LILRB receptor-mediated regulation of myeloid cell maturation and function

Immunoglobulin-like transcript 5 polarizes M2-like tumor-associated macrophages for immunosuppression in non-small cell lung cancer

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have shifted the treatment paradigm of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) over the last decade. Despite notable therapeutic advancements in responders, the response rate remains limited owing to the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME). Therefore, to improve the efficacy of ICIs, it is essential to explore alternative targets or signals that mediate immunosuppression. Immunoglobulin-like transcript (ILT) 5 is a negative regulator of immune activation in myeloid cells. However, the expression and function of ILT5 in NSCLC remain unknown. Here, we found that ILT5 was highly expressed in tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) of NSCLC tissues and predicted poor patient survival. Functionally, ILT5 induces the M2-like polarization of TAMs, which subsequently decreases the density of T cells, and increases FOXP3+T cell accumulation, leading to an immunosuppressive TME. The combination of ILT5 expression with M2-like TAM density is a more reliable biomarker of patient survival than ILT5 expression alone. ILT5 knockout mitigates the reprogramming of TAM and T cell subsets toward immunosuppressive phenotypes and inhibits tumor growth in vivo. These findings highlight that ILT5 is a potential immunotherapeutic target and a promising prognostic biomarker for NSCLC.

LILRB1 enhances the progression of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma through the CREB-SORBS3 pathway

PURPOSE

Although 60-70% of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) patients can be cured with the current standard of chemotherapy and immunotherapy, the remaining patients experience treatment resistance and have poor clinical outcomes. More effective strategies are needed for the DLBCL treatment.

METHODS

Databases of clinical patients were analyzed to investigate potential functions of leukocyte immunoglobulin-like receptor B1 (LILRB1) in DLBCL. Short hairpin RNAs were used for validation of in vitro and in vivo function of LILRB1 in DLBCL. RNA-seq was applied to explore potential mechanism, western blot and chromatin immunoprecipitation techniques were used to characterize the underlying signaling of CREB-SORBS3 pathway.

RESULTS

We found that LILRB1 was highly expressed in DLBCL cells and was adversely correlated with the overall survival of DLBCL patients. Knockdown of LILRB1 effectively inhibited the proliferation of DLBCL cells both in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, LILRB1 upregulated CREB/CREB phosphorylation and transactivated SORBS3 expression to maintain DLBCL cell proliferation and tumorigenicity.

CONCLUSION

In this work, we revealed that LILRB1 was highly expressed in DLBCL cells and was negatively correlated with patient survival. Furthermore, we found that the LILRB1-CREB-SORBS3 pathway played a role in maintaining the proliferation of DLBCL cells. These data suggest that LILRB1 might be a potential target for the treatment of DLBCL.

Exploring secondary extramedullary myeloma disease: a five-predictor scoring system with spotlight on double-hit cytogenetics

BACKGROUND

Extramedullary myeloma disease (EMD) can present at disease relapse (secondary EMD, sEMD) and confers an aggressive clinical course. Identifying predictive markers for sEMD is crucial for clinical management.

METHODS

Our study, spanning February 2013 to October 2022, identified sEMD in 77 (12.5%) of 618 newly diagnosed multiple myeloma patients. We categorized sEMD patients into bone-related extramedullary (EM-B) and extraosseous extramedullary (EM-E) relapse groups, as well as into early and late relapse groups based on the median interval from initial MM diagnosis, and assessed their overall survival (OS). We investigated independent predictors for the development of sEMD and focused on double-hit (DH) myeloma, one of the predictors of sEMD. Through the analysis of single-cell RNA from DH myeloma samples, we explored the potential mechanisms by which it may contribute to sEMD.

RESULTS

Median OS post-sEMD diagnosis was 11 months, with no significant OS difference between EM-B and EM-E relapse groups. A median interval of 22 months from initial MM diagnosis to sEMD relapse divided the 77 sEMD patients into early and late relapse groups, with early sEMD associated with significantly inferior OS post-sEMD (5.0 vs 27.0 months, p = 0.028). Driven by the prognostic difference of early vs late sEMD relapse, we used a time-to-event model and identified five independent predictors: double-hit (DH) cytogenetics, ≥ 3 osteolytic lesions, IgD subtype, and non-autologous stem-cell transplantation (ASCT) status, each scoring one point, alongside EM-E scoring two points. These predictors informed an additive score, stratifying patients into low (0-2 points) and high (3-5 points) risk categories for sEMD, showing a significant difference in 3-year sEMD rates (6.6% vs 52.8%, p < 0.001). Moreover, the single-cell RNA sequencing of newly diagnosed DH myeloma samples uncovered significant mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) activation in DH cells and exhaustion in CD8 + memory and NK effector cells. Potential therapeutic targets such as EZH2 have emerged from this analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study introduces a five-predictor scoring system informed by the potential mechanisms underlying sEMD progression in DH myeloma, with the goal of delaying or possibly preventing sEMD.

Immune checkpoint for pregnancy

A successful pregnancy relies on the precise regulation of the maternal immune system to recognize and tolerate the allogeneic fetus, while simultaneously preventing infection. Immune checkpoint molecules (ICMs), such as programmed death receptor 1 (PD-1), cytotoxic T-lymphocyte antigen 4 (CTLA-4), T cell immunoglobulin, and mucin-domain containing-3 (Tim-3), play critical roles in regulating the immune response during pregnancy. Emerging research highlights the therapeutic potential of targeting these molecules to restore the immune balance in complicated pregnancies. Understanding the dynamic regulation of ICMs during pregnancy may provide new insights into the pathogenesis of these conditions and offer novel approaches for clinical interventions. Here, we review the expression patterns and functions of key ICMs at the maternal-fetal interface, and their involvement in maintaining immune tolerance throughout gestation. Additionally, we describe the current understanding of immune checkpoint pathways in the pathogenesis of complicated pregnancies and discuss the potential for therapeutic targeting of these pathways in this setting.

Prospects for potential therapy targeting immune‑associated factors in endometriosis (Review)

Endometriosis (EM) is a chronic inflammatory disease that is one of the most common causes of gynecological systemic lesions in women before menopause. The most representative histological feature of EM is that the endometrium appears outside of the uterine cavity, often in the ovary. Although it is generally accepted that the epithelial and stromal cells of the ectopic endometrium are not malignant, they still have numerous similarities to malignant tumors, including considerable changes to the immune microenvironment (immune monitoring disorder), the creation of a specific hormone environment, high levels of oxidative stress, chronic inflammation and abnormal immune cell regulation. The pathogenesis of EM is not fully understood, which makes it difficult to identify specific biomarkers and potential therapeutic targets for early disease diagnosis and effective treatment. However, considerable progress has been made in this field over the past few decades. The purpose of the present review is to summarize the confirmed and potential biomarkers for EM, and to identify potential therapeutic targets based on changes in immunological factors (including natural killer cells, macrophages, the complement system, miRNA and P‑selectin) in the ectopic endometrial tissue. It is hoped that this work can be used as the basis for identifying accurate diagnostic markers for EM and developing personalized immune‑targeted therapy.

Exploring perinatal mesenchymal stromal cells as a potential therapeutic strategy for rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory autoimmune disease characterized by inflammation in the synovial tissue, driven by aberrant activation of both the innate and adaptive immune systems, which can lead to irreversible disability. Despite the increasing therapeutic approaches for RA, only a low percentage of patients achieve sustained disease remission, and the persistence of immune dysregulation is likely responsible for disease recurrence once remission is attained. Cell therapy is an attractive, wide-spectrum strategy to modulate inflammation, and mesenchymal stromal cells (MSC) derived from perinatal tissues provide valuable tools for their use in regenerative medicine, mainly due to their immunomodulatory properties. Several in vitro studies have shown that perinatal MSC modulate the proliferation, maturation, and cytokine secretion profile of both innate and adaptive immune cells. Moreover, different beneficial effects have also been described when perinatal MSC were used to treat animal models of diseases associated with inflammatory conditions and degenerative processes. Specifically, in experimental models of RA, treatment with perinatal MSC resulted in a strong reduction of articular damage, which was associated with the modulation of both inflammation and activation of stromal resident cells in the synovial tissue. Here, we present in vitro and in vivo evidence supporting the use of perinatal MSC in RA. We also highlight the promising results from the few published clinical trials, which demonstrate the safety of perinatal MSC.

