Formyl peptide receptors: a promiscuous subfamily of G protein-coupled receptors controlling immune responses

The formyl peptide receptor (FPR) family is involved in host defence against pathogens, but also in sensing internal molecules that may constitute signals of cellular dysfunction. It includes three subtypes in human and other primates. FPR responds to formyl peptides derived from bacterial and mitochondrial proteins. FPRL1 displays a large array of exogenous and endogenous ligands, including the chemokine variant sCKbeta8-1, the neuroprotective peptide humanin, and lipoxin A4. Two high affinity agonists (F2L and humanin) were recently described for FPRL2. In mouse, eight FPR-related receptors have been described. Fpr1 is the ortholog of human FPR, while fpr2 appears to share many ligands with human FPRL1. Altogether, the physiological role of the FPR family is still incompletely understood, due in part to the large variety of ligands, the redundancy with other chemoattractant agents, and the lack of clear orthologs between human and mouse receptors. Newly developed tools will allow to study further this family of receptors.

Neutrophil-derived IL-1β is sufficient for abscess formation in immunity against Staphylococcus aureus in mice

Neutrophil abscess formation is critical in innate immunity against many pathogens. Here, the mechanism of neutrophil abscess formation was investigated using a mouse model of Staphylococcus aureus cutaneous infection. Gene expression analysis and in vivo multispectral noninvasive imaging during the S. aureus infection revealed a strong functional and temporal association between neutrophil recruitment and IL-1β/IL-1R activation. Unexpectedly, neutrophils but not monocytes/macrophages or other MHCII-expressing antigen presenting cells were the predominant source of IL-1β at the site of infection. Furthermore, neutrophil-derived IL-1β was essential for host defense since adoptive transfer of IL-1β-expressing neutrophils was sufficient to restore the impaired neutrophil abscess formation in S. aureus-infected IL-1β-deficient mice. S. aureus-induced IL-1β production by neutrophils required TLR2, NOD2, FPR1 and the ASC/NLRP3 inflammasome in an α-toxin-dependent mechanism. Taken together, IL-1β and neutrophil abscess formation during an infection are functionally, temporally and spatially linked as a consequence of direct IL-1β production by neutrophils.

Invasive infections caused by the human pathogen Staphylococcus aureus result in more deaths annually than infections caused by any other single infectious agent in the United States. Although neutrophil recruitment and abscess formation is crucial for effective host defense against this pathogen, how neutrophils sense and mount an inflammatory response are not completely clear. Using gene expression analysis and in vivo bioluminescence and fluorescence imaging, we found that neutrophil recruitment during a S. aureus cutaneous infection is functionally and temporally linked to IL-1β/IL-1R activation. Surprisingly, neutrophils themselves were determined to be the most abundant cell type that produced IL-1β during infection. Further, neutrophil-derived IL-1β, in the absence of other cellular sources of IL-1β, was sufficient for neutrophil recruitment, abscess formation, and bacterial clearance. Finally, mouse neutrophils produced IL-1β in direct response to live S. aureus in vitro. These findings expand our understanding of the acute neutrophil response to infection in which early recruited neutrophils serve as a source of IL-1β that is essential for amplifying and sustaining the neutrophilic response to promote abscess formation and bacterial clearance. Therapies aimed at promoting IL-1β production by neutrophils may be an effective immunotherapeutic strategy to control S. aureus infections.

Human cathelicidin LL-37 is a chemoattractant for eosinophils and neutrophils that acts via formyl-peptide receptors

BACKGROUND

Inflammatory lung diseases such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are characterized by the presence of eosinophils and neutrophils. However, the mechanisms that mediate the influx of these cells are incompletely understood. Neutrophil products, including neutrophil elastase and antimicrobial peptides such as neutrophil defensins and LL-37, have been demonstrated to display chemotactic activity towards cells from both innate and adaptive immunity. However, chemotactic activity of LL-37 towards eosinophils has not been reported. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to investigate the chemotactic activity of LL-37 for eosinophils and to explore the mechanisms involved in LL-37-mediated attraction of neutrophils and eosinophils.

METHODS

Neutrophils and eosinophils were obtained from venous blood of healthy donors. Chemotaxis was studied using a modified Boyden chamber technique. Involvement of formyl-peptide receptors (FPRs) was studied using the antagonistic peptide tBoc-MLP. Activation of the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) ERK1/2 was studied by Western blotting using antibodies directed against phosphorylated ERK1/2.

RESULTS

Our results show that LL-37 chemoattracts both eosinophils and neutrophils. The FPR antagonistic peptide tBoc-MLP inhibited LL-37-induced chemotaxis. Whereas the FPR agonist fMLP activated ERK1/2 in neutrophils, LL-37 did not, indicating that fMLP and LL-37 deliver different signals through FPRs.

