CCL21 is sufficient to mediate DC migration, maturation and function in the absence of CCL19

Chemokine CCL19 promotes type 2 T-cell differentiation and allergic airway inflammation

BACKGROUND

Allergic asthma is driven largely by allergen-specific TH2 cells, which develop in regional lymph nodes on the interaction of naive CD4+ T cells with allergen-bearing dendritic cells that migrate from the lung. This migration event is dependent on CCR7 and its chemokine ligand, CCL21. However, is has been unclear whether the other CCR7 ligand, CCL19, has a role in allergic airway disease.

OBJECTIVE

This study sought to define the role of CCL19 in TH2 differentiation and allergic airway disease.

METHODS

Ccl19-deficient mice were studied in an animal model of allergic asthma. Dendritic cells or fibroblastic reticular cells from wild-type and Ccl19-deficient mice were cultured with naive CD4+ T cells, and cytokine production was measured by ELISA. Recombinant CCL19 was added to CD4+ T-cell cultures, and gene expression was assessed by RNA-sequencing and quantitative PCR. Transcription factor activation was assessed by flow cytometry.

RESULTS

Lungs of Ccl19-deficient mice had less allergic airway inflammation, reduced airway hyperresponsiveness, and less IL-4 and IL-13 production compared with lungs of Ccl19-sufficient animals. Naive CD4+ T cells cocultured with Ccl19-deficient dendritic cells or fibroblastic reticular cells produced lower amounts of type 2 cytokines than did T cells cocultured with their wild-type counterparts. Recombinant CCL19 increased phosphorylation of STAT5 and induced expression of genes associated with TH2 cell and IL-2 signaling pathways.

CONCLUSIONS

These results reveal a novel, TH2 cell-inducing function of CCL19 in allergic airway disease and suggest that strategies to block this pathway might help to reduce the incidence or severity of allergic asthma.

Resolvin D1 shows osseous-protection via RANK reduction on monocytes during orthodontic tooth movement

The study aimed to investigate the role of RvD1 in acute and prolonged sterile inflammation and bone remodeling. A mouse model of sterile inflammation that involves bone resorption was used to examine endogenous RvD1 kinetics during inflammation. Application of exogenous RvD1 significantly inhibited bone remodeling via osteoclast reduction, alongside an anti-inflammatory secretome shift, increased macrophages recruitment and reduction of T-cytotoxic cells. In vitro and in vivo, RvD1 led to significant reduction in RANK expression which reduce osteoclastogenesis in a dose-dependent manner. Taken together, the data shows a dual role for RvD1, as a potent immunoresolvent agent alongside an osteoresolvent role, showing a potential therapeutic agent in bone resorption associated inflammatory conditions.

(Not) Home alone: Antigen presenting cell - T Cell communication in barrier tissues

Priming of T cells by antigen presenting cells (APCs) is essential for T cell fate decisions, enabling T cells to migrate to specific tissues to exert their effector functions. Previously, these interactions were mainly explored using blood-derived cells or animal models. With great advances in single cell RNA-sequencing techniques enabling analysis of tissue-derived cells, it has become clear that subsets of APCs are responsible for priming and modulating heterogeneous T cell effector responses in different tissues. This composition of APCs and T cells in tissues is essential for maintaining homeostasis and is known to be skewed in infection and inflammation, leading to pathological T cell responses. This review highlights the commonalities and differences of T cell priming and subsequent effector function in multiple barrier tissues such as the skin, intestine and female reproductive tract. Further, we provide an overview of how this process is altered during tissue-specific infections which are known to cause chronic inflammation and how this knowledge could be harnessed to modify T cell responses in barrier tissue.

Nociception-Dependent CCL21 Induces Dorsal Root Ganglia Axonal Growth via CCR7-ERK Activation

While chemokines were originally described for their ability to induce cell migration, many studies show how these proteins also take part in many other cell functions, acting as adaptable messengers in the communication between a diversity of cell types. In the nervous system, chemokines participate both in physiological and pathological processes, and while their expression is often described on glial and immune cells, growing evidence describes the expression of chemokines and their receptors in neurons, highlighting their potential in auto- and paracrine signalling. In this study we analysed the role of nociception in the neuronal chemokinome, and in turn their role in axonal growth. We found that stimulating TRPV1⁺ nociceptors induces a transient increase in CCL21. Interestingly we also found that CCL21 enhances neurite growth of large diameter proprioceptors in vitro. Consistent with this, we show that proprioceptors express the CCL21 receptor CCR7, and a CCR7 neutralizing antibody dose-dependently attenuates CCL21-induced neurite outgrowth. Mechanistically, we found that CCL21 binds locally to its receptor CCR7 at the growth cone, activating the downstream MEK-ERK pathway, that in turn activates N-WASP, triggering actin filament ramification in the growth cone, resulting in increased axonal growth.

Towards Understanding the Lymph Node Response to Skin Infection with Saprophytic Staphylococcus epidermidis

In individuals with lymphedema, diabetic foot, or other diseases, infections with saprophytes are common. The response of major cell subpopulations in the draining lymph nodes to skin infection with Staphylococcus epidermidis was assessed using the rat model. After massive subepidermal infection, a cytometric evaluation showed an increase in cytotoxic and helper T lymphocytes and major subpopulations of the innate immune response. Three weeks later, signs of inflammation reduction with an increase in the content of memory T helper lymphocytes and effector memory T cytotoxic lymphocytes were observed. After skin re-infection, a rapid response of cytotoxic, helper, and memory T lymphocytes, memory B lymphocytes and plasmablasts, and macrophages was detected. In addition, a reduction in the number of naïve B lymphocytes, activated MHC class II+ cells, and some cells of the innate immune system was observed. T regulatory lymphocyte response after the initial and secondary S. epidermidis skin infection was not detected. The morphometric evaluation showed significant changes in the main cell subpopulations in each functional zone of the node and then confirmed the efficient elimination of the administered antigen, as evidenced by the observations on day 28. Notably, after re-infection, the cellular response did not exceed the level after the initial infection and was reduced in many cell subpopulations. Understanding how the lymph nodes eliminate S. epidermidis can provide valuable insights into creating immunological therapies against infections with saprophytes.

Donor BMSC-derived small extracellular vesicles relieve acute rejection post-renal allograft through transmitting Loc108349490 to dendritic cells

Bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cell (BMSC)-derived small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) are potent candidates for the suppression of acute rejection post-renal allograft and have been reported to halt dendritic cells (DCs) maturation. However, whether BMSC-derived sEVs mitigate acute rejection post-renal allograft by targeting DCs is still unclear. In this study, donor BMSC-derived sEVs (sEVs) relieved the inflammatory response and suppressed mature DCs (mDCs) location in kidney grafts, and increased regulatory T (Treg) cell population in the spleens of the rats that underwent kidney allograft. In lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated immature DCs (imDCs), sEVs suppressed the maturation and migration of DCs and inactivated toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) signaling. Compared with LPS-treated imDCs, imDCs treated with LPS+sEVs promoted CD4+ T cells differentiated toward Treg cells. Subsequently, we found that Loc108349490, a long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) abundant in sEVs, mediated the inhibitory effect of sEVs on DC maturation and migration by promoting TLR4 ubiquitination. In rats that underwent an allograft, Loc108349490 deficiency weakened the therapeutic effect of sEVs on acute rejection. The present study firstly found that sEVs alleviated acute rejection post-renal allograft by transferring lncRNA to DCs and screened out the functional lncRNA loaded in sEVs was Loc108349490.

