Targeted Transcriptomics of Frog Virus 3 in Infected Frog Tissues Reveal Non-Coding Regulatory Elements and microRNAs in the Ranaviral Genome and Their Potential Interaction with Host Immune Response

Background

Frog Virus 3 (FV3) is a large dsDNA virus belonging to Ranaviruses of family Iridoviridae. Ranaviruses infect cold-blood vertebrates including amphibians, fish and reptiles, and contribute to catastrophic amphibian declines. FV3 has a genome at ~105 kb that contains nearly 100 coding genes and 50 intergenic regions as annotated in its reference genome. Previous studies have mainly focused on coding genes and rarely addressed potential non-coding regulatory role of intergenic regions.

Results

Using a whole transcriptomic analysis of total RNA samples containing both the viral and cellular transcripts from FV3-infected frog tissues, we detected virus-specific reads mapping in non-coding intergenic regions, in addition to reads from coding genes. Further analyses identified multiple cis-regulatory elements (CREs) in intergenic regions neighboring highly transcribed coding genes. These CREs include not only a virus TATA-Box present in FV3 core promoters as in eukaryotic genes, but also viral mimics of CREs interacting with several transcription factors including CEBPs, CREBs, IRFs, NF-κB, and STATs, which are critical for regulation of cellular immunity and cytokine responses. Our study suggests that intergenic regions immediately upstream of highly expressed FV3 genes have evolved to bind IRFs, NF-κB, and STATs more efficiently. Moreover, we found an enrichment of putative microRNA (miRNA) sequences in more than five intergenic regions of the FV3 genome. Our sequence analysis indicates that a fraction of these viral miRNAs is targeting the 3'-UTR regions of Xenopus genes involved in interferon (IFN)-dependent responses, including particularly those encoding IFN receptor subunits and IFN-regulatory factors (IRFs).

Conclusions

Using the FV3 model, this study provides a first genome-wide analysis of non-coding regulatory mechanisms adopted by ranaviruses to epigenetically regulate both viral and host gene expressions, which have co-evolved to interact especially with the host IFN response.

Differential expression of interferon-lambda receptor 1 splice variants determines the magnitude of the antiviral response induced by interferon-lambda 3 in human immune cells

Type III interferons (IFN-lambdas(λ)) are important cytokines that inhibit viruses and modulate immune responses by acting through a unique IFN-λR1/IL-10RB heterodimeric receptor. Until now, the primary antiviral function of IFN-λs has been proposed to be at anatomical barrier sites. Here, we examine the regulation of IFN-λR1 expression and measure the downstream effects of IFN-λ3 stimulation in primary human blood immune cells, compared with lung or liver epithelial cells. IFN-λ3 directly bound and upregulated IFN-stimulated gene (ISG) expression in freshly purified human B cells and CD8+ T cells, but not monocytes, neutrophils, natural killer cells, and CD4+ T cells. Despite similar IFNLR1 transcript levels in B cells and lung epithelial cells, lung epithelial cells bound more IFN-λ3, which resulted in a 50-fold greater ISG induction when compared to B cells. The reduced response of B cells could be explained by higher expression of the soluble variant of IFN-λR1 (sIFN-λR1), which significantly reduced ISG induction when added with IFN-λ3 to peripheral blood mononuclear cells or liver epithelial cells. T-cell receptor stimulation potently, and specifically, upregulated membrane-bound IFNLR1 expression in CD4+ T cells, leading to greater antiviral gene induction, and inhibition of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 infection. Collectively, our data demonstrate IFN-λ3 directly interacts with the human adaptive immune system, unlike what has been previously shown in published mouse models, and that type III IFNs could be potentially utilized to suppress both mucosal and blood-borne viral infections.

Analysis of interferon-γ receptor IFNGR1 and IFNGR2 expression and regulation at the maternal-conceptus interface and the role of interferon-γ on endometrial expression of interferon signaling molecules during early pregnancy in pigs

It has long been known that pig conceptuses produce interferon-γ (IFNG) at the time of implantation, but the role of IFNG and its mechanism of action at the maternal-conceptus interface are not fully understood. Accordingly, we analyzed the expression and regulation of IFNG receptors IFNGR1 and IFNGR2 in the endometrium during the estrous cycle and pregnancy in pigs. Levels of IFNGR1 and IFNGR2 messenger RNA (mRNA) expression changed in the endometrium, with the highest levels during mid pregnancy for IFNGR1 and on Day 12 of pregnancy for IFNGR2. The expression of IFNGR1 and IFNGR2 mRNAs was also detected in conceptuses during early pregnancy and chorioallantoic tissues during mid to late pregnancy. IFNGR1 and IFNGR2 mRNAs were localized to endometrial epithelial and stromal cells and to the chorionic membrane during pregnancy. IFNGR2 protein was also localized to endometrial epithelial and stromal cells, and increased epithelial expression of IFNGR2 mRNA and protein was detectable during early pregnancy than the estrous cycle. Explant culture studies showed that estrogen increased levels of IFNGR2, but not IFNGR1, mRNAs, while interleukin-1β did not affect levels of IFNGR1 and IFNGR2 mRNAs. Furthermore, IFNG increased levels of IRF1, IRF2, STAT1, and STAT2 mRNAs in the endometrial explants. These results in pigs indicate that IFNGR1 and IFNGR2 are expressed in a stage of pregnancy- and cell-type specific manner in the endometrium and that sequential cooperative action of conceptus signals estrogen and IFNG may be critical for endometrial responsiveness to IFNs for the establishment of pregnancy in pigs.

Pulmonary C-fiber degeneration downregulates IFN-γ receptor 1 via IFN-α induction to attenuate RSV-induced airway hyperresponsiveness

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a leading cause of respiratory infection in infants. Unfortunately, no effective vaccine or treatment against RSV is currently available. Pulmonary C-fibers (PCFs) are critical for regulating pulmonary inflammation and airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR). We previously reported that IFN-γ partially mediated RSV-induced airway disorders. In this study, we found that PCF degeneration alleviated RSV-induced airway inflammation, especially AHR by downregulating IFN-γ receptor 1 (IFNGR1), but had no effect on IFN-γ induction. In contrast, PCF degeneration actually increased IFN-α/β levels, as were the levels of STAT1 and phosphorylated STAT1 (pSTAT1). Exogenous IFN-α treatment induced STAT1 activation and downregulated IFNGR1 expression. These results suggest that PCFs affect IFNGR1 expression by inducing IFN-α to regulate IFN-γ-mediated airway inflammation and AHR. Thus, targeting PCFs activation may help control RSV-induced airway disorders, especially AHR, even with the presence of inflammation.

White adipose tissue IFN-γ expression and signalling along the progression of rodent cancer cachexia

Cachexia is associated with increased morbidity and mortality in cancer. The White adipose tissue (WAT) synthesizes and releases several pro-inflammatory cytokines that play a role in cancer cachexia-related systemic inflammation. IFN-γ is a pleiotropic cytokine that regulates several immune and metabolic functions. To assess whether IFN-γ signalling in different WAT pads is modified along cancer-cachexia progression, we evaluated IFN-γ receptors expression (IFNGR1 and IFNGR2) and IFN-γ protein expression in a rodent model of cachexia (7, 10, and 14days after tumour implantation). IFN-γ protein expression was heterogeneously modulated in WAT, with increases in the mesenteric pad and decreased levels in the retroperitoneal depot along cachexia progression. Ifngr1 was up-regulated 7days after tumour cell injection in mesenteric and epididymal WAT, but the retroperitoneal depot showed reduced Ifngr1 gene expression. Ifngr2 gene expression was increased 7 and 14days after tumour inoculation in mesenteric WAT. The results provide evidence that changes in IFN-γ expression and signalling may be perceived at stages preceding refractory cachexia, and therefore, might be employed as a means to assess the early stage of the syndrome.

Aging Converts Innate B1a Cells into Potent CD8+ T Cell Inducers

B cell dysregulation in aging is thought to mostly occur in conventional B2 cells without affecting innate B1 cells. Elderly humans and mice also accumulate 4-1BBL(+)MHC class-I(Hi)CD86(Hi)B cells of unknown origin. In this article, we report that these cells, termed 4BL cells, are activated murine and possibly human B1a cells. The activation is mediated by aging human monocytes and murine peritoneal macrophages. They induce expression and activation of 4-1BBL and IFN-γR1 on B1a cells to subsequently upregulate membrane TNF-α and CD86. As a result, activated B1a/4BL cells induce expression of granzyme B in CD8(+)T cells by targeting TNFR2 via membrane TNF-α and providing costimulation with CD86. Thus, for the first time, to our knowledge, these results indicate that aging affects the function of B1a cells. Upon aging, these cells lose their tumor-supporting activity and become inducers of potentially antitumor and autoimmune CD8(+)T cells.

