Systemic and local responses of cytokines and tissue histology following intramammary lipopolysaccharide challenge in dairy cows

During bovine mastitis, immune responses include the release of cytokines and the recruitment of leukocytes, resulting in profound structural and functional changes in the mammary gland. Our aims were to delineate systemic and local cytokine responses and to quantify histological changes in the mammary tissue of lactating cows after acute intramammary lipopolysaccharide (LPS) challenge. Ten multiparous dairy cows were paired to either treatment (TRT) or control (CON) groups. For TRT cows, one side of the udder was randomly assigned to receive treatment with LPS (50 µg in 10 mL of saline, TL) into both the front and rear quarters; the contralateral quarters received saline (10 mL). Udder-halves of CON cows were similarly assigned randomly to receive either saline (10 mL, CS) or no infusion (untreated). Temporal changes in the concentrations of 15 cytokines in the blood (0, 3, 6, 12, and 24 h relative to the LPS infusion) and in mammary tissue (0, 3, and 12 h) were determined, as were concomitant changes in mammary histology. The cytokines IL-6, IL-10, MCP-1, and MIP-1β showed a systemic response as their concentrations were significantly different in the plasma of TRT cows as compared with CON cows after LPS challenge. The cytokines IL-1α, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, IL-17A, IL-36RA, IP-10, MCP-1, MIP-1α, MIP-1β, TNF-α, and VEGF-A showed a local response in TL glands, and 8 cytokines, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-10, IL-17A, IL-36RA, IP-10, MIP-1β, and VEGF-A showed systemic changes in the nonchallenged mammary glands adjacent to LPS-infused glands. Endotoxin challenge evoked changes in the histology of mammary tissue that included a 5.2- and 7.2-fold increases in the number of neutrophils in alveolar lumens at 3 h and 12 h, respectively. In summary, LPS challenge induced specific local and systemic responses in cytokine induction and elicited neutrophil infiltration in bovine mammary tissue.

[Research on the pathogeny of black tooth stain and association between black tooth stain and primary dentition caries in children]

PURPOSE

To investigate the relationship between polymorphism of cytochrome P450, family 2, subfamily A, polypeptide 6(CYP2A6) and periodontitis, the expression of inflammatory cytokines in 123 Han smokers.

METHODS

From October 2018 to October 2019, a total of 123 smokers with periodontitis were selected as the experimental group, and 125 non-smokers as the control group. The general data of the patients were collected, including age, gender, body mass index (BMI), chewing and brushing habits, as well as molar condition; plaque index (PLI), gingival bleeding index (BI), periodontal probing depth (PD) and attachment loss (AL) were detected. CYP2A6 was amplified by PCR. The level of interleukin (IL)-17, IL-1, IL-6, IL-23 and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) in GCF was detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay(ELISA). SPSS 25.0 software package was used for statistical analysis of the data.

RESULTS

There was significant difference in gender, PLI, IL-17, IL-1, IL-6, IL-23, TNF-α level in GCF between the two groups(P＜0.05). All samples were amplified by PCR. Among them, 23 were not amplified, which were identified as CYP2A6 deletion type (CYP2A6del), including 5 in the experimental group and 18 in the control group; 225 were amplified and identified as CYP2A6 wild type(CYP2A6wt), including 118 in the experimental group and 107 in the control group. There was significant difference in CYP2A6 genotype between the two groups(P＜0.05). In the experimental group, the level of IL-1 and PLI of different CYP2A6 genotypes was significantly different(P＜0.05); and in the control group, the level of IL-17 and PLI of different CYP2A6 genotypes was also significantly different(P＜0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

There are differences in CYP2A6 genotype between smokers and non-smokers in Han population with periodontitis, but the relationship between CYP2A6 genotype and inflammatory cytokines is not clear.

Analytical Computation of Interleukin17A Activity in Breast Cancer Patients Using Bioinformatics Methods

Interleukin-17A (IL-17A) is a member of the Interleukin-17 family, which belongs to the pro-inflammatory cystine-knot cytokines. Recent studies on the etiology of breast cancer have focused on the role of immunity and inflammation. The pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-17A can medicate cancer-related inflammation. The present study aimed to analyze the mutation in physicochemical properties and structure of the Interleukin-17 A gene in developing breast cancer using bioinformatics methods. A total of 60 blood samples were obtained from Iraqi women aged 25 to 75 with breast cancer. Twenty blood samples were obtained from healthy women in the same age range as a control group. Deletion and missense mutations detected by BLAST in samples with breast cancer. The present study determined the physicochemical properties of IL-17A such as hydrophilic nature, alpha-helical and 3D structure. The results of this study indicated that IL-17A is considered a marker for a patient with breast cancer. Also, mutations in the IL-17A gene affect the structure and physicochemical properties of the IL-17A protein complex.

Clinical, functional and inflammatory evaluation in asthmatic patients after a simple short-term educational program: a randomized trial

This study aimed to evaluate the clinical evolution, functional parameters and inflammatory activity of asthma in patients who submitted to an educational intervention. 58 adult patients over 18 years of age with partly controlled and uncontrolled asthma were randomized into an intervention group (IG) (N = 32) and a control group (CG) (N = 26) and evaluated for 12 weeks. The Asthma Control Test (ACT), Asthma Control Questionnaire (ACQ), Asthma Quality Life Questionnaire (AQLQ) and Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) questionnaires were applied. Spirometry, exhaled nitric oxide (NO), exhaled breath condensate (EBC) and induced sputum (IS), measurement of the peak flow and symptoms were performed. The IG patients received an educational activity for 30 min applied by a nurse. Statistical analysis: analysis of variance with repeated intragroup measures. IG presented a decreased number of eosinophils in IS and IL-17A in EBC, an increase in the percentage of FEV1 before and after bronchodilator and an improvement in quality of life compared to the CG. There was an improvement in depression levels and a decrease in IL-4 and IL-5 in the IS and in the EBC in both groups. Our results suggest that an educational intervention can bring benefits concerning the control of inflammation, lung function alterations, quality of life and levels of depression in asthmatic patients. Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov; NCT03655392.

Targeting the RNA-Binding Protein HuR Alleviates Neuroinflammation in Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis: Potential Therapy for Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune inflammatory and neurodegenerative disease of the central nervous system characterized by demyelination, axonal loss, and motor dysfunction. Activated microglia are associated with the destruction of myelin in the CNS. Activated microglia produce cytokines and proinflammatory factors, favoring neuroinflammation, myelin damage, and neuronal loss, and it is thought to be involved in the disease pathogenesis. The present study investigated the role of post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression on the neuroinflammation related to experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) in mice, by focusing on HuR, an RNA-binding protein involved in inflammatory and immune phenomena. Spinal cord sections of EAE mice showed an increased HuR immunostaining that was abundantly detected in the cytoplasm of activated microglia, a pattern associated with its increased activity. Intrathecal administration of an anti-HuR antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) decreased the proinflammatory activated microglia, inflammatory infiltrates, and the expression of the proinflammatory cytokines IL-1β, TNF-α, and IL-17, and inhibited the activation of the NF-κB pathway. The beneficial effect of anti-HuR ASO in EAE mice corresponded also to a decreased permeability of the blood-brain barrier. EAE mice showed a reduced spinal CD206 immunostaining that was restored by anti-HuR ASO, indicating that HuR silencing promotes a shift to the anti-inflammatory and regenerative microglia phenotype. Mice that received anti-HuR ASO exhibited improved EAE-related motor dysfunction, pain hypersensitivity, and body weight loss. Targeting HuR might represent an innovative and promising perspective to control neurological disturbances in MS patients.

Metabolic and immunological evaluation of patients with indeterminate and cardiac forms of Chagas disease

Chagas disease affects approximately 7 million people, causing disability and mortality in the most productive life stages of infected individuals. Considering the lifestyle of the world population, metabolic syndrome is a synergistic factor for an increased cardiovascular risk of patients with Chagas disease.This study transversally evaluated the metabolic and immunological profiles of patients with indeterminate (IF) and cardiac (CF) forms of Chagas disease and their correlations with left ventricular dysfunction (LVD).Clinical and electrical bioimpedance analysis, levels of cytokines (interferon [IFN]-γ, tumor necrosis factor [TNF]-α, interleukin [IL]-17, IL-10, and IL-33) and adipocytokines (adiponectin, leptin, and resistin), metabolic syndrome components, and brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) levels were assessed in 57 patients (13 IF and 44 CF) with a mean age of 61.63 ± 12.1 years. Chest x-ray, electrocardiogram, and echocardiogram were performed to classify the clinical forms.The CF group had a higher number of individuals with metabolic syndrome components blood pressure altered, while more participants in the CF group with LVD had low high-density lipoprotein (HDL) levels. The IF group had more participants with a higher waist-to-hip ratio (WHR). No significant difference was observed between metabolic syndrome, cytokine and adipocytokine level, and clinical forms of the disease or in relation to LVD.Individuals with the IF showed metabolic and immunological profiles compatible with increased disease control, whereas those with CF showed marked inflammatory immune response.