Feasibility of using monocyte-derived dendritic cells obtained from cryopreserved cells for DC-based vaccines

The study of the effect of cryopreservation on the functionality of monocyte-derived dendritic cells (MDDCs) and dendritic cells (DCs) is essential for their use in different clinical applications such as DCs-based vaccines. Its full maturation and its optimal functionality are crucial for DCs based immunotherapy. In this study, we compared MDDCs derived from fresh and cryopreserved PBMCs in the aspects of phenotype and its effect on T cells at the level of proliferation and cytokine secretion. We pulsed MDDCs obtained from fresh and cryopreserved PBMCs with two different stimuli, CEF and SEA, and the expression maturation markers and cytokine secretion were analyzed. Our results showed that the cryopreservation had no effects in the phenotype of the MDDCs obtained, cell viability, maturation markers expression and/or cytokines secretion, independently whether MDDCs had been generated from fresh or cryopreserved PBMCs. Thus, this study suggests that the use of cryopreserved cells is a good method to keep the cells before use in immunotherapy, avoiding the variability within same individual due to severe blood draws. Even so, the interpretation and comparison of different results should be done considering the different cryopreservation techniques and assays, and their effects on PBMCs, specifically on MDDC and DC cells.

Dendritic Cells and CCR7 Expression: An Important Factor for Autoimmune Diseases, Chronic Inflammation, and Cancer

Chemotactic cytokines-chemokines-control immune cell migration in the process of initiation and resolution of inflammatory conditions as part of the body's defense system. Many chemokines also participate in pathological processes leading up to and exacerbating the inflammatory state characterizing chronic inflammatory diseases. In this review, we discuss the role of dendritic cells (DCs) and the central chemokine receptor CCR7 in the initiation and sustainment of selected chronic inflammatory diseases: multiple sclerosis (MS), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and psoriasis. We revisit the binary role that CCR7 plays in combatting and progressing cancer, and we discuss how CCR7 and DCs can be harnessed for the treatment of cancer. To provide the necessary background, we review the differential roles of the natural ligands of CCR7, CCL19, and CCL21 and how they direct the mobilization of activated DCs to lymphoid organs and control the formation of associated lymphoid tissues (ALTs). We provide an overview of DC subsets and, briefly, elaborate on the different T-cell effector types generated upon DC-T cell priming. In the conclusion, we promote CCR7 as a possible target of future drugs with an antagonistic effect to reduce inflammation in chronic inflammatory diseases and an agonistic effect for boosting the reactivation of the immune system against cancer in cell-based and/or immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI)-based anti-cancer therapy.

Contribution of Heparan Sulphate Binding in CCL21-Mediated Migration of Breast Cancer Cells

Simple Summary

Breast cancer is a leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide, predominantly caused by metastasis. Chemokine receptor CCR7 and its ligand CCL21 are implicated in the metastasis of breast cancer to the lymph nodes. Chemokine function is dependent upon binding to their specific chemokine receptors and negatively charged molecules on the cell surface (heparan sulphate). The role of heparan sulphate in CCR7-mediated lymph node metastasis was investigated by creating a non-heparan sulphate binding mutant chemokine CCL21. Mutant-CCL21 was tested in vitro in a range of assays, including cell migration, calcium flux and surface plasmon resonance spectroscopy. Mutant-CCL21 induced leukocyte chemotaxis in diffusion gradients but did not stimulate trans-endothelial migration of breast cancer cells. A murine model was used to assess the potential of mutant-CCL21 to prevent lymph node metastasis in vivo. Lymph node metastasis was significantly reduced by the administration of mutant-CCL21 compared to the control. Targeting chemokine–heparan sulphate interactions may be a promising approach to inhibit chemokine activity and metastasis.

Abstract

Chemokine receptor CCR7 is implicated in the metastasis of breast cancer to the lymph nodes. Chemokine function is dependent upon their binding to both cell-surface heparan sulphate (HS) and to their specific receptors; thus, the role of HS in CCR7-mediated lymph node metastasis was investigated by creating a non-HS binding chemokine CCL21 (mut-CCL21). Mut-CCL21 (Δ103–134) induced leukocyte chemotaxis in diffusion gradients but did not stimulate trans-endothelial migration of PBMCs (p < 0.001) and 4T1-Luc cells (p < 0.01). Furthermore, the effect of heparin and HS on the chemotactic properties of wild-type (WT) and mut-CCL21 was examined. Interestingly, heparin and HS completely inhibit the chemotaxis mediated by WT-CCL21 at 250 and 500 µg/mL, whereas minimal effect was seen with mut-CCL21. This difference could potentially be attributed to reduced HS binding, as surface plasmon resonance spectroscopy showed that mut-CCL21 did not significantly bind HS compared to WT-CCL21. A murine model was used to assess the potential of mut-CCL21 to prevent lymph node metastasis in vivo. Mice were injected with 4T1-Luc cells in the mammary fat pad and treated daily for a week with 20 µg mut-CCL21. Mice were imaged weekly with IVIS and sacrificed on day 18. Luciferase expression was significantly reduced in lymph nodes from mice that had been treated with mut-CCL21 compared to the control (p = 0.0148), suggesting the potential to target chemokine binding to HS as a therapeutic option.

The relation between ACKR4 and CCR7 genes expression and breast cancer metastasis

AIMS

Breast cancer is the most severe malignant tumor in women. Chemokines and their receptors appear to be implicated in tumorigenesis and metastatic pattern. Also the scavenger atypical chemokine receptors are emerging as crucial regulators for the availability of chemokines. Therefore the aim of the present study is to evaluate the expression of CCR7, ACKR4 and their ligand; CCL21 in human breast cancer.

MAIN METHODS

In this study, RT-PCR was done to detect the expression of CCR7 and ACKR4 in 50 non-metastatic and 30 metastatic breast cancer tissue. Also CCL21 level in the serum of study group was detected by ELISA. The expression of all markers is compared to 80 control healthy individual.

KEY FINDINGS

Our results revealed the increase in expression of CCR7 and CCL21 level in metastatic group compared to non-metastatic and control groups while ACKR4 expression is significantly increased in breast tissues of non-metastatic patients compared to both control and metastatic groups. Also there was significant positive correlation between CCR7 expression and CCL21 level in cancer patients and significant negative correlation between ACKR4 and both CCR-7 and CCL21 in both non-metastatic and metastatic cancer groups.

SIGNIFICANCE

Thus, it might be elucidating that ACKR4 and CCR7 could be a novel target for tumor therapy as targeting the chemokine-receptors axis might represent a powerful tool to prevent infiltration and metastasis and consequently improve cancer prognosis and treatment.

Structure and Immune Function of Afferent Lymphatics and Their Mechanistic Contribution to Dendritic Cell and T Cell Trafficking

Afferent lymphatic vessels (LVs) mediate the transport of antigen and leukocytes to draining lymph nodes (dLNs), thereby serving as immunologic communication highways between peripheral tissues and LNs. The main cell types migrating via this route are antigen-presenting dendritic cells (DCs) and antigen-experienced T cells. While DC migration is important for maintenance of tolerance and for induction of protective immunity, T cell migration through afferent LVs contributes to immune surveillance. In recent years, great progress has been made in elucidating the mechanisms of lymphatic migration. Specifically, time-lapse imaging has revealed that, upon entry into capillaries, both DCs and T cells are not simply flushed away with the lymph flow, but actively crawl and patrol and even interact with each other in this compartment. Detachment and passive transport to the dLN only takes place once the cells have reached the downstream, contracting collecting vessel segments. In this review, we describe how the anatomy of the lymphatic network supports leukocyte trafficking and provide updated knowledge regarding the cellular and molecular mechanisms responsible for lymphatic migration of DCs and T cells. In addition, we discuss the relevance of DC and T cell migration through afferent LVs and its presumed implications on immunity.