CONCLUSIONS

LL-37 displays chemotactic activity for eosinophils and neutrophils, and this activity is mediated via an FPR. These results suggest that LL-37 may play a role in inflammatory lung diseases such as asthma and COPD.

A critical role for the g protein-coupled receptor mFPR2 in airway inflammation and immune responses

The formylpeptide receptor-like 1, now officially termed FPR2, in human and its mouse homolog mFPR2 mediate leukocyte migration in response to agonists associated with inflammation and immune responses. To clarify the in vivo role of the receptor, we generated mice deficient in mFPR2. mFPR2(-/-) mice showed markedly reduced severity in OVA/alum-induced allergic airway inflammation. This was associated with diminished recruitment of CD11c(+) dendritic cells into the airway mucosa and secondary lymphoid organs, as well as reduced production of Type 2 cytokines and Igs. We also found that the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid from wild type mice with airway inflammation contained mFPR2 agonist activity. This study reveals a critical role for mFPR2 in the progression of allergic airway inflammation and immune responses.

Identification of formyl peptides from Listeria monocytogenes and Staphylococcus aureus as potent chemoattractants for mouse neutrophils

The prototypic formyl peptide N-formyl-Met-Leu-Phe (fMLF) is a major chemoattractant found in Escherichia coli culture supernatants and a potent agonist at human formyl peptide receptor (FPR) 1. Consistent with this, fMLF induces bactericidal functions in human neutrophils at nanomolar concentrations. However, it is a much less potent agonist for mouse FPR (mFPR) 1 and mouse neutrophils, requiring micromolar concentrations for cell activation. To determine whether other bacteria produce more potent agonists for mFPR1, we examined formyl peptides from Listeria monocytogenes and Staphylococcus aureus for their abilities to activate mouse neutrophils. A pentapeptide (N-formyl-Met-Ile-Val-Ile-Leu (fMIVIL)) from L. monocytogenes and a tetrapeptide (N-formyl-Met-Ile-Phe-Leu (fMIFL)) from S. aureus were found to induce mouse neutrophil chemotaxis at 1-10 nM and superoxide production at 10-100 nM, similar to the potency of fMLF on human neutrophils. Using transfected cell lines expressing mFPR1 and mFPR2, which are major forms of FPRs in mouse neutrophils, we found that mFPR1 is responsible for the high potency of fMIVIL and fMIFL. In comparison, activation of mFPR2 requires micromolar concentrations of the two peptides. Genetic deletion of mfpr1 resulted in abrogation of neutrophil superoxide production and degranulation in response to fMIVIL and fMIFL, further demonstrating that mFPR1 is the primary receptor for detection of these formyl peptides. In conclusion, the formyl peptides from L. monocytogenes and S. aureus are approximately 100-fold more potent than fMLF in activating mouse neutrophils. The ability of mFPR1 to detect bacterially derived formyl peptides indicates that this important host defense mechanism is conserved in mice.

Mitochondrial damage associated molecular patterns from femoral reamings activate neutrophils through formyl peptide receptors and P44/42 MAP kinase

HYPOTHESIS

Fractures and femoral reaming are associated with lung injury. The mechanisms linking fractures and inflammation are unclear, but tissue disruption might release mitochondria. Mitochondria are evolutionarily derived from bacteria and contain "damage associated molecular patterns" like formylated peptides that can activate immunocytes. We therefore studied whether fracture reaming releases mitochondrial damage associated molecular patterns (MTD) and how MTD act on immune cells.

METHODS

Femur fracture reamings (FFx) from 10 patients were spun to remove bone particulates. Supernatants were assayed for mitochondrial DNA. Mitochondria were isolated from the residual reaming slurry, sonicated, and spun at 12,000 g. The resultant MTD were assayed for their ability to cause neutrophil (PMN) Ca transient production, p44/42 MAPK phosphorylation, interleukin-8 release, and matrix metalloproteinase-9 release with and without formyl peptide receptor-1 blockade. Rats were injected with MTD and whole lung assayed for p44/42 activation.

RESULTS

Mitochondrial DNA appears at many thousand-fold normal plasma levels in FFx and at intermediate levels in patients' plasma, suggesting release from fracture to plasma. FFx MTD caused brisk PMN Ca flux, activated PMN p44/42 MAPK, and caused PMN release of interleukin-8 and matrix metalloproteinase-9. Responses to MTD were inhibited by formyl peptide receptor-1 blockade using cyclosporine H or anti-formyl peptide receptor-1. MTD injection caused P44/42 phosphorylation in rat lung.

CONCLUSIONS

FFx reaming releases mitochondria into the wound and circulation. MTD then activates PMN. Release of damage signals like MTD from FFx may underlie activation of the cytokine cascades known to be associated with fracture fixation and lung injury.