Chemical profiling and anti-psoriatic activity of marine sponge (Dysidea avara) in induced imiquimod-psoriasis-skin model

Since Marine sponge Dysidea avara is regarded as a source of anti-inflammatory compounds, we decided to evaluate its potential anti-psoriatic activity in a psoriasis Imiquimod-induced in the mouse model. Psoriatic mice were treated with three different methanolic extracts of Dysidea avara compared with betamethasone-treated mice in in- vivo studies. Clinical skin severity was assessed with the psoriasis area index (PASI), whilst ELISA detected the expression of TNF-α, IL-17A, and IL-22. Dysidea avara activity was studied by employing GC-MS (to distinguish compounds), HPTLC (for skin permeation and accumulation), and SEA DOCK to predict single compound potential anti-inflammatory activity. After 7 days of treatment, mice treated with Dysidea avara displayed a dose-dependent, statistically significant improvement compared to controls (p< 0.001). In line with the clinical results, ELISA revealed a statistically significant decrease in IL-22, IL-17A, and TNF-α after treatment; the same SEA DOCK analysis suggests a possible anti-psoriatic activity of the extracts.

Periodontal Conditions and Whole Salivary IL-17A and -23 Levels among Young Adult Cannabis sativa (Marijuana)-Smokers, Heavy Cigarette-Smokers and Non-Smokers

In the United States, prevalence of marijuana-use has doubled in the past 2 decades. The aim was to compare the periodontal conditions and whole-salivary IL-17A and IL-23 levels among young adult marijuana-smokers, heavy cigarette-smokers and non-smokers. Self-reported marijuana-smokers, heavy-cigarette-smokers, non-smokers with periodontitis and periodontally-healthy non-smokers were included. Demographic data was recorded and full-mouth plaque index (PI), bleeding on probing (BoP), probing depth (PD) and clinical attachment loss (AL), marginal bone loss (MBL) and missing teeth were recorded. Levels of IL-17A and IL-23 levels were measured in the whole saliva. p < 0.01 was considered statistically significant. Fifteen-marijuana-smokers, 15 heavy-cigarette-smokers, 16 non-smokers-with-periodontitis and 15 periodontally-healthy-non-smokers) were included. The clinicoradiographic parameters were worse among marijuana-smokers (p < 0.01), cigarette-smokers (p < 0.01) and non-smokers-with-periodontitis (p < 0.01) than periodontally-healthy-non-smokers. Marijuana- and cigarette-smokers had Stage-IV/Grade C and non-smokers with periodontitis had Stage-III/Grade-C. Salivary IL-17A and IL-23 levels were higher in marijuana-smokers than cigarette-smokers (p < 0.01) and non-smokers-with-periodontitis (p < 0.01). Whole salivary IL-17A and IL-23 levels were higher among cigarette-smokers than non-smokers with periodontitis (p < 0.01) and periodontally-healthy-individuals (p < 0.01). Marijuana- and heavy cigarette-smokers have comparable clinicoradiographic periodontal statuses. This rejects hypothesis-1. However, whole salivary immunoinflammatory response may be moderately worse in marijuana-smokers compared with heavy cigarette-smokers and non-smoker with periodontitis thereby supporting hypothesis-2.

Melatonin attenuates microbiota dysbiosis of jejunum in short-term sleep deprived mice

Our study demonstrated that sleep deprivation resulted in homeostasis disorder of colon. Our study goes deeper into the positive effects of melatonin on small intestinal microbiota disorder caused by sleep deprivation. We successfully established a multiplatform 72 h sleep deprivation mouse model with or without melatonin supplementation, and analyzed the change of small intestinal microbiota using high-throughput sequencing of the 16S rRNA. We found melatonin supplementation suppressed the decrease of plasma melatonin level in sleep deprivation mice. Meanwhile, melatonin supplementation improved significantly the reduction in OTU numbers and the diversity and richness of jejunal microbiota and the abundance of Bacteroidaeae and Prevotellaceae, as well as an increase in the Firmicutes-to-Bacteroidetes ratio and the content of Moraxellaceae and Aeromonadaceae in the jejunum of sleep deprived-mice. Moreover, melatonin supplementation reversed the change of metabolic pathway in sleep deprived-mice, including metabolism, signal transduction mechanisms and transcription etc, which were related to intestinal health. Furthermore, melatonin supplementation inverted the sleep deprivation-induced a decline of anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-22) and an increase of the ROS and proinflammatory cytokines (IL-17) in jejunum. These findings suggested that melatonin, similar to a probiotics agent, can reverse sleep deprivation-induced small intestinal microbiota disorder by suppressing oxidative stress and inflammation response.

Herbal Combinational Medication of Glycyrrhiza glabra, Agastache rugosa Containing Glycyrrhizic Acid, Tilianin Inhibits Neutrophilic Lung Inflammation by Affecting CXCL2, Interleukin-17/STAT3 Signal Pathways in a Murine Model of COPD

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is caused by exposure to toxic particles, such as coal fly ash (CFA), diesel-exhaust particle (DEP), and cigarette smoke (CS), leading to chronic bronchitis, mucus production, and a subsequent lung dysfunction. This study, using a mouse model of COPD, aimed to evaluate the effect of herbal combinational medication of Glycyrrhiza glabra (GG), Agastache rugosa (AR) containing glycyrrhizic acid (GA), and tilianin (TN) as active ingredients. GA, a major active component of GG, possesses a range of pharmacological and biological activities including anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic, anti-oxidative. TN is a major flavonoid that is present in AR. It has been reported to have anti-inflammatory effects of potential utility as an anti-COPD agent. The COPD in the mice model was induced by a challenge with CFA and DEP. BALB/c mice received CFA and DEP alternately three times for 2 weeks to induce COPD. The herbal mixture of GG, AR, and TN significantly decreased the number of neutrophils in the lungs and bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid. It also significantly reduced the production of C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 2 (CXCL-2), IL-17A, CXCL-1, TNF-α, symmetric dimethylarginine (SDMA) in BALF and CXCL-2, IL-17A, CXCL-1, MUC5AC, transient receptor potential vanilloid-1 (TRPV1), IL-6, COX-2, NOS-II, and TNF-α mRNA expression in the lung tissue. Notably, a combination of GG and AR was more effective at regulating such therapeutic targets than GG or AR alone. The histolopathological lung injury was alleviated by treatment with the herbal mixture and their active ingredients (especially TN). In this study, the herbal combinational mixture more effectively inhibited neutrophilic airway inflammation by regulating the expression of inflammatory cytokines and CXCL-2 by blocking the IL-17/STAT3 pathway. Therefore, a herbal mixture of GG and AR may be a potential therapeutic agent to treat COPD.

Salivary and serum interleukin-17A and interleukin-18 levels in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus with and without periodontitis

OBJECTIVE

Interleukin (IL)-17A and IL-18 have been proposed to play important roles in periodontitis and type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM), but human data are conflicting. The present study aimed to investigate the roles of IL-17A and IL-18 in periodontitis and DM by measuring salivary and serum levels, respectively.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 49 participants with type 2 DM and 25 control subjects without type 2 DM were recruited. A periodontal screening and recording (PSR) index (0, 1-2, 3, and 4) was used to classify whether these subjects had periodontitis. Salivary and serum IL-17A and IL-18 levels were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Multiple linear regression analyses were used to evaluate the associations between these cytokines and clinical parameters.

RESULTS

Salivary IL-17A levels were not significantly different between patients with DM and controls, however, the levels were significantly higher in controls with periodontitis than those without periodontitis (p = 0.031). Salivary IL-17A levels were significantly associated with the PSR index (β = 0.369, p = 0.011). Multiple linear regression analyses revealed the association of salivary IL-18 levels and fasting plasma glucose (β = 0.270, p = 0.022) whereas serum IL-18 levels were associated with HbA1C (β = 0.293, p = 0.017). No correlation between salivary and serum levels of IL-17A and IL-18 was found.

CONCLUSION

Salivary IL-17A was strongly associated with periodontitis, whereas salivary IL-18 was associated with FPG and serum IL-18 was associated with HbA1C. These results suggest the role of these cytokines in periodontal inflammation and DM.

Generating mucosal and systemic immune response following vaccination of vibrio cholerae adhesion molecule against shigella flexneri infection

Introduction

Previous studies have shown 37.8 kDa pili subunit protein of Vibrio cholerae and 49.8 kDa pili subunit protein of Shigella flexneri can act as an adhesion molecule to initiate infection. These molecules also have the ability to agglutinate blood. The present study assessed mucosal and systemic immunity following vaccination using 37.8 kDa V. cholerae and protection against S. flexneri.

Subjects and Methods

Haemagglutination test was performed after purification of V. cholerae protein, followed by an anti-haemagglutination test. The intestinal weight and colony count were used to validate the protective effect on balb/c mice which were divided into the naive group, Shigella-positive control group, Vibrio-positive control group, V. cholerae infected-Vibrio-vaccinated group and S. flexneri-infected-Vibrio-vaccinated group. Th17, Treg, interleukin (IL) IL-17A, β-defensin and secretory-immunoglobulin A (s-IgA) were also measured to determine the systemic and mucosal immunity after vaccination.