Scavenging of soluble and immobilized CCL21 by ACKR4 regulates peripheral dendritic cell emigration

Leukocyte homing driven by the chemokine CCL21 is pivotal for adaptive immunity because it controls dendritic cell (DC) and T cell migration through CCR7. ACKR4 scavenges CCL21 and has been shown to play an essential role in DC trafficking at the steady state and during immune responses to tumors and cutaneous inflammation. However, the mechanism by which ACKR4 regulates peripheral DC migration is unknown, and the extent to which it regulates CCL21 in steady-state skin and lymph nodes (LNs) is contested. Specifically, our previous findings that CCL21 levels are increased in LNs of ACKR4-deficient mice [I. Comerford et al., Blood 116, 4130-4140 (2010)] were refuted [M. H. Ulvmar et al., Nat. Immunol. 15, 623-630 (2014)], and no differences in CCL21 levels in steady-state skin of ACKR4-deficient mice were reported despite compromised CCR7-dependent DC egress in these animals [S. A. Bryce et al., J. Immunol. 196, 3341-3353 (2016)]. Here, we resolve these issues and reveal that two forms of CCL21, full-length immobilized and cleaved soluble CCL21, exist in steady-state barrier tissues, and both are regulated by ACKR4. Without ACKR4, extracellular CCL21 gradients in barrier sites are saturated and nonfunctional, DCs cannot home directly to lymphatic vessels, and excess soluble CCL21 from peripheral tissues pollutes downstream LNs. The results identify the mechanism by which ACKR4 controls DC migration in barrier tissues and reveal a complex mode of CCL21 regulation in vivo, which enhances understanding of functional chemokine gradient formation.

In Sickness and in Health: The Immunological Roles of the Lymphatic System

The lymphatic system plays crucial roles in immunity far beyond those of simply providing conduits for leukocytes and antigens in lymph fluid. Endothelial cells within this vasculature are distinct and highly specialized to perform roles based upon their location. Afferent lymphatic capillaries have unique intercellular junctions for efficient uptake of fluid and macromolecules, while expressing chemotactic and adhesion molecules that permit selective trafficking of specific immune cell subsets. Moreover, in response to events within peripheral tissue such as inflammation or infection, soluble factors from lymphatic endothelial cells exert “remote control” to modulate leukocyte migration across high endothelial venules from the blood to lymph nodes draining the tissue. These immune hubs are highly organized and perfectly arrayed to survey antigens from peripheral tissue while optimizing encounters between antigen-presenting cells and cognate lymphocytes. Furthermore, subsets of lymphatic endothelial cells exhibit differences in gene expression relating to specific functions and locality within the lymph node, facilitating both innate and acquired immune responses through antigen presentation, lymph node remodeling and regulation of leukocyte entry and exit. This review details the immune cell subsets in afferent and efferent lymph, and explores the mechanisms by which endothelial cells of the lymphatic system regulate such trafficking, for immune surveillance and tolerance during steady-state conditions, and in response to infection, acute and chronic inflammation, and subsequent resolution.

Biased agonism at chemokine receptors

In the human chemokine system, interactions between the approximately 50 known endogenous chemokine ligands and 20 known chemokine receptors (CKRs) regulate a wide range of cellular functions and biological processes including immune cell activation and homeostasis, development, angiogenesis, and neuromodulation. CKRs are a family of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCR), which represent the most common and versatile class of receptors in the human genome and the targets of approximately one third of all Food and Drug Administration-approved drugs. Chemokines and CKRs bind with significant promiscuity, as most CKRs can be activated by multiple chemokines and most chemokines can activate multiple CKRs. While these ligand-receptor interactions were previously regarded as redundant, it is now appreciated that many chemokine:CKR interactions display biased agonism, the phenomenon in which different ligands binding to the same receptor signal through different pathways with different efficacies, leading to distinct biological effects. Notably, these biased responses can be modulated through changes in ligand, receptor, and or the specific cellular context (system). In this review, we explore the biochemical mechanisms, functional consequences, and therapeutic potential of biased agonism in the chemokine system. An enhanced understanding of biased agonism in the chemokine system may prove transformative in the understanding of the mechanisms and consequences of biased signaling across all GPCR subtypes and aid in the development of biased pharmaceuticals with increased therapeutic efficacy and safer side effect profiles.

iNKT cells with high PLZF expression are recruited into the lung via CCL21-CCR7 signaling to facilitate the development of asthma tolerance in mice

Establishment of immune tolerance is crucial to protect humans against asthma. Promyelocytic leukemia zinc finger (PLZF) is an emerging suppressor of inflammatory responses. CCL21-CCR7 signaling mediates tolerance development. However, whether PLZF and CCL21-CCR7 are required for the development of asthma tolerance is unknown. Here, we found that Zbtb16 (coding PLZF) and Ccl21 were upregulated in OVA-induced asthma tolerance (OT) lungs by RNA-seq. PLZF physically interacted with GATA3 and its expression was higher in GATA3⁺ Th2 cells and ILC2s in OT lungs. Zbtb16-knockdown in lymphocytes promoted the differentiation of CD3e⁺ CD4⁺ T cells, particularly those producing IL-4 and IL-5. Moreover, iNKT cells with high expression of PLZF were recruited into the lungs via draining lymph nodes during tolerance. Blockade of CCL21-CCR7 signaling in OT mice decreased the PLZF⁺  cell population, abolished CCR7-induced PLZF⁺ iNKT recruitment to the lungs, enhanced Th2responses and exacerbated lung pathology. In OT mice, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection impeded PLZF⁺  cell and CCR7⁺ PLZF⁺ iNKT cellrecruitment to the lungs and increased airway resistance. Collectively, these results indicate that PLZF could interact with GATA3 and restrain differentiation of IL-4- and IL-5-producing T cells, iNKT cells with high PLZF expression are recruited to the lungs via CCL21-CCR7 signaling to facilitate the development of asthma tolerance.

Multiple developmental pathways lead to the generation of CD4 T-cell memory

Long-term immunological memory mediated by CD4 T cells provides a rapid protection against previously encountered pathogens or antigens. However, it is still controversial how memory CD4 T cells are generated and maintained. Unclear definitions of T-cell memory may be partially responsible for this controversy. It is becoming clear that diverse pathways are responsible for the differentiation and long-term persistence of memory T cells. We herein discuss the diversity of memory cell generation, describing a novel population of resting memory CD4 T cells and their precursors.

Molecular mechanisms of dendritic cell migration in immunity and cancer

Dendritic cells (DCs) are a heterogeneous population of antigen-presenting cells that act to bridge innate and adaptive immunity. DCs are critical in mounting effective immune responses to tissue damage, pathogens and cancer. Immature DCs continuously sample tissues and engulf antigens via endocytic pathways such as phagocytosis or macropinocytosis, which result in DC activation. Activated DCs undergo a maturation process by downregulating endocytosis and upregulating surface proteins controlling migration to lymphoid tissues where DC-mediated antigen presentation initiates adaptive immune responses. To traffic to lymphoid tissues, DCs must adapt their motility mechanisms to migrate within a wide variety of tissue types and cross barriers to enter lymphatics. All steps of DC migration involve cell-cell or cell-substrate interactions. This review discusses DC migration mechanisms in immunity and cancer with a focus on the role of cytoskeletal processes and cell surface proteins, including integrins, lectins and tetraspanins. Understanding the adapting molecular mechanisms controlling DC migration in immunity provides the basis for therapeutic interventions to dampen immune activation in autoimmunity, or to improve anti-tumour immune responses.