CD8+ T Cells Mediate Female-Dominant IL-4 Production and Airway Inflammation in Allergic Asthma

The prevalence and severity of bronchial asthma are higher in females than in males after puberty. Although antigen-specific CD8+ T cells play an important role in the development of asthma through their suppressive effect on cytokine production, the contribution of CD8+ T cells to sex differences in asthmatic responses remains unclear. In the present study, we investigated the sex-specific effect of CD8+ T cells in the suppression of asthma using an ovalbumin mouse model of asthma. The number of inflammatory cells in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid, lung type 2 T-helper cytokine levels, and interleukin-4 (IL-4) production by bronchial lymph node cells were significantly higher in female wild-type (WT) mice compared with male mice, whereas no such sex differences were observed between male and female cd8α-disrupted mice. The adaptive transfer of male, but not female, CD8+ T cells reduced the number of inflammatory cells in the recovered BAL fluid of male recipient mice, while no such sex difference in the suppressive activity of CD8+ T cells was observed in female recipient mice. Male CD8+ T cells produced higher levels of IFN-γ than female CD8+ T cells did, and this trend was associated with reduced IL-4 production by male, but not female, CD4+ T cells. Interestingly, IFN-γ receptor expression on CD4+ T cells was significantly lower in female mice than in male mice. These results suggest that female-dominant asthmatic responses are orchestrated by the reduced production of IFN-γ by CD8+ T cells and the lower expression of IFN-γ receptor on CD4+ T cells in females compared with males.

IFN-λ is able to augment TLR-mediated activation and subsequent function of primary human B cells

During the past decade, increased emphasis has been placed on finding alternatives to IFN-α-based therapies. One such alternative, IFN-λ, has shown therapeutic promise in a variety of diseases, but research of this family of cytokines has been primarily focused on their antiviral activities. The goal of the present study was to investigate the role of IFN-λ in the regulation and modulation of B cell function. We show that, similar to IFN-α, IFN-λ1 is able to augment TLR-mediated B cell activation, partially attributed to an upregulation of TLR7 expression, and that both naïve and memory B cells express the limiting type III IFN receptor component, IFN-λR1. Furthermore, this IFN-λ-enhanced B cell activation resulted in increased cytokine and Ig production during TLR7 challenge, most prominently after the addition of helper T cell signals. Ultimately, these elevated cytokine and Ig levels could be partially attributed to the increase in proliferation of TLR7-challenged B cells by both type I and type III IFNs. These findings demonstrate the ability of IFN-λ to boost humoral immunity, an important attribute to consider for further studies on immunity to pathogens, vaccine development, and ongoing advancement of therapeutic strategies aimed at replacing IFN-α-based treatments with IFN-λ.

Defective NK Cells in Acute Myeloid Leukemia Patients at Diagnosis Are Associated with Blast Transcriptional Signatures of Immune Evasion

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a heterogeneous group of malignancies that may be sensitive to the NK cell antitumor response. However, NK cells are frequently defective in AML. In this study, we found in an exploratory cohort (n = 46) that NK cell status at diagnosis of AML separated patients in two groups with a different clinical outcome. Patients with a deficient NK cell profile, including reduced expression of some activating NK receptors (e.g., DNAX accessory molecule-1, NKp46, and NKG2D) and decreased IFN-γ production, had a significantly higher risk of relapse (p = 0.03) independently of cytogenetic classification in multivariate analysis. Patients with defective NK cells showed a profound gene expression decrease in AML blasts for cytokine and chemokine signaling (e.g., IL15, IFNGR1, IFNGR2, and CXCR4), Ag processing (e.g., HLA-DRA, HLA-DRB1, and CD74) and adhesion molecule pathways (e.g., PVR and ICAM1). A set of 388 leukemic classifier genes defined in the exploratory cohort was independently validated in a multicentric cohort of 194 AML patients. In total, these data evidenced the interplay between NK cells and AML blasts at diagnosis allowing an immune-based stratification of AML patients independently of clinical classifications.

T-bet is critical for the development of acute graft-versus-host disease through controlling T cell differentiation and function

T-bet is a master regulator for IFN-γ production and Th1 differentiation. We evaluated the roles of T-bet and IFN-γ in T cell responses in acute graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) and found that T-bet(-/-) T cells induced significantly less GVHD compared with wild-type or IFN-γ(-/-) counterparts in both MHC-mismatched and MHC-matched but minor histocompatibility Ag-mismatched models driven by CD4 T cells. T-bet(-/-), but not IFN-γ(-/-), CD4 T cells had a markedly reduced ability to cause tissue damage in liver and gut. This distinct outcome is reflected by the differential gene expression on donor CD4 T cells deficient for T-bet or IFN-γ. At mRNA and protein levels, we defined several T-bet-dependent molecules that may account for the impaired ability of T-bet(-/-) T cells to migrate into target organs and to produce Th1-related cytokines. Moreover, these molecules were independent of either endogenous IFN-γ, such as CXCR3 and programmed death-1, or systematic IFN-γ, such as NKG2D, I-A(b), and granzyme B. Although both T-bet(-/-) and IFN-γ(-/-) CD4 T cells are prone to differentiate into Th17 cells, polarized Th17 cells deficient for T-bet but not for IFN-γ had a significantly reduced ability to cause GVHD. Finally, T-bet(-/-) T cells had a compromised graft-versus-leukemia effect, which could be essentially reversed by neutralization of IL-17 in the recipients. We conclude that T-bet is required for Th1 differentiation and migration, as well as for optimal function of Th17 cells. Thus, targeting T-bet or regulating its downstream effectors independent of IFN-γ may be a promising strategy to control GVHD in the clinic.

Human monocytes have increased IFN-γ-mediated IL-15 production with age alongside altered IFN-γ receptor signaling

IL-15 is involved in regulating host defense and inflammation. Monocytes produce the biologically active cell surface IL-15 in response to IFN-γ. Although aging can alter the immune system, little is known about whether and how aging affects IFN-γ-mediated IL-15 production in human monocytes. We showed that monocytes of healthy older adults (age ≥ 65) had increased cell surface IL-15 expression in response to IFN-γ compared to those of healthy young adults (age ≤ 40). This finding stems in part from increased IFN-γ receptor (R)1/2 expression on monocytes in older adults, leading to enhanced STAT1 activation and interferon regulatory factor 1 synthesis with increased IL15 gene expression. Our study suggests that with aging the IFN-γ-mediated IL-15 production pathway in human monocytes is uncompromised, but rather augmented, and could be considered as a therapeutic target point to modulate host defense and inflammation in older adults.

Sodium butyrate inhibits interferon-gamma induced indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase expression via STAT1 in nasopharyngeal carcinoma cells

AIMS

Indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) inhibits T-cell proliferation by catalyzing the conversion of l-tryptophan to l-kynurenine. IDO-induced immune tolerance weakens the clinical outcomes of immunotherapies. Sodium butyrate (NaB), one of the histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACIs), has potential anti-tumor effects. Our previous studies revealed that NaB could inhibit IFN-γ induced IDO expression in nasopharyngeal carcinoma cells, CNE2. In the present study, we aim to investigate to the mechanism of NaB interfering with the interferon-gamma (IFN-γ)-mediated IDO expression signaling transduction.

MAIN METHODS

IDO expression and STAT1 phosphorylation in CNE2 cells were analyzed by western blotting and STAT1 acetylation was evaluated by immunoprecipitation. STAT1 nuclear translocation and NF-κB activity were detected by transient transfection and reporter gene assay.

KEY FINDINGS

We found that NaB inhibited IFN-γ-induced IDO expression in CNE2 cells via decreasing phosphorylation and nuclear translocation of STAT1, but not via down-regulation of IFN-γ-receptor (IFNGR). Immunoprecipitation assays revealed that NaB increased STAT1 acetylation. Furthermore, NaB elevated the activity of NF-κB in CNE2 cells, and blocking the NF-κB activity had no effect on the IFN-γ-induced IDO expression.

SIGNIFICANCE

These results suggest that NaB inhibited IFN-γ-induced IDO expression via STAT1 increased acetylation, decreased phosphorylation, and reduced nuclear translocation. These provided new evidence for the anti-tumor action of NaB and potential drug targets to reduce the IDO-induced immune tolerance.

Cord-blood-derived mesenchymal stromal cells downmodulate CD4+ T-cell activation by inducing IL-10-producing Th1 cells

The mechanisms by which mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) induce immunomodulation are still poorly understood. In the current work, we show by a combination of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) array, flow cytometry, and multiplex cytokine data analysis that during the inhibition of an alloantigen-driven CD4+ T-cell response, MSCs induce a fraction of CD4+ T-cells to coexpress interferon-γ (IFNγ) and interleukin-10 (IL-10). This CD4+ IFNγ+ IL-10+ cell population shares properties with recently described T-cells originating from switched Th1 cells that start producing IL-10 and acquire a regulatory function. Here we report that IL-10-producing Th1 cells accumulated with time during T-cell stimulation in the presence of MSCs. Moreover, MSCs caused stimulated T-cells to downregulate the IFNγ receptor (IFNγR) without affecting IL-10 receptor expression. Further, the inhibitory effect of MSCs could be reversed by an anti-IFNγR-blocking antibody, indicating that IFNγ is one of the major players in MSC-induced T-cell suppression. Stimulated (and, to a lesser extent, resting) CD4+ T-cells treated with MSCs were able to inhibit the proliferation of autologous CD4+ T-cells, demonstrating their acquired regulatory properties. Altogether, our results suggest that the generation of IL-10-producing Th1 cells is one of the mechanisms by which MSCs can downmodulate an immune response.

