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Dehhaghi M, Heydari M, Panahi HKS, Lewin SR, Heng B, Brew BJ, Guillemin GJ. The roles of the kynurenine pathway in COVID-19 neuropathogenesis. Infection 2024:10.1007/s15010-024-02293-y. [PMID: 38802702 DOI: 10.1007/s15010-024-02293-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is the causative agent of the highly contagious respiratory disease Corona Virus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) that may lead to various neurological and psychological disorders that can be acute, lasting days to weeks or months and possibly longer. The latter is known as long-COVID or more recently post-acute sequelae of COVID (PASC). During acute COVID-19 infection, a strong inflammatory response, known as the cytokine storm, occurs in some patients. The levels of interferon-γ (IFN-γ), interferon-β (IFN-β), interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) are particularly increased. These cytokines are known to activate the enzyme indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase 1 (IDO-1), catalysing the first step of tryptophan (Trp) catabolism through the kynurenine pathway (KP) leading to the production of several neurotoxic and immunosuppressive metabolites. There is already data showing elevation in KP metabolites both acutely and in PASC, especially regarding cognitive impairment. Thus, it is likely that KP involvement is significant in SARS-CoV-2 pathogenesis especially neurologically.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mona Dehhaghi
- Macquarie Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Mostafa Heydari
- Department of Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamed Kazemi Shariat Panahi
- Macquarie Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Sharon R Lewin
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The University of Melbourne at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Victorian Infectious Diseases Service, The Royal Melbourne Hospital at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Alfred Hospital and Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Benjamin Heng
- Macquarie Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
| | - Bruce J Brew
- Peter Duncan Neurosciences Unit, St. Vincent's Centre for Applied Medical Research, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, School of Clinical Medicine, UNSW Sydney, NSW, Australia.
- Departments of Neurology and Immunology, St. Vincent's Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
- University of Notre Dame, Darlinghurst, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
| | - Gilles J Guillemin
- Peter Duncan Neurosciences Unit, St. Vincent's Centre for Applied Medical Research, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Institut Pertanian Bogor University, Bogor, Indonesia
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2
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Wu MH, Valenca-Pereira F, Cendali F, Giddings EL, Pham-Danis C, Yarnell MC, Novak AJ, Brunetti TM, Thompson SB, Henao-Mejia J, Flavell RA, D'Alessandro A, Kohler ME, Rincon M. Deleting the mitochondrial respiration negative regulator MCJ enhances the efficacy of CD8 + T cell adoptive therapies in pre-clinical studies. Nat Commun 2024; 15:4444. [PMID: 38789421 PMCID: PMC11126743 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-48653-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Mitochondrial respiration is essential for the survival and function of T cells used in adoptive cellular therapies. However, strategies that specifically enhance mitochondrial respiration to promote T cell function remain limited. Here, we investigate methylation-controlled J protein (MCJ), an endogenous negative regulator of mitochondrial complex I expressed in CD8 cells, as a target for improving the efficacy of adoptive T cell therapies. We demonstrate that MCJ inhibits mitochondrial respiration in murine CD8+ CAR-T cells and that deletion of MCJ increases their in vitro and in vivo efficacy against murine B cell leukaemia. Similarly, MCJ deletion in ovalbumin (OVA)-specific CD8+ T cells also increases their efficacy against established OVA-expressing melanoma tumors in vivo. Furthermore, we show for the first time that MCJ is expressed in human CD8 cells and that the level of MCJ expression correlates with the functional activity of CD8+ CAR-T cells. Silencing MCJ expression in human CD8 CAR-T cells increases their mitochondrial metabolism and enhances their anti-tumor activity. Thus, targeting MCJ may represent a potential therapeutic strategy to increase mitochondrial metabolism and improve the efficacy of adoptive T cell therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng-Han Wu
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Felipe Valenca-Pereira
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Francesca Cendali
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Emily L Giddings
- Division of Immunobiology, Department of Medicine, Larner College of Medicine, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, USA
| | - Catherine Pham-Danis
- Department of Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and Bone Marrow Transplant, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Michael C Yarnell
- Department of Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and Bone Marrow Transplant, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Amanda J Novak
- Department of Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and Bone Marrow Transplant, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Tonya M Brunetti
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Scott B Thompson
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Jorge Henao-Mejia
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Institute for Immunology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Division of Transplant Immunology, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Richard A Flavell
- Department of Immunobiology, School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Angelo D'Alessandro
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - M Eric Kohler
- Department of Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and Bone Marrow Transplant, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA.
- Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders, Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA.
| | - Mercedes Rincon
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA.
- Division of Immunobiology, Department of Medicine, Larner College of Medicine, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, USA.
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Louvrou V, Solianik R, Brazaitis M, Erhardt S. Exploring the effect of prolonged fasting on kynurenine pathway metabolites and stress markers in healthy male individuals. Eur J Clin Nutr 2024:10.1038/s41430-024-01451-7. [PMID: 38789718 DOI: 10.1038/s41430-024-01451-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES Prolonged fasting triggers a stress response within the human body. Our objective was to investigate the impact of prolonged fasting, in conjunction with stress, on kynurenine pathway metabolites. SUBJECTS/METHODS Healthy males were divided into fasting group (zero-calorie-restriction) for 6 days (FAST, n = 14), and control group (CON, n = 10). Blood and saliva samples were collected at baseline, Day 2, Day 4, Day 6 during fasting period, and 1 week after resuming regular diet. Plasma levels of kynurenine pathway metabolites were measured using ultra-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS). Plasma and salivary samples were analyzed for stress markers. RESULTS A pronounced activation of the kynurenine pathway in individuals on FAST trial was revealed. Concentrations of picolinic acid (PIC), kynurenic acid (KYNA) and 3-hydroxykynurenine (3-HK) were significantly increased, with peak levels observed on Day 6 (P < 0.0001). Conversely, concentrations of tryptophan (TRP) and quinolinic acid (QUIN) decreased (P < 0.0001), while kynurenine (KYN) and nicotinamide (NAM) levels remained stable. Cortisol and noradrenaline concentrations remained unchanged. However, adrenaline levels significantly increased on Day 4 within FAST compared to CON (P = 0.005). Notably, all deviations in kynurenine pathway metabolite levels returned to baseline values upon resuming regular diet following the 6-day fasting regimen, even when weight and BMI parameters were not restored. CONCLUSIONS Extended fasting over 6 days induces the kynurenine pathway and has minimal effects on stress markers. Restoration of metabolite concentrations upon regular feeding implies rapid adaptation of the kynurenine pathway synthetic enzymes to maintain homeostasis when faced with perturbations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Varvara Louvrou
- Institute of Sport Science and Innovations, Lithuanian Sports University, Kaunas, Lithuania
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Rima Solianik
- Institute of Sport Science and Innovations, Lithuanian Sports University, Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - Marius Brazaitis
- Institute of Sport Science and Innovations, Lithuanian Sports University, Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - Sophie Erhardt
- Institute of Sport Science and Innovations, Lithuanian Sports University, Kaunas, Lithuania.
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
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Chaudhry KA, Bianchi-Smiraglia A. The aryl hydrocarbon receptor as a tumor modulator: mechanisms to therapy. Front Oncol 2024; 14:1375905. [PMID: 38807762 PMCID: PMC11130384 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2024.1375905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024] Open
Abstract
The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) is a ligand-activated transcription factor that is widely recognized to play important, but complex, modulatory roles in a variety of tumor types. In this review, we comprehensively summarize the increasingly controversial role of AhR as a tumor regulator and the mechanisms by which it alters tumor progression based on the cancer cell type. Finally, we discuss new and emerging strategies to therapeutically modulate AhR, focusing on novel agents that hold promise in current human clinical trials as well as existing FDA-approved drugs that could potentially be repurposed for cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Anna Bianchi-Smiraglia
- Department of Cell Stress Biology, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, New York, NY, United States
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Molfino A, Imbimbo G, Gallicchio C, Muscaritoli M. Tryptophan metabolism and kynurenine metabolites in cancer: systemic nutritional and metabolic implications. Curr Opin Clin Nutr Metab Care 2024; 27:316-321. [PMID: 38386476 DOI: 10.1097/mco.0000000000001021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW To describe the role of Tryptophan (Trp) metabolism and Kynurenine (Kyn) metabolites in nutritional and metabolic changes in cancer. RECENT FINDINGS Trp is in part utilized for protein and neurotransmitters biosynthesis, but more than 95% is implicated in Kyn pathways. In this molecular cascade, metabolites are produced with distinct biological activities regulating the immune response and neurotransmission with potential implications