Role of Formyl Peptide Receptor–Like 1 (FPRL1/FPR2) in Mononuclear Phagocyte Responses in Alzheimer Disease

Alzheimer disease (AD) is the most common neurodegenerative disease, affecting approx 4 million people in the United States in the year 2000 alone. Amyloid beta (Abeta) deposition, activated glial cells, and neuritic degeneration are the characteristic features of AD. Although the precise cause of AD has yet to be determined, a bulk of evidence suggests that inflammatory responses elicited by elevated Abeta peptides play an important role in the pathogenic process of the disease. In AD brain, mononuclear phagocytes (microglia) accumulate at the sites of Abeta peptide deposition. In vitro, Abeta peptides activate mononuclear phagocytes to release neurotoxic mediators. A number of cell-surface molecules have been reported to act as putative receptors for Abeta peptides, among which the G protein-coupled formyl peptide receptor-like 1 (FPRL1) and its mouse homolog FPR2 have been shown to be expressed by activated microglial cells and mediate the chemotactic activity of the 42 amino acid form of Abeta (Abeta42). FPRL1 also participates in Abeta42 internalization in macrophages and its cytotoxicity for neuronal cells. Therefore, FPRL1 may be involved in the inflammatory aspects of AD. This review discusses recent findings relevant to the function and regulation of FPRL1/FPR2 in mononuclear phagocytes by pro- and antiinflammatory signals and its potential as a therapeutic target in AD.

Lipoxin A₄ modulates adaptive immunity by decreasing memory B-cell responses via an ALX/FPR2-dependent mechanism

Specialized proresolving mediators are endogenous bioactive lipid molecules that play a fundamental role in the regulation of inflammation and its resolution. Lipoxins and other specialized proresolving mediators have been identified in important immunological tissues including bone marrow, spleen, and blood. Lipoxins regulate functions of the innate immune system including the promotion of monocyte recruitment and increase macrophage phagocytosis of apoptotic neutrophils. A major knowledge gap is whether lipoxins influence adaptive immune cells. Here, we analyzed the actions of lipoxin A₄ (LXA₄) and its receptor ALX/FPR2 on human and mouse B cells. LXA₄ decreased IgM and IgG production on activated human B cells through ALX/FPR2-dependent signaling, which downregulated NF-κB p65 nuclear translocation. LXA₄ also inhibited human memory B-cell antibody production and proliferation, but not naïve B-cell function. Lastly, LXA₄ decreased antigen-specific antibody production in an OVA immunization mouse model. To our knowledge, this is the first description of the actions of lipoxins on human B cells, demonstrating a link between resolution signals and adaptive immunity. Regulating antibody production is crucial to prevent unwanted inflammation. Harnessing the ability of lipoxins to decrease memory B-cell antibody production can be beneficial to threat inflammatory and autoimmune disorders.

Chemoattractant receptors and lymphocyte egress from extralymphoid tissue: changing requirements during the course of inflammation

Memory/effector T cells traffic efficiently through extralymphoid tissues, entering from the blood and leaving via the afferent lymph. During inflammation, T cell traffic into the affected tissue dramatically increases; however, the dynamics and mechanisms of T cell exit from inflamed tissues are poorly characterized. In this study, we show, using both a mouse and a sheep model, that large numbers of lymphocytes leave the chronically inflamed skin. Many T cells capable of producing IFN-γ and IL-17 also entered the draining afferent lymph, demonstrating that memory/effector T cells egress from sites of inflammation. Whereas efficient egress from acutely inflamed skin required lymphocyte-expressed CCR7, chronic inflammation promoted significant CCR7-independent exit as well. Lymphocyte exit at late time points of inflammation was sensitive to pertussis toxin but was only partially affected by the drug FTY720, implying the contribution of alternative chemoattractant receptors other than spingosine 1-phosphate receptor 1. Our data show that CCR7 is an important receptor for lymphocyte egress from both resting and inflamed extralymphoid tissues, but that alternative exit receptors come into play during chronic inflammation.

Circulating mitochondria in deceased organ donors are associated with immune activation and early allograft dysfunction

Brain death that occurs in the setting of deceased organ donation for transplantation is associated with systemic inflammation of unknown origin. It has recently been recognized that mitochondria-derived damage-associated molecular patterns (mtDAMPs) released into the circulation in the setting of trauma and tissue injury are associated with a systemic inflammatory response. We examined the blood of deceased organ donors and found elevated levels of inflammatory cytokines and chemokines that correlated with levels of mtDAMPs. We also found that donor neutrophils are activated and that donor plasma contains a neutrophil-activating factor that is blocked by cyclosporin H, a formyl peptide receptor-1 antagonist. Examination of donor plasma by electron microscopy and flow cytometry revealed that free- and membrane-bound mitochondria are elevated in donor plasma. Interestingly, we demonstrated a correlation between donor plasma mitochondrial DNA levels and early allograft dysfunction in liver transplant recipients, suggesting a role for circulating mtDAMPs in allograft outcomes. Current approaches to prolong allograft survival focus on immune suppression in the transplant recipient; our data indicate that targeting inflammatory factors in deceased donors prior to organ procurement is another potential strategy for improving transplant outcomes.