Results

The haemagglutination and anti-haemagglutination tests showed that the 37.8 kDa protein could inhibit 49.8 kDa of the S. flexneri pili subunit. Decreased intestinal weight and colony count of vaccinated group compared to naive group also support cross reaction findings. Vaccination also generates higher level of Th17, Treg, IL-17A, β-defensin and s-IgA significantly.

Conclusions

37.8 kDa subunit pili can act as a homologous vaccine candidate to prevent V. cholerae and S. flexneri infection.

Significant reduction in the expression of interleukins-17A, 22 and 23A, forkhead box p3 and interferon gamma delineates lichen planus pigmentosus from lichen planus

Recent studies have noticed significant role of interleukin (IL)-17, 22, 23, Foxp3, interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) and Wnt5a in oral and cutaneous lichen planus (LP). This study was undertaken to assess whether similar expression exists in lichen planus pigmentosus (LPP). We recruited 30 patients of treatment-naïve 'LPP' (in absence of cutaneous/mucosal LP elsewhere, group 1), 10 patients having active treatment-naïve cutaneous 'LP' (group 2), 10 patients having 'post-LP' hyperpigmentation (in absence of active LP and off treatment for at least past 3 months, group 3), and 10 controls. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR, peripheral blood mononuclear cells [PBMCs] and skin) and immunohistochemistry (IHC, skin) was performed. mRNA expression (in PBMCs) of IL-17A, IL-22, IL-23A, IFN-γ and Foxp3 was significantly decreased in group 1 and 3 as compared to group 2 (p < 0.05). Wnt5a expression was maximal in controls; and while there was no difference between group 1 and 2; whereas expression in group 3 was significantly lesser than group 1 and 2 (p < 0.05). qRT-PCR (skin) and IHC (skin) revealed similar results; and mRNA expression and mean fluorescence intensity of IL-17A, IL-22, IL-23A/R was significantly increased in group 2 and 3 compared to group 1 (p < 0.05). Mean fluorescence intensity and mRNA expression of IFN-γ, Foxp3 and Wnt5a were significantly increased in group 2 compared to group 1 (p < 0.05); whereas the difference between group 1 and 3 was not significant. Mean fluorescence intensity and mRNA expression of IL-17A, 1L-22 and IFN-γ showed no difference between group 2 and 3; whereas that of IL-23A/R, foxp3 and wnt5a were significantly higher in group 2 than group 3 (p < 0.05). Overall, maximal expression of IL-17A, IL-22, IL-23A, IFN-γ and Foxp3 (mRNA PBMCs) was observed in LP. Minimal expression of IL-17A, IL-22, IL-23A/R, IFN-γ and Foxp3 (mRNA skin and IHC skin) was seen in LPP patients. In contrast to LP, LPP lacks the expression of IFN-γ, Foxp3 and the cytokines representing Th17 pathway, and thus seems to have a distinct pathogenesis.

Imbalanced spinal infiltration of Th17/Treg cells contributes to bone cancer pain via promoting microglial activation

Increasing evidence suggests that T cells participate in the pathology of neuropathic pain, as well as the activation of microglia. However, whether T cells infiltrate into the spinal cord and contribute to the development of bone cancer pain (BCP) remains unknown. Here, we used a mouse model of BCP to show that numbers of T cells infiltrated into the spinal cord after sarcoma cell implantation with increased BCP, and most infiltrating T cells in the spinal cord were CD3⁺CD4⁺ T cells. Both Th17 and Treg subpopulations were analyzed by immunofluorescence. Treg cells in the spinal cord were transiently up-regulated, followed by an imbalance towards Th17 afterwards, and elevated IL-17/IL-17A levels were observed in both blood and spinal cord. Meanwhile, TGF-β, IL-6, and IL-23, the factors which regulate Th17/Treg differentiation, increased their expressions during the development of BCP. Additionally, IL-17A receptor (IL-17AR) was found to be expressed on microglia, and the level of IL-17AR increased with activated microglia during BCP development. Furthermore, BCP was ameliorated when IL-17/IL-17A neutralizing antibodies were intrathecally injected, accompanied with inhibited Th17/Treg infiltration and suppressed microglial activation. In conclusion, T cells infiltrated into the spinal cord with the imbalance of Th17/Treg towards Th17 during the development of BCP, which could promote the microglial activation and further increased BCP, while neutralizing IL-17/IL-17A in the spinal cord could ameliorate BCP. Our results suggest that targeting the imbalanced Th17/Treg infiltration in the spinal cord could be a novel strategy for BCP therapy.

Myeloid-derived suppressor cell accumulation in renal cell carcinoma is correlated with CCL2, IL-17 and IL-18 expression in blood and tumors

BACKGROUND

Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSC) play an important role in tumor-mediated immune evasion. Levels of MDSC in peripheral blood are increased in patients with cancer, correlating with cancer stage and outcome. Studies have confirmed the associations between MDSC and various cytokines in the peripheral blood of murine and human cancer hosts. However, little is known about the association between parenchymal MDSC subsets and cytokines, or the mechanism drawing MDSC into tumor parenchyma.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to analyze the correlation between MDSC subsets and tumor grade as well as stage in renal cell carcinoma (RCC) patients. The expression of chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 2 (CCL2), interleukin 17 (IL-17) and interleukin 18 (IL-18) in the peripheral blood and parenchyma of RCC patients was also detected to explore its correlation with MDSC accumulation.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Total MDSC, granulocytic MDSC (G-MDSC), monocytic MDSC (M-MDSC), and immature MDSC (I-MDSC) from the blood and parenchyma were isolated and analyzed by flow cytometry. Cytokines were detected by the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and western blot in blood and tumors.

RESULTS

Parenchymal levels of MDSC had a positive correlation with levels of CCL2, IL-17, and IL-18, suggesting these cytokines may attract MDSC into the parenchyma. Moreover, peripheral total MDSC, G-MDSC and I-MDSC were shown to correlate with tumor grade and stage. Gene and protein expression of CCL2, IL-17, and IL-18 was significantly increased in blood and tumors of RCC patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study has provided potential new targets for the risk stratification of patients with limited stages of renal carcinoma, in addition to elucidating a possible association between MDSC subsets and cytokine-induced migration into the tumor tissue.

EB 2017 Article: Changes in advanced glycation end products, beta-defensin-3, and interleukin-17 during diabetic periodontitis development in rhesus monkeys

The bidirectional relationship between diabetes mellitus (DM) and periodontal disease has drawn great attention; however, the mechanisms underlying their association remain unclear. In this study, we aimed to develop a rhesus monkey model of diabetic periodontitis and explore the potential mechanisms by which DM affects the progression of periodontal disease. Three healthy rhesus monkeys were selected as the control group. Five streptozotocin-induced diabetic rhesus monkeys were chosen as the experimental group. Ligature placement was used to induce periodontitis. The changes in the levels of advanced glycation end products (AGEs), beta-defensin-3 (BD-3), and interleukin-17 (IL-17) were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) and real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) at different stages during disease progression. Periodontitis was confirmed by clinical assessment, radiographic images, and histological examination. Significant changes in the levels of AGEs and BD-3 in serum were observed at the periodontitis stage in diabetic rhesus monkeys ( P < 0.05). The expression of BD-3 mRNA in the gingiva of diabetic group at baseline was significantly high ( P < 0.05). Diabetic monkeys exhibited significantly enhanced IL-17 mRNA expression at the periodontitis stage ( P < 0.05). Our findings indicated that the rhesus monkey can serve as an ideal model for exploring the pathogenesis of diabetic periodontitis, and the hyperglycemic environment may accelerate inflammatory response and weaken the defense system in periodontal tissues. Impact statement The mechanism underlying the association between diabetes mellitus (DM) and periodontal disease is not yet fully understood. Hence, there is a need to establish animal models to reveal the effect of DM on the pathogenesis of periodontitis. In this study, we explored the appropriate methods for inducing periodontitis and shortening the modeling time in rhesus monkeys, to investigate the pathogenesis of diabetic periodontitis and develop innovative therapies. Our results suggest that a hyperglycemic environment might lead to the destruction of periodontal tissues by accelerating inflammatory response and weakening the defense system in periodontal tissues. Therefore, this study has significant treatment implications regarding the regulation of the immune response against periodontal diseases in patients with DM.