Type III interferons, IL-28 and IL-29, are increased in chronic HCV infection and induce myeloid dendritic cell-mediated FoxP3+ regulatory T cells

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is difficult to eradicate and type III interferons (IFN-λ, composed of IL-28A, IL-28B and IL-29) are novel therapeutic candidates. We hypothesized that IFN-λ have immunomodulatory effects in HCV- infected individuals.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We analyzed the expression of IFN-λ and its receptor (composed of IL-10R2 and IFN-λR subunits) in the blood and livers of patients with chronic (c)HCV infection compared to controls (those who cleared HCV by sustained virological response, SVR, and those with liver inflammation of non-viral origin, non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, NASH). We also compared the proliferative capacity of dendritic cells (DCs) obtained from healthy individuals and those with chronic HCV using a mixed leukocyte reaction combined with 3H-Td incorporation. In addition, the composition of the IFN-λ receptor (IFN-λR) on myeloid DCs, plasmacytoid DCs, PBMCs, and T cells was determined by FACS analysis.

RESULTS

We report that the expression of IFN-λ protein in serum and mRNA in liver is increased in cHCV patients, but not in those with HCV SVR or NASH, compared to controls. Liver level of IFN-λR mirrored the expression of serum IFN-λ and was higher in cHCV, compared to controls and HCV-SVR patients, suggesting that elevation of IFN-λ and IFN-λR are HCV-dependent. We further identified that innate immune cell populations expressed complete IFN-λ receptor. In vitro, recombinant IFN-λ promoted differentiation of monocyte-derived dendritic cells (DCs) into a phenotype with low T cell stimulatory capacity and high PD-L1 expression, which further promoted expansion of existing regulatory T cells. IFN-λ-DCs failed to induce de novo generation of regulatory T cells. The inhibitory capacity of IFN-λ-DCs was counteracted by recombinant IL-12 and by neutralization of the PD-1/PD-L1 system.

CONCLUSIONS

Our novel findings of the immunomodulatory effect of IFN-λ contribute to the understanding of the anti-inflammatory and/or anti-viral potential of IFN-λ in cHCV.

Role of caspases in cytokine-induced barrier breakdown in human brain endothelial cells

During neuroinflammation, cytokines such as TNF-α and IFN-γ secreted by activated leukocytes and/or CNS resident cells have been shown to alter the phenotype and function of brain endothelial cells (BECs) leading to blood-brain barrier breakdown. In this study, we show that the human BEC line hCMEC/D3 expresses the receptors for TNF-α, TNF receptor 1 and TNF receptor 2, and for IFN-γ. BEC activation with TNF-α alone or in combination with IFN-γ induced endothelial leakage of paracellular tracers. At high cytokine concentrations (10 and 100 ng/ml), this effect was associated with caspase-3/7 activation and apoptotic cell death as evidenced by annexin V staining and DNA fragmentation (TUNEL) assays. In addition, inhibition of JNK and protein kinase C activation at these doses partially prevented activation of caspase-3/7, although only JNK inhibition was partially able to prevent the increase in BEC paracellular permeability induced by cytokines. By contrast, lower cytokine concentrations (1 ng/ml) also led to effector caspase activation, increased paracellular flux, and redistribution of zonula occludens-1 and VE-cadherin but failed to induce apoptosis. Under these conditions, specific caspase-3 and caspase-9, but not caspase-8, inhibitors partially blocked cytokine-induced disruption of tight and adherens junctions and BEC paracellular permeability. Our results suggest that the concentration of cytokines in the CNS endothelial microenvironment determines the extent of caspase-mediated barrier permeability changes, which may be generalized as a result of apoptosis or more subtle as a result of alterations in the organization of junctional complex molecules.

Drug-resistance gene expression and progression of astrocytic tumors

To clarify the influence of biochemotherapy on the progression of astrocytic tumors, the expression of O6-methylguanine DNA-methyltransferase (MGMT) mRNA, as well as of other drug-resistance- and drug-sensitivity-related genes such as multidrug resistance gene 1, multidrug resistance-associated protein, glutathione S-transferase-pi, DNA topoisomerase II, and interferon receptor mRNA, and the interferon regulatory factor (IRF)-1 and -2 ratios in gliomas were investigated by quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). The mean MGMT/beta2-microglobulin (beta2-MG) ratio for 130 neuroepithelial tumors was 8.2 +/- 17.8. The mean ratio of 45 glioblastomas was significantly higher than that for the other 85 tumors. In contrast, the mean of 26 low-grade gliomas was significantly lower than that of other tumors. The mean IRF-1/IRF-2 ratio of 16 other brain tumors that mainly consisted of medulloblastomas was significantly greater than that of the other 114 tumors. Almost no significant differences were observed between primary and recurrent tumors in the expression of any gene, and before and after therapy with corresponding drugs. The mean MGMT/beta2-MG ratio in primary glioblastomas was significantly higher than that in secondary tumors. These findings suggest that native drug resistance is more important than acquired resistance when glioma therapy is considered.

Reduced IFN-γ receptor expression and attenuated IFN-γ response by dendritic cells in patients with atopic dermatitis

BACKGROUND

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is characterized by a predominance of T(H)2 immune reactions but weaker T(H)1 immune responses in acute skin lesions.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate whether enhanced T(H)2 immunity in patients with AD might impair T(H)1 immune responses by affecting the IFN-γ responsiveness of antigen-presenting cells, we investigated IFN-γ receptor and IL-4 receptor α chain expression, IFN-γ signaling, and the expression of IFN-γ-responsive mediators in dendritic cells (DCs) and their precursors from patients with AD compared with those from healthy subjects.

METHODS

Skin biopsy specimens were obtained and both monocytes and monocyte-derived dendritic cells (MoDCs) from patients with AD (n = 86) and control subjects (n = 84) were analyzed by means of flow cytometry, real-time PCR, ELISA, and HPLC.

RESULTS

We observed lower IFN-γ receptor II expression combined with higher IL-4 receptor α chain expression on epidermal DCs, monocytes, and MoDCs from patients with AD. Induction of IFN-γ-inducible factors, such as interferon regulatory factor 1, interferon-inducible protein 10, and indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase, was attenuated in IFN-γ-pulsed MoDCs from patients with AD. Weaker signal transducer and activator of transcription 1 activation mirrored by lower phosphorylated signal transducer and activator of transcription 1 levels in response to IFN-γ stimulation could be observed in epidermal DCs, monocytes, and MoDCs from patients with AD.

CONCLUSION

Impaired IFN-γ signaling together with attenuated IFN-γ responses in DCs and their precursor cells might contribute to the T(H)2 bias in patients with AD.

An experimental study on the therapy of infantile hemangioma with recombinant interferon γ

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE

The purpose of this investigation was to study the effect of interferon γ (IFN-γ) in the treatment of infantile hemangioma.

METHODS

Hemangioma tissue excised from a 4-month-old female infant who underwent surgery were separated into small nubs (4 × 4 × 5mm(3)) and implanted subcutaneously into nude mice (2 nubs per mouse). Thirty-two surviving hemangioma nubs were randomly divided into 2 groups, an IFN-γ-administered group (16) and a control group (16). Interferon γ or saline solution was injected subcutaneously, and the growth of hemangioma in the nude mice was monitored. Proliferation and apoptosis of hemangioma were tested by immunohistochemistry and real-time polymerase chain reaction.

RESULTS

Seven days after IFN-γ injection, the hemangiomas in the IFN-γ-administered group were significantly smaller than that in the control group (P < .01). The proliferation cytokine Ki-67 mRNA in the IFN-γ group was significantly lower than that in the control group (P < .05). DAPK-1 mRNA in the IFN-γ group was significantly higher than that in the control group (P < .05). Cell apoptosis expression in the IFN-γ group was significantly more than that in controls (P < .05).

CONCLUSIONS

Exogenous IFN-γ can treat hemangioma effectively in a nude mice model. Its mechanism was closely related to both inhibition of hemangioma proliferation and acceleration of its apoptosis.

