Rho Kinases in Embryonic Development and Stem Cell Research
Jianjian Shi · Lei Wei
Abstract
The Rho-associated coiled-coil containing kinases (ROCKs or Rho kinases) belong to the AGC (PKA/PKG/PKC) family of serine/threonine kinases and are major downstream effectors of small GTPase RhoA, a key regulator of actin-cytoskeleton reorganization. The ROCK family contains two members, ROCK1 and ROCK2, which share 65% overall identity and 92% identity in kinase domain. ROCK1 and ROCK2 were assumed to be functionally redundant, based largely on their major common activators, their high degree kinase domain homology, and study results from overexpression with kinase constructs or chemical inhibitors. ROCK signaling research has expanded to all areas of biology and medicine since its discovery in 1996. The rapid advance is befitting ROCK’s versatile functions in modulating various cell behavior, such as contraction, adhesion, migration, proliferation, polarity, cytokinesis, and differentiation. The rapid advance is noticeably driven by an extensive linking with clinical medicine, including cardiovascular abnormalities, aberrant immune responsive, and cancer development and metastasis. The rapid advance during the past decade is further powered by novel biotechnologies including CRISPR-Cas and single cell omics. Current consensus, derived mainly from gene targeting and RNA interference approaches, is that the two ROCK isoforms have overlapping and distinct cellular, physiological and pathophysiology roles. In this review, we present an overview of the milestone discoveries in ROCK research. We then focus on the current understanding of ROCK signaling in embryonic development, current research status using knockout and knockin mouse models, and stem cell research.
Keywords ROCK · Isoform · Inhibitor · Development · Stem cell
CD5L Secreted by Macrophage on Atherosclerosis Progression Based on Lipid Metabolism Induced Inflammatory Damage
Liang Wang · Lijuan Liu · Wei Qian · Zeqi Zheng
Abstract
To explore the molecular mechanism of exosomal protein CD5L secreted by macrophage to promote the progression of atherosclerosis. Twenty cases of patients with atherosclerosis (AS) and 20 cases of healthy subjects were collected. Morphological properties of exosomes were identified by transmission electron microscopy, and the marker proteins CD63 and CD81 of exosomes were measured by Western blot. The secretion of inflammatory factors in the blood supernatant were analyzed by ELISA. Atherosclerosis cell models were established by transwell and separated into three groups: first group was treated with exosome inhibitor (GW4869), second group was injected with CD5L protein and third group was model control. Morphological properties of exosomes were identified by transmission electron microscopy, and the marker proteins CD63 and CD81 of exosomes were measured by Western blot. The levels of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-13, IL-17A, IL-31 in the cells were analyzed by ELISA. Analysis of the expression and distribution of IL-17RA in vascular smooth muscle cells by immunofluorescence. The proteins of CD63, CD81, CD5L were high expressed in AS group compared to healthy subject group. Cell test results showed that protein levels of CD63, CD81, CD5L in AS group were much higher than that in normal group. Immunofluorescence showed that the expression level of IL-17RA in cell membrane was the highest in the AS model group, and the expression of IL-17RA was decreased in GW4869 group and CD5L group. Expression of inflammatory factors in AS was much higher than that in GW4869 group and CD5L group. The exosomal protein CD5L secreted by macrophage promotes the development of atherosclerosis based on lipid metabolism-induced inflammatory damage of vascular smooth muscle cells.
Keywords Atherosclerosis · Exosomes · Protein CD5L · Inflammatory damage · Vascular smooth muscle cells · Mechanism
The Role of Immunoproteasomes in Tumor‑Immune Cell Interactions in Melanoma and Colon Cancer
Hanna Leister · Felix F. Krause · Rouzbeh Mahdavi · Ulrich Steinhoff · Alexander Visekruna
Abstract
The participation of proteasomes in vital cellular and metabolic processes that are involved in tumor growth has made this protease complex an attractive target for cancer treatment. In contrast to ubiquitously available constitutive proteasome, the increased enzymatic activity of immunoproteasome is associated with tumor-infiltrating immune cells, such as antigen-presenting cells and T lymphocytes. In various tumors, an effective anti-tumor immunity is provided through generation of tumor-associated antigens by proteasomes, contributing crucially to cancer eradication by T lymphocytes. The knowledge regarding the role of immunoproteasomes in the communication between tumor cells and infiltrating immune cells is limited. Novel data suggest that the involvement of immunoproteasomes in tumorigenesis is more complex than previously thought. In the intestine, in which diverse signals from commensal bacteria and food can contribute to the onset of chronic inflammation and inflammation-driven cancer, immunoproteasomes exert tumorigenic properties by modulating the expression of pro-inflammatory factors. In contrast, in melanoma and non-small cell lung cancer, the immunoproteasome acts against cancer development by promoting an effective anti-tumor immunity. In this review, we highlight the potential of immuno-proteasomes to either contribute to inflammatory signaling and tumor development, or to support anti-cancer immunity. Further, we discuss novel therapeutic options for cancer treatments that are associated with modulating the activity of immunoproteasomes in the tumor microenvironment.