Functional and ultrastructural analysis of annexin A1 and its receptor in extravasating neutrophils during acute inflammation

The purpose of this study was twofold: to reveal cellular events associated with the protective role of endogenous annexin A1 (AnxA1) in inflammation and to highlight the potential involvement of members of the formyl peptide receptor (Fpr) family in this process. We found that wild-type, AnxA1-null, and Fpr1-null mice all displayed an intense neutrophil recruitment into the peritoneal cavity as assessed 4 hours after carrageenin injection, and that this recruitment was most pronounced in AnxA1-null mice. In addition, this cell influx could be inhibited by the AnxA1 pharmacophore peptide, Ac2-26, in wild-type, AnxA1-null, and Fpr1-null mice, but was restored when co-treated with the pan-receptor antagonist Boc2. Using the LacZ gene reporter assay, an enhancement of AnxA1 gene promoter activity in extravasated neutrophils was evident in AnxA1-null mice; again this response was reduced after peptide treatment. The lack of functional involvement of Fpr1 prompted us to monitor the structurally related receptor Fpr2. We report, for the first time, the ultrastructural immunocytochemical co-localization of Fpr2 with AnxA1 in neutrophils that migrate into the mesenteric microcirculation and extravasate into the peritoneal fluid. Collectively, these data provide in vivo support to the hypothesis that endogenous AnxA1 is an essential effector of endogenous anti-inflammation and provide an ultrastructural indication that this mediator interacts with Fpr2 in murine neutrophils. We believe that these findings could significantly affect the development of novel therapeutics, which are modeled after the anti-migratory actions of AnxA1.

The mechanism for activation of the neutrophil NADPH-oxidase by the peptides formyl-Met-Leu-Phe and Trp-Lys-Tyr-Met-Val-Met differs from that for interleukin-8

Neutrophil chemotaxis has been shown to be regulated by two different signalling pathways that allow strong chemoattractants, such as bacterial-derived formylated peptides, to dominate over endogenous attractants, such as interleukin-8 (IL-8). Here we show that triggering of the formyl peptide receptor (FPR) with f-Met-Leu-Phe (fMLF) substantially reduced the neutrophil superoxide production induced by activation of the CXC receptors with IL-8. When the order of agonists was reversed, the cells were primed in their response to fMLF, suggesting that the signalling hierarchy between strong, so-called end-type (i.e. fMLF) and weak or intermediate-type (i.e. IL-8) chemoattractants, is also operating during activation of the NADPH-oxidase. The same result was obtained when fMLF was replaced with the hexapeptide, WKYMVM, specific for the formyl peptide-like receptor 1 (FPRL1). There were additional differences between the agonist receptor pairs fMLF/FPR, WKYMVM/FPRL1 and IL-8/CXCR. In contrast to FPR and FPRL1, no reserve pool of CXCR was present in subcellular granules and it was impossible to prime the oxidative response transduced through CXCR by the addition of priming agents such as tumour necrosis factor-alpha and platelet-activating factor. Moreover, the cytoskeleton-disrupting substance, cytochalasin B, had no effect either on IL-8-triggered oxidase activation or on CXCR reactivation. A pertussis toxin-sensitive G-protein is involved in signalling mediated through both FPR and CXCR, and the signalling cascades include a transient intracellular calcium increase, as well as downstream p38 MAPK and phosphoinositide 3-kinase activation. The data presented in this study provide support for two different signalling pathways to the neutrophil NADPH-oxidase, used by ligand binding to FPR/FPRL1 or CXCR, respectively.

Chemoattractant receptor signaling and the control of lymphocyte migration

This review focuses on mechanisms by which chemoattractant receptors activate downstream signaling pathways in lymphocytes. An emphasis is placed on heterotrimeric G protein signaling with a discussion of the specific heterotrimeric G-proteins involved in lymphocyte chemotaxis and motility and the role of regulator of G protein signaling (RGS) proteins in controlling the activation of downstream effectors. Also considered are those direct downstream effectors known to function in lymphocyte chemotaxis and/or motility. The consequences of targeting genes suspected, known, or serendipitously found to be involved in chemokine receptor signaling pathways form much of a basis for the review. When needed for clarification, reference to studies of chemoattractant signaling in model organisms and in neutrophils will be compared and contrasted to studies in lymphocytes. Finally, the emergence of tools to image lymphocyte in vitro and in vivo will be mentioned as they are increasing helpful for the analysis of lymphocyte trafficking and amendable to the study of chemokine receptor signaling.