in malnutrition/cachexia during cancer. Immune dysfunction is a phenomenon occurring during cancer and malnutrition. Kyn metabolites regulate lymphocytes activity and recent data in animals showed that the inhibition of indoleamine-2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) via 1-methyl-tryptophan determines partial amelioration of inflammation, but no positive effects on the preservation of muscularity were observed. Kynurenines seem to contribute to muscle catabolism via NAD+ biosynthesis and ROS generation. Trp metabolism via the serotonin biosynthesis is involved in appetite control in cancer. Moreover, kynurenines have a role in determining fatigue in conditions associated with inflammation. SUMMARY Trp metabolism has implications in immune and energy balance in cancer. The modulation of Trp and kynurenines have impact on central nervous system mechanisms, including appetite, fatigue, and muscle wasting/cachexia. Research focusing on these clinical implications will open new scenario for therapeutic interventions aimed at counteracting nutritional derangements in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessio Molfino
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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Guo L, Wu C, Song B, Jin HZ. Exploration of circulating metabolic signature of erythrodermic psoriasis based on LC-MS metabolomics. Exp Dermatol 2024; 33:e15103. [PMID: 38794829 DOI: 10.1111/exd.15103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2023] [Revised: 04/10/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
Erythrodermic psoriasis (EP) is a rare and life-threatening disease, the pathogenesis of which remains to be largely unknown. Metabolomics analysis can provide global information on disease pathophysiology, candidate biomarkers, and potential intervention strategies. To gain a better understanding of the mechanisms of EP and explore the serum metabolic signature of EP, we conducted an untargeted metabolomics analysis from 20 EP patients and 20 healthy controls. Furthermore, targeted metabolomics for focused metabolites were identified in the serum samples of 30 EP patients and 30 psoriasis vulgaris (PsV) patients. In the untargeted analysis, a total of 2992 molecular features were extracted from each sample, and the peak intensity of each feature was obtained. Principal component analysis (PCA), orthogonal partial least squares-discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA) revealed significant difference between groups. After screening, 98 metabolites were found to be significantly dysregulated in EP, including 67 down-regulated and 31 up-regulated. EP patients had lower levels of L-tryptophan, L-isoleucine, retinol, lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC), and higher levels of betaine and uric acid. KEGG analysis showed differential metabolites were enriched in amino acid metabolism and glycerophospholipid metabolism. The targeted metabolomics showed lower L-tryptophan in EP than PsV with significant difference and L-tryptophan levels were negatively correlated with the PASI scores. The serum metabolic signature of EP was discovered. Amino acid and glycerophospholipid metabolism were dysregulated in EP. The metabolite differences provide clues for pathogenesis of EP and they may provide insights for therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lan Guo
- Department of Dermatology, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, National Clinical Research Center for Dermatologic and Immunologic Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Chao Wu
- Department of Dermatology, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, National Clinical Research Center for Dermatologic and Immunologic Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Biao Song
- Department of Dermatology, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, National Clinical Research Center for Dermatologic and Immunologic Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Hong-Zhong Jin
- Department of Dermatology, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, National Clinical Research Center for Dermatologic and Immunologic Diseases, Beijing, China
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7
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Gonçalves M, Furgiuele A, Rasini E, Legnaro M, Ferrari M, Luini A, Rodrigues-Santos P, Caramelo F, Marino F, Pereira FC, Cosentino M. A peripheral blood mononuclear cell-based in vitro model: A tool to explore indoleamine 2, 3-dioxygenase-1 (IDO1). Eur J Pharmacol 2024; 968:176420. [PMID: 38367683 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2024.176420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 02/19/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Proinflammatory cytokines powerfully induce the rate-limiting enzyme indoleamine 2, 3-dioxygenase-1 (IDO-1) in dendritic cells (DCs) and monocytes, it converts tryptophan (Trp) into L-kynurenine (KYN), along the kynurenine pathway (KP). This mechanism represents a crucial innate immunity regulator that can modulate T cells. This work explores