Cultured adult porcine astrocytes and microglia express functional interferon-γ receptors and exhibit toxicity towards SH-SY5Y cells

In vitro cultures of various glial cell types are common systems used to model neuroinflammatory processes associated with age-dependent human neurodegenerative diseases. Even though most researchers choose to use neonatal rodent brain tissues as the source of glial cells, there are significant variations in glial cell functions that are species and age dependent. It has been established that human and swine immune systems have a number of similarities, which suggests that cultured porcine microglia and astrocytes may be good surrogates for human glial cell types. Here we describe a method that could be used to prepare more than 90% pure microglia and astrocyte cultures derived from adult porcine tissues. We demonstrate that both microglia and astrocytes derived from adult porcine brains express functional interferon-γ receptors (IFN-γ-R) and CD14. They become toxic towards SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells when exposed to proinflammatory mediators. Upon such stimulation with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and interferon-γ (IFN-γ), adult porcine microglia, but not astrocytes, secrete tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) while both cell types do not secrete detectable levels of nitric oxide (NO). Comparison of our experimental data with previously published studies indicates that adult porcine glial cultures have certain functional characteristics that make them similar to human glial cells. Therefore adult porcine glial cells may be a useful model system for studies of human diseases associated with adulthood and advanced age. Adult porcine tissues are relatively easy to obtain in most countries and could be used as a reliable and inexpensive source of cultured cells.

In vivo analysis of Ifn-γ1 and Ifn-γ2 signaling in zebrafish

The zebrafish genome contains a large number of genes encoding potential cytokine receptor genes as judged by homology to mammalian receptors. The sequences are too divergent to allow unambiguous assignments of all receptors to specific cytokines, and only a few have been assigned functions by functional studies. Among receptors for class II helical cytokines-i.e., IFNs that include virus-induced Ifns (Ifn-) and type II Ifns (Ifn-γ), together with Il-10 and its related cytokines (Il-20, Il-22, and Il-26)-only the Ifn--specific complexes have been functionally identified, whereas the receptors for the two Ifn-γ (Ifn-γ1 and Ifn-γ2) are unknown. In this work, we identify conditions in which Ifn-γ1 and Ifn-γ2 (also called IFNG or IFN-γ and IFN-gammarel) are induced in fish larvae and adults. We use morpholino-mediated loss-of-function analysis to screen candidate receptors and identify the components of their receptor complexes. We find that Ifn-γ1 and Ifn-γ2 bind to different receptor complexes. The receptor complex for Ifn-γ2 includes cytokine receptor family B (Crfb)6 together with Crfb13 and Crfb17, whereas the receptor complex for Ifn-γ1 does not include Crfb6 or Crfb13 but includes Crfb17. We also show that of the two Jak2 paralogues present in the zebrafish Jak2a but not Jak2b is involved in the intracellular transmission of the Ifn-γ signal. These results shed new light on the evolution of the Ifn-γ signaling in fish and tetrapods and contribute toward an integrated view of the innate immune regulation in vertebrates.

Antagonistic crosstalk between type I and II interferons and increased host susceptibility to bacterial infections

Type I and II interferons (IFNs αβ and γ) have opposing effects on immune resistance to certain pathogenic bacteria. While IFNγ generally plays a protective role, IFNαβ exacerbates Listeria monocytogenes and Mycobacterium tuberculosis infections. Our findings provided evidence that this increased susceptibility reflects a novel antagonistic cross talk between IFNαβ and IFNγ. Macrophages infected with L. monocytogenes strains that induce IFNαβ production responded poorly to IFNγ, as measured by reduced phosphorylation of STAT1 and reduced IFNγ-dependent gene expression. The impaired responsiveness to IFNγ correlated with reduced expression of its receptor, IFNGR, by both infected and bystander macrophages. Down regulation of IFNGR was dependent on responsiveness to IFNγ and mimicked by recombinant IFNβ. Mice lacking responsiveness to IFNαβ (IFNAR1 (-/-)) retained high IFNGR expression, developed higher expression of MHC-II on macrophages and DCs, and were more resistant to systemic L. monocytogenes infection--but only in the presence of IFNγ. Thus, the ability of IFNαβ to down regulate IFNGR provides an explanation for its ability to reduce responsiveness to IFNγ and to increase host susceptibility to bacterial infection. It remains to be determined whether and how such antagonistic interferon crosstalk benefits the host.

Abnormalities in intracellular processing and expression of interferon-gamma receptor in adherent cells from lepromatous leprosy patients

Peripheral blood mononuclear cells in lepromatous leprosy (LL) patients produce low levels of interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) and interleukin-12 (IL-12), and these cells exhibit partial or complete deficiency in the IL-12 receptor. The behavior of the IFN-gamma receptor (IFN-gamma R) has not been described in cells from people with leprosy. We found higher levels of mRNA for IFN-gamma R1 and IFN-gamma R2 in adherent cells stimulated with IFN-gamma and Mycobacterium leprae membrane proteins from LL patients compared with healthy subjects. Flow cytometry showed no significant difference in IFN-gamma R1 expression between LL patients and healthy subjects. Immunoblotting detected only the mature glycosylated form of the 61-67 kDa IFN-gamma R2 protein in healthy subjects. In contrast, cells from LL patients showed three different expression patterns: (1) the immature deglycosylated form of the 34.8 kDa IFN-gamma R2 protein, (2) the mature glycosylated 61-67 kDa form, and (3) both forms. Our data indicate the existence of abnormalities in the intracellular processing and protein expression of the IFN-gamma R in response to specific stimuli such as IFN-gamma and M. leprae membrane proteins in adherent cells of LL patients.

Influences of interferon-gamma on cell proliferation and interleukin-6 production in Down syndrome derived fibroblasts

OBJECTIVE

Down syndrome, a frequently encountered genetic disorder, is usually associated with medical problems related to infectious disease, such as periodontal diseases and prolonged wound healing. Although affected individuals are considered to have clinical problems related to high interferon (IFN) sensitivity, the molecular mechanisms of IFN activities are not completely understood.

DESIGN

Down syndrome derived fibroblasts, Detroit 539 (D1) and Hs 52.Sk (D2) cells, were used. To analyse the expressions of interferon (IFN) receptors and downstream of IFN-gamma, western blotting was performed. Cell proliferation was determined by counting cells following trypan blue staining. Media levels of IL-1beta, TNF-alpha, and IL-6 were quantified using ELISA.

RESULTS

IFN-gamma receptor 2 and IFN-alpha receptor 1, but not IFN-gamma receptor 1, were highly expressed in D1 and D2 cells, as compared to the control fibroblast cells. Cell proliferation by D1 and D2 cells was lower than that by the control fibroblasts, further, IFN-gamma had a greater effect to inhibit cell proliferation by D1 and D2 cells. In addition, IFN-gamma treatment increased the phosphorylation of STAT1 and MAPK in D1 cells as compared to normal fibroblasts. Also, the presence of exogenous IFN-gamma in the growth medium significantly induced IL-6, but not IL-1beta or TNF-alpha, in D1 and D2 cells.

CONCLUSION

Taken together, our results are consistent with hypersensitive reactions to IFN-gamma seen in patients with Down syndrome and may provide useful information to elucidate the mechanisms of IFN-gamma activities in those individuals.

CD4+CD25+ T cells alloactivated ex vivo by IL-2 or IL-4 become potent alloantigen-specific inhibitors of rejection with different phenotypes, suggesting separate pathways of activation by Th1 and Th2 responses

CD4(+)CD25(+)Foxp3(+) T cells are regulatory/suppressor cells (Tregs) that include non-antigen (Ag)-specific as well as Ag-specific Tregs. How non-Ag-specific naive CD4(+)CD25(+) Treg develop into specific Tregs is unknown. Here, we generated adaptive Tregs by culture of naive CD4(+)CD25(+)Foxp3(+) T cells with allo-Ag and either interleukin-2 (IL-2) or IL-4. Within days, IL-2 enhanced interferon-gamma receptor (Ifngammar) and Il-5 mRNA and IL-4 induced a reciprocal profile with de novo IL-5Ralpha and increased IFN-gamma mRNA expression. Both IL-2- and IL-4-alloactivated CD4(+)CD25(+) Tregs within 3 to 4 days of culture had enhanced capacity to induce tolerance to specific donor but not to third-party cardiac allografts. These hosts became tolerant as allografts functioned more than 250 days, with a physiologic ratio of less than 10% CD4(+)CD25(+)Foxp3(+) T cells in the CD4(+) population. CD4(+)CD25(+) T cells from tolerant hosts given IL-2-cultured cells had increased Il-5 and Ifngammar mRNA. Those from hosts given IL-4-cultured cells had enhanced IL-5Ralpha mRNA expression and IL-5 enhanced their proliferation to donor but not third-party allo-Ag. Thus, IL-2 and IL-4 activated allo-Ag-specific Tregs with distinct phenotypes that were retained in vivo. These findings suggested that T-helper 1 (Th1) and Th2 responses activate 2 pathways of adaptive Ag-specific Tregs that mediate tolerance. We propose they be known as T-suppressor 1 (Ts1) and Ts2 cells.