Targeting immune checkpoints on myeloid cells: current status and future directions

Myeloid cells accumulate extensively in most tumors and play a critical role in immunosuppression of the tumor microenvironment (TME). Like T cells, myeloid cells also express immune checkpoint molecules, which induce the immunosuppressive phenotype of these cells. In this review, we summarize the tumor-promoting function and immune checkpoint expression of four types of myeloid cells: macrophages, neutrophils, dendritic cells, and myeloid-derived suppressor cells, which are the main components of the TME. By summarizing the research status of myeloid checkpoints, we propose that blocking immune checkpoints on myeloid cells might be an effective strategy to reverse the immunosuppressive status of the TME. Moreover, combining nanotechnology, cellular therapy, and bispecific antibodies to achieve precise targeting of myeloid immune checkpoints can help to avoid the adverse effects of systemic administration, ultimately achieving a balance between efficacy and safety in cancer therapy.

The LILRB family in hematologic malignancies: prognostic associations, mechanistic considerations, and therapeutic implications

The leukocyte immunoglobulin-like receptor B (LILRB) proteins, characterized by their transmembrane nature and canonical immunoreceptor tyrosine-based inhibitory motifs (ITIM) signaling, play a pivotal role in maintaining immune homeostasis and are implicated in the pathogenesis of various disease states. This comprehensive review will focus on the intricate involvement of the LILRB family in hematologic malignancies. These receptors have emerged as valuable diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers in leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloma. Beyond their prognostic implications, LILRBs actively shape the immune microenvironment and directly influence the disease pathogenesis of hematologic malignancies. Furthermore, their identification as potential therapeutic targets offer a promising avenue for precision medicine strategies in the treatment of these disorders. Currently, multiple LILRB directed therapies are in the preclinical and clinical trial pipelines. This review underscores the multifaceted role of the LILRB family in hematologic malignancies, highlighting their significance from diagnostic and prognostic perspectives to their broader impact on disease pathophysiology and as valuable therapeutic targets.

Leukocyte immunoglobulin-like receptor B4: A keystone in immune modulation and therapeutic target in cancer and beyond

Leukocyte immunoglobulin-like receptor B4 (LILRB4) significantly impacts immune regulation and the pathogenesis and progression of various cancers. This review discusses LILRB4's structural attributes, expression patterns in immune cells, and molecular mechanisms in modulating immune responses. We describe the influence of LILRB4 on T cells, dendritic cells, NK cells, and macrophages, and its dual role in stimulating and suppressing immune activities. The review discusses the current research on LILRB4's involvement in acute myeloid leukemia, chronic lymphocytic leukemia, and solid tumors, such as colorectal cancer, pancreatic cancer, non-small cell lung cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma, and extramedullary multiple myeloma. The review also describes LILRB4's role in autoimmune disorders, infectious diseases, and other conditions. We evaluate the recent advancements in targeting LILRB4 using monoclonal antibodies and peptide inhibitors and their therapeutic potential in cancer treatment. Together, these studies underscore the need for further research on LILRB4's interactions in the tumor microenvironment and highlight its importance as a therapeutic target in oncology and for future clinical innovations.

Leukocyte immunoglobulin-like receptor B4 (LILRB4) in acute myeloid leukemia: From prognostic biomarker to immunotherapeutic target

ABSTRACT

Leukocyte immunoglobulin-like receptor (LILR) B4 (also known as ILT3/CD85k) is an immune checkpoint protein that is highly expressed in solid tumors and hematological malignancies and plays a significant role in the pathophysiology of cancer. LILRB4 is highly expressed in acute myeloid leukemia (AML), and this phenotype is associated with adverse patient outcomes. Its differential expression in tumors compared to normal tissues, its presence in tumor stem cells, and its multifaceted roles in tumorigenesis position it as a promising therapeutic target in AML. Currently, several immunotherapies targeting LILRB4 are undergoing clinical trials. This review summarizes advancements made in the study of LILRB4 in AML, focusing on its structure, ligands, expression, and significance in normal tissues and AML; its protumorigenic effects and mechanisms in AML; and the application of LILRB4-targeted therapies in AML. These insights highlight the potential advantages of LILRB4 as an immunotherapeutic target in the context of AML.

Human genital dendritic cell heterogeneity confers differential rapid response to HIV-1 exposure

Dendritic cells (DCs) play critical roles in HIV pathogenesis and require further investigation in the female genital tract, a main portal of entry for HIV infection. Here we characterized genital DC populations at the single cell level and how DC subsets respond to HIV immediately following exposure. We found that the genital CD11c+HLA-DR+ myeloid population contains three DC subsets (CD1c+ DC2s, CD14+ monocyte-derived DCs and CD14+CD1c+ DC3s) and two monocyte/macrophage populations with distinct functional and phenotypic properties during homeostasis. Following HIV exposure, the antiviral response was dominated by DCs' rapid secretory response, activation of non-classical inflammatory pathways and host restriction factors. Further, we uncovered subset-specific differences in anti-HIV responses. CD14+ DCs were the main population activated by HIV and mediated the secretory antimicrobial response, while CD1c+ DC2s activated inflammasome pathways and IFN responses. Identification of subset-specific responses to HIV immediately after exposure could aid targeted strategies to prevent HIV infection.

Cell Populations in Human Breast Cancers are Molecularly and Biologically Distinct with Age

Aging is associated with increased breast cancer risk and outcomes are worse for the oldest and youngest patients, regardless of subtype. It is not known how cells in the breast tumor microenvironment are impacted by age and how they might contribute to age-related disease pathology. Here, we discover age-associated differences in cell states and interactions in human estrogen receptor-positive (ER+) and triple-negative breast cancers (TNBC) using new computational analyses of existing single-cell gene expression data. Age-specific program enrichment (ASPEN) analysis reveals age-related changes, including increased tumor cell epithelial-mesenchymal transition, cancer-associated fibroblast inflammatory responses, and T cell stress responses and apoptosis in TNBC. ER+ breast cancer is dominated by increased cancer cell estrogen receptor 1 (ESR1) and luminal cell activity, reduced immune cell metabolism, and decreased vascular and extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling with age. Cell interactome analysis reveals candidate signaling pathways that drive many of these cell states. This work lays a foundation for discovery of age-adapted therapeutic interventions for breast cancer.

IOS-1002, a Stabilized HLA-B57 Open Format, Exerts Potent Anti-Tumor Activity

HLA-B27 and HLA-B57 are associated with autoimmunity and long-term viral control and protection against HIV and HCV infection; however, their role in cancer immunity remains unknown. HLA class I molecules interact with innate checkpoint receptors of the LILRA, LILRB and KIR families present in diverse sets of immune cells. Here, we demonstrate that an open format (peptide free conformation) and expression- and stability-optimized HLA-B57-B2m-IgG4_Fc fusion protein (IOS-1002) binds to human leukocyte immunoglobulin-like receptor B1 and B2 (LILRB1 and LILRB2) and to killer immunoglobulin-like receptor 3DL1 (KIR3DL1). In addition, we show that the IgG4 Fc backbone is required for engagement to Fcγ receptors and potent activation of macrophage phagocytosis. IOS-1002 blocks the immunosuppressive ITIM and SHP1/2 phosphatase signaling cascade, reduces the expression of immunosuppressive M2-like polarization markers of macrophages and differentiation of monocytes to myeloid-derived suppressor cells, enhances tumor cell phagocytosis in vitro and potentiates activation of T and NK cells. Lastly, IOS-1002 demonstrates efficacy in an ex vivo patient-derived tumor sample tumoroid model. IOS-1002 is a first-in-class multi-target and multi-functional human-derived HLA molecule that activates anti-tumor immunity and is currently under clinical evaluation.

Disruption of Circadian Clock Induces Abnormal Mammary Morphology and Aggressive Basal Tumorigenesis by Enhancing LILRB4 Signaling

Epidemiological studies have shown that circadian rhythm disruption (CRD) is associated with the risk of breast cancer. However, the role of CRD in mammary gland morphology and aggressive basal mammary tumorigenesis and the molecular mechanisms underlying CRD and cancer risk remain unknown. To investigate the effect of CRD on aggressive tumorigenesis, a genetically engineered mouse model that recapitulates the human basal type of breast cancer was used for this study. The effect of CRD on mammary gland morphology was investigated using wild-type mice model. The impact of CRD on the tumor microenvironment was investigated using the tumors from LD12:12 and CRD mice via scRNA seq. ScRNA seq was substantiated by multiplexing immunostaining, flow cytometry, and realtime PCR. The effect of LILRB4 immunotherapy on CRD-induced tumorigenesis was also investigated. Here we identified the impact of CRD on basal tumorigenesis and mammary gland morphology and identified the role of LILRB4 on CRD-induced lung metastasis. We found that chronic CRD disrupted mouse mammary gland morphology and increased tumor burden, and lung metastasis and induced an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment by enhancing LILRB4a expression. Moreover, CRD increased the M2-macrophage and regulatory T-cell populations but decreased the M1-macrophage, and dendritic cell populations. Furthermore, targeted immunotherapy against LILRB4 reduced CRD-induced immunosuppressive microenvironment and lung metastasis. These findings identify and implicate LILRB4a as a link between CRD and aggressive mammary tumorigenesis. This study also establishes the potential role of the targeted LILRB4a immunotherapy as an inhibitor of CRD-induced lung metastasis.