Patients with familial adenomatous polyposis harbor colonic biofilms containing tumorigenic bacteria

Individuals with sporadic colorectal cancer (CRC) frequently harbor abnormalities in the composition of the gut microbiome; however, the microbiota associated with precancerous lesions in hereditary CRC remains largely unknown. We studied colonic mucosa of patients with familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP), who develop benign precursor lesions (polyps) early in life. We identified patchy bacterial biofilms composed predominately of Escherichia coli and Bacteroides fragilis Genes for colibactin (clbB) and Bacteroides fragilis toxin (bft), encoding secreted oncotoxins, were highly enriched in FAP patients' colonic mucosa compared to healthy individuals. Tumor-prone mice cocolonized with E. coli (expressing colibactin), and enterotoxigenic B. fragilis showed increased interleukin-17 in the colon and DNA damage in colonic epithelium with faster tumor onset and greater mortality, compared to mice with either bacterial strain alone. These data suggest an unexpected link between early neoplasia of the colon and tumorigenic bacteria.

Crosstalk between human endometrial stromal cells and decidual NK cells promotes decidualization in vitro by upregulating IL‑25

Embryo implantation is essential for a successful pregnancy, and leads to the decidualization of endometrial stromal cells (ESCs) in the secretory phase of the menstrual cycle. It has previously been demonstrated that decidual stromal cells (DSCs) co‑express interleukin (IL)‑25/IL‑17RB and that IL‑25 further promotes the proliferation of DSCs via activating c‑Jun n‑terminal kinase and protein kinase B signals, therefore the present study primarily focused on the role of IL‑25 in the process of decidualization in vitro. It was demonstrated that the expression of IL‑25/IL‑17RB in ESCs was decreased compared with DSCs. In addition, following decidualization, the expression levels of IL‑25/IL‑17RB in ESCs were significantly elevated. Recombinant human (rh) IL‑25 promoted the decidualization of ESCs in the presence of 8‑bromoadenosine 3',5'‑cyclic monophosphate sodium salt and 6α‑methyl17α‑acetoxyprogesterone, which was partially inhibited by anti‑human IL‑25 neutralizing antibody (anti‑IL‑25) or anti‑IL‑17RB. In addition, decidual natural killer (dNK) cells not only secreted IL‑25, however also further accelerated the decidualization in vitro. Therefore, these findings indicated that ESCs differentiate into DSCs in the presence of ovarian hormones, resulting in the upregulation of IL‑25/IL‑17RB expression in ESCs. Furthermore, IL‑25 secreted by ESCs and dNK cells further facilitates the decidualization of ESCs, which may form a positive feedback mechanism at the maternal‑fetal interface and thus contribute to the establishment and maintenance of normal pregnancy.

Th17 pathway in recent-onset autoimmune diabetes

AIMS

Evaluate the participation of IL-17 pathway in T1D pathogenesis. T helper 17 cells are potent, highly inflammatory cells that produce interleukin 17A (IL-17A), considered a mediator of various immune disorders. However, their role in Type 1 diabetes (T1D) pathogenesis in humans is not totally elucidated.

METHODS

The expression of IL-17 Receptor A (IL-17RA) in peripheral T lymphocytes and IL-17A serum levels in recent-onset patients with T1D were compared with healthy controls. IL-17A gene variants were evaluated in a greater cohort.

RESULTS

Patients with recent-onset T1D (less than 6 months of diagnosis) exhibited lower expression of IL-17RA in CD3+ T (% of cells = 31.3% × 43.6%; p = .041) and CD4+ T cells (11.1% × 25.2%; p = .0019) and lower number of IL-17RA in CD4+ T cells (MFI = 1.16 × 4.56; p = .03) than controls. IL-17RA expression in CD8+ T cells and IL-17A serum levels were similar in both groups. The coding regions and boundary intron sequences of IL17A were sequenced. Seventeen allelic variants, including three novel variants in exon 3 (3'UTR n) were identified, but no one was associated with T1D susceptibility, as well as the resulting haplotypes and diplotypes. The expression of IL-17RA was not correlated with metabolic variables (glucose and HbA1c levels) or pancreatic autoantibodies titers.

CONCLUSIONS

The lower expression of IL-17RA in CD3+ and CD4+ T cells suggests a reduced effect of IL-17A in immune response of recent-onset T1D patients, at least at peripheral tissues. IL-17A allelic variants were not related with T1D susceptibility.

IL-33 Attenuates Sepsis by Inhibiting IL-17 Receptor Signaling through Upregulation of SOCS3

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Sepsis is a systemic inflammatory response during infection. There are limited therapeutic options for sepsis patients. Interleukin (IL)-33 has been reported recently with a beneficial effect in mouse sepsis.

METHODS

In this study, we initiated a clinical study to measure serum levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines including IL-33 in sepsis patients. Next, we employed cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) to study the role of IL-33 during sepsis. To further dissect the molecular mechanism, we used in vivo knockout models and in vitro knockdown murine embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs) to investigate the cross-talk between IL-33 and IL-17 signaling, and to identify the potential downstream mediators.

RESULTS

IL-33 and IL-17 were upregulated in both clinical and experimental sepsis. In CLP, IL-33 (-/-) mice showed higher mortality rate, and IL-33 treatment improved the survival rate. Elevated proinflammatory cytokines in sepsis were related to IL-17 from γδT cells. IL-33 treatment suppressed production of these cytokines by targeting IL-17 signaling both in vivo and in vitro. Finally, IL-33 was shown to inhibit the IL-17 pathway via activating suppressor of cytokine signaling (SOCS)-3.

CONCLUSION

Collectively, the results suggest that IL-33 plays a negative regulatory role in sepsis progression by inhibiting IL-17 pathway through activating SOCS3. This finding would inspire a new therapeutic strategy for treating sepsis.

Generation of glycosylphosphatidylinositol linked chicken IL-17 to generate specific monoclonal antibodies applicable for intracellular cytokine staining

Interleukin 17 (IL-17) cytokines play a crucial role in host defense and inflammatory diseases. Of the six mammalian IL-17 members five are described in the chicken (gg) genome. A novel method that attached cytokines to the surface of cells via a GPI linker was established to generate two chicken IL-17A and one chicken IL-17F specific mab. Recombinant gg IL-17A and gg IL-17F that showed dimerization in Western blot were used to verify the antibodies specificity. The mab could detect gg IL-17 by intracellular cytokine staining as demonstrated on cells expressing recombinant IL-17. Furthermore IL-17A and lower amounts of IL-17F were detectable in CD4 positive T cells of stimulated splenocytes. In conclusion, we have generated novel tools to analyze chicken IL-17 in more detail and demonstrated that the surface expression of cytokines is a reliable method to generate specific mab applicable for intracellular cytokine staining.

[Effects of vasoactive intestinal peptide on airway inflammation and Th17/Treg balance in asthmatic mice]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effects of vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) on the airway inflammation and its regulatory effect on Th17/Treg imbalance in asthmatic mice.

METHODS

A total of 30 BALB/c mice were equally and randomly divided into three groups: control, asthma, and VIP. An acute asthmatic mouse model was established by sensitization and challenge with ovalbumin (OVA). The control group received normal saline instead of OVA. Before the challenge with OVA, the VIP group was administered VIP (20 μg/mL) by aerosol inhalation for 30 minutes. The bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and the lung tissue were collected from mice. The pathological changes in the lung tissue were observed by hematoxylin and eosin staining. The levels of Th17/Treg-related cytokines in BALF were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The expression of retinoid-related orphan receptor gamma t (RORγt) and forkhead box P3 (Foxp3) were measured by real-time fluorescence quantitative PCR and immunohistochemistry.

RESULTS

The histopathological results showed that the VIP group had milder symptoms of airway inflammation than the asthma group. The level of IL-17 in BALF in the asthma group was significantly higher than that in the control group and the VIP group (P<0.01), but the level of IL-17 in the control group was significantly lower than that in the VIP group (P<0.01). The level of IL-10 in BALF in the asthma group was significantly lower than that in the control group and the VIP group (P<0.01, but the level of IL-10 in the VIP group was significantly higher than that in the control group (P<0.01). The asthma group showed significantly higher expression levels of RORγt mRNA and protein in the lung tissue and significantly lower expression levels of Foxp3 mRNA and protein than the control group (P<0.01). The VIP group had significantly lower expression levels of RORγt mRNA and protein in the lung tissue and significantly higher expression levels of Foxp3 mRNA and protein than the asthma group (P<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The Th17/Treg imbalance may be closely related to the airway inflammation in asthmatic mice. VIP can improve airway inflammation by regulating the Th17/Treg imbalance in asthmatic mice.

Kluyveromyces marxianus and Saccharomyces boulardii Induce Distinct Levels of Dendritic Cell Cytokine Secretion and Significantly Different T Cell Responses In Vitro

Interactions between members of the intestinal microbiota and the mucosal immune system can significantly impact human health, and in this context, fungi and food-related yeasts are known to influence intestinal inflammation through direct interactions with specialized immune cells in vivo. The aim of the present study was to characterize the immune modulating properties of the food-related yeast Kluyveromyces marxianus in terms of adaptive immune responses indicating inflammation versus tolerance and to explore the mechanisms behind the observed responses. Benchmarking against a Saccharomyces boulardii strain with probiotic effects documented in clinical trials, we evaluated the ability of K. marxianus to modulate human dendritic cell (DC) function in vitro. Further, we assessed yeast induced DC modulation of naive T cells toward effector responses dominated by secretion of IFNγ and IL-17 versus induction of a T_reg response characterized by robust IL-10 secretion. In addition, we blocked relevant DC surface receptors and investigated the stimulating properties of β-glucan containing yeast cell wall extracts. K. marxianus and S. boulardii induced distinct levels of DC cytokine secretion, primarily driven by Dectin-1 recognition of β-glucan components in their cell walls. Upon co-incubation of yeast exposed DCs and naive T cells, S. boulardii induced a potent IFNγ response indicating T_H1 mobilization. In contrast, K. marxianus induced a response dominated by Foxp3⁺ T_reg cells, a characteristic that may benefit human health in conditions characterized by excessive inflammation and positions K. marxianus as a strong candidate for further development as a novel yeast probiotic.