The structure of the C5a receptor-blocking domain of chemotaxis inhibitory protein of Staphylococcus aureus is related to a group of immune evasive molecules

The chemotaxis inhibitory protein of Staphylococcus aureus (CHIPS) is a 121 residue excreted virulence factor. It acts by binding the C5a- (C5aR) and formylated peptide receptor (FPR) and thereby blocks specific phagocyte responses. Here, we report the solution structure of a CHIPS fragment consisting of residues 31-121 (CHIPS31-121). CHIPS31-121 has the same activity in blocking the C5aR compared to full-length CHIPS, but completely lacks FPR antagonism. CHIPS31-121 has a compact fold comprising an alpha-helix (residues 38-51) packed onto a four-stranded anti-parallel beta-sheet. Strands beta2 and beta3 are joined by a long loop with a relatively well-defined conformation. Comparison of CHIPS31-121 with known structures reveals striking homology with the C-terminal domain of staphylococcal superantigen-like proteins (SSLs) 5 and 7, and the staphyloccocal and streptococcal superantigens TSST-1 and SPE-C. Also, the recently reported structures of several domains of the staphylococcal extracellullar adherence protein (EAP) show a high degree of structural similarity with CHIPS. Most of the conserved residues in CHIPS and its structural homologues are present in the alpha-helix. A conserved arginine residue (R46 in CHIPS) appears to be involved in preservation of the structure. Site-directed mutagenesis of all positively charged residues in CHIPS31-121 reveals a major involvement of arginine 44 and lysine 95 in C5aR antagonism. The structure of CHIPS31-121 will be vital in the further unraveling of its precise mechanism of action. Its structural homology to S.aureus SSLs, superantigens, and EAP might help the design of future experiments towards an understanding of the relationship between structure and function of these proteins.

Evidence for an anti-inflammatory loop centered on polymorphonuclear leukocyte formyl peptide receptor 2/lipoxin A4 receptor and operative in the inflamed microvasculature

The importance of proresolving mediators in the overall context of the resolution of acute inflammation is well recognized, although little is known about whether these anti-inflammatory and proresolving molecules act in concert. In this article, we focused on lipoxin A(4) (LXA(4)) and annexin A1 (AnxA1) because these two very different mediators converge on a single receptor, formyl peptide receptor type 2 (FPR2/ALX). Addition of LXA(4) to human polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNs) provoked a concentration- and time-dependent mobilization of AnxA1 onto the plasma membrane, as determined by Western blotting and flow cytometry analyses. This property was shared by another FPR2/ALX agonist, antiflammin-2, and partly by fMLF or peptide Ac2-26 (an AnxA1 derivative that can activate all three members of the human FPR family). An FPR2/ALX antagonist blocked AnxA1 mobilization activated by LXA(4) and antiflammin-2. Analysis of PMN degranulation patterns and phospho-AnxA1 status suggested a model in which the two FPR2/ALX agonists mobilize the cytosolic (and not the granular) pool of AnxA1 through an intermediate phosphorylation step. Intravital microscopy investigations of the inflamed mesenteric microvasculature of wild-type and AnxA1(-/-) mice revealed that LXA(4) provoked leukocyte detachment from the postcapillary venule endothelium in the former (>50% within 10 min; p < 0.05), but not the latter genotype (∼15%; NS). Furthermore, recruitment of Gr1(+) cells into dorsal air-pouches, inflamed with IL-1β, was significantly attenuated by LXA(4) in wild-type, but not AnxA1(-/-), mice. Collectively, these data prompt us to propose the existence of an endogenous network in anti-inflammation centered on PMN AnxA1 and activated by selective FPR2/ALX agonists.

Neutrophil NADPH-oxidase activation by an annexin AI peptide is transduced by the formyl peptide receptor (FPR), whereas an inhibitory signal is generated independently of the FPR family receptors

Truncation of the N-terminal part of the calcium-regulated and phospholipid-binding protein annexin AI has been shown to change the functional properties of the protein and to generate immunoregulatory peptides. Proinflammatory as well as anti-inflammatory signals are triggered by these peptides, and the two formyl peptide receptor (FPR) family members expressed in neutrophils, FPR and FPR-like 1 (FPRL1), have been suggested to transduce these signals. We now report that an annexin AI peptide (Ac9-25) activates, as well as inhibits, the neutrophil release of superoxide anions. Results obtained from experiments with receptor antagonists/inhibitors, desensitized cells, and transfected cells reveal that the Ac9-25 peptide activates the neutrophil reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase through FPR but not through FPRL1. The Ac9-25 peptide also inhibits the oxidase activity in neutrophils triggered, not only by the FPR-specific agonist N-formyl-Met-Leu-Phe but also by several other agonists operating through different G protein-coupled receptors. Our data show that the two signals generated by the Ac9-25 peptide are transmitted through different receptors, the inhibitory signal being transduced by a not-yet identified receptor distinct from FPR and FPRL1.