the role of IDO1 in lymphocyte proliferation within a specific pro-inflammatory milieu. METHODS Peripheral blood mononuclera cells (PBMCs) were isolated from buffy coats taken from healthy blood donors and exposed to a pro-inflammatory milieu triggered by a double-hit stimulus: lipopolysaccharide (LPS) plus anti-CD3/CD28. The IDO1 mRNA levels in the PBMCs were measured by RT-PCR; the IDO1 activity was analyzed using the KYN/Trp ratio, measured by HPLC-EC; and lymphocyte proliferation was measured by flow cytometry. Trp and epacadostat (EP) were used as an IDO1 substrate and inhibitor, respectively. KYN, which is known to modulate Teffs, was tested as a positive control in lymphocyte proliferation. RESULTS IDO1 expression and activity in PBMCs increased in an in vitro pro-inflammatory milieu. The lymphoid stimulus increased IDO1 expression and activity, which supports the interaction between the activated lymphocytes and the circulating myeloid IDO1-expressing cells. The addition of Trp decreased lymphocyte proliferation but EP, which abrogated the IDO1 function, had no impact on proliferation. Additionally, incubation with KYN seemed to decrease the lymphocyte proliferation. CONCLUSION IDO1 inhibition did not change T lymphocyte proliferation. We present herein an in vitro experimental model suitable to measure IDO1 expression and activity in circulating myeloid cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milene Gonçalves
- Univ Coimbra, Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), Faculty of Medicine, Coimbra, Portugal; Univ Coimbra, Institute of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, Coimbra, Portugal; Univ Coimbra, CIBB - Centre for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology, Coimbra, Portugal; Clinical Academic Center of Coimbra (CACC), Coimbra, Portugal; Univ Coimbra, Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, Doctoral Programme in Experimental Biology and Biomedicine (PDBEB), Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Alessia Furgiuele
- Center for Research in Medical Pharmacology, Univ Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Emanuela Rasini
- Center for Research in Medical Pharmacology, Univ Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | | | - Marco Ferrari
- Center for Research in Medical Pharmacology, Univ Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Alessandra Luini
- Center for Research in Medical Pharmacology, Univ Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Paulo Rodrigues-Santos
- Univ Coimbra, Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), Faculty of Medicine, Coimbra, Portugal; Univ Coimbra, Institute of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Coimbra, Portugal; Univ Coimbra, Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Francisco Caramelo
- Univ Coimbra, Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), Faculty of Medicine, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Franca Marino
- Center for Research in Medical Pharmacology, Univ Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Frederico C Pereira
- Univ Coimbra, Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), Faculty of Medicine, Coimbra, Portugal; Univ Coimbra, Institute of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, Coimbra, Portugal; Univ Coimbra, CIBB - Centre for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology, Coimbra, Portugal; Clinical Academic Center of Coimbra (CACC), Coimbra, Portugal.
| | - Marco Cosentino
- Clinical Academic Center of Coimbra (CACC), Coimbra, Portugal.
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8
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Turska-Kozłowska M, Pedraz-Petrozzi B, Paluszkiewicz P, Parada-Turska J. Different Kynurenine Pathway Dysregulation in Systemic Sclerosis in Men and Women. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:3842. [PMID: 38612652 PMCID: PMC11011858 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25073842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2024] [Revised: 03/17/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc), a predominantly female-affected systemic autoimmune disease, requires tailored treatment strategies contingent on organ involvement and symptom severity. Given SSc's inflammatory nature, the involvement of the kynurenine pathway (KP) in its pathophysiology is underexplored. Our study aimed to investigate sex-related differences in KP activation among SSc patients and assess the impact of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) on KP metabolite concentrations. We enrolled 48 SSc patients and 53 healthy controls, quantifying KP metabolites (tryptophan (TRP), kynurenine (KYN), and kynurenic acid (KYNA)) in serum via high-performance liquid chromatography. Separate multivariate analyses of covariance (MANCOVAs) for women and men were performed to ascertain mean differences between patients and healthy controls while correcting for age. For our secondary objective, we conducted a MANCOVA to explore disparities in ACE inhibitor users and non-users among patients, with BMI correction. Our findings revealed