IFN-gamma dictates allograft fate via opposing effects on the graft and on recipient CD8 T cell responses

CD8 T cells are necessary for costimulation blockade-resistant rejection. However, the mechanism by which CD8 T cells mediate rejection in the absence of major costimulatory signals is poorly understood. IFN-gamma promotes CD8 T cell-mediated immune responses, but IFN-gamma-deficient mice show early graft loss despite costimulation blockade. In contrast, we found that IFN-gamma receptor knockout mice show dramatically prolonged graft survival under costimulation blockade. To investigate this paradox, we addressed the effects of IFN-gamma on T cell alloresponses in vivo independent of the effects of IFN-gamma on graft survival. We identified a donor-specific CD8 T cell breakthrough response temporally correlated with costimulation blockade-resistant rejection. Neither IFN-gamma receptor knockout recipients nor IFN-gamma-deficient recipients showed a CD8 breakthrough response. Graft death on IFN-gamma-deficient recipients despite costimulation blockade could be explained by the lack of IFN-gamma available to act on the graft. Indeed, the presence of IFN-gamma was necessary for graft survival on IFN-gamma receptor knockout recipients, as either IFN-gamma neutralization or the lack of the IFN-gamma receptor on the graft precipitated early graft loss. Thus, IFN-gamma is required both for the recipient to mount a donor-specific CD8 T cell response under costimulation blockade as well as for the graft to survive after allotransplantation.

Negative feedback regulation of IFN-gamma pathway by IFN regulatory factor 2 in esophageal cancers

IFN-gamma is an antitumor cytokine that inhibits cell proliferation and induces apoptosis after engagement with the IFN-gamma receptors (IFNGR) expressed on target cells, whereas IFN regulatory factor 2 (IRF-2) is able to block the effects of IFN-gamma by repressing transcription of IFN-gamma-induced genes. Thus far, few studies have explored the influences of IFN-gamma on human esophageal cancer cells. In the present study, therefore, we investigated in detail the functions of IFN-gamma in esophageal cancer cells. The results in clinical samples of human esophageal cancers showed that the level of IFN-gamma was increased in tumor tissues and positively correlated with tumor progression and IRF-2 expression, whereas the level of IFNGR1 was decreased and negatively correlated with tumor progression and IRF-2 expression. Consistently, in vitro experiments showed that low concentration of IFN-gamma induced the expression of IRF-2 with potential promotion of cell growth, and moreover, IRF-2 was able to suppress IFNGR1 transcription in human esophageal cancer cells by binding a specific motif in IFNGR1 promoter, which lowered the sensitivity of esophageal cancer cells to IFN-gamma. Taken together, our results disclosed a new IRF-2-mediated inhibitory mechanism for IFN-gamma-induced pathway in esophageal cancer cells: IFN-gamma induced IRF-2 up-regulation, then up-regulated IRF-2 decreased endogenous IFNGR1 level, and finally, the loss of IFNGR1 turned to enhance the resistance of esophageal cancer cells to IFN-gamma. Accordingly, the results implied that IRF-2 might act as a mediator for the functions of IFN-gamma and IFNGR1 in human esophageal cancers.

Gamma interferon-independent effects of interleukin-12 on immunity to Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium

Interleukin-12 (IL-12) and IL-18 are both central to the induction of gamma interferon (IFN-gamma), and various roles for IL-12 and IL-18 in control of intracellular microbial infections have been demonstrated. We used IL-12p40(-/-) and IL-18(-/-) mice to further investigate the role of IL-12 and IL-18 in control of Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium. While C57BL/6 and IL-18(-/-) mice were able to resolve attenuated S. enterica serovar Typhimurium infections, the IL-12p40(-/-) mice succumbed to a high bacterial burden after 60 days. Using ovalbumin (OVA)-specific T-cell receptor transgenic T cells (OT-II cells), we demonstrated that following oral infection with recombinant S. enterica serovar Typhimurium expressing OVA, the OT-II cells proliferated in the mesenteric lymph nodes of C57BL/6 and IL-18(-/-) mice but not in IL-12p40(-/-) mice. In addition, we demonstrated by flow cytometry that equivalent or increased numbers of T cells produced IFN-gamma in IL-12p40(-/-) mice compared with the numbers of T cells that produced IFN-gamma in C57BL/6 and IL-18(-/-) mice. Finally, we demonstrated that removal of macrophages from S. enterica serovar Typhimurium-infected C57BL/6 and IL-12p40(-/-) mice did not affect the bacterial load, suggesting that impaired control of S. enterica serovar Typhimurium infection in the absence of IL-12p40 is not due to reduced macrophage bactericidal activities, while IL-18(-/-) mice did rely on the presence of macrophages for control of the infection. Our results suggest that IL-12p40, but not IL-18, is critical to resolution of infections with attenuated S. enterica serovar Typhimurium and that especially the effects of IL-12p40 on proliferative responses of CD4+ T cells, but not the ability of these cells to produce IFN-gamma, are important in the resolution of infection by this intracellular bacterial pathogen.

Direct interferon-gamma signaling dramatically enhances CD4+ and CD8+ T cell memory

Studies in IFN-gamma-deficient mice suggest that the delivery of IFN-gamma to CD8(+) T cells early in virus infection programs their eventual contraction, thereby reducing the abundance of CD8(+) memory T cells. In this study, we show that such mice fail to completely eliminate virus infection and that, when evaluated without the confounding factor of persisting Ag, both CD4(+) and CD8(+) T cells undergo profound contraction when they are unable to receive IFN-gamma signals. Furthermore, the abundance of CD4(+) and CD8(+) memory cells that express the IFN-gamma receptor is approximately 100-fold higher than cells lacking this molecule. Thus, direct IFN-gamma signaling is not required for T cell contraction during virus infection, and it enhances, rather than suppresses, the development of virus-specific CD4(+) and CD8(+) T cell memory.

Cytokine modulation of muscarinic receptors in the murine intestine

The extent to which gut motility and smooth muscle contractility are altered by intestinal inflammation depends on the nature of the underlying immune activation. The muscarinic receptor on smooth muscle plays a critical role in mediating acetylcholine-driven motor function. We examined the ability of cytokines to influence muscarinic receptor characteristics on intestinal longitudinal muscle and related the findings to studies on carbachol-induced contraction. Cells were isolated from longitudinal muscle myenteric plexus (LMMP). Cytokine receptor expression, muscle contractility, and muscarinic agonist receptor characteristics were examined by agonist displacement of [N-methyl-(3)H]scopolamine ([(3)H]NMS) binding. The TGF-beta1 receptor (543 bp) and the IFN-gamma receptor 1 (660 bp) were identified on smooth muscle cells. Scatchard analysis revealed dissociation constant and maximum binding values for [(3)H]NMS of 2.6 nM and 2.4 x 10(4) sites/cell, respectively, in control cells. Nematode infection was accompanied by a reduction in inhibitory constant of the high-affinity sites (K(H)), and this was independent of signal transduction and activator of transcription 6. Preincubation with TGF-beta1 enhanced longitudinal muscle contractility and decreased the K(H) to 2.2 pM (increased muscarinic receptor affinity), whereas preincubation with IFN-gamma increased the K(H) to 0.4 muM (decreased muscarinic receptor affinity) and decreased longitudinal muscle contractility. Preincubation of LMMP with IL-13 decreased the K(H) to 0.2 nM. Cytokines exert differential effects on the muscarinic receptor on intestinal longitudinal smooth muscle. These findings explain the basis for altered muscle contractility observed in Th1 and Th2 models of inflammation, as well as in the post-nematode-infected state.

Staphylococcal enterotoxin B in vivo modulates both gamma interferon receptor expression and ligand-induced activation of signal transducer and activator of transcription 1 in T cells

Superantigens (SAg) are bacterial exotoxins that provoke extreme responses in the immune system; for example, the acute hyperactivation of SAg-reactive T cells that leads to toxic shock syndrome is followed within days by strong immunosuppression. The gamma interferon (IFN-gamma) response is deeply affected in both extremes. The implication of IFN-gamma in the pathophysiology of lethal shock induced in mice after a secondary challenge with the SAg staphylococcal enterotoxin B (SEB) prompted us to study the regulation of IFN-gamma secretion and the intracellular response. We demonstrate in this study that a rechallenge with SEB becomes lethal only when given inside a critical time window after SEB priming and is associated with an increase of IFN-gamma serum release 72 h after priming. However, at this time, a selective blockade of IFN-gamma/STAT1 signaling develops in spleen cells, correlating with a lack of expression of the IFN-gamma receptor beta subunit and STAT1 in the T-cell population. Selective blockade of the STAT1 signaling pathway--while simultaneously maintaining STAT3 signaling and expression--may be a protective mechanism that shortens IFN-gamma production during the Th1 effector response. This blockade may also have consequences on switching towards a suppressor phenotype with chronic exposure to the superantigen.