The Role of CCL21/CCR7 Chemokine Axis in Breast Cancer Progression

Breast cancer is a leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide, predominantly caused by metastasis. It is generally accepted that the pattern of breast cancer metastasis is largely determined by the interaction between the chemokine receptors on cancer cells and the chemokines expressed at the sites of metastatic disease. Chemokine receptors belong to the G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) family that appear to be implicated in inflammatory diseases, tumor growth and metastasis. One of its members, C-C Chemokine receptor 7 (CCR7), binds chemokines CCL19 and CCL21, which are important for tissue homeostasis, immune surveillance and tumorigenesis. These receptors have been shown to induce the pathobiology of breast cancer due to their ability to induce cellular proliferation and migration upon the binding of the cognate chemokine receptors. The underlying signaling pathways and exact cellular interactions within this biological system are not fully understood and need further insights. Thus, in this review, we summarize the essential roles of CCR7 and its receptors in breast cancer progression. Furthermore, we discuss the mechanisms of regulation that may lead to novel opportunities for therapeutic intervention. Despite the enormous advances in our knowledge of the nature of the chemokines in breast cancer metastasis, research about the involvement of CCR7 in cancer progression is still limited. Therefore, further studies are essential to illustrate the distinct roles of CCR7 in cancer progression and validate its potential as a preventive bio-factor for human breast cancer metastasis by targeting chemokine receptor genes.

Lymphatic Vessels Enhancing Adaptive Immunity Deteriorates Renal Inflammation and Renal Fibrosis

Background

Lymphatic vessels transport lymph away from microvascular beds into the cardiovascular system. The basic function of the lymphatic system include absorption of water and macromolecules in the interstitial fluid, which plays an important role in maintaining osmotic balance of the body. Recent studies have shown that lymphangiogenesis is associated with tumor metabolism, injury repair, and chronic inflammation, and deteriorates disease progression via immune cell trafficking.

Summary

Renal interstitial lymph-angiogenesis is found in patients with chronic kidney disease and a series of animal models of renal fibrosis. Lymphatic vessels transfer antigen and antigen-presenting cells from peripheral tissues to lymph nodes, which initiates adaptive immunity and in turn deteriorates renal inflammation and renal fibrosis, even in non-autoimmune renal diseases.

Key Messages

This review summarizes the latest findings on how lymphatics participate in the progression of chronic kidney disease. This discussion will serve to highlight the role of adaptive immunity in non-infectious and non-autoimmune nephropathy, in order to provide new ideas and methods for prevention and treatment of kidney diseases.

Enhanced Cell Division Is Required for the Generation of Memory CD4 T Cells to Migrate Into Their Proper Location

CD4 T cell memory is fundamental for long-lasting immunity and effective secondary responses following infection or vaccination. We have previously found that memory CD4 T cells specific for systemic antigens preferentially reside in the bone marrow (BM) and arise from splenic CD49b⁺T-bet⁺ CD4 T cells. However, how BM-homing memory precursors are generated during an immune reaction is unknown. We show here that BM memory precursors are generated via augmented rates of cell division throughout a primary immune response. Treatment with the cytostatic drug cyclophosphamide or blockade of the CD28/B7 co-stimulatory pathway at the beginning of the contraction phase abrogates the generation of BM memory precursors. We determine that, following a critical number of cell divisions, memory precursors downregulate CCR7 and upregulate IL-2Rβ, indicating that loss of CCR7 and gain of IL-2 signal are required for the migration of memory precursors toward the BM.

Chemokines and other mediators in the development and functional organization of lymph nodes

Secondary lymphoid organs like lymph nodes (LNs) are the main inductive sites for adaptive immune responses. Lymphocytes are constantly entering LNs, scanning the environment for their cognate antigen and get replenished by incoming cells after a certain period of time. As only a minor percentage of lymphocytes recognizes cognate antigen, this mechanism of permanent recirculation ensures fast and effective immune responses when necessary. Thus, homing, positioning, and activation as well as egress require precise regulation within LNs. In this review we discuss the mediators, including chemokines, cytokines, growth factors, and others that are involved in the formation of the LN anlage and subsequent functional organization of LNs. We highlight very recent findings in the fields of LN development, steady-state migration in LNs, and the intranodal processes during an adaptive immune response.

Concepts of GPCR-controlled navigation in the immune system

G‐protein–coupled receptor (GPCR) signaling is essential for the spatiotemporal control of leukocyte dynamics during immune responses. For efficient navigation through mammalian tissues, most leukocyte types express more than one GPCR on their surface and sense a wide range of chemokines and chemoattractants, leading to basic forms of leukocyte movement (chemokinesis, haptokinesis, chemotaxis, haptotaxis, and chemorepulsion). How leukocytes integrate multiple GPCR signals and make directional decisions in lymphoid and inflamed tissues is still subject of intense research. Many of our concepts on GPCR‐controlled leukocyte navigation in the presence of multiple GPCR signals derive from in vitro chemotaxis studies and lower vertebrates. In this review, we refer to these concepts and critically contemplate their relevance for the directional movement of several leukocyte subsets (neutrophils, T cells, and dendritic cells) in the complexity of mouse tissues. We discuss how leukocyte navigation can be regulated at the level of only a single GPCR (surface expression, competitive antagonism, oligomerization, homologous desensitization, and receptor internalization) or multiple GPCRs (synergy, hierarchical and non‐hierarchical competition, sequential signaling, heterologous desensitization, and agonist scavenging). In particular, we will highlight recent advances in understanding GPCR‐controlled leukocyte navigation by intravital microscopy of immune cells in mice.

Targeted Migration of Human Adipose-Derived Stem Cells to Secondary Lymphoid Organs Enhances Their Immunomodulatory Effect and Prolongs the Survival of Allografted Vascularized Composites

The targeted delivery of therapeutic agents to secondary lymphoid organs (SLOs), which are the niches for immune initiation, provides an unprecedented opportunity for immune intolerance induction. The alloimmune rejection postvascularized composite allotransplantation (VCA) is mediated by T lymphocytes. Human adipose-derived stem cells (hASCs) possess the superiority of convenient availability and potent immunoregulatory property, but their therapeutic results in the VCA are unambiguous thus far. Chemokine receptor 7 (CCR7) can specifically guide immune cells migrating into SLOs. There, the genes of CCR7-GFP or GFP alone were introduced into hASCs by lentivirus. hASCs/CCR7 maintained the multidifferentiation and immunoregulatory abilities, but it gained the migration capacity elicited by secondary lymphoid organ chemokine (SCL) (CCR7 ligand) in vitro. Noteworthily, intravenously infused hASCs/CCR7 targetedly relocated in the T-cell aggression area in SLOs. In a rat VCA model, hASCs/GFP transfusion had a rare effect on the allografted vascularized composite. However, hASCs/CCR7 infusion potently prolonged the grafts' survival time. The ameliorated pathologic exhibition and the regulated inflammatory cytokines in the peripheral blood were also observed. The altered axis of Th1/Th2 and Tregs/Th17 in SLOs may underlie the downregulated rejection response. Moreover, the proteomic examination of splenic T lymphocytes also confirmed that hASCs/CCR7 decreased the proteins related to cytokinesis, lymphocyte proliferation, differentiation, and apoptotic process. In conclusion, our present study demonstrated that targeted migration of hASCs/CCR7 to SLOs highly intensifies their in vivo immunomodulatory effect in the VCA model for the first time. We believe this SLO-targeting strategy may improve the clinical therapeutic efficacy of hASC for allogeneic and autogenic immune disease. Stem Cells 2019;37:1581-1594.

Lymphatic Migration of Immune Cells

Lymphatic vessels collect interstitial fluid that has extravasated from blood vessels and return it to the circulatory system. Another important function of the lymphatic network is to facilitate immune cell migration and antigen transport from the periphery to draining lymph nodes. This migration plays a crucial role in immune surveillance, initiation of immune responses and tolerance. Here we discuss the significance and mechanisms of lymphatic migration of innate and adaptive immune cells in homeostasis, inflammation and cancer.