decreased TRP concentrations but increased KYNA/TRP ratio and KYN/TRP ratio in both male and female SSc patients compared to their respective controls. Unlike women, SSc males exhibited higher KYN concentrations and decreased KYNA/KYN ratio relative to their controls. Additionally, SSc patients using ACE inhibitors had higher serum KYNA levels than non-users. Notably, we established a significant correlation between eGFR and KYNA in SSc patients. These results indicate differential KP activation in male and female SSc patients, with males demonstrating heightened KP activation. While ACE inhibitors may influence the KP in SSc patients, further research is necessary to comprehensively understand their impact on symptoms and prognosis in the context of these KP alterations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monika Turska-Kozłowska
- Department of Molecular Biology, The John Paul II Catholic University of Lublin, Konstantynow 1H, 20-708 Lublin, Poland
| | - Bruno Pedraz-Petrozzi
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, J5, 68159 Mannheim, Germany;
| | - Piotr Paluszkiewicz
- Department of General, Oncological and Metabolic Surgery, Institute of Hematology and Transfusion Medicine, Indiry Gandhi 14, 02-778 Warsaw, Poland;
| | - Jolanta Parada-Turska
- Department of Rheumatology and Connective Tissue Diseases, Medical University of Lublin, Jaczewskiego 8, 20-090 Lublin, Poland;
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9
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Hawly J, Murcar MG, Schcolnik-Cabrera A, Issa ME. Glioblastoma stem cell metabolism and immunity. Cancer Metastasis Rev 2024:10.1007/s10555-024-10183-w. [PMID: 38530545 DOI: 10.1007/s10555-024-10183-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/09/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024]
Abstract
Despite enormous efforts being invested in the development of novel therapies for brain malignancies, there remains a dire need for effective treatments, particularly for pediatric glioblastomas. Their poor prognosis has been attributed to the fact that conventional therapies target tumoral cells, but not glioblastoma stem cells (GSCs). GSCs are characterized by self-renewal, tumorigenicity, poor differentiation, and resistance to therapy. These characteristics represent the fundamental tools needed to recapitulate the tumor and result in a relapse. The mechanisms by which GSCs alter metabolic cues and escape elimination by immune cells are discussed in this article, along with potential strategies to harness effector immune cells against GSCs. As cellular immunotherapy is making significant advances in a variety of cancers, leveraging this underexplored reservoir may result in significant improvements in the treatment options for brain malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Hawly
- Faculty of Medicine and Medical Sciences, University of Balamand, Dekouaneh, Lebanon
| | - Micaela G Murcar
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, MA, USA
| | | | - Mark E Issa
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, MA, USA.
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10
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Krupa A, Łebkowska A, Kondraciuk M, Kaminski KA, Kowalska I. Alteration in kynurenine pathway metabolites in young women with autoimmune thyroiditis. Sci Rep 2024; 14:6851. [PMID: 38514790 PMCID: PMC10957988 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-57154-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024] Open
Abstract
The kynurenine pathway (KP) of tryptophan degradation includes several compounds that reveal immunomodulatory properties. The present study aimed to investigate the alteration in KP metabolites in young women with autoimmune thyroiditis (AIT) and their associations with thyroid function. The thyroid function tests, antithyroid antibodies measurement and ultrasonography of the thyroid gland have been performed in 57 young women with AIT and 38 age-matched healthy controls. The serum levels of tryptophan, kynurenine (KYN) and its metabolites were determined, and the activity of KP enzymes was calculated indirectly as product-to-substrate ratios. KP was activated and dysregulated in AIT, along with significantly elevated levels of KYN and anthranilic acid (AA), at the expense of the reduction of kynurenic acid (KYNA), which was reflected by the increase in the AA/KYNA ratio (p < 0.001). In univariate and multiple regression analyses, peripheral deiodinase (SPINA-GD) activity in AIT was positively associated with KYNA, AA, and quinolinic acid (QA). The merger of AA, AA/KYNA ratio, QA and SPINA-GD exhibited the highest sensitivity and specificity to predict AIT (p < 0.001) in receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis. In conclusion, the serum KYN metabolite profile is dysregulated in young women with AIT and could serve as a new predictor of AIT risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Krupa
- Department of Internal Medicine and Metabolic Diseases, Medical University of Bialystok, M. Sklodowskiej-Curie 24A, 15-276, Białystok, Poland.