B7H1-Ig fusion protein activates the CD4+ IFN-gamma receptor+ type 1 T regulatory subset through IFN-gamma-secreting Th1 cells

It has been demonstrated in our previous work that, in the human skin-grafting model, the expression of costimulatory molecule B7H1 (PD-L1) by keratinocytes plays an essential role in inducing local tolerance via activation of IL-10-secreting T cells. This study further analyzes the role of B7H1 in differentiation of type 1 T regulatory (Tr1) cells and explores underlying mechanisms. Mouse fusion protein B7H1-Ig is used, together with immobilized anti-CD3 mAb, to costimulate the purified naive CD4+ T cells. B7H1-Ig-treated CD4+ T cells were found to activate a characteristic Tr1 population possessing a CD4+ CD25- Foxp3- CD45RBlow phenotype. These regulatory T cells strongly inhibited the Th1-dominated MLR by secretion of IL-10 and TGF-beta. Moreover, B7H1-treated Tr1 cells also resulted in suppressed clinical scores and demyelination when adoptively transferred into mice with experimental allergic encephalomyelitis. Furthermore, analysis of the cytokine profile indicated that there were two differential reaction patterns during the B7H1-Ig-induced Tr1 development. These two patterns were characterized by activation of IFN-gammaR+ IL-10R- Th1 and IFN-gammaR+ IL-10R+ Tr1 cells, respectively. Secretion of IFN-gamma by Th1 and the expression of IFN-gammaR on Tr1 were critical for further Tr1 differentiation, as demonstrated by mAb blocking and by analysis in IFN-gamma(-/-) mice. In conclusion, B7H1 is capable of inducing Tr1 differentiation from naive CD4+ T cells by coactivation in an IFN-gamma- or Th1-dependent manner. Our study may shed some light upon the clinical usage of B7H1 as a therapeutic reagent for induction of tolerance.

The antineoplastic agent bryostatin-1 differentially regulates IFN-gamma receptor subunits in monocytic cells: transcriptional and posttranscriptional control of IFN-gamma R2

Bryostatin-1 (Bryo-1) is a potent ligand and modulator of protein kinase C that exerts antineoplastic and immunomodulatory activities both in vitro and in vivo. We have previously reported that Bryo-1 synergized with IFN-gamma to induce NO synthase and NO by macrophages. To determine whether this effect was associated with changes in levels of IFN-gammaR, we investigated the effects of Bryo-1 on the expression and regulation of IFN-gammaR chains in monocytic cells. Northern blot analysis revealed that Bryo-1 treatment of the human monocytic cell lines MonoMac6 and THP-1 and human monocytes enhanced the expression of IFN-gammaR2 mRNA but did not affect IFN-gammaR1 mRNA expression. Bryo-1 increased IFN-gammaR2 mRNA in a dose-dependent manner as early as 3 h posttreatment. Bryo-1-induced up-regulation of IFN-gammaR2 mRNA levels is not dependent on de novo protein synthesis as shown by cell treatment with the protein-synthesis inhibitor cycloheximide. Bryo-1 treatment increased the IFN-gammaR2 mRNA half-life by 2 h. EMSA analysis from Bryo-1-treated MonoMac6 cells showed an increased nuclear protein binding to the NF-kappaB motif present in the 5' flanking region of the human IFN-gammaR2 promoter that was markedly decreased by pretreatment with the NF-kappaB inhibitor SN50. These results show for the first time that Bryo-1 up-regulates IFN-gammaR2 expression in monocytic cells. Given the pivotal role that IFN-gamma exerts on monocyte activation and in the initiation and outcome of the immune response, the induction of IFN-gammaR2 by Bryo-1 has significant implications in immunomodulation and could overcome some of the immune defects observed in cancer patients.

Altered expression and activation of signal transducers and activators of transcription (STATs) in hepatitis C virus infection: in vivo and in vitro studies

BACKGROUND

Signal transducers and activators of transcription (STATs) play a critical role in antiviral defence. STAT3 is also important in cell protection against inflammatory damage. STAT proteins are activated by interferons and by hepatoprotective cytokines of the interleukin 6 superfamily, including cardiotrophin 1.

METHODS

We analysed the status of STATs in hepatitis C virus (HCV) infected livers and the relationship between expression and activation of STATs and HCV replication in Huh7 cells transfected with HCV genomic replicon.

RESULTS

STAT3alpha expression was reduced in HCV infected livers showing an inverse correlation with serum alanine aminotransferase. In patients with HCV infection, nuclear staining for phosphorylated STAT3 was faint in parenchymal cells (although conspicuous in infiltrating leucocytes), in contrast with strong nuclear staining in hepatocytes from control livers. Expression and activation of STAT1 (a factor activated by both interferon (IFN)-alpha and IFN-gamma) were increased in HCV infected livers, particularly in those with high inflammatory activity. Conversely, phosphorylated STAT2 (a factor selectively activated by IFN-alpha) was undetectable in livers with HCV infection, a finding that was associated with marked downregulation of the two functional subunits of the IFN-alpha receptor. HCV replication in Huh7 cells caused STAT3alpha downregulation and blocked STAT3 phosphorylation by either IFN-alpha or cardiotrophin 1. HCV replication in Huh7 cells also inhibited STAT1 and STAT2 activation by IFN-alpha while there was no impairment of STAT1 phosphorylation by the proinflammatory cytokine IFN-gamma.

CONCLUSIONS

STAT3 is downregulated in HCV infected livers and in Huh7 cells bearing the full length HCV replicon. HCV replication is associated with impaired Jak-STAT signalling by antiviral and cytoprotective cytokines. These effects may favour viral replication while facilitating the progression of liver disease.

Functional expression of human type I interferon receptors in the mouse liver

We expressed human type I interferon (IFN) receptors (IFNAR) in mice and investigated their signaling. Using a hydrodynamics-based delivery method, vectors containing the genes for IFNAR1 and IFNAR2 were transferred into mice. Six hours after gene-transfer, mice were intravenously injected with human IFN-alpha at 10,000 IU. IFNAR1 and IFNAR2 were both expressed in the liver, but not spleen or lung. The receptors were coexpressed in single liver cells. One hour after IFN-alpha injection, the phosphorylation status of signal transducer and activator of transcription factor 1 (STAT1), a key molecule of IFN signaling, was determined. Phosphotyrosine-STAT1 (p-STAT1), localized to the nucleus of IFNAR-expressing cells, was increased in the livers of IFNAR gene-transferred mice but not in control vector-transferred animals. In conclusion, functional human IFNAR can be delivered to the mouse liver, resulting in an increase in p-STAT1 levels following human IFN-alpha stimulation.

A novel gene of beta chain of the IFN-gamma receptor of Huiyang chicken: cloning, distribution, and CD assay

The beta chain of the interferon-gamma receptor (IFNGR-2) plays a critical role in signal transmission to the nucleus by IFN-gamma. Here, we cloned the full-length cDNA of IFNGR-2 of Huiyang chicken using RACE. mRNA transcripts of IFNGR-2 were detected in peripheral blood leukocytes (PBL) and various organs using Northern blot analysis. The extracellular region of IFNGR-2 (IFNGR-2EC) was expressed in Pichia pastoris, and its secondary structure was investigated by circular dichroism (CD). The Huiyang chicken IFNGR-2 gene is 2221 bp with a polyA+ tail, and it encodes 334 amino acids sharing 30%-33% identity with that of rat, mouse, and human IFNGR-2. IFNGR-2 is localized on chromosome 1 of chicken in tandem with IFNAR-1, interleukin- 10 receptor (IL-10R-2), and IFNAR-2. IFNGR-2 was highly expressed in PBL, muscle, spleen, thymus, and cecal tonsil, whereas its expression in cardiac muscle, cloacal bursa, liver, and kidney was comparatively low. Recombinant protein of IFNGR-2EC expressed in P. pastoris formed the secondary structure including 19.8% alpha-helix, 29.6% beta-sheet, 19.7% turn, and 30.9% random. The data show that Huiyang chicken IFNGR-2 shares properties of the IFN receptor family in gene structure and distribution in multiple tissues and PBL. CD analysis indicated that the recombinant protein of IFNGR-2EC resembles the known structure of human IFN receptors.

Antitumor Activity of IFN-λ in Murine Tumor Models

IFN-lambda 1, -lambda 2 and -lambda 3 have been discovered as the latest members of the class II cytokine family and shown to possess antiviral activity. Murine B16 melanoma and Colon26 cancer cells were transduced with mouse IFN-lambda to determine whether IFN-lambda possesses antitumor activity. Overexpression of IFN-lambda induced cell surface MHC class I expression and Fas/CD95 Ag, induced significant caspase-3/7 activity, and increased p21(Waf1/Cip1) and dephosphorylated Rb (Ser(780)) in B16 cells in vitro. IFN-lambda expression in tumor cell lines markedly inhibited s.c. and metastatic tumor formation in vivo compared with mock transfections (p < 0.05). Moreover, IFN-lambda expression induced lymphocytic infiltrates, and an Ab-mediated immune cell depletion assay showed that NK cells were critical to IFN-lambda-mediated tumor growth inhibition. Hydrodynamic injection of IFN-lambda cDNA successfully targeted liver metastatic foci of Colon26 cells, and moderately decreased the mortality of mice with tumors. IFN-lambda overexpression in the liver increased NK/NKT cells and enhanced their tumor-killing activity, and suggested the activation of innate immune responses. Thus, IFN-lambda induced both tumor apoptosis and NK cell-mediated immunological tumor destruction through innate immune responses. These findings suggested that local delivery of IFN-lambda might prove a useful adjunctive strategy in the clinical treatment of human malignancies.