Endogenous interleukin-22 protects against inflammatory bowel disease but not autoimmune cholangitis in dominant negative form of transforming growth factor beta receptor type II mice

During chronic inflammation, interleukin (IL)-22 expression is up-regulated in both CD4 and CD8 T cells, exerting a protective role in infections. However, in autoimmunity, IL-22 appears to have either a protective or a pathogenic role in a variety of murine models of autoimmunity and, by extrapolation, in humans. It is not clear whether IL-22 itself mediates inflammation or is a by-product of inflammation. We have taken advantage of the dominant negative form of transforming growth factor beta receptor type II (dnTGF-βRII) mice that develop both inflammatory bowel disease and autoimmune cholangitis and studied the role and the biological function of IL-22 by generating IL-22(-/-) dnTGF-βRII mice. Our data suggest that the influence of IL-22 on autoimmunity is determined in part by the local microenvironment. In particular, IL-22 deficiency exacerbates tissue injury in inflammatory bowel disease, but has no influence on either the hepatocytes or cholangiocytes in the same model. These data take on particular significance in the previously defined effects of IL-17A, IL-12p40 and IL-23p19 deficiency and emphasize that, in colitis, there is a dominant role of IL-23/T helper type 17 (Th17) signalling. Furthermore, the levels of IL-22 are IL-23-dependent. The use of cytokine therapy in patients with autoimmune disease has significant potential, but must take into account the overlapping and often promiscuous effects that can theoretically exacerbate inflammation.

Effect of Hydroxychloroquine Treatment on Dry Eyes in Subjects with Primary Sjögren's Syndrome: a Double-Blind Randomized Control Study

The effect of hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) on dry eye has not been fully determined. This study aimed to compare the 12-week efficacy of HCQ medication with that of a placebo in the management of dry eye in primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS). A double-blind, randomized control study was conducted in 39 pSS subjects from May 2011 through August 2013. pSS was diagnosed based on the classification criteria of the American-European Consensus Group. Subjects received 300 mg of HCQ or placebo once daily for 12 weeks and were evaluated at baseline, 6, and 12 weeks, with a re-visit at 16 weeks after drug discontinuance. The fluorescein staining score, Schirmer test score, tear film break-up time (TBUT), and ocular surface disease index (OSDI) were measured, and tears and blood were collected for ESR, IL-6, IL-17, B-cell activating factor (BAFF), and Th17 cell analysis. Color testing was performed and the fundus was examined to monitor HCQ complications. Twenty-six subjects completed the follow-up. The fluorescein staining score and Schirmer test score did not differ significantly. The OSDI improved with medication in the HCQ group but was not significantly different between the groups. TBUT, serum IL-6, ESR, serum and tear BAFF, and the proportion of Th17 cells did not change in either group. HCQ at 300 mg daily for 12 weeks has no apparent clinical benefit for dry eye and systemic inflammation in pSS (ClinicalTrials.gov. NCT01601028).

Induction of C-Mip by IL-17 Plays an Important Role in Adriamycin-Induced Podocyte Damage

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Although the disturbance of T lymphocyte and glomerular podocyte exerts a crucial function in the pathogenesis of proteinuria, the potential link is still unclear.

METHODS

The balance of Treg and Th17 cells, and the expression of IL-17/IL-17R and c-mip were investigated in adrimycin-induced nephropathy (AN) mice. The effect and mechanism of IL-17 on podocyte were explored in cultured podocytes.

RESULTS

The proportion of Th17 cells in peripheral blood mononuclear cells, the amount of IL-17 in serum and kidney cortical homogenates, and the expression of IL-17R and c-mip in glomerular podocyte were increased obviously in AN mice. In cultured podocytes, recombinant IL-17 led to an induction of apoptosis and cytoskeletal disorganization, an overproduction of c-mip while down-regulation of phosphor-nephrin, and an increased binding of c-mip to NF-κB/RelA. Silence of c-mip prevented podocyte apoptosis and reduction of phosphor-nephrin by prompting nuclear translocation of NF-κB/RelA in IL-17 treated cells. Persistent activation of NF-κB up-regulated pro-survival protein Bcl-2 and decreased podocyte apoptosis, but had no effect on phosphor-nephrin level.

CONCLUSION

These findings demonstrated that induction of IL-17 released by Th17 cells plays a key role in podocytopathy most likely through down-regulation of phosphor-nephrin and Bcl-2 level via overproduction of c-mip.

The NFκB-inducing kinase is essential for the developmental programming of skin-resident and IL-17-producing γδ T cells

γδ T cells contribute to first line immune defense, particularly through their ability for rapid production of proinflammatory cytokines. The cytokine profile of γδ T cells is hard-wired already during thymic development. Yet, the molecular pathways underlying this phenomenon are incompletely understood. Here we show that signaling via the NFκB-inducing kinase (NIK) is essential for the formation of a fully functional γδ T cell compartment. In the absence of NIK, development of Vγ5(+) dendritic epidermal T cells (DETCs) was halted in the embryonic thymus, and impaired NIK function caused a selective loss of IL-17 expression by γδ T cells. Using a novel conditional mutant of NIK, we could show in vivo that NIK signaling in thymic epithelial cells is essential for the thymic hardwiring of γδ T cell cytokine production.

Changes of Ocular Surface and the Inflammatory Response in a Rabbit Model of Short-Term Exposure Keratopathy

Purpose

To evaluate the ocular surface change and the inflammatory response in a rabbit model of short-term exposure keratopathy.

Methods

Short term exposure keratopathy by continuous eyelid opening was induced in New Zealand white rabbits for up to 4 hours. Ultrasound pachymetry was used to detect central total corneal thickness. In vivo confocal microscopy and impression cytology were performed to evaluate the morphology of ocular surface epithelium and the infiltration of inflammatory cells. Immunohistochemistry for macrophage,neutrophil, CD4(+) T cells, and CD8(+) T cells were performed to classify the inflammatory cells. Scanning electron microscopy(SEM) was performed to detect ocular surface change.The concentrations of IL-8, IL-17, Line and TNF-αwere analyzed by multiplex immunobead assay. TUNEL staining was performed to detect cellular apoptosis.

Results

Significant decrease ofcentral total cornealthickness were found within the first 5 minutes and remained stable thereafter, while there were no changes of corneal epithelial thickness.No significant change of corneal, limbal and conjunctival epithelial morphology was found by in vivo confocal microscopy except the time dependent increase of superficial cellular defects in the central cornea. Impression cytology also demonstrated time dependent increase of sloughing superficial cells of the central cornea. Aggregations ofinflammatory cells were found at 1 hour in the limbal epithelium, 2 hours in the perilimbal conjunctival epithelium, and 3 hours in the peripheral corneal epithelium.In eyes receiving exposure for 4 hours, the infiltration of the inflammatory cells can still be detected at 8 hours after closing eyes.Immunohistochemical study demonstrated the cells to be macrophages, neutrophils, CD4-T cells and CD-8 T cells.SEM demonstrated time-depending increase of intercellular border and sloughing of superficial epithelial cells in corneal surface. Time dependent increase of IL-8, IL-17 and TNF-α in tear was found.TUNEL staining revealed some apoptotic cells in the corneal epithelium and superficial stroma at 3 hours after exposure.

Conclusions

Short term exposure keratopathy can cause significant changes to the ocular surface and inflammatory response. Decrease of central total corneal thickness, aggregation of inflammatory cells, and cornea epithelial cell and superficial keratocyte apoptosis were found no less than 4 hours following the insult.

Salivary interleukin-17 and tumor necrosis factor-α in relation to periodontitis and glycemic status in type 2 diabetes mellitus

BACKGROUND

Poorly-controlled glycemic status in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is suggested to play a role in the periodontal inflammatory process by aggregating the local cytokine response. Our objectives were to profile salivary interleukin (IL)-17 and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α levels in subjects with T2DM and to examine their relevance for the periodontal health status and glycemic control levels.

METHODS

Unstimulated whole saliva samples, together with full-mouth periodontal recordings (plaque index [PI], bleeding on probing [BOP %], gingival index [GI], probing pocket depth [PPD], and clinical attachment level [CAL]), were collected from 123 subjects with T2DM. Additionally, demographic and general health parameters, including fasting blood glucose, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), were collected. Salivary IL-17 and TNF-α concentrations were analyzed using the Luminex®-xMAP™ technique.