| | - Agnieszka Łebkowska
- Department of Internal Medicine and Metabolic Diseases, Medical University of Bialystok, M. Sklodowskiej-Curie 24A, 15-276, Białystok, Poland
| | - Marcin Kondraciuk
- Department of Population Medicine and Lifestyle Diseases Prevention, Medical University of Bialystok, Waszyngtona 15B, 15-269, Białystok, Poland
| | - Karol Adam Kaminski
- Department of Population Medicine and Lifestyle Diseases Prevention, Medical University of Bialystok, Waszyngtona 15B, 15-269, Białystok, Poland
| | - Irina Kowalska
- Department of Internal Medicine and Metabolic Diseases, Medical University of Bialystok, M. Sklodowskiej-Curie 24A, 15-276, Białystok, Poland
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11
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Takkar S, Sharma G, Kaushal JB, Abdullah KM, Batra SK, Siddiqui JA. From orphan to oncogene: The role of GPR35 in cancer and immune modulation. Cytokine Growth Factor Rev 2024:S1359-6101(24)00029-7. [PMID: 38514303 DOI: 10.1016/j.cytogfr.2024.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2024] [Revised: 03/15/2024] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are well-studied and the most traceable cell surface receptors for drug discovery. One of the intriguing members of this family is G protein-coupled receptors 35 (GPR35), which belongs to the class A rhodopsin-like family of GPCRs identified over two decades ago. GPR35 presents interesting features such as ubiquitous expression and distinct isoforms. Moreover, functional and genome-wide association studies on its widespread expression have linked GPR35 with pathophysiological disease progression. Various pieces of evidence have been accumulated regarding the independent or endogenous ligand-dependent role of GPR35 in cancer progression and metastasis. In the current scenario, the relationship of this versatile receptor and its putative endogenous ligands for the activation of oncogenic signal transduction pathways at the cellular level is an active area of research. These intriguing features offered by GPR35 make it an oncological target, justifying its uniqueness at the physiological and pathophysiological levels concerning other GPCRs. For pharmacologically targeting receptor-induced signaling, few potential competitive antagonists have been discovered that offer high selectivity at a human level. In addition to its fascinating features, targeting GPR35 at rodent and human orthologue levels is distinct, thus contributing to the sub-species selectivity. Strategies to modulate these issues will help us understand and truly target GPR35 at the therapeutic level. In this article, we have provided prospects on each topic mentioned above and suggestions to overcome the challenges. This review discusses the molecular mechanism and signal transduction pathways activated by endogenous ligands or spontaneous auto-activation of GPR35 that contributes towards disease progression. Furthermore, we have highlighted the GPR35 structure, ubiquitous expression, its role in immunomodulation, and at the pathophysiological level, especially in cancer, indicating its status as a versatile receptor. Subsequently, we discussed the various proposed ligands and their mechanism of interaction with GPR35. Additionally, we have summarized the GPR35 antagonist that provides insights into the opportunities for therapeutically targeting this receptor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simran Takkar
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
| | - Gunjan Sharma
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
| | - Jyoti B Kaushal
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
| | - K M Abdullah
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
| | - Surinder K Batra
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA; Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA; Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA.
| | - Jawed A Siddiqui
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA; Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA.