Keywords Immunoproteasome · Colitis-associated cancer · Melanoma · Tumor microenvironment · T cells
Effects of Local Nasal Immunotherapy with FIP‑fve Peptide and Denatured Tyrophagus putrescentiae for Storage Mite‑Induced Airway Inflammation
Chung‑Yang Yen · Ching‑Hsiang Yu · Jaw‑Ji Tsai · Hsiang‑Kuang Tseng · En‑Chih Liao
Abstract
Allergic diseases are affecting public health and have increased over the last decade. Sensitization to mite allergens is a considerable trigger for allergy development. Storage mite-Tyrophagus putrescentiae shows great significance of allergenic potential and clinical relevance. The fungal immunomodulatory peptide FIP-fve has been reported to possess immunomodulatory activity. We aimed to determine whether T. putrescentiae-induced sensitization and airway inflammation in mice could be downregulated by FIP-fve in conjunction with denatured T. putrescentiae (FIP-fve and DN-Tp). Immune responses and physiologic variations in immunoglobulins, leukocyte subpopulations, cytokine productions, pulmonary function, lung pathology, cytokines in CD4+ and Treg cells were evaluated after local nasal immunotherapy (LNIT). After the LNIT with FIP-fve and DN-Tp, levels of specific IgE, IgG1, and IgG2a in the sera and IgA in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) were significantly reduced. Infiltrations of inflammatory leukocytes (eosinophils, neutrophils, and lymphocytes) in the airway decreased significantly. Production of proinflammatory cytokines (IL-5, IL-13, IL-17F and IL-23) and chemokine (IL-8) were significantly reduced, and Th1-cytokine (IL-12) increased in the airway BALF after LNIT. Pulmonary functions of Penh values were significantly decreased after the methacholine challenge, which resulted in a reduction of airway hypersensitivity after LNIT. Bronchus pathology showed a reduction of inflammatory cell infiltration and epithelium damage after LNIT. The IL-4+/CD4+ T cells could be downregulated and the IFN-γ+/CD4+ T cells upregulated. The Treg-related immunity of IL-10 and Foxp3 expressions in CD4+CD25+ cells were both upregulated after LNIT. In conclusion, LNIT with FIP-fve and DN-Tp had an anti-inflammatory effect on mite-induced airway inflammations and possesses potential as an immunomodulatory therapy agent for allergic airway diseases.
Keywords Local nasal immunotherapy (LNIT) · Fungal immunomodulatory peptide (FIP-fve) · Tyrophagus putrescentiae · Airway inflammation · Regulatory T cells (Tregs)
Treat‑to‑Target in Lupus Nephritis. What is the Role of the Repeat Kidney Biopsy?
Ioannis Parodis · Farah Tamirou · Frédéric A. Houssiau
Abstract
Kidney involvement, termed lupus nephritis (LN), develops in 35–60% of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus, often early during the disease course. When not treated promptly and efficiently, LN may lead to rapid and severe loss of kidney function, being the reason why it is considered one of the most severe lupus manifestations. Despite improved pharmaco-therapy, 5–20% of LN patients develop end-stage kidney disease within ten years from the LN diagnosis. While the principal ground of LN therapy is prevention of renal function worsening, resembling a race against nephron loss, consensual agreement upon outcome measures and clinically meaningful short- and long-term targets of LN therapy have yet to be determined. Literature points to the importance of inclusion of tissue-based approaches in the determination of those targets, and evidence accumulates regarding the importance of per-protocol repeat kidney biopsies in the evaluation of the initial phase of therapy and prediction of long-term renal prognosis. The latter leads to the hypothesis that the information gleaned from repeat biopsies may contribute to optimised therapeutic decision making, and, therefore, increased probability to attain complete renal response in the short term, and a more favourable renal prognosis within a longer prospect. The multinational project ReBioLup was recently designed to serve as a key contributor to form evidence about the role of per-protocol repeat biopsies in a randomised fashion and aspires to unify the global LN community towards improved kidney and patient survival.
Keywords Systemic lupus erythematosus · Lupus nephritis · Treat-to-target · Kidney biopsy · Kidney disorders · Autoimmunity
New Treatment Options in Lupus Nephritis
Pauline M. Montigny · Frédéric A. Houssiau
Abstract
The aim of this study is to report major recent progresses in the treatment of lupus nephritis (LN). Results of controlled randomized trials are discussed in view of the unmet needs in the field. Current treatments of LN are not satisfactory, with a disappointing proportion of 20–30% of patients achieving complete renal response within 6–12 months, and 5–20% developing end-stage kidney disease within ten years. Two drugs (belimumab and voclosporin) have been officially registered by the medical agencies as add on treatment of LN, a first-in-history success after decades of use of non-registered drugs and trial failures. Other targeted therapies (obinutuzumab and anifrolumab) are currently tested in Phase III trials, after interesting results in Phase II studies. Unanswered questions related to the use of these new drugs are discussed. Recent trials have opened new avenues for the treatment of LN which will hopefully reduce the rate of chronic kidney disease.
Keywords Lupus nephritis · Treatment · Targeted therapies · Outcome
Recombinant Human Lactoferrin Reduces Inflammation and Increases Fluoroquinolone Penetration to Primary Granulomas During Mycobacterial Infection of C57Bl/6 Mice
Thao K. T. Nguyen · Zainab Niaz · Marian L. Kruzel · Jeffrey K. Actor1
Abstract
Infection with Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) results in the primary formation of a densely packed inflammatory foci that limits entry of therapeutic agents into pulmonary sites where organisms reside. No current therapeutic regimens exist that modulate host immune responses to permit increased drug penetration to regions of pathological damage during tuberculosis disease. Lactoferrin is a natural iron-binding protein previously demonstrated to modulate inflammation and granuloma cohesiveness, while maintaining control of pathogenic burden. Studies were designed to examine recombinant human lactoferrin (rHLF) to modulate histological progression of Mtb-induced pathology in a non-necrotic model using C57Bl/6 mice. The rHLF was oral administered at times corresponding to initiation of primary granulomatous response, or during granuloma maintenance. Treatment with rHLF demonstrated significant reduction in size of primary inflammatory foci following Mtb challenge, and permitted penetration of ofloxacin fluoroquinolone therapeutic to sites of pathological disruption where activated (foamy) macrophages reside. Increased drug penetration was accompanied by retention of endothelial cell integrity. Immunohistochemistry revealed altered patterns of M1-like and M2-like phenotypic cell localization post infectious challenge, with increased presence of M2-like markers found evenly distributed throughout regions of pulmonary inflammatory foci in rHLF-treated mice.