RESULTS

Subjects with poorly-controlled T2DM (HbA1c ≥ 7) had elevated serum triglyceride (P < 0.001) concentration as well as elevated scores of BOP % (P = 0.014), PI (P = 0.048), GI (P = 0.033), and CAL (P = 0.003) in comparison to those of well-controlled T2DM (HbA1c < 7). When the subjects with detectable salivary IL-17 were categorized in tertiles, the scores of PPD and BOP%, and salivary TNF-α concentrations were significantly elevated in the highest (P = 0.007, P = 0.002 and P < 0.001, respectively) and middle (P = 0.052, P = 0.022, and P = 0.003, respectively) tertiles compared to subjects with non-detectable salivary IL-17. The adjusted association between PPD measurements and salivary IL-17 concentrations was significant (P = 0.008).

CONCLUSIONS

Poorly-controlled glycemic status relates to the severity of periodontal disease in T2DM. The association between PPD and IL-17 in saliva, however, is independent from the effect of glycemic status.

Greater expression of the human leukocyte antigen-G (HLA-G) and interleukin-17 (IL-17) in cervical intraepithelial neoplasia: analytical cross-sectional study

CONTEXT AND OBJECTIVE

Impaired local cell immunity seems to contribute towards the pathogenesis and progression of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN), but the underlying molecular mechanisms promoting its progression remain unclear. Identification of new molecular markers for prognosis and diagnosis of early-stage CIN may aid in decreasing the numbers of CIN cases. Several novel immunoregulatory molecules have been discovered over the past few years, including the human leukocyte antigen G (HLA-G), which through interaction with its receptors exerts important tolerogenic functions. Several lines of evidence suggest that T-helper interleukin-17 (IL-17)-producing cells (Th17 cells) may play a role in antitumor immunity. However, recent reports have implicated Th17 cells and their cytokines in both pro and anti-tumorigenic processes. The aim of the study was to evaluate the roles of HLA-G and Th17 in the immunopathogenesis of CIN I.

DESIGN AND SETTING

Analytical cross-sectional study with a control group using 58 cervical specimens from the files of a public university hospital providing tertiary-level care.

METHODS

We examined HLA-G and IL-17 expression in the cervical microenvironment by means of immunohistochemistry, and correlated these findings with clinical and pathological features.

RESULTS

There was a greater tendency towards HLA-G and IL-17 expression in specimens that showed CIN I, thus suggesting that these molecules have a contribution towards cervical progression.

CONCLUSION

These findings suggest that HLA-G and IL-17 expression may be an early marker for assessing the progression of cervical lesions.

Tanshinone IIA attenuates interleukin-17A-induced systemic sclerosis patient-derived dermal vascular smooth muscle cell activation via inhibition of the extracellular signal-regulated kinase signaling pathway

OBJECTIVE

Salvia miltiorrhiza has long been used to treat systemic sclerosis. Tanshinone IIA, one of the phytochemicals derived from the roots of Salvia miltiorrhiza, exhibits multiple biological activities. The present study aimed to investigate whether tanshinone IIA has an effect on the interleukin-17A-induced functional activation of systemic sclerosis patient-derived dermal vascular smooth muscle cells.

METHODS

Systemic sclerosis patient-derived dermal vascular smooth muscle cells were incubated with various dosages of tanshinone IIA in the presence of interleukin-17A or the serum of systemic sclerosis patients. Cell proliferation was assessed using Cell Counting Kit-8. The expression of collagen 1 and 3 in cells was evaluated by immunofluorescence. Cell migration was measured using a transwell assay. The expression of phospho-extracellular signal-regulated kinase was detected by Western blotting.

RESULTS

Our data demonstrate that tanshinone IIA exerts an inhibitory effect on interleukin-17A-induced systemic sclerosis patient-derived dermal vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation, collagen synthesis and migration.

CONCLUSION

These findings suggest that tanshinone IIA might serve as a promising therapeutic agent for the treatment of systemic sclerosis.

Cytokine levels in plasma and gingival crevicular fluid in chronic periodontitis

PURPOSE

To evaluate the Th1/Th2/Th17 cytokine levels in plasma and gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) from chronic periodontitis patients and healthy controls.

METHODS

The concentration of interleukin-2 (IL-2), IL-4, IL-6, IL-10, IL-17, TNF, and IFN-γ were determined using a flow cytometric multiplex immunoassay (CBA), and was compared between the periodontitis group and the healthy group. Spearman rho coefficient was used to correlate cytokines in GCF in the periodontitis group and the healthy group, respectively.

RESULTS

Comparisons of two groups of Th1/Th2/Th17 cytokine levels in plasma and GCF showed no statistically significant differences (P > 0.05), except Th17 (IL-17) level in plasma that was higher in the periodontitis group than the healthy group (P < 0.05). A stronger correlation between IL-17/IL-4 and IL-17/IL-10 was observed in periodontitis patients than in healthy controls.

[Effects of different doses of 1,25-(OH)2D3 on expression of HMGB1 and IL-17 in the lungs of asthmatic mice]

OBJECTIVE

To study the effects of 1,25-(OH)(2)D(3) on airway remodeling and expression of high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) and IL-17 in asthmatic mice.

METHODS

Fifty female mice were randomly divided into 5 groups: control, asthma, low-dose, middle-dose, and high-dose intervention groups (n=10 each). Asthma was induced by intraperitoneal injections of ovalbumin (OVA) and aerosol inhalation of OVA solution. The low-dose, middle-dose, and high-dose intervention groups were administered with 1,25-(OH)(2)D(3) solution at the dosage of 1, 4 and 10 μg/kg respectively by intraperitoneal injections before asthma challenge. The airway structural changes were assessed by hematoxylin and eosin staining. mRNA expression levels of HMGB1 and IL-17 in the lung tissues were evaluated by RT-PCR. The protein levels of HMGB1 and IL-17 in the lung tissues were observed by immunohistochemistry.

RESULTS

The airway wall thickness, protein and mRNA expression levels of HMGB1 and IL-17 were higher in the untreated asthma group than in the control group (P<0.05). The airway wall thickness, protein and mRNA expression levels of HMGB1 and IL-17 were lower in the middle-dose and low-dose intervention groups than in the untreated asthma group, and the middle-dose intervention group demonstrated lower airway wall thickness, protein and mRNA expression levels of HMGB1 and IL-17 than in the low-dose intervention group (P<0.05). However, the airway wall thickness, protein and mRNA expression levels of HMGB1 and IL-17 in the high-dose intervention group were higher than in the untreated asthma group (P<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

HMGB1 and IL-17 may be involved in the airway remodeling process in asthmatic mice. A moderate amount of HMGB1 and IL-17 may be involved in the airway remodeling process in asthmatic mice. A moderate amount of 1,25-(OH)(2)D(3) can improve the airway remodeling, but a higher dose of 1,25-(OH)(2)D(3) may affect adversely the airway remodeling process.

Comparison of Levels of Salivary Cytokines in Diabetic and Nondiabetic Puerto Rican Children: A Case-control Pilot Study

PURPOSE

The oral health status of children with type 1 diabetes and its relationship to salivary cytokines have been researched in only one known study. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the association between levels of salivary cytokines and gingival disease in diabetic and nondiabetic Puerto Rican children.

METHODS

A matched case-control study with a convenience sample of 25 children with type 1 diabetes (cases) and 25 nondiabetic children (controls) were evaluated by a calibrated dentist for oral health indices. A five-ml stimulated saliva sample was taken from each subject and analyzed to determine cytokine levels (IL-6, IL-17, IP-10, TNF-alpha, MMP-2, MMP-9, CRP). Descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and t tests were used.

RESULTS

Diabetic children are observed to have more plaque than control children (P=.007), more calculus (P=.06), and more bleeding on probing (P=.001). Only the level of the mediator IL-17 (P=.002) was higher in diabetic children than in nondiabetic children, but no significant differences were observed in the levels of other cytokines between the two groups. However, for each salivary mediator evaluated, diabetic children had higher levels of the respective mediator.

CONCLUSION

Salivary cytokines levels were higher in diabetic type 1 children than in nondiabetic children.