A single-cell pan-cancer analysis to show the variability of tumor-infiltrating myeloid cells in immune checkpoint blockade

Myeloid cells are vital components of the immune system and have pivotal functions in orchestrating immune responses. Understanding their functions within the tumor microenvironment and their interactions with tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes presents formidable challenges across diverse cancer types, particularly with regards to cancer immunotherapies. Here, we explore tumor-infiltrating myeloid cells (TIMs) by conducting a pan-cancer analysis using single-cell transcriptomics across eight distinct cancer types, encompassing a total of 192 tumor samples from 129 patients. By examining gene expression patterns and transcriptional activities of TIMs in different cancer types, we discern notable alterations in abundance of TIMs and kinetic behaviors prior to and following immunotherapy. We also identify specific cell-cell interaction targets in immunotherapy; unique and shared regulatory profiles critical for treatment response; and TIMs associated with survival outcomes. Overall, our study illuminates the heterogeneity of TIMs and improves our understanding of tissue-specific and cancer-specific myeloid subsets within the context of tumor immunotherapies.

A specialized population of monocyte-derived tracheal macrophages promote airway epithelial regeneration through a CCR2-dependent mechanism

Macrophages are critical for maintenance and repair of mucosal tissues. While functionally distinct subtypes of macrophage are known to have important roles in injury response and repair in the lungs, little is known about macrophages in the proximal conducting airways. Single-cell RNA sequencing and flow cytometry demonstrated murine tracheal macrophages are largely monocyte-derived and are phenotypically distinct from lung macrophages at homeostasis. Following sterile airway injury, monocyte-derived macrophages are recruited to the trachea and activate a pro-regenerative phenotype associated with wound healing. Animals lacking the chemokine receptor CCR2 have reduced numbers of circulating monocytes and tracheal macrophages, deficient pro-regenerative macrophage activation and defective epithelial repair. Together, these studies indicate that recruitment and activation of monocyte-derived tracheal macrophages is CCR2-dependent and is required for normal airway epithelial regeneration.

Non-Coding RNA in Tumor Cells and Tumor-Associated Myeloid Cells-Function and Therapeutic Potential

The RNA world is wide, and besides mRNA, there is a variety of other RNA types, such as non-coding (nc)RNAs, which harbor various intracellular regulatory functions. This review focuses on small interfering (si)RNA and micro (mi)RNA, which form a complex network regulating mRNA translation and, consequently, gene expression. In fact, these RNAs are critically involved in the function and phenotype of all cells in the human body, including malignant cells. In cancer, the two main targets for therapy are dysregulated cancer cells and dysfunctional immune cells. To exploit the potential of mi- or siRNA therapeutics in cancer therapy, a profound understanding of the regulatory mechanisms of RNAs and following targeted intervention is needed to re-program cancer cells and immune cell functions in vivo. The first part focuses on the function of less well-known RNAs, including siRNA and miRNA, and presents RNA-based technologies. In the second part, the therapeutic potential of these technologies in treating cancer is discussed, with particular attention on manipulating tumor-associated immune cells, especially tumor-associated myeloid cells.

The Potential Role of the Leucocyte Immunoglobulin-Like Receptors in Kidney Transplant Rejection: A Mini Review

Antibody-mediated rejection (ABMR) remains one of the main causes of long-term graft failure after kidney transplantation, despite the development of powerful immunosuppressive therapy. A detailed understanding of the complex interaction between recipient-derived immune cells and the allograft is therefore essential. Until recently, ABMR mechanisms were thought to be solely caused by adaptive immunity, namely, by anti-human leucocyte antigen (HLA) donor-specific antibody. However recent reports support other and/or additive mechanisms, designating monocytes/macrophages as innate immune contributors of ABMR histological lesions. In particular, in mouse models of experimental allograft rejection, monocytes/macrophages are readily able to discriminate non-self via paired immunoglobulin receptors (PIRs) and thus accelerate rejection. The human orthologs of PIRs are leukocyte immunoglobulin-like receptors (LILRs). Among those, LILRB3 has recently been reported as a potential binder of HLA class I molecules, shedding new light on LILRB3 potential as a myeloid mediator of allograft rejection. In this issue, we review the current data on the role of LILRB3 and discuss the potential mechanisms of its biological functions.

Innate Allorecognition in Transplantation: Ancient Mechanisms With Modern Impact

Through the effective targeting of the adaptive immune system, solid organ transplantation became a life-saving therapy for organ failure. However, beyond 1 y of transplantation, there is little improvement in transplant outcomes. The adaptive immune response requires the activation of the innate immune system. There are no modalities for the specific targeting of the innate immune system involvement in transplant rejection. However, the recent discovery of innate allorecognition and innate immune memory presents novel targets in transplantation that will increase our understanding of organ rejection and might aid in improving transplant outcomes. In this review, we look at the latest developments in the study of innate allorecognition and innate immune memory in transplantation.

ILT2 and ILT4 Drive Myeloid Suppression via Both Overlapping and Distinct Mechanisms

Solid tumors are dense three-dimensional (3D) multicellular structures that enable efficient receptor-ligand trans interactions via close cell-cell contact. Immunoglobulin-like transcript (ILT)2 and ILT4 are related immune-suppressive receptors that play a role in the inhibition of myeloid cells within the tumor microenvironment. The relative contribution of ILT2 and ILT4 to immune inhibition in the context of solid tumor tissue has not been fully explored. We present evidence that both ILT2 and ILT4 contribute to myeloid inhibition. We found that although ILT2 inhibits myeloid cell activation in the context of trans-engagement by MHC-I, ILT4 efficiently inhibits myeloid cells in the presence of either cis- or trans-engagement. In a 3D spheroid tumor model, dual ILT2/ILT4 blockade was required for the optimal activation of myeloid cells, including the secretion of CXCL9 and CCL5, upregulation of CD86 on dendritic cells, and downregulation of CD163 on macrophages. Humanized mouse tumor models showed increased immune activation and cytolytic T-cell activity with combined ILT2 and ILT4 blockade, including evidence of the generation of immune niches, which have been shown to correlate with clinical response to immune-checkpoint blockade. In a human tumor explant histoculture system, dual ILT2/ILT4 blockade increased CXCL9 secretion, downregulated CD163 expression, and increased the expression of M1 macrophage, IFNγ, and cytolytic T-cell gene signatures. Thus, we have revealed distinct contributions of ILT2 and ILT4 to myeloid cell biology and provide proof-of-concept data supporting the combined blockade of ILT2 and ILT4 to therapeutically induce optimal myeloid cell reprogramming in the tumor microenvironment.

Exploring the immunological landscape of osteomyelitis through mendelian randomization analysis

Background

Osteomyelitis is a severe bone marrow infection, whose pathogenesis is not yet fully understood. This study aims to explore the causal relationship between immune cell characteristics and osteomyelitis, hoping to provide new insights for the prevention and treatment of osteomyelitis.

Methods

Based on two independent samples, this study employed a two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis to assess the causal relationship between 731 immune cell characteristics (divided into seven groups) and osteomyelitis. Genetic variants were used as proxies for risk factors to ensure that the selected instrumental variables meet the three key assumptions of MR analysis. Genome-Wide Association Studies (GWAS) data for immune characteristics were obtained from the public GWAS catalog, while data for osteomyelitis was sourced from the FinnGen.