Keywords Lactoferrin · Mycobacterium tuberculosis · Mtb · Granuloma · Immunopathology · M1/M2 Phenotype · Tuberculosis
Study of Plasma Anti‑CD26 Autoantibody Levels in a Cohort of Treatment‑Naïve Early Arthritis Patients
Oscar J. Cordero · Irene Viéitez · Irene Altabás · Laura Nuño‑Nuño · Alejandro Villalba · Marta Novella‑Navarro · Diana Peiteado · María‑Eugenia Miranda‑Carús · Alejandro Balsa · Rubén Varela‑Calviño · Iria Gomez‑Tourino · José M. Pego‑Reigosa
Abstract
In rheumatoid arthritis (RA), the identification of biomarkers to adjust treatment intensity and to correctly diagnose the disease in early stages still constitutes a challenge and, as such, novel biomarkers are needed. We proposed that autoantibodies (aAbs) against CD26 (DPP4) might have both etiological importance and clinical value. Here, we perform a prospective study of the potential diagnostic power of Anti-CD26 aAbs through their quantification in plasmas from 106 treatment-naïve early and undifferentiated AR. Clinical antibodies, Anti-CD26 aAbs, and other disease-related biomarkers were measured in plasmas obtained in the first visit from patients, which were later classified as RA and non-RA according to the American College of Rheumatology criteria. Two different isotype signatures were found among ten groups of patients, one for Anti-CD26 IgA and other for Anti-CD26 IgG and IgM isotypes, both converging in patients with arthritis (RA and Unresolved Undifferentiated Arthritis: UUA), who present elevated levels of all three isotypes. The four UUA patients, unresolved after two years, were ACPA and rheumatic factor (RF) negatives. In the whole cohort, 51.3% of ACPA/RF seronegatives were Anti-CD26 positives, and a similar frequency was observed in the seropositive RA patients. Only weak associations of the three isotypes with ESR, CRP and disease activity parameters were observed. Anti-CD26 aAbs are present in treatment-naïve early arthritis patients, including ACPA and RF seronegative individuals, suggestive of a potential pathogenic and/or biomarker role of Anti-CD26 aAbs in the development of rheumatic diseases.
Keywords Autoantibodies · CD26 · Anti-CD26 · Early rheumatoid arthritis · Autoimmunity · Etiology
Preliminary Results for Personalized Therapy in Pregnant Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome During the COVID‑19 Pandemic
Małgorzata Jerzak · Monika Szafarowska
Abstract
Increased androgen level, hyperinsulinemia, diabetes, impaired fibrinolysis, obesity, hypertension, chronic inflammation, abnormal immune response to infections and hyperhomocysteinemia are the most common abnormalities related to polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) women and are the factors predisposing to the severe course of COVID-19. The SARS-Cov-2 infection during pregnancy is associated with an increased risk of complications (spontaneous abortion), similar to those in PCOS. The treatment of PCOS pregnant women with a history of fertility failures raises many doubts, especially during the COVID pandemic. However, due to the increasing incidence of infections among reproductive people and the potentially more serious course in pregnant women, numerous questions about the safety and effectiveness of the treatment are still very current. In our study we presented a series of cases of recurrent miscarriages or recurrent implantation failure PCOS pregnant women with confirmed COVID-19. The diagnosis of infertility confirmed the presence of plasminogen activator inhibitor type 1 and/or 5,10-methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase polymorphisms in each of them. Moreover, some of the women presented immune dysfunction associated with infertility. We have described the personalized treatments of each pregnant patient included: metformin, enoxaparin and tacrolimus. The treatment applied had the expected effect, supporting the implantation processes. Furthermore, despite the ambiguous data according to immunological therapy of infertile women during the COVID pandemic, we observed a mild or asymptomatic COVID-19 course and we noticed no pregnancy complications.
Keywords COVID-19 · PCOS · Pregnancy · Recurrent pregnancy loss · Metformin · Tacrolimus
Transcriptome Studies in Lupus Nephritis
Marta E. Alarcón‑Riquelme
Abstract
The present review is aimed at describing the main works that have used gene expression to analyze tissue kidney samples of lupus nephritis patients. Most studies used the gene expression arrays, which enormously advanced our knowledge on the possible mechanisms behind lupus nephritis. However, using bulk gene expression platforms, either as arrays, or as sequenc-
ing of RNA is not enough to go into detail of the cells and their molecular patterns and single cell mechanisms of disease. More recently, the first single cell RNA Sequencing study was published and this will also be discussed in the context of lupus nephritis. Single cell RNA sequencing allows to retrieve the genes expressed in each cell in the tissue of interest or in blood. In this context, the results of such studies give us a first glimpse of how a lupus nephritis kidney looks like, but much is still to be done to understand the changes that occur with treatment or with the different pathological subtypes of lupus nephritis and their cellular content.