Extreme genetic divergence is required for coreceptor switching in HIV-1 subtype C

BACKGROUND

Coreceptor switching from CCR5 to CXCR4 is less common in subtype C HIV-1 infection than in subtype B for reasons that are unclear. We have examined sequential virus samples from a subtype C-infected child who had evidence of coreceptor switching.

METHODS

To examine HIV-1 envelope evolution towards CXCR4 usage, env sequences were correlated with phenotypic characteristics determined by entry assays, as well as the ability to use alternative coreceptors such as FPRL1, CCR3, CCR8 and others. The value of a phenotype predictor based on V3 sequences was also assessed.

RESULTS

Ninety-three sequences revealed 3 distinct coexistent virus lineages and only some members of one lineage evolved to use CXCR4. These lineages also had diverse alternative coreceptor patterns including the ability to use FPRL1, CCR3, CCR8, APJ, CMKLR1, RDC-1, CXCR6, CCR1, GPCR1, GPR15 and CCR6. Coreceptor switching was associated with extensive and rapid sequence divergence in the V1/V2 region in addition to V3 changes. Furthermore, interlineage recombination within the C2 region resulted in low predictability of a V3 sequence-based phenotype algorithm, and highlighted the importance of V1/V2 and V3 sequences in coreceptor usage.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that the evolution to coreceptor switching in subtype C infection requires more mutations than other subtypes, and this contributes to the reduced incidence of R5X4 viruses.

Nasal mucosal immunoexpression of the mast cell chemoattractants TGF-beta, eotaxin, and stem cell factor and their receptors in allergic rhinitis

BACKGROUND

Allergic rhinitis is characterized by the epithelial accumulation of cells, particularly mast cells and eosinophils. There is little information relating to the chemotaxins responsible for mast cell epithelial accumulation in this disease.

OBJECTIVE

Expression of the mast cell chemoattractants TGF-beta, eotaxin, and stem cell factor and their receptors was investigated in tissue sections from biopsy specimens obtained from patients with naturally occurring allergic rhinitis.

METHODS

Specific immunohistochemical staining was performed on thin sections of inferior turbinate biopsy specimens from patients with perennial and seasonal allergic rhinitis and, for comparison, from nonatopic and, where relevant, atopic healthy volunteers without rhinitis. Sequential staining of adjacent 2-microm sections was undertaken to colocalize TGF-beta receptors to mast cells.

RESULTS

Evidence was found of significantly increased epithelial immunoreactivity for TGF-beta1, TGF-beta2, TGF-beta3, TGF-beta receptor I, TGF-beta receptor II, and TGF-beta receptor III in patients with perennial and seasonal allergic rhinitis compared with that seen in healthy control subjects. TGF-beta receptors I and II were found to colocalize to mast cells. Eotaxin epithelial immunoreactivity was significantly increased in the perennial group, although there were no corresponding disease-related differences found in relation to CCR-3 immunoreactivity at this site. There was no increase in stem cell factor immunoreactivity within the epithelium in naturally occurring disease. Significant correlations were found between epithelial immunoreactivity for TGF-beta1, TGF-beta2, TGF-beta receptor I, TGF-beta receptor II, and the number of epithelial mast cells.

CONCLUSION

These findings of enhanced epithelial TGF-beta immunoreactivity in patients with rhinitis, the correlation with intraepithelial mast cell numbers, and the colocalization of TGF-beta receptors to mast cells suggest that the epithelial expression of TGF-beta might represent an important biologic process involved in either the recruitment or retention of mast cells within the epithelium in naturally occurring allergic rhinitis.

House dust mite allergen activates human eosinophils via formyl peptide receptor and formyl peptide receptor-like 1

The objective was to evaluate which receptors house dust mite (HDM) and birch pollen extracts engage to activate human eosinophils. Chemotaxis and degranulation were studied in eosinophils pretreated with pertussis toxin and other antagonists of G protein-coupled receptors, e.g. the formyl peptide receptor (FPR), CC chemokine receptor 3 (CCR3) and leukotriene receptor B4 (LTB(4)R). Inhibition of the FPR as well as desensitization of the receptor rendered eosinophils anergic to activation by the allergens. Blockade of CCR3 or LTB(4)R did not affect eosinophilic reactivity. It was determined by PCR that human eosinophils express the FPR family members FPR and FPR-like 1 (FPRL1). HDM, unlike birch pollen, evoked calcium fluxes in HL-60 cells transfected with FPR or FPRL1. Although both allergens gave rise to calcium transients in neutrophils, which also express FPR and FPRL1, only the HDM response was decreased by the FPR antagonist. Moreover, neutrophils migrated toward HDM but not to birch pollen. Eosinophils pretreated with inhibitors of MAPK p38, ERK1/2 or protein kinase C exhibited diminished responsiveness to the aeroallergens. This study indicates that FPR and FPRL1 mediate the activation of eosinophils by HDM, whereas birch pollen employs other pathways shared with FPR to activate human eosinophils.