Results

At a significance level of 0.05, 21 immune phenotypes were identified as having a causal relationship with osteomyelitis development. In the B cell group, phenotypes such as Memory B cell % B cell (percentage of memory B cells within the total B cell population, % finger cell ratio), CD20- %B cell (percentage of B cells that do not express the CD20 marker on their surface), and Memory B cell % lymphocyte showed a positive causal relationship with osteomyelitis, while Naive-mature B cell %B cell and IgD-CD38-absolute cell counts (AC) phenotypes showed a negative causal relationship. In addition, specific immune phenotypes in the conventional dendritic cells (cDCs) group, Myeloid cell group, TBNK (T cells, B cells, natural killer cells) cell group, T cell maturation stage, and Treg cell group also showed significant associations with osteomyelitis. Through reverse MR analysis, it was found that osteomyelitis had no significant causal impact on these immune phenotypes, suggesting that the occurrence of osteomyelitis may not affect these immune cell phenotypes.

Conclusion

To our knowledge, this is the first study to shed light on the causal relationship between specific immune cell characteristics and the development of osteomyelitis, thereby providing a new perspective to understand the immune mechanism of osteomyelitis. These findings are significant for formulating targeted prevention and treatment strategies, and hold promise to improve the treatment outcomes for patients with osteomyelitis.

TMEM106B coding variant is protective and deletion detrimental in a mouse model of tauopathy

TMEM106B is a risk modifier of multiple neurological conditions, where a single coding variant and multiple non-coding SNPs influence the balance between susceptibility and resilience. Two key questions that emerge from past work are whether the lone T185S coding variant contributes to protection, and if the presence of TMEM106B is helpful or harmful in the context of disease. Here, we address both questions while expanding the scope of TMEM106B study from TDP-43 to models of tauopathy. We generated knockout mice with constitutive deletion of TMEM106B, alongside knock-in mice encoding the T186S knock-in mutation (equivalent to the human T185S variant), and crossed both with a P301S transgenic tau model to study how these manipulations impacted disease phenotypes. We found that TMEM106B deletion accelerated cognitive decline, hind limb paralysis, tau pathology, and neurodegeneration. TMEM106B deletion also increased transcriptional correlation with human AD and the functional pathways enriched in KO:tau mice aligned with those of AD. In contrast, the coding variant protected against tau-associated cognitive decline, synaptic impairment, neurodegeneration, and paralysis without affecting tau pathology. Our findings reveal that TMEM106B is a critical safeguard against tau aggregation, and that loss of this protein has a profound effect on sequelae of tauopathy. Our study further demonstrates that the coding variant is functionally relevant and contributes to neuroprotection downstream of tau pathology to preserve cognitive function.

Characterization of Immunosuppressive Myeloid Cells in Merkel Cell Carcinoma: Correlation with Resistance to PD-1 Pathway Blockade

PURPOSE

Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a highly immunogenic skin cancer. Although essentially all MCCs are antigenic through viral antigens or high tumor mutation burden, MCC has a response rate of only approximately 50% to PD-(L)1 blockade suggesting barriers to T-cell responses. Prior studies of MCC immunobiology have focused on CD8 T-cell infiltration and their exhaustion status, while the role of innate immunity, particularly myeloid cells, in MCC remains underexplored.

EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN

We utilized single-cell transcriptomics from 9 patients with MCC and multiplex IHC staining of 54 patients' preimmunotherapy tumors, to identify myeloid cells and evaluate association with immunotherapy response.

RESULTS

Single-cell transcriptomics identified tumor-associated macrophages (TAM) as the dominant myeloid component within MCC tumors. These TAMs express an immunosuppressive gene signature characteristic of monocytic myeloid-derived suppressor cells and importantly express several targetable immune checkpoint molecules, including PD-L1 and LILRB receptors, that are not present on tumor cells. Analysis of 54 preimmunotherapy tumor samples showed that a subset of TAMs (CD163+, CD14+, S100A8+) selectively infiltrated tumors that had significant CD8 T cells. Indeed, higher TAM prevalence was associated with resistance to PD-1 blockade. While spatial interactions between TAMs and CD8 T cells were not associated with response, myeloid transcriptomic data showed evidence for cytokine signaling and expression of LILRB receptors, suggesting potential immunosuppressive mechanisms.

CONCLUSIONS

This study further characterizes TAMs in MCC tumors and provides insights into their possible immunosuppressive mechanism. TAMs may reduce the likelihood of treatment response in MCC by counteracting the benefit of CD8 T-cell infiltration. See related commentary by Silk and Davar, p. 1076.

LILRB3 Supports Immunosuppressive Activity of Myeloid Cells and Tumor Development

The existing T cell-centered immune checkpoint blockade therapies have been successful in treating some but not all patients with cancer. Immunosuppressive myeloid cells, including myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSC), that inhibit antitumor immunity and support multiple steps of tumor development are recognized as one of the major obstacles in cancer treatment. Leukocyte Ig-like receptor subfamily B3 (LILRB3), an immune inhibitory receptor containing tyrosine-based inhibitory motifs (ITIM), is expressed solely on myeloid cells. However, it is unknown whether LILRB3 is a critical checkpoint receptor in regulating the activity of immunosuppressive myeloid cells, and whether LILRB3 signaling can be blocked to activate the immune system to treat solid tumors. Here, we report that galectin-4 and galectin-7 induce activation of LILRB3 and that LILRB3 is functionally expressed on immunosuppressive myeloid cells. In some samples from patients with solid cancers, blockade of LILRB3 signaling by an antagonistic antibody inhibited the activity of immunosuppressive myeloid cells. Anti-LILRB3 also impeded tumor development in myeloid-specific LILRB3 transgenic mice through a T cell-dependent manner. LILRB3 blockade may prove to be a novel approach for immunotherapy of solid cancers.

CaSSiDI: novel single-cell "Cluster Similarity Scoring and Distinction Index" reveals critical functions for PirB and context-dependent Cebpb repression

PirB is an inhibitory cell surface receptor particularly prominent on myeloid cells. PirB curtails the phenotypes of activated macrophages during inflammation or tumorigenesis, but its functions in macrophage homeostasis are obscure. To elucidate PirB-related functions in macrophages at steady-state, we generated and compared single-cell RNA-sequencing (scRNAseq) datasets obtained from myeloid cell subsets of wild type (WT) and PirB-deficient knockout (PirB KO) mice. To facilitate this analysis, we developed a novel approach to clustering parameter optimization called "Cluster Similarity Scoring and Distinction Index" (CaSSiDI). We demonstrate that CaSSiDI is an adaptable computational framework that facilitates tandem analysis of two scRNAseq datasets by optimizing clustering parameters. We further show that CaSSiDI offers more advantages than a standard Seurat analysis because it allows direct comparison of two or more independently clustered datasets, thereby alleviating the need for batch-correction while identifying the most similar and different clusters. Using CaSSiDI, we found that PirB is a novel regulator of Cebpb expression that controls the generation of Ly6Clo patrolling monocytes and the expansion properties of peritoneal macrophages. PirB's effect on Cebpb is tissue-specific since it was not observed in splenic red pulp macrophages (RPMs). However, CaSSiDI revealed a segregation of the WT RPM population into a CD68loIrf8+ "neuronal-primed" subset and an CD68hiFtl1+ "iron-loaded" subset. Our results establish the utility of CaSSiDI for single-cell assay analyses and the determination of optimal clustering parameters. Our application of CaSSiDI in this study has revealed previously unknown roles for PirB in myeloid cell populations. In particular, we have discovered homeostatic functions for PirB that are related to Cebpb expression in distinct macrophage subsets.

Integrative single-cell transcriptomic analyses reveal the cellular ontological and functional heterogeneities of primary and metastatic liver tumors

BACKGROUND

The global cellular landscape of the tumor microenvironment (TME) combining primary and metastatic liver tumors has not been comprehensively characterized.

METHODS

Based on the scRNA-seq and spatial transcriptomic data of non-tumor liver tissues (NTs), primary liver tumors (PTs) and metastatic liver tumors (MTs), we performed the tissue preference, trajectory reconstruction, transcription factor activity inference, cell-cell interaction and cellular deconvolution analyses to construct a comprehensive cellular landscape of liver tumors.