Keywords Systemic lupus erythematosus · Lupus nephritis · Transcriptome · Gene expression · Genetics
Hydroxychloroquine Therapy and Serum Immunoglobulin Levels in Women with IgG Subclass Deficiency and Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, Sjögren Syndrome, and Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Retrospective Study
James C. Barton · J. Clayborn Barton · Luigi F. Bertoli
Abstract
Hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) therapy decreased immunoglobulin (Ig) levels in patients with Sjögren syndrome (SS) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in previous studies. We found no report of Ig levels of women with IgG subclass deficiency (IgGSD) and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), SS, or RA treated with HCQ. We retrospectively evaluated IgG, IgG subclass, IgA, and IgM levels and other characteristics of women at IgGSD diagnosis who did and did not take HCQ for SLE, SS, or RA. There were 132 women (48 subnormal IgG1 only, 49 combined subnormal IgG1/IgG3, and 35 subnormal IgG3 only). Mean age was 49 ± 13 years. Twenty-two women with SLE, SS, RA, or combination thereof reported HCQ ≥ 200 mg/ day ≥ 6 months. In each IgGSD subtype, median Ig levels of women who took HCQ were not significantly lower than those of women who did not take HCQ. Women with combined subnormal IgG1/IgG3 who took HCQ had greater median IgG2 than women who did not take HCQ (4.89 g/L (range 4.43, 4.94) vs. 2.57 g/L (1.21, 6.44), respectively; p = 0.0123). Regressions on IgG1, IgG2, and IgG3 revealed positive associations with HCQ therapy (p = 0.0043, 0.0037, and 0.0139, respectively). There were no significant Ig associations with age, SLE, SS, or RA as independent variables. HCQ therapy of SLE, SS, or RA in women with IgGSD was not associated with significantly lower IgG, IgG subclass, IgA, or IgM levels. IgG1, IgG2, and IgG3 were positively associated with HCQ therapy, after adjustment for other variables.
Keywords Rheumatoid arthritis · Sjögren syndrome · Systemic lupus erythematosus
Sex Differences in Innate Immune Response of Peripheral Blood Leukocytes of Alzheimer’s Disease Patients
Marta Sochocka · Michał Ochnik · Maciej Sobczyński · Beata Orzechowska · Jerzy Leszek
Abstract
Neurodegenerative disorders, including Alzheimer’s disease (AD), are associated with a disruption of normal immune function that could potentially impact the brain. In AD sex and gender have been noted as relevant to disease prevalence or clinical manifestation. It is suggested that disease progression could vary as a result of the different inflammation state among males and females. The objective was to investigate sex-dependent difference in innate immunity of AD patients and healthy, age-matched controls. The level of innate immunity was measured with test based on peripheral blood leukocytes (PBLs) resistance to viral infection (vesicular stomatitis virus, VSV) ex vivo. Cytokine: TNF-α, IFN-γ, IL-1β, IL-10 production by uninfected and VSV-infected PBLs ex vivo with enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay were examined. In contrast to controls, women with AD exhibit lower average level of innate immunity than AD men. The mean level of TNF-α, IL-10 and IL-1β was higher in AD men than in AD women whereas such changes were not observed among controls. The level of IFN-γ was higher in AD than in controls. PBLs from AD did not increase IFN-γ production after viral infection in contrast to controls. Leukocytes from women with AD exhibited a weaker response to viral infection and much less cytokine production compared to men with AD. It is important to consider sex as a biological variable in AD as it shows promises to advance our understanding of mechanisms of AD pathology and may be the basis for future treatment of AD.
Keywords Alzheimer’s disease · Innate immunity · PBLs · Cytokine production · Inflammation
The Effect of Inhaled Air Particulate Matter SRM 1648a on the Development of Mild Collagen‑Induced Arthritis in DBA/J Mice
Bernadeta Nowak · Grzegorz Majka · Małgorzata Śróttek · Anna Skałkowska · Janusz Marcinkiewicz
Abstract
Air pollution is considered to be one of a risk factor for rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) is commonly used as a mouse model of human RA. However, the impact of specific particulate matter (PM) components on the incidence and severity of RA has still not been established. The aim of this study was to develop an experimental model of CIA suitable to test arthritogenicity of inhaled PM. A mild form of CIA was induced in DBA1/J mice inhaled with various components of SRM 1648a PM. The incidence and severity of arthritis was assessed, and the selected serum markers of autoimmunity and inflammation were determined. Clinical arthritis was observed from the booster CII immunisation onward. Anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide antibodies, a diagnostic marker of RA, were detected in serum of these mice. All inhaled pollutants, crude PM, PM with reduced organic content, ferric, and silica nanoparticles markedly increased CIA incidence and severity. The fastest progression of CIA development was caused by crude PM and was linked to enhanced serum levels of anti-CII IgG, the prominent arthritogenic autoantibodies. On the other hand, inhaled nanoparticles enhanced serum levels of TNFα, a major proinflammatory arthritogenic cytokine. We recommend this experimental model of mild CIA to test the mechanisms of arthritis exacerbation by inhaled air pollutants. Further studies are necessary to determine whether PM-aggravated arthritis is caused by inflammatory mediators translocated from inflamed lung into systemic circulation or whether PM translocated into the bloodstream directly exacerbate joint inflammation.