Tumoral presence of human cytomegalovirus is associated with shorter disease-free survival in elderly patients with colorectal cancer and higher levels of intratumoral interleukin-17

Infectious diseases are closely related to cancer. Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) has been implicated in the promotion of tumour growth, and is present in the tumour specimens of colorectal cancer (CRC). This study aimed to investigate whether tumoral presence of HCMV is associated with a different clinical outcome in elderly patients with CRC. We analysed archived tumour specimens from 95 CRC patients aged ≥65 years. HCMV was detected by PCR. Clinical, pathological, disease-free and overall survival data were compared between patients with HCMV-positive and HCMV-negative tumours. A quantitative RT-PCR array was used to evaluate the expression levels of cytokines genes of T-helper subpopulations in tumours. In the Kaplan-Meier analysis of the 81 patients who underwent curative surgery, 39 patients with HCMV-positive tumours had a lower disease-free survival rate (p 0.024). For patients with stage II or stage III tumours, tumoral HCMV status correlated with disease-free survival more closely than the traditional histopathological staging methods. In a multivariate Cox proportional hazard model, tumoral presence of HCMV independently predicted tumour recurrence in 5 years (hazard ratio 4.42; 95% CI 1.54-12.69, p 0.006). The qRT-PCR analysis of ten stage II tumours showed that the gene expression levels of interleukin-17-the signature cytokine of T-helper 17 cells-and its receptor, interleukin-17 receptor C, were higher in the five HCMV-positive tumours. Our results suggest that the presence of HCMV in CRC is associated with poorer outcome in elderly patients. How the virus interacts with the tumour microenvironment should be further investigated.

T helper 17 and Tregs: a novel proposed mechanism for NB-UVB in vitiligo

Narrowband ultraviolet (NB-UV)B is accepted as corner stone therapy for vitiligo. Its influence on the expression of IL-17, IL- 22 and FoxP3 as markers for the Th17 and Tregs lineages has not been studied before in the context of non-segmental vitiligo (NSV). The study included 20 active NSV patients who received 36 NB-UVB sessions and 20 controls. Clinical evaluation Vitiligo Area Scoring Index (VASI) and determination of tissue expression of IL-17, IL-22 and FoxP3 by qRT-PCR (lesional, perilesional) were carried out before and after therapy. Baseline levels of IL-17 and IL-22 were significantly higher in patients, whereas FoxP3 was significantly lower. After therapy, IL-17 and IL-22 significantly dropped, whereas FoxP3 significantly increased (lesional, perilesional). Baseline and post-treatment VASI showed significant positive correlations with IL-17 and IL-22 and significant negative correlation with FoxP3 expression. Restoration of the balance between Th17 and Tregs might represent a novel pathway for the improvement that NB-UVB exerts in vitiligo patients.

Reduction of peripheral blood T cells producing IFN-γ and IL-17 after therapy with abatacept for rheumatoid arthritis

OBJECTIVES

Abatacept (ABA), a molecule used in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), competes with the engagement of CD28, a T-cell receptor for co-stimulatory signals. CD28-mediated signalling regulates several T-cell functions, including inflammatory cytokine production and regulatory T cells (Treg) differentiation. Therefore, our objective was to evaluate the effects of ABA on peripheral blood T-lymphocyte cytokine production and on the number of circulating Treg.

METHODS

In 24 RA patients treated with ABA for at least 6 months the proportions and absolute numbers of peripheral blood T cells producing interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) and interleukin-17 (IL-17) after in vitro stimulation, as well as those of Treg were longitudinally evaluated by flow cytometry.

RESULTS

At baseline, compared with 16 healthy controls, RA patients had a higher percentage of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells producing IL-17 (p=0.021, and p=0.006, respectively), as well as of circulating Treg (p=0.041). After 6 months of therapy with ABA, there was a decrease of the percentage of IFN-γ- and IL-17-producing CD8+ T cells (p=0.033 and p=0.035, respectively), and of Treg (p=0.008), while that of IL-17-producing CD4+ T cells decreased after 12 months of treatment (p=0.005). The number of IL-17-producing T cells and of Treg, higher than in controls at baseline, normalised after ABA therapy. All these variations were statistically significant only in RA patients with EULAR good clinical response (n=17).

CONCLUSIONS

The blockade of CD28 signal caused by ABA induces the decrease in peripheral blood of IL-17- and IFN-γ-producing T cells.

Severe South American ocular toxoplasmosis is associated with decreased Ifn-γ/Il-17a and increased Il-6/Il-13 intraocular levels

In a cross sectional study, 19 French and 23 Colombian cases of confirmed active ocular toxoplasmosis (OT) were evaluated. The objective was to compare clinical, parasitological and immunological responses and relate them to the infecting strains. A complete ocular examination was performed in each patient. The infecting strain was characterized by genotyping when intraocular Toxoplasma DNA was detectable, as well as by peptide-specific serotyping for each patient. To characterize the immune response, we assessed Toxoplasma protein recognition patterns by intraocular antibodies and the intraocular profile of cytokines, chemokines and growth factors. Significant differences were found for size of active lesions, unilateral macular involvement, unilateral visual impairment, vitreous inflammation, synechiae, and vasculitis, with higher values observed throughout for Colombian patients. Multilocus PCR-DNA sequence genotyping was only successful in three Colombian patients revealing one type I and two atypical strains. The Colombian OT patients possessed heterogeneous atypical serotypes whereas the French were uniformly reactive to type II strain peptides. The protein patterns recognized by intraocular antibodies and the cytokine patterns were strikingly different between the two populations. Intraocular IFN-γ and IL-17 expression was lower, while higher levels of IL-13 and IL-6 were detected in aqueous humor of Colombian patients. Our results are consistent with the hypothesis that South American strains may cause more severe OT due to an inhibition of the protective effect of IFN-γ.

[Changes in IL-17 and TGF-β1 levels in serum and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and their clinical significance among children with asthma]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the changes in the levels of interleukin-17 (IL-17) and transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1) in serum and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and their clinical significance among children with asthma.

METHODS

Fifty-six children with asthma were divided into moderate or severe asthma (n=37) and mild asthma groups (n=19) and 18 children without asthma were selected as the control group. Cells in BALF were counted under a microscope. The levels of IL-17 and TGF-β1 in serum and BALF were measured using ELISA.

RESULTS

were no significant differences in total cell count and percentage of macrophages between the two asthma groups and the control group (P>0.05). The percentages of neutrophils, eosinophils and epithelial cells in BALF were significantly higher in the two asthma groups than in the control group (P<0.05). The two asthma groups had significantly higher levels of IL-17 and TGF-β1 in serum and BALF than the control group (P<0.05), and the moderate or severe asthma group had significantly higher levels of IL-17 and TGF-β1 in serum and BALF than the mild asthma group (P<0.05). Levels of IL-17 and TGF-β1 in serum were significantly positively correlated with those in BALF (r=0.935 and 0.943, P<0.05 for both). In children with asthma, serum IL-17 level was significantly positively correlated with the percentage of neutrophils, eosinophils and epithelial cells in BALF (r=0.802, 0.799, and 0.674, P<0.05 for all), and a significant positive correlation was also seen between serum levels of IL-17 and TGF-β1 (r=0.878, P<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Levels of IL-17 and TGF-β1 in serum and BALF are elevated in children with asthma. IL-17 and TGF-β1 may be involved in the occurrence and development of asthma, and they play important roles in asthma attack and aggravation.

IL-17C and its receptor IL-17RA/IL-17RE identify human oral epithelial cell as an inflammatory cell in recurrent aphthous ulcer

BACKGROUND

Recurrent aphthous ulcer (RAU) is an ulcerative disease of non-keratinized oral mucosa. Colon and bronchial epithelial cells produce interleukin-17C (IL-17C) upon stimulation of Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2), TLR3 and TLR5, which are highly expressed in epithelial cells in RAU lesions. We therefore investigated the eventual presence and function of IL-17C in cultured human oral keratinocytes (HOK) and control biopsies compared to RAU lesions.

METHODS

Expression of IL-17A, IL-17C, IL-17RA and IL-17RE was analysed in cultured HOK cells using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). HOK cells were stimulated with IL-17C and analysed for IL-8 and tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) using qRT-PCR. Control mucosa (n = 5) was immunostained for IL-17A, IL-17C, IL-8, TNF-α and mast cell tryptase and compared with RAU lesions (n = 5) using the mean grey scale value.

RESULTS

IL-17C, but no IL-17A, mRNA was found in cultured HOK cells. Components of the heterodimeric IL-17RA/IL-17RE receptor for IL-17C were also highly expressed. Stimulation of HOK with IL-17C increased TNF-α mRNA (P = 0.03; IL-8 increase was not statistically significant). HOK in RAU lesions stained intensively for IL-17C compared to controls (P = 0.006). This was associated with increased epithelial immunostaining of TNF-α (P = 0.04) and IL-8 (P = 0.02). Most of the inflammatory cells which stained for IL-17A in control mucosa and RAU lesions were also mast cell tryptase positive.

CONCLUSION

IL-17C is highly expressed in epithelial cells in RAU lesions, where it seems to stimulate oral keratinocytes via IL-17RA/IL-17RE to produce pro-inflammatory cytokines. Human oral epithelial cells are probably important inflammatory cells in RAU.