Cellular traffic through afferent lymphatic vessels

The lymphatic system has long been known to serve as a highway for migrating leukocytes from peripheral tissue to draining lymph nodes (dLNs) and back to circulation, thereby contributing to the induction of adaptive immunity and immunesurveillance. Lymphatic vessels (LVs) present in peripheral tissues upstream of a first dLN are generally referred to as afferent LVs. In contrast to migration through blood vessels (BVs), the detailed molecular and cellular requirements of cellular traffic through afferent LVs have only recently started to be unraveled. Progress in our ability to track the migration of lymph-borne cell populations, in combination with cutting-edge imaging technologies, nowadays allows the investigation and visualization of lymphatic migration of endogenous leukocytes, both at the population and at the single-cell level. These studies have revealed that leukocyte trafficking through afferent LVs generally follows a step-wise migration pattern, relying on the active interplay of numerous molecules. In this review, we will summarize and discuss current knowledge of cellular traffic through afferent LVs. We will first outline how the structure of the afferent LV network supports leukocyte migration and highlight important molecules involved in the migration of dendritic cells (DCs), T cells and neutrophils, i.e. the most prominent cell types trafficking through afferent LVs. Additionally, we will describe how tumor cells hijack the lymphatic system for their dissemination to draining LNs. Finally, we will summarize and discuss our current understanding of the functional significance as well as the therapeutic implications of cell traffic through afferent LVs.

Formation of the Intrathymic Dendritic Cell Pool Requires CCL21-Mediated Recruitment of CCR7+ Progenitors to the Thymus

During αβ T cell development in the thymus, migration of newly selected CD4⁺ and CD8⁺ thymocytes into medullary areas enables tolerance mechanisms to purge the newly selected αβ TCR repertoire of autoreactive specificities. Thymic dendritic cells (DC) play key roles in this process and consist of three distinct subsets that differ in their developmental origins. Thus, plasmacytoid DC and Sirpα⁺ conventional DC type 2 are extrathymically derived and enter into the thymus via their respective expression of the chemokine receptors CCR9 and CCR2. In contrast, although Sirpα⁻ conventional DC type 1 (cDC1) are known to arise intrathymically from immature progenitors, the precise nature of such thymus-colonizing progenitors and the mechanisms controlling their thymus entry are unclear. In this article, we report a selective reduction in thymic cDC1 in mice lacking the chemokine receptor CCR7. In addition, we show that the thymus contains a CD11c⁺MHC class II⁻Sirpα⁻Flt3⁺ cDC progenitor population that expresses CCR7, and that migration of these cells to the thymus is impaired in Ccr7^−/− mice. Moreover, thymic cDC1 defects in Ccr7^−/− mice are mirrored in plt/plt mice, with further analysis of mice individually lacking the CCR7 ligands CCL21Ser (Ccl21a^−/−) or CCL19 (Ccl19^−/−) demonstrating an essential role for CCR7-CCL21Ser during intrathymic cDC1 development. Collectively, our data support a mechanism in which CCR7-CCL21Ser interactions guide the migration of cDC progenitors to the thymus for correct formation of the intrathymic cDC1 pool.

Biased signaling of G protein-coupled receptors - From a chemokine receptor CCR7 perspective

Chemokines (chemotactic cytokines) and their associated G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) work in a concerted manner to govern immune cell positioning in time and space. Promiscuity of both ligands and receptors, but also biased signaling within the chemokine system, adds to the complexity of how the cell-based immune system is controlled. Bias comes in three forms; ligand-, receptor- and tissue-bias. Biased signaling is increasingly being recognized as playing an important role in contributing to the fine-tuned coordination of immune cell chemotaxis. In the current review we discuss the recent findings related to ligand- and tissue-biased signaling of CCR7 and summarize what is known about bias at other chemokine receptors. CCR7 is expressed by a subset of T-cells and by mature dendritic cells (DCs). Together with its two endogenous ligands CCL19 and CCL21, of which the carboxy terminal tail of CCL21 displays an extraordinarily strong glycosaminoglycan (GAG) binding, CCR7 plays a central role in coordinating the meeting between mature antigen presenting DCs and naïve T-cells which normally takes place in the lymph nodes (LNs). This process is a prerequisite for the initiation of an antigen-specific T-cell mediated immune response. Thus CCR7 and its ligands are key players in initiating cell-based immune responses. CCL19 and CCL21 display differential interaction- and docking-modes for CCR7 leading to stabilization of different CCR7 conformations and hereby preferential activation of distinct intracellular signaling pathways (i.e. ligand bias). In general CCL19 seems to generate a strong temporal signal, whereas CCL21 generates a weaker, but more persistent signal. Tissue differential expression of these two ligands, and the generation of a third ligand "tailless-CCL21", through DC specific protease activity (tissue bias), orchestrates DC and T-cell LN homing and priming, with each ligand serving overlapping, but also distinct roles.

A Novel Computational Model Predicts Key Regulators of Chemokine Gradient Formation in Lymph Nodes and Site-Specific Roles for CCL19 and ACKR4

The chemokine receptor CCR7 drives leukocyte migration into and within lymph nodes (LNs). It is activated by chemokines CCL19 and CCL21, which are scavenged by the atypical chemokine receptor ACKR4. CCR7-dependent navigation is determined by the distribution of extracellular CCL19 and CCL21, which form concentration gradients at specific microanatomical locations. The mechanisms underpinning the establishment and regulation of these gradients are poorly understood. In this article, we have incorporated multiple biochemical processes describing the CCL19–CCL21–CCR7–ACKR4 network into our model of LN fluid flow to establish a computational model to investigate intranodal chemokine gradients. Importantly, the model recapitulates CCL21 gradients observed experimentally in B cell follicles and interfollicular regions, building confidence in its ability to accurately predict intranodal chemokine distribution. Parameter variation analysis indicates that the directionality of these gradients is robust, but their magnitude is sensitive to these key parameters: chemokine production, diffusivity, matrix binding site availability, and CCR7 abundance. The model indicates that lymph flow shapes intranodal CCL21 gradients, and that CCL19 is functionally important at the boundary between B cell follicles and the T cell area. It also predicts that ACKR4 in LNs prevents CCL19/CCL21 accumulation in efferent lymph, but does not control intranodal gradients. Instead, it attributes the disrupted interfollicular CCL21 gradients observed in Ackr4-deficient LNs to ACKR4 loss upstream. Our novel approach has therefore generated new testable hypotheses and alternative interpretations of experimental data. Moreover, it acts as a framework to investigate gradients at other locations, including those that cannot be visualized experimentally or involve other chemokines.

Stimulation of osteoclast migration and bone resorption by C-C chemokine ligands 19 and 21

Osteoclasts are responsible for the bone erosion associated with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The upregulation of the chemokines CCL19 and CCL21 and their receptor CCR7 has been linked to RA pathogenesis. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of CCL19 and CCL21 on osteoclasts and to reveal their underlying mechanisms. The expression of CCL19, CCL21 and CCR7 was higher in RA patients than in osteoarthritis patients. In differentiating osteoclasts, tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-1β and lipopolysaccharide stimulated CCR7 expression. CCL19 and CCL21 promoted osteoclast migration and resorption activity. These effects were dependent on the presence of CCR7 and abolished by the inhibition of the Rho signaling pathway. CCL19 and CCL21 promoted bone resorption by osteoclasts in an in vivo mice calvarial model. These findings demonstrate for the first time that CCL19, CCL21 and CCR7 play important roles in bone destruction by increasing osteoclast migration and resorption activity. This study also suggests that the interaction of CCL19 and CCL21 with CCR7 is an effective strategic focus in developing therapeutics for alleviating inflammatory bone destruction.

Essential role of CCL21 in establishment of central self-tolerance in T cells

The chemokine receptor CCR7 directs T cell relocation into and within lymphoid organs, including the migration of developing thymocytes into the thymic medulla. However, how three functional CCR7 ligands in mouse, CCL19, CCL21Ser, and CCL21Leu, divide their roles in immune organs is unclear. By producing mice specifically deficient in CCL21Ser, we show that CCL21Ser is essential for the accumulation of positively selected thymocytes in the thymic medulla. CCL21Ser-deficient mice were impaired in the medullary deletion of self-reactive thymocytes and developed autoimmune dacryoadenitis. T cell accumulation in the lymph nodes was also defective. These results indicate a nonredundant role of CCL21Ser in the establishment of self-tolerance in T cells in the thymic medulla, and reveal a functional inequality among CCR7 ligands in vivo.