Keywords Air pollution · Rheumatoid arthritis · Collagen induced arthritis · Autoimmunity · Chronic inflammation
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Immunotherapy in Ovarian Cancer
Natalia Siminiak · Rafał Czepczyński · Mikołaj Piotr Zaborowski · Dariusz Iżycki
Abstract
Despite advances in surgery and chemotherapy, ovarian cancer remains one of the most lethal malignancies. Hence, the implementation of novel treatment approaches is required to improve the outcomes of the disease. Immunotherapy has been proven to be effective in many tumors and has already been incorporated into clinical practice. In this review, we describe key strategies in immunotherapy of ovarian cancer and summarize data from clinical studies assessing immunological prospects which could improve ovarian cancer treatment approaches in the future. The most notable current strategies include checkpoint blockade agents, the use of vaccines, adoptive cell transfer, as well as various combinations of these methods. While several of these options are promising, large controlled randomized studies are still needed to implement new immunotherapeutic options into clinical practice.
Keywords Ovarian cancer · Immunotherapy · Adoptive transfer · Vaccine
Long‑Term Biodistribution and Safety of Human Dystrophin Expressing Chimeric Cell Therapy After Systemic‑Intraosseous Administration to Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy Model
Maria Siemionow · Sonia Brodowska · Paulina Langa · Kristina Zalants · Katarzyna Kozlowska · Wictoria Grau‑Kazmierczak · Ahlke Heydemann
Abstract
Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a lethal disease caused by X-linked mutations in the dystrophin gene. Dystrophin deficiency results in progressive degeneration of cardiac, respiratory and skeletal muscles leading to premature death due to cardiopulmonary complications. Currently, no cure exists for DMD. Based on our previous reports confirming a protective effect of human dystrophin expressing chimeric (DEC) cell therapy on cardiac, respiratory, and skeletal muscle function after intraosseous administration, now we assessed long-term safety and biodistribution of human DEC therapy for potential clinical applications in DMD patients. Safety of different DEC doses (1 × 106 and 5 × 106) was assessed at 180 days after systemic-intraosseous administration to mdx/scid mice, a model of DMD. Assessments included: single cell gel electrophresis assay (COMET assay) to confirm lack of genetic toxicology, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for tumorigenicity, and body, muscle and organ weights. Human DEC biodistribution to the target (heart, diaphragm, gastrocnemius muscle) and non-target (blood, bone marrow, lung, liver, spleen) organs was detected by flow cytometry assessment of HLA-ABC markers. Human origin of dystrophin was verified by co-localization of dystrophin and human spectrin by immunofluorescence. No complications were observed after intraosseous transplant of human DEC. COMET assay of donors and fused DEC cells confirmed lack of DNA damage. Biodistribution analysis of HLA-ABC expression revealed dose-dependent presence of human DEC cells in target organs, whereas negligible presence was detected in non-target organs. Human origin of dystrophin in the heart, diaphragm and gastrocnemius muscle was confirmed by co-localization of dystrophin expression with human spectrin. MRI revealed no evidence of tumor formation. Body mass and muscle and organ weights were stable and comparable to vehicle controls, further confirming DEC safety at 180 days post- transplant. This preclinical study confirmed long-term local and systemic safety of human DEC therapy at 180 days after intraosseous administration. Thus, DEC can be considered as a novel myoblast based advanced therapy medicinal product for DMD patients.
Keywords Duchenne muscular dystrophy · Dystrophin expressing chimeric cells · Systemic-intraosseous administration · Therapy safety · Biodistribution · Advanced therapy medicinal product
Elevated Levels of Soluble CD147 are Associated with Hyperinflammation and Disease Severity in COVID‑19: A Proof‑of‑Concept Clinical Study
Rashidi Springall · Julieta González‑Flores · Carlos García‑Ávila · Yaneli Juárez‑Vicuña · Adrián Hernández‑Diazcouder · Ricardo Márquez‑Velasco · Sergio Cásares‑Alvarado · Fausto Sánchez‑Muñoz · Edna Basilio‑Gálvez · Mauricio Castillo‑Salazar · Martha A. Ballinas‑Verdugo · Malinalli Brianza‑Padilla · José L. Sánchez‑Gloria · Claudia Tavera‑Alonso · Julio Sandoval · Héctor González‑Pacheco · Luis M. Amezcua‑Guerra
Abstract
To evaluate soluble CD147 levels in COVID-19 and identify whether these are associated with hyperinflammation and disease severity. One-hundred and nine COVID-19 patients and 72 healthy blood donors were studied. Levels of CD147, matrix metalloproteases (MMP) and inflammatory markers were measured on hospital arrival, while the need for mechanical ventilation and the occurrence of death during hospitalization were recorded. CD147 levels were higher in COVID-19 (1.6, 1.0–2.3 vs 1.3, 1.0–1.6 ng/ml; P = 0.003) than controls. MMP-2 (9.2, 4.5–12.9 vs 4.2, 3.7–4.6 ng/ml; P < 0.001), MMP-3 (1.1, 0.9–1.3 vs 0.9, 0.7–1.0 ng/ml; P < 0.001) and MMP-9 (0.9, 0.5–1.2 vs 0.4, 0.2–0.6 ng/ml; P < 0.001) were also higher in COVID-19, while MMP-1 (0.6, 0–1.4 vs 0.6, 0.3–0.7 ng/ml; P = 0.711) was not different. Significant correlations were found between CD147 and MMP-2 (ρ = 0.34), MMP-3 (ρ = 0.21), interleukin 6 (ρ = 0.21), and the neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (ρ = 0.26). Furthermore, CD147 levels were higher in patients who required mechanical ventilation (1.8, 1.4–2.4 vs 1.2, 0.8–1.9 ng/ml; P < 0.001) and in those who ultimately died (1.9, 1.4–2.7 vs 1.4, 0.9–1.9 ng/ml; P = 0.009). CD147 is elevated in COVID-19 and appears to contribute to hyperinflammation and disease severity.