RESULTS

Our analyses depicted the heterogeneous cellular ecosystems in NTs, PTs and MTs. The activated memory B cells and effector T cells were shown to gradually shift to inhibitory B cells, regulatory or exhausted T cells in liver tumors, especially in MTs. Among them, we characterized a unique group of TCF7+ CD8+ memory T cells specifically enriched in MTs that could differentiate into exhausted T cells likely driven by the p38 MAPK signaling. With regard to myeloid cells, the liver-resident macrophages and inflammatory monocyte/macrophages were markedly replaced by tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), with TREM2+ and UBE2C+ TAMs enriched in PTs, while SPP1+ and WDR45B+ TAMs in MTs. We further showed that the newly identified WDR45B+ TAMs exhibit an M2-like polarization and are associated with adverse prognosis in patients with liver metastases. Additionally, we addressed that endothelial cells display higher immune tolerance and angiogenesis capacity, and provided evidence for the source of the mesenchymal transformation of fibroblasts in tumors. Finally, the malignant hepatocytes and fibroblasts were prioritized as the pivotal cell populations in shaping the microenvironments of PTs and MTs, respectively. Notably, validation analyses by using spatial or bulk transcriptomic data in clinical cohorts concordantly emphasized the clinical significance of these findings.

CONCLUSIONS

This study defines the ontological and functional heterogeneities in cellular ecosystems of primary and metastatic liver tumors, providing a foundation for future investigation of the underlying cellular mechanisms.

Cross-talk between disulfidptosis and immune check point genes defines the tumor microenvironment for the prediction of prognosis and immunotherapies in glioblastoma

Disulfidptosis is a condition where dysregulated NAPDH levels and abnormal accumulation of cystine and other disulfides occur in cells with high SLC7A11 expression under glucose deficiency. This disrupts normal formation of disulfide bonds among cytoskeletal proteins, leading to histone skeleton collapse and triggering cellular apoptosis. However, the correlation between disulfidptosis and immune responses in relation to glioblastoma survival rates and immunotherapy sensitivity remains understudied. Therefore, we utilized The Cancer Genome Atlas and The Chinese Glioma Genome Atlas to identify disulfidptosis-related immune checkpoint genes and established an overall survival (OS) prediction model comprising six genes: CD276, TNFRSF 14, TNFSF14, TNFSF4, CD40, and TNFRSF18, which could also be used for predicting immunotherapy sensitivity. We identified a cohort of glioblastoma patients classified as high-risk, which exhibited an upregulation of angiogenesis, extracellular matrix remodeling, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition as well as an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME) enriched with tumor associated macrophages, tumor associated neutrophils, CD8 + T-cell exhaustion. Immunohistochemical staining of CD276 in 144 cases further validated its negative correlation with OS in glioma. Disulfidptosis has the potential to induce chronic inflammation and an immunosuppressive TME in glioblastoma.

LILRB4 Checkpoint for Immunotherapy: Structure, Mechanism and Disease Targets

LILRB4, a myeloid inhibitory receptor belonging to the family of leukocyte immunoglobulin-like receptors (LILRs/LIRs), plays a pivotal role in the regulation of immune tolerance. LILRB4 primarily mediates suppressive immune responses by transmitting inhibitory signals through immunoreceptor tyrosine-based inhibitory motifs (ITIMs). This immune checkpoint molecule has gained considerable attention due to its potent regulatory functions. Its ability to induce effector T cell dysfunction and promote T suppressor cell differentiation has been demonstrated, indicating the therapeutic potential of LILRB4 for modulating excessive immune responses, particularly in autoimmune diseases or the induction of transplant tolerance. Additionally, through intervening with LILRB4 molecules, immune system responsiveness can be adjusted, representing significant value in areas such as cancer treatment. Thus, LILRB4 has emerged as a key player in addressing autoimmune diseases, transplant tolerance induction, and other medical issues. In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview of LILRB4, encompassing its structure, expression, and ligand molecules as well as its role as a tolerance receptor. By exploring the involvement of LILRB4 in various diseases, its significance in disease progression is emphasized. Furthermore, we propose that the manipulation of LILRB4 represents a promising immunotherapeutic strategy and highlight its potential in disease prevention, treatment and diagnosis.

The ontogenesis and heterogeneity of basophils

Basophils are the rarest leukocytes, but they have essential roles in protection against helminths, allergic disorders, autoimmune diseases, and some cancers. For years, the clinical significance of basophils has been neglected because of the lack of proper experimental tools to study them. The development of basophil-specific antibodies and animal models, along with genomic advances like single-cell transcriptomics, has greatly enhanced our understanding of basophil biology. Recent discoveries regarding basophils prompted us to write this review, emphasizing the basophil developmental pathway. In it, we chronologically examine the steps of basophil development in various species, which reveals the apparent advent of basophils predating IgE and basophil's IgE-independent regulatory role in primitive vertebrates. Then, we cover studies of basophil development in adult bone marrow, and compare those of murine and human basophils, introducing newly identified basophil progenitors and mature basophil subsets, as well as the transcription factors that regulate the transitions between them. Last, we discuss the heterogeneity of tissue-resident basophils, which may develop through extramedullary hematopoiesis. We expect that this review will contribute to a deeper understanding of basophil biology from the intricate aspects of basophil development and differentiation, offering valuable insights for both researchers and clinicians.

LILRB3 Modulates Acute Myeloid Leukemia Progression and Acts as an Effective Target for CAR T-cell Therapy

Identifying novel cell surface receptors that regulate leukemia cell differentiation and can be targeted to inhibit cellular proliferation is crucial to improve current treatment modalities in acute myeloid leukemia (AML), especially for relapsed or chemotherapy-refractory leukemia. Leukocyte immunoglobulin-like receptor type B (LILRB) is an immunomodulatory receptor originally found to be expressed in myeloid cells. In this study, we found that LILRB receptors can be induced under inflammatory stimuli and chemotherapy treatment conditions. Blockade of LILRB3 inhibited leukemia cell proliferation and leukemia progression. In addition, treatment with LILRB3 blocking antibodies upregulated myeloid lineage differentiation transcription factors, including PU.1, C/EBP family, and IRF, whereas phosphorylation of proliferation regulators, for example, AKT, cyclin D1, and retinoblastoma protein, was decreased. Conversely, transcriptomic analysis showed LILRB3 activation by agonist antibodies may enhance leukemia survival through upregulation of cholesterol metabolism, which has been shown to promote leukemia cell survival. Moreover, LILRB3-targeted CAR T cells exhibited potent antitumor effects both in vitro and in vivo. Taken together, our results suggest that LILRB3 is a potentially potent target for multiple treatment modalities in AML.

SIGNIFICANCE

LILRB3 regulates differentiation and proliferation in acute myeloid leukemia and can be targeted with monoclonal antibodies and CAR T cells to suppress leukemia growth.

Acute myeloid leukaemia relapse after allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation: Mechanistic diversity and therapeutic directions

Emerging biological and clinical data, along with advances in new technologies, have exposed the mechanistic diversity in post-haematopoietic stem cell transplant (HCT) relapse. Post-HCT relapse mechanisms are relevant for guiding sophisticated selection of therapeutic interventions and identification of areas for further research. Clonal evolution and emergence of resistant leukemic strains is a common mechanism shared by relapse post-chemotherapy and post-HCT, other mechanisms such as leukemic immune escape and donor T cell exhaustion are unique entities to post-HCT relapse. Due to diversity in the mechanisms behind post-HCT relapse, the subsequent clinical approach relies on clinician discretion, rather than objective evidence. Lack of standardized selection based on post-HCT relapse mechanism(s) could be a contributing factor to observed poor outcomes. Therapeutic strategies including donor lymphocyte infusion (DLI), second transplant, immunotherapies, hypomethylating agents, and targeted strategies are supported options and efficacy may be enhanced when post-HCT AML relapse mechanism is established and guides treatment selection. This review aims, through compilation of supporting studies, to describe mechanisms of post-HCT relapse and their implications for subsequent treatment selection and inspiration for future research.

Human leukocyte immunoglobulin-like receptors in health and disease

Human leukocyte immunoglobulin (Ig)-like receptors (LILR) are a family of 11 innate immunomodulatory receptors, primarily expressed on lymphoid and myeloid cells. LILRs are either activating (LILRA) or inhibitory (LILRB) depending on their associated signalling domains (D). With the exception of the soluble LILRA3, LILRAs mediate immune activation, while LILRB1-5 primarily inhibit immune responses and mediate tolerance. Abnormal expression and function of LILRs is associated with a range of pathologies, including immune insufficiency (infection and malignancy) and overt immune responses (autoimmunity and alloresponses), suggesting LILRs may be excellent candidates for targeted immunotherapies. This review will discuss the biology and clinical relevance of this extensive family of immune receptors and will summarise the recent developments in targeting LILRs in disease settings, such as cancer, with an update on the clinical trials investigating the therapeutic targeting of these receptors.