IL-21 enhances SOCS gene expression and inhibits LPS-induced cytokine production in human monocyte-derived dendritic cells

Dendritic cells (DCs) play an important role in innate and adaptive immune responses. In addition to their phagocytic activity, DCs present foreign antigens to naïve T cells and regulate the development of adaptive immune responses. Upon contact with DCs, activated T cells produce large quantities of cytokines such as interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) and interleukin (IL)-21, which have important immunoregulatory functions. Here, we have analyzed the effect of IL-21 and IFN-gamma on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced maturation and cytokine production of human monocyte-derived DCs. IL-21 and IFN-gamma receptor genes were expressed in high levels in immature DCs. Pretreatment of immature DCs with IL-21 inhibited LPS-stimulated DC maturation and expression of CD86 and human leukocyte antigen class II (HLAII). IL-21 pretreatment also dramatically reduced LPS-stimulated production of tumor necrosis factor alpha, IL-12, CC chemokine ligand 5 (CCL5), and CXC chemokine ligand 10 (CXCL10) but not that of CXCL8. In contrast, IFN-gamma had a positive feedback effect on immature DCs, and it enhanced LPS-induced DC maturation and the production of cytokines. IL-21 weakly induced the expression Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) and translation initiation region (TIR) domain-containing adaptor protein (TIRAP) genes, whereas the expression of TIR domain-containing adaptor-inducing IFN-beta (TRIF), myeloid differentiation (MyD88) 88 factor, or TRIF-related adaptor molecule (TRAM) genes remained unchanged. However, IL-21 strongly stimulated the expression of suppressor of cytokine signaling (SOCS)-1 and SOCS-3 genes. SOCS are known to suppress DC functions and interfere with TLR4 signaling. Our results demonstrate that IL-21, a cytokine produced by activated T cells, can directly inhibit the activation and cytokine production of myeloid DCs, providing a negative feedback loop between DCs and T lymphocytes.

Interferon signal transduction of biphenyl dimethyl dicarboxylate/amantadine and anti-HBV activity in HepG2 2.2.15

Biphenyl dimethyl dicarboxylate (DDB) is a hepatoprotectant, which is used as an adjuvant agent in a treatment for chronic hepatitis. Amantadine is an antiviral agent, which is utilized primarily in the treatment of influenza, but also, occasionally in the treatment of hepatitis C. In a previous study, we reported that DDB, coupled with amantadine, would exert an anti-HBV effect, via the induction of interferon-inducible gene expression in the HepG2 2.2.15 cell line. The primary objective of the present study was to determine whether or not DDB and/or amantadine exhibit anti-HBV properties, and what mechanisms of action might be involved in such properties. In our study, we were able to determine that DDB stimulates Jak/Stat signaling, and induces the expression of interferon alpha (IFN-alpha) stimulated genes, most notably 6-16 and ISG12. In addition, the antiviral effectors induced by IFN-alpha, PKR, OAS, and MxA, were regulated in the presence of DDB at its optimal concentration (250 microg/mL), to a degree commensurate with the degree of induction associated with the IFN-alpha treated group. Finally, we determined that the replication of pregenomic RNA and HBeAg was inhibited by DDB treatment, and this inhibition was maximized when coupled with the administration of amantadine (25 microg/mL). In conclusion, the results of this study demonstrated clearly that DDB, as well as the combination of DDB/amantadine, directly inhibited IFN-alpha signaling-mediated replication of HBV in infected hepatocytes, and thus may represent a novel treatment for chronic hepatitis B, which would be characterized principally by its improved safety over other treatment strategies.

Differential responsiveness to IFN-alpha and IFN-beta of human mature DC through modulation of IFNAR expression

In human monocyte-derived dendritic cells (DC), infection with Mycobacterium tuberculosis and viruses or stimulation with Toll-like receptor type 3 and 4 agonists causes the release of type I interferon (IFN). Here, we describe that the IFN-beta released upon stimulation with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) or polyinosinic:polycytidylic acid (poly I:C) is responsible for a rapid and sustained signal transducer and activator of transcription 1 and 2 activation and expression of IFN-stimulated genes, such as the transcription factor IFN regulatory factor 7 and the chemokine CXC chemokine ligand 10. The autocrine production of IFN-beta from LPS and poly I:C-matured DC (mDC) induced a temporary saturation of the response to type I IFN and a marked decline in the level of the two IFN receptor (IFNAR) subunits. It is interesting that we found that upon clearing of the released cytokines, LPS-stimulated DC reacquired full responsiveness to IFN-beta but only partial responsiveness to IFN-alpha, and their maturation process was unaffected. Monitoring of surface and total levels of the receptor subunits showed that maximal expression of IFNAR2 resumed within 24 h of clearing, and IFNAR1 expression remained low. Thus, mDC can modulate their sensitivity to two IFN subtypes through a differential regulation of the IFNAR subunits.

Chlamydiae modulate gamma interferon, interleukin-1 beta, and tumor necrosis factor alpha receptor expression in HeLa cells

Chlamydia psittaci was found to modulate receptor expression for the cytokine receptors that are involved in the synergistic induction of indoleamine dioxygenase in epithelial cells. Increases in receptor expression were seen even with inactivated Chlamydia, suggesting that chlamydial antigens and not products of infection are important for up-regulating cytokine receptor expression.

IFN-beta is a highly potent inhibitor of gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumor cell growth in vitro

IFN-alpha controls hormone secretion and symptoms in human gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (GEP-NET) but it rarely induces a measurable tumor size reduction. The effect of other type I IFNs, e.g., IFN-beta, has not been evaluated. We compared the antitumor effects of IFN-alpha and IFN-beta in BON cells, a functioning human GEP-NET cell line. As determined by quantitative reverse transcription-PCR analysis and immunocytochemistry, BON cells expressed the active type I IFN receptor mRNA and protein (IFNAR-1 and IFNAR-2c subunits). After 3 and 6 days of treatment, IFN-beta significantly inhibited BON cell growth in a time- and dose-dependent manner. IC50 and maximal inhibitory effect on day 6 were 8 IU/mL and 98%, respectively. In contrast, the effect of IFN-alpha resulted significantly in a less potent effect (IC50: 44 IU/mL, maximal inhibition: 26%). IFN-alpha induced only cell cycle arrest, with an accumulation of the cells in S phase. IFN-beta, apart from a more potent delay in S-G2-M phase transit of the cell cycle, also induced a strong stimulation of apoptosis, evaluated by flow cytometry (Annexin V and 7-AAD) and measurement of the DNA fragmentation. Besides, only IFN-beta severely suppressed chromogranin A levels in the medium from BON cells after 6 days of treatment. In conclusion, IFN-beta is much more potent, compared with IFN-alpha, in its inhibitory effect on GEP-NET cell proliferation in vitro through the induction of apoptosis and cell cycle arrest. Further studies are required to establish whether IFN-beta has comparable potent tumor growth inhibitory effects in vivo.

Differential growth of IFN-beta-engineered tumor cells in nude and IFN receptor-null mice

The purpose of this study was to investigate the therapeutic potential of interferon-beta (IFN-beta) against tumors that resist its antiproliferative effects. Mouse fibrosarcoma cells (UV-2237m-P) and their counterparts, transfected with either IFN-beta cDNA (UV-2237m-IFN-beta) or its control vector (UV-2237m-neo), were used in the study. UV-2237m-IFN-beta cells, still expressing functional IFN receptors, were resistant to the antiproliferative effects of IFN-beta. UV-2237m-P and UV-2237m-neo cells produced progressive tumors in both nude and IFN receptor-null nude (IFNAR-/-nude) mice. In contrast, growth of UV-2237m-IFN-beta cells was significantly delayed in nude mice. UV-2237m-IFN-beta tumors from nude mice contained fewer microvessels, fewer proliferating cells, and more apoptotic cells than did UV-2237m-P and UV-2237m-neo tumors. They expressed high levels of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and were densely infiltrated by macrophages. Incubation with macrophages from nude mice, but not those from IFNAR-/- nude mice or iNOS-null/nude mice, led to more significant killing of UV-2237m-IFN-beta cells than that of control cells, which was blocked by iNOS inhibitor N-methylarginine. Similarly, more UV-2237m-IFN-beta cells were killed when they were incubated with spleen lymphocytes from nude mice. These data indicate that IFN-beta can inhibit growth of IFN-beta-resistant tumors by T cell-independent host-mediated mechanisms, including the role of macrophages, natural killer (NK) cells, and iNOS activity.