Keywords CD147 · COVID-19 · Matrix Metalloproteases · Inflammation · Mechanical Ventilation
Correction to: CD5L Secreted by Macrophage on Atherosclerosis Progression Based on Lipid Metabolism Induced Inflammatory Damage
Liang Wang · Lijuan Liu · Wei Qian · Zeqi Zheng
The original article can be found online at https://doi.org/10.1007/s00005-022-00643-y.
Authors would like to correct the error in figures of 1 and 4. The correct version of figures updated here. The original article has been corrected.
Monitoring of Soluble Forms of BAFF System (BAFF, APRIL, sR‑BAFF, sTACI and sBCMA) in Kidney Transplantation
Rafael Alfaro1 · Santiago Llorente2 · Pedro Martinez1 · Víctor Jimenez‑Coll1 · Helios Martínez‑Banaclocha1 · José Antonio Galián1 · Carmen Botella1 · María Rosa Moya‑Quiles1 · Jesús de la Peña‑Moral3 · Alfredo Minguela1 · Isabel Legaz4 · Manuel Muro1
Abstract
BAFF system plays an essential role in B cells homeostasis and tolerance, although it has widely not been tested in transplantation with doubtful results. The main purpose was to study the BAFF soluble forms and their correlation with acute rejection (AR) and donor-specific antibodies production. Serum levels of BAFF, APRIL, and soluble forms of their receptors were analyzed in renal recipients with and without acute rejection (AR/NAR) appearance. All molecules were evaluated at pre- and post-transplantation. sTACI showed a significant correlation with BAFF and sR-BAFF levels, and sBCMA also showed a positive correlation with sAPRIL levels. A significant increase in sAPRIL levels in patients suffering AR was also found, and ROC curves analysis showed an AUC = 0.724, a concentration of 6.05 ng/ml (sensitivity: 66.7%; specificity: 73.3%), the best cutoff point for predicting AR. In the post-transplant dynamics of sAPRIL levels in the longitudinal cohort, we observed a significant decrease at 3 and 6 month post-transplantation compared to pretransplantation status. We also observed that recipients with high pre-transplant levels of sAPRIL generated antibodies earlier than those with lower sAPRIL levels, although their long-term post-transplantation was not different. Our results show that elevated serum levels of APRIL may be helpful as a biomarker for the diagnosis of AR, although the longitudinal study shows that it is not helpful as a prognostic biomarker.
Keywords BAFF system soluble forms · Acute rejection · Kidney transplant · Forensic medicine
Angiotensin II Type 1 Receptor Antibodies Are Higher in Lupus Nephritis and Vasculitis than Other Glomerulonephritis Patients
Maciej Szymczak · Harald Heidecke · Marcelina Żabińska · Dagna Rukasz · Krzysztof Wiśnicki · Andrzej Tukiendorf · Magdalena Krajewska · Mirosław Banasik
Abstract
Angiotensin II type 1 receptor (AT1R) antibodies are considered non-HLA (human leukocyte antigen) antibodies connected with humoral rejection after kidney transplantation. The role of AT1R antibodies in the pathogenesis of glomerular diseases and systemic vasculitis is unknown. We assessed the level of AT1R antibodies in 136 patients with different types of glomerulonephritis and systemic vasculitis and we observed kidney function and proteinuria, serum albumin and total protein levels for 2 years. The mean levels of AT1R antibodies were the following: 6.00 ± 1.31 U/ml in patients with membranous nephropathy (n = 18), 5.67 ± 1.31 U/ml with focal and segmental glomerulosclerosis (n = 25), 6.26 ± 2.25 U/ml with lupus nephropathy (n = 17), 10.60 ± 6.72 U/ml with IgA nephropathy (n = 14), 6.69 ± 2.52 U/ml with mesangial proliferative (non IgA) glomerulonephritis (n = 6), 6.63 ± 1.38 U/ml with systemic vasculitis (n = 56), including c-ANCA (anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies) vasculitis: 11.22 ± 10.78 U/ml (n = 40) and p-ANCA vasculitis: 12.65 ± 14.59 U/ml (n = 16). The mean AT1R antibodies level was higher in patients with lupus nephropathy and systemic vasculitis compared to glomerulonephritis groups. An inverse statistically significant correlation between AT1R antibodies and serum albumin (r = − 0.51) in membranous nephropathy group was also found. Prospective analysis of creatinine levels indicated an increase of creatinine levels during time among patients with higher AT1R antibodies levels in p-ANCA vasculitis. Lupus nephropathy and systemic vasculitis patients may have high levels of AT1R antibodies. AT1R antibodies may be associated with the severity of membranous nephropathy and the course of p-ANCA vasculitis, although influence of concomitant factors is difficult to exclude.