Pathologic finding of increased expression of interleukin-17 in the synovial tissue of rheumatoid arthritis patients

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a common autoimmune disease of chronic systemic inflammatory disorder that will affect multiple tissues and organs such as skin, heart or lungs; but it principally attacks the joints, producing a nonsuppurative inflammatory and proliferative synovitis that often progresses to major damaging of articular cartilage and joint ankylosis. Although the definite etiology is still unknown, recent studies suggest that T-helper cells (Th17) may play a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of RA. And interleukin-17 (IL-17), which is a cytokine of Th17 cells, may be a key factor in the occurrence of RA. The binding of IL-17 to specific receptor results in the expression of fibroblasts, endothelial and epithelial cells and also synthesis of several major factors such as tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), IL-1β that result in the structural damage of RA joints. Though some previous studies have shown that IL-17 exists in the synovium of RA, few has definite proof quantitatively by pathology about its existence in synovial membrane. This study comprised of 30 RA patients and 10 healthy control, pathologic study of the synovial membrane showed increased expression of IL-17 in the synovial tissue of RA patients, the intensity is compatible with clinical severity of disease as validated by DAS28 score and disease duration. Northern blot study also confirmed the increased expression of IL-17 in the synovial tissues. This study sheds further light that IL-17 may be a key factor in the pathogenesis of RA and a determinant of disease severity.

Interleukin 17, interleukin 22 and FoxP3 expression in tissue and serum of non-segmental vitiligo: a case- controlled study on eighty-four patients

BACKGROUND

Skewing of responses towards T helper (Th) 17 and away from T regulatory cells (T-regs) has been suggested to be partially involved in autoimmune diseases like vitiligo.

AIMS

Clarify the possible role and relationship between Th17 and T-regs in vitiligo by measuring tissue, systemic levels of interleukin (IL)-17, IL-22 and Forkhead box P3.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

84 non-segmental vitiligo patients and 80 controls were included. Vitiligo Area Scoring Index, Vitiligo Disease Activity and stress score were determined. Skin biopsies underwent immunohistochemical staining for IL-17, IL-22 and FoxP3 and their systemic levels were determined by ELISA and quantitative real time PCR.

RESULTS

Mean area % of +ve immunostaining and serum levels of IL-17 (34.12 ± 5.12, 23.62 ± 8.17 pg/mL) and IL-22 (48.63 ± 19.23, 43.53 ± 11.95 pg/mL) were significantly higher in patients compared to controls (15.33 ± 4.19, 12.83 ± 3.29 pg/mL) (13.44 ± 3.82, 9.92 ± 4.7 pg/mL) (P<0.001). Mean area % of +ve immunostaining and peripheral blood levels of FoxP3 were significantly lower in patients (2.67 ± 0.54, 0.574 ± 0.32) compared to controls (7.12 ± 0.18, 1.48 ± 0.49) (P<0.001). In patients, a positive correlation between IL-17 and IL-22 was detected (r = 0.671, P<0.001), each showing negative correlation with FoxP3 (r = -0.548, P<0.001), (r = -0.382, P<0.001). VASI, VIDA and stress score correlated positively with IL-17, IL-22 and negatively with FoxP3.

CONCLUSION

Th17 and T-regs are intertwined in the complexity of vitiligo giving hope of treatment through adjuvant therapies controlling the delicate balance between them.

Expression of interleukin-17 associated with disease progression and liver fibrosis with hepatitis B virus infection: IL-17 in HBV infection

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

As a proinflammatory cytokine, interleukin-17 (IL-17) contributes to the inflammation of many autoimmune diseases. We examined IL-17 levels in serum and tissues from patients with chronic hepatitis B virus infection (HBV), and especially evaluated the role of IL-17 in the pathogenesis and progression of liver fibrosis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Whole venous blood was obtained from four patient groups: chronic hepatitis B (CHB, n = 47), liver cirrhosis (LC, n = 49), primary hepatocellular carcinoma (PHC, n = 44), chronic liver failure (CLF, n = 33), and a normal control group (n = 20). HBsAg was positive in all patients. Liver biopsy samples were acquired from asymptomatic HBsAg carriers (ASC, n = 35), CHB (n = 57), and LC (n = 31) patients. We performed ELISA to measure IL-17 levels in serum samples, and used reverse RT-PCR to measure IL-17 mRNA levels in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC). IL-17 protein expression was detected in liver biopsy tissues by immunohistochemistry.

RESULTS

Compared to normal controls, serum IL-17 protein and mRNA levels were significantly higher in the four infection groups. LC patients exhibited the highest serum IL-17 and PBMC mRNA levels. No significant differences were found between the other three groups. High levels of IL-17 were also observed in tissues from CHB and LC patients, compared to ASC. IL-17 expression was mainly located in the portal area and was positively correlated with inflammation grade and fibrosis stage.

CONCLUSIONS

IL-17 expression was found to be increased with increasing degrees of liver fibrosis. This suggests that IL-17 may not only induce the inflammation, but also contribute to disease progression and chronicity.

VIRTUAL SLIDES

The virtual slide(s) for this article can be found here: http://www.diagnosticpathology.diagnomx.eu/vs/5306959258322482.

Programmed cell death 5 correlates with disease activity and interleukin-17 in serum and synovial fluid of rheumatoid arthritis patients

BACKGROUND

Programmed cell death 5 (PDCD5) is a novel apoptotic regulatory gene that promotes apoptosis in various tumor cells. Studies have shown that PDCD5 accelerates the apoptosis of synoviocytes in vitro, implying a potential role in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) pathogenesis. This study examined the expression of PDCD5 in serum and synovial fluid of RA patients, its effect on the expression of inflammatory cytokine, interleukin-17 (IL-17), and the assessment of disease activity in RA.

METHODS

PDCD5 and IL-17 levels in serum and synovial fluid from 18 patients with RA and 22 patients with osteoarthritis (OA) were detected using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Concentrations of serum PDCD5 in 40 healthy people were also detected as controls. As disease activity indices, C-reactive protein (CRP), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), rheumatoid factor (RF), and X-ray grading scale were also evaluated.

RESULTS

Serum and synovial fluid PDCD5 levels in RA patients were significantly higher than those in OA and healthy controls. Serum PDCD5 level was inversely correlated to CRP and ESR, and was significantly higher in the RF negative group than in the positive group. PDCD5 level was also negatively correlated with IL-17 levels both in serum and synovial fluid of RA patients. However, differences in synovial fluid PDCD5 level from RA patients at different Larsen stages were not detectable.

CONCLUSIONS

PDCD5 affects RA pathogenesis. Insufficient apoptosis of fibroblast-like synoviocytes and inflammatory cells in RA could increase the expression of PDCD5 protein. As PDCD5 levels correlated negatively with disease activity indices and IL-17 level, PDCD5 could become a target in the diagnosis and treatment of RA.

Chicken IL-17F: identification and comparative expression analysis in Eimeria-infected chickens

Interleukin-17F (IL-17F) is a proinflammatory cytokine, which plays an important role in gut homeostasis. A full-length chicken IL-17F (chIL-17F) cDNA with a 510-bp coding region was identified from ConA-activated chicken splenic lymphocytes. ChIL-17F shares 53% amino acid sequence identity with the previously described chicken IL-17 (chIL-17A) and 38-43% with mammalian homologues. The locus harboring chIL-17 and chIL-17F displayed inverted order compared to those of mammals. ChIL-17F transcript expression was high in lymphoblast cell line CU205 and at moderate levels in small and large intestines and liver. ChIL-17F and chIL-17 expression profiles were examined by quantitative real-time RT-PCR in mitogen-stimulated splenic lymphocytes and intestinal areas affected by Eimeria maxima and Eimeria tenella infections. Expression levels of chIL-17F, like chIL-17, were elevated in mitogen-activated splenic lymphocytes. ChIL-17F, but not chIL-17, expression was upregulated in intestinal tissues affected by E. maxima and E. tenella infections. Recombinant chIL-17F biological activities were similar to that of chIL-17 in primary chicken embryonic fibroblasts. These results suggest that chIL-17F is a unique member of the IL-17 family of cytokines.

Fractionated irradiations lead to chronic allergic airway inflammation through increasing the influx of macrophages

OBJECTIVE

In our previous study, repeated irradiations showed persistent depression of immune response, especially Th1-related immune response. Here, we hypothesized and determined that irradiation may exacerbate development of allergic airway inflammation.

METHODS

C57BL/6 mice were irradiated repeatedly at 1 Gy or 0.5 Gy. At 6 months after irradiation, mice were sensitized and challenged short-term with OVA. Antigen-specific immunoglobulins, the percentages of inflammatory cells, chemokine expression, cytokine levels, and collagen deposition were tested.

RESULTS

In irradiated mice, IgG2a in serum was lower when compared with that of control mice, while IgG1 was significantly higher. Interestingly, the percentages of macrophages in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and the lung of irradiated mice were significantly higher. Conversely, the percentages of neutrophil were significantly lower in BALF of irradiated mice. In the lung of irradiated mice, MCP-1 and IP-10 for attraction of macrophages showed the higher expression level, but KC expression for neutrophils showed no difference. Next, TGF-β1 and IL-17A in BALF were higher in irradiated mice. In addition, phosphorylated-Smad2/3 was increased in irradiated mice. Finally, the deposition of collagen was increased in irradiated mice.

CONCLUSION

Our study showed that fractionated irradiation lead to the chronic allergic airway inflammation through increasing the influx of macrophages and active TGF-β levels.