Depletion of T cells by type I interferon: differences between young and aged mice

Type I IFN (IFN-I or IFN-alphabeta) plays an important role in the innate immune response against viral infection. Here we report that a potent inducer of IFN-alphabeta, polyinosinic-polycytidylic acid [poly(I:C)], led to the depletion of T cells in young, but not aged mice, and that this depletion was limited to central memory, but not effector memory, T cells. Although early activation of T cells in vivo by poly(I:C), as demonstrated by CD69, was not impaired with aging, the expression of active caspase-3 was higher in young compared with aged mice. This depletion of T cells and induction of active caspase-3 in young mice and of CD69 in both young and aged mice by poly(I:C) were blocked by anti-IFN-alphabeta Ab. Although poly(I:C) stimulated lower circulating levels of IFN-alphabeta in aged mice, administration of IFN-alphabeta after poly(I:C) did not induce depletion of T cells in aged mice. These results indicate that IFN-alphabeta plays a critical role in the depletion of T cells of young mice, and further suggest that the lower level of functional IFN-alphabeta and decreased induction of active caspase-3 in T cells of aged mice after poly(I:C) may be responsible for the increased resistance of T cells of aged mice to depletion.

5-Fluorouracil up-regulates interferon pathway gene expression in esophageal cancer cells

5-Fluorouracil (FU) is a chemotherapeutic agent commonly used against esophageal cancer. Recently, interferons (IFNs) have been administered together with cytotoxic chemotherapy to patients with this cancer, although the mechanisms of synergy are unknown. We reconsidered the mechanisms for the effects of 5-FU in this context, aiming to refine combination therapy. After three cell lines (T.T, TE-2, and TE-6), derived from human esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), were exposed to 5-FU, the expression profiles were analyzed using high-density oligonucleotide microarrays representing about 12,000 genes. Among them, three IFN-related genes, an IFN receptor gene (IFNAR2) and two IFN-stimulated genes (ISG15K, ISG-54K), that were up-regulated following addition of 5-FU, were investigated. Up-regulation was confirmed by RT-PCR. Based on these results, the antitumor effects of exposure to 5-FU simultaneously with IFN-alpha, -beta and -gamma were investigated. The growth of esophageal SCC cells with 5-FU was suppressed synergistically or semi-additively by IFN-alpha and -beta, but not by IFN-gamma. These findings indicated that 5-FU stimulated IFN pathways in esophageal SCC cells following up-regulation of the IFN type I receptor. A combination of 5-FU and an IFN, therefore, may be particularly efficacious in esophageal cancer.

Dengue virus type 2 antagonizes IFN-alpha but not IFN-gamma antiviral effect via down-regulating Tyk2-STAT signaling in the human dendritic cell

The immunopathogenesis mechanism of dengue virus (DV) infection remains elusive. We previously showed that the target of DV in humans is dendritic cells (DCs), the primary sentinels of immune system. We also observed that despite the significant amount of IFN-alpha induced; DV particles remain massively produced from infected DCs. It suggests that DV may antagonize the antiviral effect of IFN-alpha. Recent work in animal studies demonstrated the differential critical roles of antiviral cytokines, namely IFN-alpha/IFN-beta and IFN-gamma, in blocking early viral production and in preventing viral-mediated disease, respectively. In this study, we examined the effects of IFN-alpha and IFN-gamma in DV infection of monocyte-derived DCs. We showed that the preinfection treatment with either IFN-alpha or IFN-gamma effectively armed DCs and limited viral production in infected cells. However, after infection, DV developed mechanisms to counteract the protection from lately added IFN-alpha, but not IFN-gamma. Such a selective antagonism on antiviral effect of IFN-alpha, but not IFN-gamma, correlated with down-regulated tyrosine-phosphorylation and DNA-binding activities of STAT1 and STAT3 transcription factors by DV. Furthermore, subsequent studies into the underlying mechanisms revealed that DV attenuated IFN-alpha-induced tyrosine-phosphorylation of Tyk2, an upstream molecule of STAT activation, but had no effect on expression of both IFN-alpha receptor 1 and IFN-alpha receptor 2. Moreover, DV infection by itself could activate STAT1 and STAT3 through IFN-alpha-dependent and both IFN-alpha-dependent and IFN-alpha-independent mechanisms, respectively. These observations provide very useful messages with physiological significance in investigation of the pathogenesis, the defense mechanisms of human hosts and the therapeutic considerations in DV infection.

Interferon-gamma alters the phagocytic activity of the mouse trophoblast

Interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) mediates diverse functions in bone marrow-derived phagocytes, including phagocytosis and microbe destruction. This cytokine has also been detected at implantation sites under both physiological and pathological conditions in many different species. At these particular sites, the outermost embryonic cell layer in close contact with the maternal tissues, the trophoblast exhibits intense phagocytic activity. To determine whether IFN-gamma affects phagocytosis of mouse-trophoblast cells, ectoplacental cone-derived trophoblast was cultured and evaluated for erythrophagocytosis. Phagocytic activity was monitored ultrastructurally and expressed as percentage of phagocytic trophoblast in total trophoblast cells. Conditioned medium from concanavalin-A-stimulated spleen cells significantly enhanced trophoblast phagocytosis. This effect was blocked by pre-incubation with an anti-IFN-gamma neutralizing antibody. Introduction of mouse recombinant IFN-gamma (mrIFN-gamma) to cultures did not increase cell death, but augmented the percentage of phagocytic cells in a dose-dependent manner. Ectoplacental cones from mice deficient for IFN-gamma receptor alpha-chain showed a significant decrease of the phagocytosis, even under mrIFN-gamma stimulation, suggesting that IFN-gamma-induced phagocytosis are receptor-mediated. Reverse transcriptase-PCR analyses confirmed the presence of mRNA for IFN-gamma receptor alpha and beta-chains in trophoblast cells and detected a significant increase in the mRNA levels of IFN-gamma receptor beta-chain, mainly, when cultured cells were exposed to IFN-gamma. Immunohistochemistry and Western blot analyses also revealed protein expression of the IFN-gamma receptor alpha-chain. These results suggest that IFN-gamma may participate in the phagocytic activation of the mouse trophoblast, albeit the exact mechanism was not hereby elucidated. Protective and/or nutritional fetal benefit may result from this physiological response. In addition, our data also shed some light on the understanding of trophoblast tolerance to inflammatory/immune cytokines during normal gestation.

Expression of a dominant negative IFN-gammareceptor on mouse oligodendrocytes

The interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) receptor is expressed by all nucleated cells, and binding of its cognate ligand, IFN-gamma, induces a wide variety of biological functions. Transgenic mice expressing a dominant negative IFN-gamma receptor 1 (IFN-gammaR1DeltaIC) on oligodendrocytes under control of the myelin proteolipid protein promoter are described. The mRNA encoding the transgene was only detected in the nervous system and protein expression was confirmed by immunohistochemistry. Transgenic receptor expression does not alter myelination and the mice exhibited no clinically apparent phenotype. Consistent with the restricted nervous system expression of the transgene, no alterations in peripheral immune responses were detected. Flow cytometric analysis demonstrated constitutive expression of both the IFN-gammaR1DeltaIC transgene and the endogenous IFN-gamma receptor 2 at high levels on oligodendrocytes derived from the transgenic mice. These oligodendrocytes also exhibited decreased STAT1 phosphorylation in response to IFN-gamma, confirming dominant negative transgene function. Transgenic mice in which oligodendrocytes have a diminished ability to respond to IFN-gamma showed delayed virus clearance from oligodendroglia compared with wild-type mice. This model will allow evaluation of oligodendrocyte responses to this critical cytokine during CNS inflammation.

Dynamic regulation of IFN-gamma signaling in antigen-specific CD8+ T cells responding to infection

IFN-gamma plays a critical role in the CD8(+) T cell response to infection, but when and if this cytokine directly signals CD8(+) T cells during an immune response is unknown. We show that naive Ag-specific CD8(+) T cells receive IFN-gamma signals within 12 h after in vivo infection with Listeria monocytogenes and then become unresponsive to IFN-gamma throughout the ensuing Ag-driven expansion phase. Ag-specific CD8(+) T cells regain partial IFN-gamma responsiveness throughout the contraction phase, whereas the memory pool exhibits uniform, but reduced, responsiveness that is also modulated during the secondary response. The responsiveness of Ag-specific CD8(+) T cells to IFN-gamma correlated with modulation in the expression of IFN-gammaR2, but not with IFN-gammaR1 or suppressor of cytokine signaling-1. This dynamic regulation suggests that early IFN-gamma signals participate in regulation of the primary CD8(+) T cell response program, but that evading or minimizing IFN-gamma signals during expansion and the memory phase may contribute to appropriate regulation of the CD8(+) T cell response.