature, urinary tract abnormality and cryptorchidism. Because it is often associated with end-stage renal disease, PD is essential in the treatment of patients with prune-belly syndrome. The aetiology of EPS follows a 'two-hit theory': the first 'hit' is peritoneal deterioration, caused by long-time exposure to PD. This causes peritoneal disruption which predisposes the patient to a second hit. In our patient, PD discontinuation and renal transplantation are possible 'second hits' that triggered the development of EPS. This case of prune-belly syndrome has all the necessary elements for the development of EPS, and we felt we should report it as the peroperative diagnosis was unexpected.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - G. Hubens
- Universitary Hospital Antwerp: Abdominal, Reconstructive and Paediatric Surgery
| | | | - W. Vaneerdeweg
- Universitary Hospital Antwerp: Abdominal, Reconstructive and Paediatric Surgery
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Van den Steen PE, Geurts N, Deroost K, Van Aelst I, Verhenne S, Heremans H, Van Damme J, Opdenakker G. Immunopathology and Dexamethasone Therapy in a New Model for Malaria-associated Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome. Am J Respir Crit Care Med 2010; 181:957-68. [DOI: 10.1164/rccm.200905-0786oc] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
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Van den Steen PE, Deroost K, Van Aelst I, Geurts N, Martens E, Struyf S, Nie CQ, Hansen DS, Matthys P, Van Damme J, Opdenakker G. CXCR3 determines strain susceptibility to murine cerebral malaria by mediating T lymphocyte migration toward IFN-gamma-induced chemokines. Eur J Immunol 2008; 38:1082-95. [PMID: 18383042 DOI: 10.1002/eji.200737906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [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: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Cerebral malaria (CM) results from the binding of infected erythrocytes and leukocytes to brain endothelia. The precise mechanisms underlying lymphocyte recruitment and activation in CM remain unclear. Therefore, the expression of various chemokines was quantified in brains of mice infected with Plasmodium berghei ANKA (PbA). Several chemokines attracting monocytes and activated T-lymphocytes were expressed at high levels. Their expression was almost completely abrogated in IFN-gamma ligand and receptor KO mice, indicating that IFN-gamma is an essential chemokine inducer in vivo. Surprisingly, the expression levels of chemokines, IFN-gamma and also adhesion molecules in the brain were not lower in CM-resistant Balb/c and DBA/2 mice compared to CM-sensitive C57BL/6 and DBA/1 mice, although T lymphocyte sequestration in the brain was significantly less in CM-resistant than in CM-sensitive mice. This difference correlated with a higher up-regulation of the CXC chemokine receptor (CXCR)-3 on splenic T cells and a higher chemotactic response to IFN-gamma-inducible protein-10 (IP-10) in C57BL/6 compared to Balb/c mice. In conclusion, parasite-induced IFN-gamma in the brain results in high local expression levels of specific chemokines for monocytes and lymphocytes. The strain-dependent susceptibility to develop CM is more related to the expression of CXCR3 in circulating leukocytes than to the chemokine expression levels in the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philippe E Van den Steen
- Laboratory of Immunobiology, Rega Institute for Medical Research, Catholic University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.
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Geurts N, Martens E, Van Aelst I, Proost P, Opdenakker G, Van den Steen PE. β-Hematin Interaction with the Hemopexin Domain of Gelatinase B/MMP-9 Provokes Autocatalytic Processing of the Propeptide, Thereby Priming Activation by MMP-3. Biochemistry 2008; 47:2689-99. [DOI: 10.1021/bi702260q] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Nathalie Geurts
- Laboratory of Immunobiology and Laboratory of Molecular Immunology, Rega Institute for Medical Research, Catholic University of Leuven, Minderbroedersstraat 10, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Erik Martens
- Laboratory of Immunobiology and Laboratory of Molecular Immunology, Rega Institute for Medical Research, Catholic University of Leuven, Minderbroedersstraat 10, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Ilse Van Aelst
- Laboratory of Immunobiology and Laboratory of Molecular Immunology, Rega Institute for Medical Research, Catholic University of Leuven, Minderbroedersstraat 10, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Paul Proost
- Laboratory of Immunobiology and Laboratory of Molecular Immunology, Rega Institute for Medical Research, Catholic University of Leuven, Minderbroedersstraat 10, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Ghislain Opdenakker
- Laboratory of Immunobiology and Laboratory of Molecular Immunology, Rega Institute for Medical Research, Catholic University of Leuven, Minderbroedersstraat 10, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Philippe E. Van den Steen
- Laboratory of Immunobiology and Laboratory of Molecular Immunology, Rega Institute for Medical Research, Catholic University of Leuven, Minderbroedersstraat 10, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
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