A paracrine role for chemoattractant receptor-homologous molecule expressed on T helper type 2 cells (CRTH2) in mediating chemotactic activation of CRTH2+ CD4+ T helper type 2 lymphocytes

Activation of human CRTH2(+) CD4(+) T helper type 2 (Th2) cells with anti-CD3/anti-CD28 led to time-dependent production of prostaglandin D(2) (PGD(2)) which peaked at 8 hr. The production of PGD(2) was completely inhibited by cotreatment with the cyclo-oxygenase inhibitor diclofenac (10 microm) but was not affected by cotreatment with ramatroban, a dual antagonist of both the thromboxane-like prostanoid (TP) receptor and the chemoattractant receptor-homologous molecule expressed on Th2 cells (CRTH2). Supernatants from activated CRTH2(+) CD4(+) Th2 cells caused a concentration-dependent increase in the migration of naive CRTH2(+) CD4(+) Th2 cells compared to supernatants from unstimulated CRTH2(+) CD4(+) Th2 cells. The level of chemotactic activity peaked at 8 hr after activation, corresponding to the peak levels of PGD(2), but production of chemotactic activity was only partially inhibited by the cyclo-oxygenase inhibitor diclofenac. In contrast, ramatroban completely inhibited the chemotactic responses of naive Th2 cells to supernatants from activated CRTH2(+) CD4(+) Th2 cells collected up to 8 hr after activation, although supernatants collected 24 hr after activation were less sensitive to inhibition by ramatroban. The selective TP antagonist SQ29548 did not inhibit migration of Th2 cells, implicating CRTH2 in this response. These data suggest that CRTH2 plays an important paracrine role in mediating chemotactic activation of Th2 cells. Interestingly, although PGD(2) is produced from Th2 cells and contributes to this paracrine activation, it appears that additional CRTH2 agonist factors are also produced by activated Th2 cells and the production of these factors occurs independently of the cyclo-oxygenase pathway of the arachidonic acid metabolism.

Synergistic induction of inflammation by bacterial products lipopolysaccharide and fMLP: an important microbial pathogenic mechanism

A wide variety of stimuli have been shown to induce inflammation, but bacteria products/components are considered the major inducers during bacterial infections. We previously demonstrated that bacterial products/components such as LPS, a glycolipid component of the bacterial outer membrane, and formylated peptides (fMLP), a bacterial-derived peptide, induced proinflammatory cytokine gene expression in human peripheral blood monocytes. We now present evidence that mixtures of bacterial products/components LPS and fMLP behave synergistically in the induction of inflammation in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, our results indicate that the TLR4 and the IKKbeta-IkappaBalpha signaling pathways are involved in the synergistic induction of inflammatory cytokines. The mechanism of synergistic activation of NF-kappaB is depended on nuclear translocation of p65 and phosphorylation of p65 at both Ser536 and Ser276 sites. These results demonstrate an important role for bacterial products/components from lysed bacteria in the pathogenesis of infectious diseases. We believe that this synergistic induction of inflammation by bacterial products LPS and fMLP represents an important pathogenic mechanism during bacterial infection, which may suggest novel therapeutic strategies or targets to minimize host injury following bacterial infection.

The green tea polyphenol (-)-epigallocatechin-3-gallate inhibits leukocyte activation by bacterial formylpeptide through the receptor FPR

Although green tea polyphenol catechin is considered as a potential anti-inflammatory agent, its effect on bacterial component-induced inflammation has been poorly investigated. We examined the capacity of epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) to regulate leukocyte responses to bacterial chemotactic peptide N-formylmethionyl-leucyl-phenylalanine (fMLF), which is recognized by a human G protein-coupled receptor FPR on phagocytic leukocytes. Pretreatment of human monocytic cells or FPR-transfected rat basophilic leukemia cells (ETFR cells) with EGCG significantly inhibited fMLF-induced chemotaxis. Intraperitoneal administration of EGCG in mice suppressed fMLF-induced leukocyte infiltration into the air pouch created in the skin. Mechanistic studies revealed that EGCG dose-dependently suppressed fMLF-induced calcium flux in monocytic cells and ETFR cells. fMLF-induced ETFR cell migration was significantly inhibited by a specific MEK1/2 inhibitor, PD98059, which was associated with reduction in fMLF-induced ERK1/2 phosphorylation. These results suggest that EGCG inhibits FPR-mediated leukocyte activation thus is a promising anti-inflammatory compound.