Keywords Angiotensin II type 1 receptor antibodies · Lupus nephritis · Vasculitis · Glomerulonephritis
Bisphenol A: Potential Factor of Miscarriage in Women in the Context of the Phenomenon of Neutrophil Extracellular Traps
Wioleta Justyna Omeljaniuk · Angelika Edyta Charkiewicz · Marzena Garley · Wioletta Ratajczak‑Wrona · Jan Czerniecki · Ewa Jabłońska · Marzanna Cechowska‑Pasko · Wojciech Miltyk
Abstract
Humans are exposed to a number of environmental pollutants every day. Among them, endocrine disruptors are particularly harmful to human health. Bisphenol A (BPA) is a xenoestrogen that has been shown to disrupt the endocrine system and cause reproductive toxicity. In this study, we aimed to verify the potential relationship between BPA and miscarriage involving the formation of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs). Blood samples were collected from healthy women and women who had miscarriage in the first trimester of pregnancy. The serum levels of cytoplasmic anti-PR3 antibody and perinuclear anti-MPO antibody were determined using an immunoenzymatic method. The concentrations of key proinflammatory proteins TNF-α and MCP-1, as well as NADPH oxidase subunits NOX1 and NCF2, were also measured in the serum samples. The serum concentration of BPA was determined using gas chromatography. The results showed that the concentrations of BPA were significantly elevated in the serum of women who had miscarriage compared to the control group, with the highest concentration found in the “NETs-positive” group. The levels of MCP-1 and TNF-α were significantly higher in the “NETs-positive” group compared to the “NETs-negative” and control group. The levels of NOX1 and NCF2 were also higher in the “NETs-positive” group compared to the “NETs-negative” group. The study showed that BPA could play a role in the course of miscarriage through the formation of NETs. The results indicate the need to limit the exposure of women planning pregnancy to xenoestrogens, including BPA.
Keywords BPA · Miscarriage · NOX1 · NCF2 · MCP-1 · TNF-α · Anti-PR3 · Anti-MPO · NETs
What Has Immunology Brought to Periodontal Disease in Recent Years?
Jan Kowalski · Maciej Nowak · Bartłomiej Górski · Renata Górska
Abstract
Recent decades have shed a new light on the pathomechanism of periodontal inflammation. While classic periodontology concentrates on biofilm control, oral hygiene improvement, professional tooth cleaning and surgical correction of damaged periodontal tissues, new aspects of the destruction mechanisms are being raised. Among them, the greatest attention is paid to the influence of host response on the clinical manifestations of the disease. Numerous studies have proved that the shift from gingivitis to periodontitis is not a simple progress of the disease, but an event occurring only in susceptible individu- als. Susceptibility may result from appearance of local factors facilitating biofilm accumulation and/or maturation, or from systemic features, among which over-reaction and prolonged agitation of non-specific component of inflammatory response is crucial. The present paper summarizes the association between periodontology and immunology and updates the knowledge accrued mostly in the recent years. After a brief explanation of advances in understanding of the disease aetiology, the most studied and potentially viable immunological markers of periodontal disease are presented. Possible new therapeutic strategies, exploiting knowledge about the nature of host response—immunomodulation and reduction of chronic oxidative stress—are also presented.
Keywords Periodontal diseases · Immunology · Biomarkers · Immunomodulation · Oxidative stress
Interleukin‑35 has a Protective Role in Infectious Mononucleosis‑Induced Liver Inflammation Probably by Inhibiting CD8+ T Cell Function
Ying Gao1 · Lan Li1 · Xingxing Hu1 · Weihua Zhang1 · Yu Li2
Abstract
Interleukin (IL)-35 plays an immunosuppressive role in infectious diseases, autoimmune disorders, and cancers. However, IL-35 expression and its regulation of CD8+ T cells in infectious mononucleosis (IM) are not fully understood. In this study, three groups of participants were compared, including twenty-three patients of IM without liver inflammation, twenty-eight patients of IM with liver inflammation, and twenty-one controls. Plasma and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were isolated. CD8+ T cells were purified. Plasma IL-35 was measured by ELISA. PBMCs and CD8+ T cells were stimulated with recombinant human IL-35 in vitro. Perforin and granzyme B secretion was assessed by ELISPOT. Immune checkpoint molecule expression was investigated by flow cytometry. CD8+ T cells were co-cultured with HepG2 cells in direct contact and indirect contact manner. The cytotoxicity of CD8+ T cells was calculated by measuring lactate dehydrogenase release and proinflammatory cytokine expression. There was no significant difference in plasma IL-35 levels between patients with IM without liver inflammation and the controls, but the IL-35 level was notably increased in patients with IM who presented with liver inflammation and negatively correlated with aminotransferase. CD8+ T cells in patients with IM with liver inflam- mation showed stronger cytotoxicity. IL-35 stimulation inhibited CD8+ T cell-induced target cell death in patients with IM, mainly through suppression of IFN-γ/TNF-α secretion and elevation of immune checkpoint molecule expression, but did not affect perforin or granzyme B secretion. The current data indicated that IL-35 dampened the cytotoxicity of CD8+ T cells in patients with IM probably via repression of cytokine secretion. Elevated IL-35 may protect against CD8+ T cell-induced liver inflammation in patients with IM.
Keywords Interleukin-35 · CD8+ T lymphocytes · Infectious mononucleosis · Liver inflammation · Immunoregulation
Small Extracellular Vesicles Loaded with Immunosuppressive miRNAs Leads to an Inhibition of Dendritic Cell Maturation
Liliana Czernek1 · Łukasz Pęczek1 · Markus Düchler1
Abstract
In particular conditions, inhibition of an immune response is required to prevent tissue damage. Among these conditions are diseases caused by an over-reactive immune response, such as autoimmune or allergic disorders, or imminent organ rejection after transplantation. To avoid tissue damage, drug-mediated systemic immune suppression is an option, but it comes with high costs in the form of susceptibility to viral and bacterial infections. Thus, the induction of antigen-specific tolerance is preferable. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are capable of delivering antigen together with immunosuppressive signals and may be used to specifically induce antigen-specific tolerance. However, naturally occurring EVs are heterogeneous and not all of them show immunosuppressive character. In our trials to engineer cell culture derived EVs to increase their tolerogenic potential, we equipped them with immunosuppressive miRNA mimics. Small EVs (sEVs) were isolated and purified from the human monocytic THP-1 cell line or from healthy donor peripheral blood mononuclear cells, and electroporated with miR-494 and miR-146a mimics. The acquired immunosuppressive potential of the modified sEVs was demonstrated by their ability to alter the major histocompatibility complex molecules and co-stimulatory receptors present on dendritic cells (DCs). To avoid allogeneic responses, the same cells that produced the sEVs served also as recipient cells. In contrast to the treatment with unmodified sEVs, the tolerogenic sEVs impeded lipopolysaccharide-induced maturation and kept DCs in a more immature developmental stage. Our experiments show that simple manipulations of sEVs using immunosuppressive cargo can lead to the inhibition of DC maturation.