Don't eat me/eat me signals as a novel strategy in cancer immunotherapy

Cancer stands as one of the prominent global causes of death, with its incidence burden continuously increasing, leading to a substantial rise in mortality rates. Cancer treatment has seen the development of various strategies, each carrying its drawbacks that can negatively impact the quality of life for cancer patients. The challenge remains significant within the medical field to establish a definitive cancer treatment that minimizes complications and limitations. In the forthcoming years, exploring new strategies to surmount the failures in cancer treatment appears to be an unavoidable pursuit. Among these strategies, immunology-based ones hold substantial promise in combatting cancer and immune-related disorders. A particular subset of this approach identifies "eat me" and "Don't eat me" signals in cancer cells, contrasting them with their counterparts in non-cancerous cells. This distinction could potentially mark a significant breakthrough in treating diverse cancers. By delving into signal transduction and engineering novel technologies that utilize distinct "eat me" and "Don't eat me" signals, a valuable avenue may emerge for advancing cancer treatment methodologies. Macrophages, functioning as vital components of the immune system, regulate metabolic equilibrium, manage inflammatory disorders, oversee fibrosis, and aid in the repair of injuries. However, in the context of tumor cells, the overexpression of "Don't eat me" signals like CD47, PD-L1, and beta-2 microglobulin (B2M), an anti-phagocytic subunit of the primary histocompatibility complex class I, enables these cells to evade macrophages and proliferate uncontrollably. Conversely, the presentation of an "eat me" signal, such as Phosphatidylserine (PS), along with alterations in charge and glycosylation patterns on the cellular surface, modifications in intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) epitopes, and the exposure of Calreticulin and PS on the outer layer of the plasma membrane represent universally observed changes on the surface of apoptotic cells, preventing phagocytosis from causing harm to adjacent non-tumoral cells. The current review provides insight into how signaling pathways and immune cells either stimulate or obstruct these signals, aiming to address challenges that may arise in future immunotherapy research. A potential solution lies in combination therapies targeting the "eat me" and "Don't eat me" signals in conjunction with other targeted therapeutic approaches. This innovative strategy holds promise as a novel avenue for the future treatment of cancer.

Identification of LOX as a candidate prognostic biomarker in Glioblastoma multiforme

BACKGROUND

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most malignant type of glioma. GBM tumors grow rapidly, have a high degree of malignancy, and are characterized by a fast disease progression. Unfortunately, there is a lack of effective treatments. An effective strategy for the treatment of GBM would be to identify key biomarkers correlating with the occurrence and progression of GBM and developing these biomarkers into therapeutic targets.

METHOD AND RESULTS

In this study, using integrated bioinformatics analysis, we identified differentially expressed genes (DEGs), including 130 genes that were upregulated in GBM compared to normal brain tissue, and 128 genes that were downregulated in GBM. Based on Gene Ontology enrichment analysis and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway analysis, these genes were associated with regulation of tumor cell adhesion, differentiation, morphology in GBM and were mainly enriched in Complement and coagulation cascades pathway. The Search Tool for the Retrieval of Interacting Genes (STRING) database was used to construct a Protein-Protein Interaction network. Ten hub genes were identified, including FN1, CD44, MYC, CDK1, SERPINE1, COL3A1, COL1A2, LOX, POSTN and EZH2, all of which were significantly upregulated in GBM, these results were confirmed by oncomine database exploration. Alteration analysis of hub genes found that patients with alteration in at least one of the hub genes showed shorter median survival times (p = 0.013) and shorter median disease-free survival times (p = 2.488E-3) than patients without alterations in any of the hub genes. Multiple tests for survival analysis showed that among individual hub genes only expression of LOX was correlated with patient survival (P < 0.05).GDS4467 data set was used to analyze the expression of LOX in gliomas with different degrees of malignancy, and it was found that the expression level of LOX was positively correlated with the malignant degree of gliomas.By analyzing GDS 4535 data set showed that the expression level of LOX was positively correlated with the differentiation degree of GBM cells CONCLUSION: This research suggests that FN1, CD44, MYC, CDK1, SERPINE1, COL3A1, COL1A2, LOX, POSTN and EZH2 are key genes in GBM. However, only LOX is correlated with patient survival and promotes glioblastoma cell differentiation and tumor recurrence. LOX may be a candidate prognostic biomarker and potential therapeutic target for GBM.

Signaling pathways in macrophages: molecular mechanisms and therapeutic targets

Macrophages play diverse roles in development, homeostasis, and immunity. Accordingly, the dysfunction of macrophages is involved in the occurrence and progression of various diseases, such as coronavirus disease 2019 and atherosclerosis. The protective or pathogenic effect that macrophages exert in different conditions largely depends on their functional plasticity, which is regulated via signal transduction such as Janus kinase-signal transducer and activator of transcription, Wnt and Notch pathways, stimulated by environmental cues. Over the past few decades, the molecular mechanisms of signaling pathways in macrophages have been gradually elucidated, providing more alternative therapeutic targets for diseases treatment. Here, we provide an overview of the basic physiology of macrophages and expound the regulatory pathways within them. We also address the crucial role macrophages play in the pathogenesis of diseases, including autoimmune, neurodegenerative, metabolic, infectious diseases, and cancer, with a focus on advances in macrophage-targeted strategies exploring modulation of components and regulators of signaling pathways. Last, we discuss the challenges and possible solutions of macrophage-targeted therapy in clinical applications. We hope that this comprehensive review will provide directions for further research on therapeutic strategies targeting macrophage signaling pathways, which are promising to improve the efficacy of disease treatment.

Perspectives of targeting LILRB1 in innate and adaptive immune checkpoint therapy of cancer

Immune checkpoint blockade is a compelling approach in tumor immunotherapy. Blocking inhibitory pathways in T cells has demonstrated clinical efficacy in different types of cancer and may hold potential to also stimulate innate immune responses. A novel emerging potential target for immune checkpoint therapy is leukocyte immunoglobulin-like receptor subfamily B member 1 (LILRB1). LILRB1 belongs to the superfamily of leukocyte immunoglobulin-like receptors and exerts inhibitory functions. The receptor is expressed by a variety of immune cells including macrophages as well as certain cytotoxic lymphocytes and contributes to the regulation of different immune responses by interaction with classical as well as non-classical human leukocyte antigen (HLA) class I molecules. LILRB1 has gained increasing attention as it has been demonstrated to function as a phagocytosis checkpoint on macrophages by recognizing HLA class I, which represents a 'Don't Eat Me!' signal that impairs phagocytic uptake of cancer cells, similar to CD47. The specific blockade of the HLA class I:LILRB1 axis may provide an option to promote phagocytosis by macrophages and also to enhance cytotoxic functions of T cells and natural killer (NK) cells. Currently, LILRB1 specific antibodies are in different stages of pre-clinical and clinical development. In this review, we introduce LILRB1 and highlight the features that make this immune checkpoint a promising target for cancer immunotherapy.

Identification of novel immune-related biomarker and therapeutic drugs in Parkinson disease via integrated bioinformatics analysis

BACKGROUND

The present study was designed to identify immune-related biomarker and candidate drugs for Parkinson disease (PD) by weighted gene co-expression network analysis.

METHODS

Differentially expressed genes were identified in PD and healthy samples in the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Besides, immune-related genes were obtained from the immunology database. Then, a co-expression network was constructed by the weighted gene co-expression network analysis package. Diagnostic model for PD was constructed by Lasso and multivariate Cox regression. Furthermore, differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were used to establish PPI and competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) networks. Functional enrichment and pathway analysis were performed. Drug-hub gene interaction analysis was performed via DGIdb database.

RESULTS

PD samples and normal samples were found to have 220 upregulated genes and 216 downregulated genes in the GSE6613 dataset. The differentially expressed genes contained 50 immune-related genes, with 40 upregulated genes and 10 downregulated genes. We obtained 7 hub genes by intersecting the DEGs and candidate hub genes. As potential diagnostic markers, 2 immune-related DEGs were identified among the 7 hub genes. According to functional enrichment analysis, these DEGs were mainly enriched in immune response, inflammatory response, and cytokine-cytokine receptor interactions. Totally, we obtained 182 drug-gene interaction pairs in Drug-Gene Interaction database (DGIdb).

CONCLUSION

Our results revealed crucial genes and candidate drugs for PD patients and deepen our understanding of the molecular mechanisms involved in PD.