Complete Freund's adjuvant induces experimental autoimmune myocarditis by enhancing IL-6 production during initiation of the immune response

INTRODUCTION

Complete Freund's Adjuvant (CFA) emulsified with an antigen is a widely used method to induce autoimmune disease in animal models, yet the contribution of CFA to the immune response is not well understood. We compared the effectiveness of CFA with Incomplete Freund's Adjuvant (IFA) or TiterMax Gold Adjuvant (TMax) in experimental autoimmune myocarditis (EAM) in male mice.

METHODS

EAM was induced in A/J, BALB/c, and IL6KO BALB/c male mice by injection of the myocarditogenic peptide in CFA, IFA, or TMax on days 0 and 7. EAM severity was analyzed by histology on day 21. In addition, specific flow cytometry outcomes were evaluated on day 21.

RESULTS

Only mice immunized with CFA and myocarditogenic peptide on both days 0 and 7 developed substantial myocarditis as measured by histology. We observed a significantly increased level of IL6 in the spleen 3 days after CFA immunization. In the spleen and heart on day 21, there was an expansion of myeloid cells in CFA-immunized mice, as compared to IFA or TMax-immunized animals. Recombinant IL-6 at the time of IFA immunization partially restored susceptibility of the mice to EAM. We also treated EAM-resistant IL-6 knockout mice with recombinant IL-6 around the time of the first immunization, on days -1 to 2, completely restoring disease susceptibility, showing that the requirement for IL-6 coincides with primary immunization. Examining APC populations in the lymph node draining the immunization site evidenced the contribution of IL-6 to the CFA-dependence of EAM was through controlling local dendritic cell (DC) trafficking.

CONCLUSIONS

CFA used with myocarditogenic peptide twice is required to induce EAM in both A/J and Balb/c mice. Although IFA and TiterMax induce antibody responses, only CFA preferentially induced autoantigen-specific responses. CFA expands monocytes in the heart and in the spleen. IL-6 signaling is required during short window around primary immunization to induce EAM. In addition, IL-6 deficient mice resistance to EAM could be reversed by injecting IL-6 around first immunization. IL-6 expands dendritic cell and monocytic populations and ultimately leads to a robust T-cell driven immune response in CFA immunized mice.

Intestinal Dendritic Cells Are Altered in Number, Maturity and Chemotactic Ability in Fulminant Hepatic Failure

Fulminant hepatic failure (FHF) is defined as rapid acute liver injury, often complicated with spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP). The precise onset of FHF with SBP is still unknown, but it is thought that SBP closely correlates with a weakened intestinal barrier. Dendritic cells (DCs) play a crucial role in forming the intestinal immune barrier, therefore the number, maturity and chemotactic ability of intestinal DCs were studied in FHF. Mouse intestinal and spleen DCs were isolated by magnetic-activated cell sorting (MACS) and surface markers of DCs, namely CD11c, CD74, CD83 and CD86, were identified using flow cytometry. Immunohistochemistry and Western blotting were performed to detect the distribution and expression of CC-chemokine receptor 7 (CCR7) and CC-chemokine receptor 9 (CCR9), as well as their ligands-CC-chemokine ligand 21 (CCL21) and CC-chemokine ligand 25 (CCL25). Real-time PCR was used to detect CCR7 and CCR9 mRNA, along with their ligands-CCL21 and CCL25 mRNA. Flow cytometry analysis showed that the markers CD74, CD83 and CD86 of CD11c+DCs were lower in the D-galactosamine (D-GalN) group and were significantly decreased in the FHF group, while there were no significant changes in the expression of these markers in the lipopolysaccharide (LPS) group. Immunohistochemistry results showed that staining for CCR7 and CCR9, as well as their ligands CCL21 and CCL25, was significantly weaker in the D-GalN and FHF groups compared with the normal saline (NS) group or the LPS group; the FHF group even showed completely unstained parts. Protein expression of CCR7 and CCR9, as well as their ligands- CCL21 and CCL25, was also lower in the D-GalN group and decreased even more significantly in the FHF group. At the gene level, CCR7 and CCR9, along with CCL21 and CCL25 mRNA expression, was lower in the D-GalN group and significantly decreased in the FHF group compared to the NS and LPS groups, consisting with the protein expression. Our study indicated that intestinal DCs were decreased in number, maturity and chemotactic ability in FHF and might contribute to a decreased function of the intestinal immune barrier in FHF.

Ligustrazine attenuates inflammation and the associated chemokines and receptors in ovalbumine-induced mouse asthma model

Ligustrazine which is isolated from Chinese herb ligusticum chuanxiong hort, has been widely used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for asthma treatment. In this study, we aim to observe the effect of ligustrazine on inflammation and the associated chemokines and receptors in ovalbumin (OVA)-induced mouse asthma model. Our data demonstrates that ligustrazine suppresses airway hyperresponsiveness to methacholine and lung inflammation in OVA-induced mouse asthma model. Ligustrazine also induces inhibition of inflammatory cells including neutrophils, lymphocytes and eosinophils. In addition, ligustrazine significantly reduces IL-4, IL-5, IL-17A, CCL3, CCL19 and CCL21 level in BALF of asthma mice. Furthermore, ligustrazine induces down-regulation of CCL19 receptor CCR7, STAT3 and p38 MAPK protein expression. Collectively, these results suggest that ligustrazine is effective in attenuation of allergic airway inflammatory changes and related chemokines and receptors in OVA-induced asthma model, and this action might be associated with inhibition of STAT3 and p38 MAPK pathway, which indicates that ligustrazine may be used as a potential therapeutic method to treat asthma.

Autocrine CCL19 blocks dendritic cell migration toward weak gradients of CCL21

BACKGROUND AIMS

Maturation of dendritic cells (DCs) induces their homing from peripheral to lymphatic tissues guided by CCL21. However, in vitro matured human monocyte-derived DC cancer vaccines injected intradermally migrate poorly to lymph nodes (LNs). In vitro maturation protocols generate DCs with high (type 1 DCs) or low (prostaglandin E2 [PGE2]-DCs) autocrine CCL19 levels, which may potentially interfere with LN homing of DCs.

METHODS

Employing a three-dimensional (3D) chemotaxis assay, chemokine competition/desensitization studies and short interfering RNA (siRNA) against CCL19, we analyzed the effect of autocrine CCL19 on in vitro migration of human DCs toward CCL21.

RESULTS

Using human monocyte-derived DCs in a 3D chemotaxis assay, we are the first to demonstrate that CCL19 more potently induces directed migration of human DCs compared with CCL21. When comparing migration of type 1 DCs and PGE2-DCs, migration of type 1 DCs was strikingly impaired compared with PGE2-DCs, but only toward low concentrations of CCL21. When type 1 DCs were cultured overnight in fresh culture medium (reducing autocrine CCL19 levels), a rescuing effect was observed on migration toward low concentrations of CCL21 in a 3D chemotaxis assay. Finally pre-incubation with CCL19 negatively affected PGE2-DC migration, whereas silencing of CCL19 by siRNA improved type 1 DC migration. Importantly, in both cases, the effect was observed only at low concentrations of CCL21.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results demonstrate that autocrine CCL19 negatively affects DC migratory potential toward CCL21, the potency difference between CCL19 and CCL21 being the underlying cause. CCL19 secretion level of in vitro matured DCs is an important indicator of DC vaccine homing potential.