Keywords Dendritic cells · Electroporation · miRNAs mimics · Tolerogenic · Extracellular vesicles
Application of Metabolomics in Childhood Leukemia Diagnostics
Agata Kozioł · Małgorzata Pupek
Abstract
Metabolomics is a new field of science dealing with the study and analysis of metabolites formed in living cells. The biological fluids used in this test method are: blood, blood plasma, serum, cerebrospinal fluid, saliva and urine. The most popular methods of assessing the composition of metabolites include nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and mass spectrometry (MS) in combination with gas chromatography–MS or liquid chromatography–MS. Metabolomics is used in many areas of medicine. The variability of biochemical processes in neoplastic cells in relation to healthy cells is the starting point for this type of research. The aim of the research currently being carried out is primarily to find biomarkers for quick diagnosis of the disease, assessment of its advancement and treatment effectiveness. The development of metabolomics may also contribute to the individualization of treatment of patients, adjusting drugs depending on the metabolic profile, and thus may improve the effectiveness of therapy, reduce side effects and help to improve the quality of life of patients. Here, we review the current and potential applications of metabolomics, focusing on its use as a biomarker method for childhood leukemia.
Keywords Metabolomics · Cancer · Childhood leukemia · Nuclear magnetic resonance · Mass spectrometry · FT-IR
Impact of Betamethasone Pretreatment on Engrafment of Cord Blood‑Derived Hematopoietic Stem Cells
David Perna‑Barrull · Laia Gomez‑Muñoz · Silvia Rodriguez‑Fernandez · Anna Gieras · Rosa M. Ampudia‑Carrasco · Lidia Almenara‑Fuentes · Ruth M. Risueño · Sergi Querol · Eva Tolosa · Marta Vives‑Pi
Abstract
Hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) transplantation is crucial to cure hematologic malignancies. Umbilical cord blood (UCB) is a source of stem cells, but 90% of UCB units are discarded due to low cellularity. Improving the engraftment capacities of CD34+ stem cells would allow the use of UCB that were so far rejected. Betamethasone induces long-term transcriptomic and epigenomic changes in immune cells through glucocorticoid receptor. We hypothesize that discarded UCB could be used owing to improvements induced by betamethasone. Isolated CD34+ HSC from UCB were exposed to the synthetic glucocorticoids betamethasone and fluticasone for 20 h, and cell phenotype was determined before transplantation. NSG mice were sub-lethally irradiated (1 Gy or 2 Gy) 6 h before intravenously transferring 2–5 × 105 CD34+ HSC. The peripheral blood engraftment levels and the leukocyte subsets were followed up for 20 weeks using flow cytometry. At end point, the engraftment and leukocyte subsets were determined in the spleen and bone marrow. We demonstrated that betamethasone has surprising effects in recovering immune system homeostasis. Betamethasone and fluticasone increase CXCR4 and decrease HLA class II and CD54 expression in CD34+ HSCs. Both glucocorticoids-exposed cells showed a similar engraftment in 2 Gy-irradiated NSG mice. Interestingly, betamethasone-exposed cells showed enhanced engraftment in 1 Gy-irradiated NSG mice, with a trend to increase regulatory T cell percentage when compared to control. Betamethasone induces alterations in CD34+ HSCs and improve the engraftment, leading to a faster immune system recovery, which will contribute to engrafted cells survival.
Keywords Betamethasone · Cord blood · Hematopoietic stem cell · CD34+ · Transplantation · Immune system
An Assessment of the Serum Activity of ADH and ALDH in Patients with Primary Biliary Cholangitis
Blanka Wolszczak‑Biedrzycka · Anna Bieńkowska · Elżbieta Zasimowicz · Grzegorz Biedrzycki · Justyna Dorf · Wojciech Jelski
Abstract
Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC; previously known as primary biliary cirrhosis) is a chronic inflammation-induced cholestatic process in the liver. Antimitochondrial antibodies (AMAs) are observed in around 90% of patients, which suggests that PBC is an autoimmune disease. Alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH), ADH isoenzymes and aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH) are localized in the liver, and they are useful markers of liver dysfunction. In this study, the activity of total ADH, ADH isoenzymes and ALDH was evaluated in the blood serum of patients with PBC. The experimental group comprised 50 PBC patients, both male and female, aged 28–67. The control group consisted of 50 healthy subjects, both male and female, aged 25–65. The serum activity of class I ADH, class II ADH and ALDH was measured by spectrofluorophotometry, whereas total ADH and class III ADH activity was determined by photometry methods. The activity of class I ADH and total ADH was significantly higher in the experimental group than in the control group (p < 0.001). An increase in class I ADH and total ADH activity indicates that the isoenzyme class I ADH is released by compromised liver cells and can be useful diagnostic markers of PBC.
Keywords Primary biliary cholangitis · Alcohol dehydrogenase · Aldehyde dehydrogenase