Transcriptional and spatial profiling of the kidney allograft unravels a central role for FcyRIII+ innate immune cells in rejection

Rejection remains the main cause of premature graft loss after kidney transplantation, despite the use of potent immunosuppression. This highlights the need to better understand the composition and the cell-to-cell interactions of the alloreactive inflammatory infiltrate. Here, we performed droplet-based single-cell RNA sequencing of 35,152 transcriptomes from 16 kidney transplant biopsies with varying phenotypes and severities of rejection and without rejection, and identified cell-type specific gene expression signatures for deconvolution of bulk tissue. A specific association was identified between recipient-derived FCGR3A+ monocytes, FCGR3A+ NK cells and the severity of intragraft inflammation. Activated FCGR3A+ monocytes overexpressed CD47 and LILR genes and increased paracrine signaling pathways promoting T cell infiltration. FCGR3A+ NK cells overexpressed FCRL3, suggesting that antibody-dependent cytotoxicity is a central mechanism of NK-cell mediated graft injury. Multiplexed immunofluorescence using 38 markers on 18 independent biopsy slides confirmed this role of FcγRIII+ NK and FcγRIII+ nonclassical monocytes in antibody-mediated rejection, with specificity to the glomerular area. These results highlight the central involvement of innate immune cells in the pathogenesis of allograft rejection and identify several potential therapeutic targets that might improve allograft longevity.

Inhibitory innate receptors and their potential role in transplantation

The regulatory arm of the immune system plays a crucial role in maintaining immune tolerance and preventing excessive immune responses. Immune regulation comprises various regulatory cells and molecules that work together to suppress or regulate immune responses. The programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) and cytotoxic T lymphocyte-associated protein 4 (CTLA-4) are examples of inhibitory receptors that counteract activating signals and fine-tune immune responses. While most of the discoveries of immune regulation have been related to T cells and the adaptive immune system, the innate arm of the immune system also has a range of inhibitory receptors that can counteract activating signals and suppress the effector immune responses. Targeting these innate inhibitory receptors may provide a complementary therapeutic approach in several immune-related conditions, including transplantation. In this review, we will explore the potential role of innate inhibitory receptors in controlling alloimmunity during solid organ transplantation.

Using bioinformatics and systems biology methods to identify the mechanism of interaction between COVID-19 and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is considered a risk factor for severe COVID-19, but the mechanism remains unknown. This study used bioinformatics to help define the relationship between these diseases. The GSE147507 (COVID-19), GSE126848 (NAFLD), and GSE63067 (NAFLD-2) datasets were screened using the Gene Expression Omnibus. Common differentially expressed genes were then identified using a Venn diagram. Gene ontology analysis and KEGG pathway enrichment were performed on the differentially expressed genes. A protein-protein interaction network was also constructed using the STRING platform, and key genes were identified using the Cytoscape plugin. GES63067 was selected for validation of the results. Analysis of ferroptosis gene expression during the development of the 2 diseases and prediction of their upstream miRNAs and lncRNAs. In addition, transcription factors (TFs) and miRNAs related to key genes were identified. Effective drugs that act on target genes were found in the DSigDB. The GSE147507 and GSE126848 datasets were crossed to obtain 28 co-regulated genes, 22 gene ontology terms, 3 KEGG pathways, and 10 key genes. NAFLD may affect COVID-19 progression through immune function and inflammatory signaling pathways. CYBB was predicted to be a differential ferroptosis gene associated with 2 diseases, and the CYBB-hsa-miR-196a/b-5p-TUG1 regulatory axis was identified. TF-gene interactions and TF-miRNA coregulatory network were constructed successfully. A total of 10 drugs, (such as Eckol, sulfinpyrazone, and phenylbutazone) were considered as target drugs for Patients with COVID-19 and NAFLD. This study identified key gene and defined molecular mechanisms associated with the progression of COVID-19 and NAFLD. COVID-19 and NAFLD progression may regulate ferroptosis through the CYBB-hsa-miR-196a/b-5p-TUG1 axis. This study provides additional drug options for the treatment of COVID-19 combined with NAFLD disease.

Prognostic impact of LILRB4 expression on tumor-infiltrating cells in resected non-small cell lung cancer

BACKGROUND

Leukocyte immunoglobulin-like receptor subfamily B member 4 (LILRB4/ILT3) is an up-and-coming molecule that promotes immune evasion. We have previously reported that LILRB4 facilitates myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs)-mediated tumor metastasis in mice. This study aimed to investigate the impact of the LILRB4 expression levels on tumor-infiltrating cells on the prognosis of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients.

METHODS

We immunohistochemically evaluated the LILRB4 expression levels of completely resected 239 NSCLC specimens. Whether the blocking of LILRB4 on human PBMC-derived CD33⁺ MDSCs inhibited the migration ability of lung cancer cells was also examined using transwell migration assay.

RESULTS

The LILRB4 ^high group, in which patients with a high LILRB4 expression level on tumor-infiltrating cells, showed a shorter overall survival (OS) (p = 0.013) and relapse-free survival (RFS) (p = 0.0017) compared to the LILRB4 ^low group. Multivariate analyses revealed that a high LILRB4 expression was an independent factor for postoperative recurrence, poor OS and RFS. Even in the cohort background aligned by propensity score matching, OS (p = 0.023) and RFS (p = 0.0046) in the LILRB4 ^high group were shorter than in the LILRB4 ^low group. Some of the LILRB4 positive cells were positive for MDSC markers, CD33 and CD14. Transwell migration assay demonstrated that blocking LILRB4 significantly inhibited the migration of human lung cancer cells cocultured with CD33⁺ MDSCs.

CONCLUSION

Together, signals through LILRB4 on tumor-infiltrating cells, including MDSCs, play an essential role in promoting tumor evasion and cancer progression, impacting the recurrence and poor prognosis of patients with resected NSCLC.

Paired immunoglobulin-like receptor B is an entry receptor for mammalian orthoreovirus

Mammalian orthoreovirus (reovirus) infects most mammals and is associated with celiac disease in humans. In mice, reovirus infects the intestine and disseminates systemically to cause serotype-specific patterns of disease in the brain. To identify receptors conferring reovirus serotype-dependent neuropathogenesis, we conducted a genome-wide CRISPRa screen and identified paired immunoglobulin-like receptor B (PirB) as a receptor candidate. Ectopic expression of PirB allowed reovirus binding and infection. PirB extracelluar D3D4 region is required for reovirus attachment and infectivity. Reovirus binds to PirB with nM affinity as determined by single molecule force spectroscopy. Efficient reovirus endocytosis requires PirB signaling motifs. In inoculated mice, PirB is required for maximal replication in the brain and full neuropathogenicity of neurotropic serotype 3 (T3) reovirus. In primary cortical neurons, PirB expression contributes to T3 reovirus infectivity. Thus, PirB is an entry receptor for reovirus and contributes to T3 reovirus replication and pathogenesis in the murine brain.

Elevated LILRB1 expression predicts poor prognosis and is associated with tumor immune infiltration in patients with glioma

BACKGROUND

Leukocyte immunoglobulin-like receptor subfamily B1 (LILRB1) is regarded as an inhibitory molecule. However, the importance of LILRB1 expression in glioma has not yet been determined. This investigation examined the immunological signature, clinicopathological importance and prognostic value of LILRB1 expression in glioma.

METHODS

We used data from the UCSC XENA database, the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database, the Chinese Glioma Genome Atlas (CGGA) database, the STRING database, the MEXPRESS database and our clinical glioma samples to perform bioinformatic analysis and used vitro experiments to examine the predictive value and potential biological roles of LILRB1 in glioma.

RESULTS

Higher LILRB1 expression was considerably present in the higher WHO grade glioma group and was linked to a poorer prognosis in patients with glioma. Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) revealed that LILRB1 was positively correlated with the JAK/STAT signaling pathway. LILRB1 combined with tumor mutational burden (TMB) and microsatellite instability (MSI) may be a promising indicator for the effectiveness of immunotherapy in patients with glioma. Increased LILRB1 expression was positively linked with the hypomethylation, M2 macrophage infiltration, immune checkpoints (ICPs) and M2 macrophage makers. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses determined that increased LILRB1 expression was a standalone causal factor for glioma. Vitro experiments determined that LILRB1 positively enhanced the proliferation, migration and invasion in glioma cells. MRI images demonstrated that higher LILRB1 expression was related with larger tumor volume in patients with glioma.

CONCLUSION

Dysregulation of LILRB1 in glioma is correlated with immune infiltration and is a standalone causal factor for glioma.