ACKR4 on Stromal Cells Scavenges CCL19 To Enable CCR7-Dependent Trafficking of APCs from Inflamed Skin to Lymph Nodes

Dermal dendritic cells and epidermal Langerhans cells are APCs that migrate from skin to draining lymph nodes (LN) to drive peripheral tolerance and adaptive immunity. Their migration requires the chemokine receptor CCR7, which directs egress from the skin via dermal lymphatic vessels and extravasation into the LN parenchyma from lymph in the subcapsular sinus. CCR7 is activated by two chemokines: CCL19 and CCL21. CCL21 alone is sufficient for the migration of APCs from skin to LN. CCL19 and CCL21 also bind atypical chemokine receptor (ACKR) 4. ACKR4-mediated CCL21 scavenging by lymphatic endothelial cells lining the subcapsular sinus ceiling stabilizes interfollicular CCL21 gradients that direct lymph-borne CCR7(+)APCs into the parenchyma of mouse LN. In this study, we show that ACKR4 also aids APC egress from mouse skin under steady-state and inflammatory conditions. ACKR4 plays a particularly prominent role during cutaneous inflammation when it facilitates Langerhans cell egress from skin and enables the accumulation of dermal dendritic cells in skin-draining LN. Stromal cells in mouse skin, predominantly keratinocytes and a subset of dermal lymphatic endothelial cells, express ACKR4 and are capable of ACKR4-dependent chemokine scavenging in situ. ACKR4-mediated scavenging of dermal-derived CCL19, rather than CCL21, is critical during inflammation, because the aberrant trafficking of skin-derived APCs inAckr4-deficient mice is completely rescued by genetic deletion ofCcl19 Thus, ACKR4 on stromal cells aids the egress of APCs from mouse skin, and, during inflammation, facilitates CCR7-dependent cell trafficking by scavenging CCL19.

Chemokine axes in breast cancer: factors of the tumor microenvironment reshape the CCR7-driven metastatic spread of luminal-A breast tumors

Chemokine axes have been shown to mediate site-specific metastasis in breast cancer, but their relevance to different subtypes has been hardly addressed. Here, with the focus on the CCR7-CCL21 axis, patient datasets demonstrated that luminal-A tumors express relatively low CCR7 levels compared with more aggressive disease subtypes. Furthermore, lymph node metastasis was not associated with high CCR7 levels in luminal-A patients. The metastatic pattern of luminal-A breast tumors may be influenced by the way luminal-A tumor cells interpret signals provided by factors of the primary tumor microenvironment. Thus, CCR7-expressing human luminal-A cells were stimulated simultaneously by factors representing 3 tumor microenvironment arms typical of luminal-A tumors, hormonal, inflammatory, and growth stimulating: estrogen + TNF-α + epidermal growth factor. Such tumor microenvironment stimulation down-regulated the migration of CCR7-expressing tumor cells toward CCL21 and inhibited the formation of directional protrusions toward CCL21 in a novel 3-dimensional hydrogel system. CCL21-induced migration of CCR7-expressing tumor cells depended on PI3K and MAPK activation; however, when CCR7-expressing cancer cells were prestimulated by tumor microenvironment factors, CCL21 could not effectively activate these signaling pathways. In vivo, pre-exposure of the tumor cells to tumor microenvironment factors has put restraints on CCL21-mediated lymph node-homing cues and shifted the metastatic pattern of CCR7-expressing cells to the aggressive phenotype of dissemination to bones. Several of the aspects were also studied in the CXCR4-CXCL12 system, demonstrating similar patient and in vitro findings. Thus, we provide novel evidence to subtype-specific regulation of the CCR7-CCL21 axis, with more general implications to chemokine-dependent patterns of metastatic spread, revealing differential regulation in the luminal-A subtype.

Common and biased signaling pathways of the chemokine receptor CCR7 elicited by its ligands CCL19 and CCL21 in leukocytes

Chemokines are pivotal regulators of cell migration during continuous immune surveillance, inflammation, homeostasis, and development. Chemokine binding to their 7-transmembrane domain, G-protein-coupled receptors causes conformational changes that elicit intracellular signaling pathways to acquire and maintain an asymmetric architectural organization and a polarized distribution of signaling molecules necessary for directional cell migration. Leukocytes rely on the interplay of chemokine-triggered migration modules to promote amoeboid-like locomotion. One of the most important chemokine receptors for adaptive immune cell migration is the CC-chemokine receptor CCR7. CCR7 and its ligands CCL19 and CCL21 control homing of T cells and dendritic cells to areas of the lymph nodes where T cell priming and the initiation of the adaptive immune response occur. Moreover, CCR7 signaling also contributes to T cell development in the thymus and to lymphorganogenesis. Although the CCR7-CCL19/CCL21 axis evolved to benefit the host, inappropriate regulation or use of these proteins can contribute or cause pathobiology of chronic inflammation, tumorigenesis, and metastasis, as well as autoimmune diseases. Therefore, it appears as the CCR7-CCL19/CCL21 axis is tightly regulated at numerous intersections. Here, we discuss the multiple regulatory mechanism of CCR7 signaling and its influence on CCR7 function. In particular, we focus on the functional diversity of the 2 CCR7 ligands, CCL19 and CCL21, as well as on their impact on biased signaling. The understanding of the molecular determinants of biased signaling and the multiple layers of CCR7 regulation holds the promise for potential future therapeutic intervention.

Loss of Gadkin Affects Dendritic Cell Migration In Vitro

Migration is crucial for the function of dendritic cells (DCs), which act as outposts of the immune system. Upon detection of pathogens, skin- and mucosa-resident DCs migrate to secondary lymphoid organs where they activate T cells. DC motility relies critically on the actin cytoskeleton, which is regulated by the actin-related protein 2/3 (ARP2/3) complex, a nucleator of branched actin networks. Consequently, loss of ARP2/3 stimulators and upstream Rho family GTPases dramatically impairs DC migration. However, nothing is known yet about the relevance of ARP2/3 inhibitors for DC migration. We previously demonstrated that the AP-1-associated adaptor protein Gadkin inhibits ARP2/3 by sequestering it on intracellular vesicles. Consistent with a role of Gadkin in DC physiology, we here report Gadkin expression in bone marrow-derived DCs and show that its protein level and posttranslational modification are regulated upon LPS-induced DC maturation. DCs derived from Gadkin-deficient mice were normal with regards to differentiation and maturation, but displayed increased actin polymerization. While the actin-dependent processes of macropinocytosis and cell spreading were not affected, loss of Gadkin significantly impaired DC migration in vitro, however, in vivo DC migration was unperturbed suggesting the presence of compensatory mechanisms.

Piperine impairs the migration and T cell-activating function of dendritic cells

Piperine, a major alkaloid found in the fruits of black and long pepper plants, has anti-inflammatory properties; however, piperine's effect on dendritic cell (DC) migration and T cell-activating function has not been investigated. Bone marrow-derived mouse DCs that were matured in the presence of 100 μM piperine showed reduced in vitro migration in response to CCL21, as well as reduced in vivo migration to lymph nodes. In addition, piperine-treated DCs had reduced CCR7 expression and elevated CCR5 expression, as well as reduced expression of CD40 and class II major histocompatibility complex molecules and decreased nuclear accumulation of RelB. DC production of interleukin (IL)-6, tumor necrosis factor α, and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 in response to lipopolysaccharide stimulation was also reduced following piperine treatment. Exposure to piperine during maturation therefore caused DCs to retain an immature phenotype, which was associated with a reduced capacity to promote T cell activation since co-culture of ovalbumin (OVA323-339)-specific T cells with OVA323-339-pulsed DCs that were previously matured in the presence of piperine showed reduced interferon-γ and IL-2 expression. OVA323-339-specific T cell proliferation was also reduced in vivo in the presence of piperine-treated DCs. Inhibition of DC migration and function by piperine may therefore be a useful strategy to down-regulate potentially harmful DC-driven T cell responses to self-antigens and transplantation antigens.