A novel antimicrobial peptide acting via formyl peptide receptor 2 shows therapeutic effects against rheumatoid arthritis

In oriental medicine, centipede Scolopendra subspinipes mutilans has long been used as a remedy for rheumatoid arthritis (RA), a well-known chronic autoimmune disorder. However, the molecular identities of its bioactive components have not yet been extensively investigated. We sought to identify bioactive molecules that control RA with a centipede. A novel antimicrobial peptide (AMP) (scolopendrasin IX) was identified from Scolopendra subspinipes mutilans. Scolopendrasin IX markedly activated mouse neutrophils, by enhancing cytosolic calcium increase, chemotactic cellular migration, and generation of superoxide anion in neutrophils. As a target receptor for scolopendrasin IX, formyl peptide receptor (FPR)2 mediates neutrophil activation induced by the AMP. Furthermore, scolopendrasin IX administration strongly blocked the clinical phenotype of RA in an autoantibody-injected model. Mechanistically, the novel AMP inhibited inflammatory cytokine synthesis from the joints and neutrophil recruitment into the joint area. Collectively, we suggest that scolopendrasin IX is a novel potential therapeutic agent for the control of RA via FPR2.

C-Terminal Tail Phosphorylation of N-Formyl Peptide Receptor: Differential Recognition of Two Neutrophil Chemoattractant Receptors by Monoclonal Antibodies NFPR1 and NFPR2

The N-formyl peptide receptor (FPR), a G protein-coupled receptor that binds proinflammatory chemoattractant peptides, serves as a model receptor for leukocyte chemotaxis. Recombinant histidine-tagged FPR (rHis-FPR) was purified in lysophosphatidyl glycerol (LPG) by Ni(2+)-NTA agarose chromatography to >95% purity with high yield. MALDI-TOF mass analysis (>36% sequence coverage) and immunoblotting confirmed the identity as FPR. The rHis-FPR served as an immunogen for the production of 2 mAbs, NFPR1 and NFPR2, that epitope map to the FPR C-terminal tail sequences, 305-GQDFRERLI-313 and 337-NSTLPSAEVE-346, respectively. Both mAbs specifically immunoblotted rHis-FPR and recombinant FPR (rFPR) expressed in Chinese hamster ovary cells. NFPR1 also recognized recombinant FPRL1, specifically expressed in mouse L fibroblasts. In human neutrophil membranes, both Abs labeled a 45-75 kDa species (peak M(r) approximately 60 kDa) localized primarily in the plasma membrane with a minor component in the lactoferrin-enriched intracellular fractions, consistent with FPR size and localization. NFPR1 also recognized a band of M(r) approximately 40 kDa localized, in equal proportions to the plasma membrane and lactoferrin-enriched fractions, consistent with FPRL1 size and localization. Only NFPR2 was capable of immunoprecipitation of rFPR in detergent extracts. The recognition of rFPR by NFPR2 is lost after exposure of cellular rFPR to f-Met-Leu-Phe (fMLF) and regained after alkaline phosphatase treatment of rFPR-bearing membranes. In neutrophils, NFPR2 immunofluorescence was lost upon fMLF stimulation. Immunoblotting approximately 60 kDa species, after phosphatase treatment of fMLF-stimulated neutrophil membranes, was also enhanced. We conclude that the region 337-346 of FPR becomes phosphorylated after fMLF activation of rFPR-expressing Chinese hamster ovary cells and neutrophils.

Signaling in lipopolysaccharide-induced stabilization of formyl peptide receptor 1 mRNA in mouse peritoneal macrophages

To identify the TLR4-initiated signaling events that couple to formyl peptide receptor (FPR)1 mRNA stabilization, macrophages were treated with LPS along with a selection of compounds targeting several known signaling pathways. Although inhibitors of protein tyrosine kinases, MAPKs, and stress-activated kinases had little or no effect on the response to LPS, LY294002 (LY2) and parthenolide (an IkappaB kinase inhibitor) were both potent inhibitors. LY2 but not parthenolide blocked the LPS-induced stabilization of FPR1 mRNA. Although both LY2 and wortmannin effectively blocked PI3K activity, wortmannin had little effect on FPR1 expression and did not modulate the decay of FPR1 mRNA. Moreover, although LY2 was demonstrated to be a potent inhibitor of PI3K activity, a structural analog of LY2, LY303511 (LY3), which did not inhibit PI3K, was equally effective at preventing LPS-stimulated FPR1 expression. The mammalian target of rapamycin activity (measured as phospho-p70S6 kinase) was activated by LPS but not significantly blocked by LY2. In addition, although rapamycin blocked mTOR activity, it did not inhibit FPR1 mRNA expression. Finally, the mechanisms involved in stabilization of FPR1 by LPS could be distinguished from those involved in stabilization of AU-rich mRNAs because the prolonged half-life of FPR1 mRNA was insensitive to the inhibition of p38 MAPK. These findings demonstrate that LY2/LY3 targets a novel TLR4-linked signaling pathway that selectively couples to the stabilization of FPR1 mRNA.