PirB negatively regulates the inflammatory activation of astrocytes in a mouse model of sleep deprivation

Reactive astrocytes play a potential regulatory role in sleep deprivation (SD). Paired immunoglobulin-like receptor B (PirB) is expressed in reactive astrocytes, suggesting that PirB may participate in regulating the inflammatory response of astrocytes. We used lentiviral and adeno-associated viral approaches to interfere with the expression of PirB in vivo and in vitro. C57BL/6 mice were sleep deprived for 7 days and neurological function was measured via behavioral tests. We found that overexpressed PirB in SD mice could decrease the number of neurotoxic reactive astrocytes, alleviate cognitive deficits, and promote reactive astrocytes tended to be neuroprotective state. IL-1α, TNFα, and C1q were used to induce neurotoxic reactive astrocytes in vitro. Overexpression of PirB relieved the toxicity of neurotoxic astrocytes. Silencing PirB expression had the opposite effect and exacerbated the transition of reactive astrocytes to a neurotoxic state in vitro. Moreover, PirB-impaired astrocytes demonstrated STAT3 hyperphosphorylation which could be reversed by stattic (p-STAT3 inhibitor). Furthermore, Golgi-Cox staining confirmed that dendrite morphology defects and synapse-related protein were significantly increased in PirB-overexpressed SD mice. Our data demonstrated that SD induced neurotoxic reactive astrocytes and contributed to neuroinflammation and cognitive deficits. PirB performs a negative regulatory role in neurotoxic reactive astrocytes via the STAT3 signaling pathway in SD.

TMEM106B coding variant is protective and deletion detrimental in a mouse model of tauopathy

TMEM106B is a risk modifier for a growing list of age-associated dementias including Alzheimer’s and frontotemporal dementia, yet its function remains elusive. Two key questions that emerge from past work are whether the conservative T185S coding variant found in the minor haplotype contributes to protection, and whether the presence of TMEM106B is helpful or harmful in the context of disease. Here we address both issues while extending the testbed for study of TMEM106B from models of TDP to tauopathy. We show that TMEM106B deletion accelerates cognitive decline, hindlimb paralysis, neuropathology, and neurodegeneration. TMEM106B deletion also increases transcriptional overlap with human AD, making it a better model of disease than tau alone. In contrast, the coding variant protects against tau-associated cognitive decline, neurodegeneration, and paralysis without affecting tau pathology. Our findings show that the coding variant contributes to neuroprotection and suggest that TMEM106B is a critical safeguard against tau aggregation.

Roles of tumor-associated macrophages in anti-PD-1/PD-L1 immunotherapy for solid cancers

In recent years, tumor immunotherapy has made significant progress. However, tumor immunotherapy, particularly immune checkpoint inhibitors (e.g., PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors), benefits only a tiny proportion of patients in solid cancers. The tumor microenvironment (TME) acts a significant role in tumor immunotherapy. Studies reported that tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), as one of the main components of TME, seriously affected the therapeutic effect of PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors. In this review, we analyzed TAMs from epigenetic and single-cell perspectives and introduced the role and mechanisms of TAMs in anti-programmed death protein 1(anti-PD-1) therapy. In addition, we summarized combination regimens that enhance the efficacy of tumor PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors and elaborated on the role of the TAMs in different solid cancers. Eventually, the clinical value of TAMs by influencing the therapeutic effect of tumor PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors was discussed. These above are beneficial to elucidate poor therapeutic effect of PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors in solid tumors from the point of view of TAMs and explore the strategies to improve its objective remission rate of solid cancers.

Emerging phagocytosis checkpoints in cancer immunotherapy

Cancer immunotherapy, mainly including immune checkpoints-targeted therapy and the adoptive transfer of engineered immune cells, has revolutionized the oncology landscape as it utilizes patients' own immune systems in combating the cancer cells. Cancer cells escape immune surveillance by hijacking the corresponding inhibitory pathways via overexpressing checkpoint genes. Phagocytosis checkpoints, such as CD47, CD24, MHC-I, PD-L1, STC-1 and GD2, have emerged as essential checkpoints for cancer immunotherapy by functioning as "don't eat me" signals or interacting with "eat me" signals to suppress immune responses. Phagocytosis checkpoints link innate immunity and adaptive immunity in cancer immunotherapy. Genetic ablation of these phagocytosis checkpoints, as well as blockade of their signaling pathways, robustly augments phagocytosis and reduces tumor size. Among all phagocytosis checkpoints, CD47 is the most thoroughly studied and has emerged as a rising star among targets for cancer treatment. CD47-targeting antibodies and inhibitors have been investigated in various preclinical and clinical trials. However, anemia and thrombocytopenia appear to be formidable challenges since CD47 is ubiquitously expressed on erythrocytes. Here, we review the reported phagocytosis checkpoints by discussing their mechanisms and functions in cancer immunotherapy, highlight clinical progress in targeting these checkpoints and discuss challenges and potential solutions to smooth the way for combination immunotherapeutic strategies that involve both innate and adaptive immune responses.

Molecular regulatory mechanism of LILRB4 in the immune response

Immune diseases are caused by the imbalance of immune regulation. This imbalance is regulated by many factors, both negative and positive. Leukocyte immunoglobulin-like receptor B4 (LILRB4) is a member of leukocyte immunoglobulin-like receptors (LILRs). LILRs are expressed constitutively on the surface of multiple immune cells which associate with membrane adaptors to signal through multi- ple cytoplasmic immunoreceptor tyrosine-based inhibitory motifs (ITIMs) or immunoreceptor tyro-sine-based activation motifs (ITAMs). Through ITIM, LILRB4 could recruit the src homology domain type-2-containing tyrosine phosphatase 1 or 2 (SHP-1 or SHP-2) into the cell membrane. In addition, many factors can induce the expression of LILRB4, such as vitamin D, interferon and so on. Studies have demonstrated that LILRB4 had a negative regulatory role in various of immune diseases. The present review intends to expound the structure and function of LILRB4, as well as its regulators and receptors in the immune cells, so as to provide a theoretical basis for immune disease therapy.

Antibody therapies for the treatment of acute myeloid leukemia: exploring current and emerging therapeutic targets

INTRODUCTION

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is the most common and deadly type of leukemia affecting adults. It is typically managed with rounds of non-targeted chemotherapy followed by hematopoietic stem cell transplants, but this is only possible in patients who can tolerate these harsh treatments and many are elderly and frail. With the identification of novel tumor-specific cell surface receptors, there is great conviction that targeted antibody therapies will soon become available for these patients.

AREAS COVERED

In this review, we describe the current landscape of known target receptors for monospecific and bispecific antibody-based therapeutics for AML. Here, we characterize each of the receptors and targeted antibody-based therapeutics in development, illustrating the rational design behind each therapeutic compound. We then discuss the bispecific antibodies in development and how they improve immune surveillance of AML. For each therapeutic, we also summarize the available pre-clinical and clinical data, including data from discontinued trials.

EXPERT OPINION

One antibody-based therapeutic has already been approved for AML treatment, the CD33-targeting antibody-drug conjugate, gemtuzumab ozogamicin. Many more are currently in pre-clinical and clinical studies. These antibody-based therapeutics can perform tumor-specific, elaborate cytotoxic functions and there is growing confidence they will soon lead to personalized, safe AML treatment options that induce durable remissions.

Computational and atomistic studies applied to the understanding of the structural and behavioral features of the immune checkpoint HLA-G molecule and gene

We took advantage of the increasingly evolving approaches for in silico studies concerning protein structures, protein molecular dynamics (MD), protein-protein and protein-DNA docking to evaluate: (i) the structure and MD characteristics of the HLA-G well-recognized isoforms, (ii) the impact of missense mutations at HLA-G receptor genes (LILRB1/2), and (iii) the differential binding of the hypoxia-inducible factor 1 (HIF1) to hypoxia-responsive elements (HRE) at the HLA-G gene. Besides reviewing these topics, they were revisited including the following novel results: (i) the HLA-G6 isoforms were unstable docked or not with β₂-microglobulin or peptide, (ii) missense mutations at LILRB1/2 genes, exchanging amino acids at the intracellular domain, particularly those located within and around the ITIM motifs, may impact the HLA-G binding strength, and (iii) HREs motifs at the HLA-G promoter or exon 2 regions exhibiting a guanine at their third position present a higher affinity for HIF1 when compared to an adenine at the same position. These data shed some light into the functional aspects of HLA-G, particularly how polymorphisms may influence the role of the molecule. Computational and atomistic studies have provided alternative tools for experimental physical methodologies, which are time-consuming, expensive, demanding large quantities of purified proteins, and exhibit low output.