Chemokine-guided cell positioning in the lymph node orchestrates the generation of adaptive immune responses

The generation of adaptive immune responses occurs in the lymph node (LN) and requires that lymphocytes locate and interact with cognate antigen-bearing dendritic cells. This process requires the coordinated movement of both innate and adaptive immune cells, and is orchestrated by the chemokine family of chemotactic cytokines. Upon initiation of inflammation, the LN undergoes dramatic changes that include the marked induction of specific chemokines in distinct regions of the reactive LN. These chemokine rich domains establish LN niches that facilitate the differentiation of CD4+ T cells into effector cell subsets and the rapid activation of memory CD8+ T cells. This review will focus on recent advances highlighting the importance of LN chemokines for shaping adaptive immune responses by controlling immune cell migration, positioning, and interactions in the reactive LN.

Transcriptome of early embryonic invasion at implantation sites in a murine model

Successful implantation relies on the interaction between a competent embryo and a receptive endometrium. The aim of the present study was to investigate genes differentially expressed in early invasive embryonic tissue versus decidual tissue in mice. Samples were obtained from the ectoplacental cone, the immediately surrounding deciduas and from deciduas from interimplantation sites. Microarray analysis showed that 817 genes were differentially expressed between extra-embryonic tissue and the surrounding decidua and that 360 genes were differentially expressed between the different deciduas, with a high representation of developmental processes. Genes differentially expressed in the maternal compartment included chemokines, lipoproteins, growth factors and transcription factors, whereas the embryonic invasive tissue expressed genes commonly observed in invasive tumour-like processes. These results provide information about genes involved in early embryonic invasion and the control exerted by the surrounding decidua. This information may be useful to find targets involved in pathologies associated with implantation failure and early pregnancy loss.

SAMP1/YitFc mice develop ileitis via loss of CCL21 and defects in dendritic cell migration

BACKGROUND & AIMS

The lymphatic chemokine CCL21 is required for dendritic cell (DC) migration from tissues to lymph nodes, which helps establish tolerance to foreign yet harmless antigens. We demonstrate that CCL21 is almost completely absent from SAMP1/YitFc (SAMP) mice, which spontaneously develop chronic ileitis that resembles Crohn's disease, and that DC migration is severely impaired in these mice compared with AKR mice (controls). Toll-like receptor agonists like the Toll-like receptor 7 agonist R848 induce DC maturation and mobilization.

METHODS

We collected intestinal and other tissues and mesenteric lymph nodes (MLN) from SAMP mice. Expression of CCL21 was measured by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and immunofluorescence analyses; spontaneous and induced migration of DCs were assessed by flow cytometry. We analyzed production of retinoic acid by DCs and their ability to induce development of regulatory T cells. Mice were fed R848 to determine its effects on migration of DCs and development of ileitis in SAMP mice.

RESULTS

SAMP mice expressed almost no CCL21 in any tissue tested. Their CD11b(+)CD103(+) DCs were defective in migration from the ileal lamina propria to the MLN. DCs from SAMP mice also had a greatly reduced ability to produce retinoic acid and induce development of regulatory T cells compared with control mice. Young SAMP mice had reduced CCL21 expression and decreased DC migration before developing ileitis. Administration of R848 to adult SAMP mice increased migration of DC to the MLN and development of regulatory T cells there, and reduced the severity of ileitis.

CONCLUSIONS

Loss of CCL21 signaling and DC migration is required for development of ileitis in SAMP mice. Reagents such as R848, which activate DC migration to the MLN, may be developed as treatments for patients with Crohn's disease.

The role of chemokines in cutaneous immunosurveillance

The skin serves as a critical barrier against pathogen entry. This protection is afforded by an array of skin-resident immune cells, which act as first-line responders against barrier breach and infection. The recruitment and positioning of these cells is controlled at multiple levels by endothelial cells, pericytes, perivascular macrophages and mast cells, and by the fibroblasts in the dermis and keratinocytes in the epidermis. Chemokine signalling through chemokine receptors expressed by the various leukocyte subsets is critical for their trafficking into and within the skin. The role of chemokines in the skin is complex, and remains incompletely understood despite three decades of investigation. Here, we review the roles that different chemokine pathways play in the skin, and highlight the recent developments in the field.

Accumulation of functionally immature myeloid dendritic cells in lymph nodes of rhesus macaques with acute pathogenic simian immunodeficiency virus infection

Myeloid dendritic cells (mDC) are key mediators of innate and adaptive immunity to virus infection, but the impact of HIV infection on the mDC response, particularly early in acute infection, is ill-defined. We studied acute pathogenic simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV) infection of rhesus macaques to address this question. The mDC in blood and bone marrow were depleted within 12 days of intravenous infection with SIVmac251, associated with a marked proliferative response. In lymph nodes, mDC were apoptotic, activated and proliferating, despite normal mDC numbers, reflecting a regenerative response that compensated for mDC loss. Blood mDC had increased expression of MHC class II, CCR7 and CD40, whereas in lymph nodes these markers were significantly decreased, indicating that acute infection induced maturation of mDC in blood but resulted in accumulation of immature mDC in lymph nodes. Following SIV infection, lymph node mDC had an increased capacity to secrete tumour necrosis factor-α upon engagement with a Toll-like receptor 7/8 ligand that mimics exposure to viral RNA, and this was inversely correlated with MHC class II and CCR7 expression. Lymph node mDC had an increased ability to capture and cleave soluble antigen, confirming their functionally immature state. These data indicate that acute SIV infection results in increased mDC turnover, leading to accumulation in lymph nodes of immature mDC with an increased responsiveness to virus stimulation.

The integrative roles of chemokines at the maternal-fetal interface in early pregnancy

Embryos express paternal antigens that are foreign to the mother, but the mother provides a special immune milieu at the fetal-maternal interface to permit rather than reject the embryo growth in the uterus until parturition by establishing precise crosstalk between the mother and the fetus. There are unanswered questions in the maintenance of pregnancy, including the poorly understood phenomenon of maternal tolerance to the allogeneic conceptus, and the remarkable biological roles of placental trophoblasts that invade the uterine wall. Chemokines are multifunctional molecules initially described as having a role in leukocyte trafficking and later found to participate in developmental processes such as differentiation and directed migration. It is increasingly evident that the gestational uterine microenvironment is characterized, at least in part, by the differential expression and secretion of chemokines that induce selective trafficking of leukocyte subsets to the maternal-fetal interface and regulate multiple events that are closely associated with normal pregnancy. Here, we review the expression and function of chemokines and their receptors at the maternal-fetal interface, with a special focus on chemokine as a key component in trophoblast invasiveness and placental angiogenesis, recruitment and instruction of immune cells so as to form a fetus-supporting milieu during pregnancy. The chemokine network is also involved in pregnancy complications.

Dendritic cell interactions with lymphatic endothelium

Afferent lymphatic vessels fulfill essential immune functions by transporting leukocytes and lymph-borne antigen to draining lymph nodes (dLNs). An important cell type migrating through lymphatic vessels are dendritic cells (DCs). DCs reside in peripheral tissues like the skin, where they take up antigen and transport it via the lymphatic vascular network to dLNs for subsequent presentation to T cells. As such, DCs play a key role in the induction of adaptive immune responses during infection and vaccination, but also for the maintenance of tolerance. Although the migratory pattern of DCs has been known for long time, interactions between DCs and lymphatic vessels are only now starting to be unraveled at the cellular level. In particular, new tools for visualizing lymphatic vessels in combination with time-lapse microscopy have recently generated valuable insights into the process of DC migration to dLNs. In this review we summarize and discuss current approaches for visualizing DCs and lymphatic vessels in tissues for imaging applications. Furthermore, we review the current state of knowledge about DC migration towards, into and within lymphatic vessels, particularly focusing on the cellular interactions that take place between DCs and the lymphatic endothelium.