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12
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Antenucci N, D'Errico G, Fazio F, Nicoletti F, Bruno V, Battaglia G. Changes in kynurenine metabolites in the gray and white matter of the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex of individuals affected by schizophrenia. SCHIZOPHRENIA (HEIDELBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 10:27. [PMID: 38413629 PMCID: PMC10899223 DOI: 10.1038/s41537-024-00447-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024]
Abstract
Alterations in the kynurenine pathway of tryptophan metabolism have been implicated in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia. Here, we performed an in-depth analysis of all metabolites of the kynurenine pathway, i.e., tryptophan (TRY), kynurenic acid (KYNA), L-kynurenine (KYN), 3-hydroxykynurenine (3-HK), anthranylic acid (ANA), 3-hydroxyanthranylic acid (3-HANA), xanthurenic acid (XA) and quinolinic acid (QUINA), in postmortem samples of the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC, Brodmann area 46, 9) of individuals affected by schizophrenia and non-schizophrenic controls. The analysis was carried out in the gray and white matter. Levels of KYN, 3-HK, ANA, and 3-HANA were significantly increased in both the gray and white matter of the DLPFC of individuals affected by schizophrenia, whereas levels of TRY, KYNA, and QUINA were increased exclusively in the white matter and remained unchanged in the gray matter. These increases in kynurenine metabolites did not correlate with age, sex, duration of the disease, and duration and type of antipsychotic medication. These findings suggest that the two major branches of the kynurenine pathway, i.e., the transamination of KYN into KYNA, and hydroxylation of KYN into 3-HK are activated in the white matter of individuals affected by schizophrenia, perhaps as a result of neuroinflammation, and support the evidence that abnormalities of the white matter are consistenly associated with schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nico Antenucci
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
- Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, USA
| | | | - Francesco Fazio
- IRCCS Neuromed, Pozzilli, Italy
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Ferdinando Nicoletti
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
- IRCCS Neuromed, Pozzilli, Italy
| | - Valeria Bruno
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy.
- IRCCS Neuromed, Pozzilli, Italy.
| | - Giuseppe Battaglia
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
- IRCCS Neuromed, Pozzilli, Italy
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13
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Wong C, Stoilova I, Gazeau F, Herbeuval JP, Fourniols T. Mesenchymal stromal cell derived extracellular vesicles as a therapeutic tool: immune regulation, MSC priming, and applications to SLE. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1355845. [PMID: 38390327 PMCID: PMC10881725 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1355845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by a dysfunction of the immune system. Mesenchymal stromal cell (MSCs) derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) are nanometer-sized particles carrying a diverse range of bioactive molecules, such as proteins, miRNAs, and lipids. Despite the methodological disparities, recent works on MSC-EVs have highlighted their broad immunosuppressive effect, thus driving forwards the potential of MSC-EVs in the treatment of chronic diseases. Nonetheless, their mechanism of action is still unclear, and better understanding is needed for clinical application. Therefore, we describe in this review the diverse range of bioactive molecules mediating their immunomodulatory effect, the techniques and possibilities for enhancing their immune activity, and finally the potential application to SLE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christophe Wong
- EVerZom, Paris, France
- Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS) Unité Mixte de Recherche (UMR) 8601, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
- Chemistry and Biology, Modeling and Immunology for Therapy (CBMIT), Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Ivana Stoilova
- Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS) Unité Mixte de Recherche (UMR) 8601, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
- Chemistry and Biology, Modeling and Immunology for Therapy (CBMIT), Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Florence Gazeau
- Matière et Systèmes Complexes (MSC) UMR CNRS 7057, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Jean-Philippe Herbeuval
- Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS) Unité Mixte de Recherche (UMR) 8601, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
- Chemistry and Biology, Modeling and Immunology for Therapy (CBMIT), Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
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14
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Losol P, Wolska M, Wypych TP, Yao L, O'Mahony L, Sokolowska M. A cross talk between microbial metabolites and host immunity: Its relevance for allergic diseases. Clin Transl Allergy 2024; 14:e12339. [PMID: 38342758 PMCID: PMC10859320 DOI: 10.1002/clt2.12339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2023] [Revised: 01/07/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/13/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Allergic diseases, including respiratory and food allergies, as well as allergic skin conditions have surged in prevalence in recent decades. In allergic diseases, the gut microbiome is dysbiotic, with reduced diversity of beneficial bacteria and increased abundance of potential pathogens. Research findings suggest that the microbiome, which is highly influenced by environmental and dietary factors, plays a central role in the development, progression, and severity of allergic diseases. The microbiome generates metabolites, which can regulate many of the host's cellular metabolic processes and host immune responses. AIMS AND METHODS Our goal is to provide a narrative and comprehensive literature review of the mechanisms through which microbial metabolites regulate host immune function and immune metabolism both in homeostasis and in the context of allergic diseases. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION We describe key microbial metabolites such as short-chain fatty acids, amino acids, bile acids and polyamines, elucidating their mechanisms of action, cellular targets and their roles in regulating metabolism within innate and adaptive immune cells. Furthermore, we characterize the role of bacterial metabolites in the pathogenesis of allergic diseases including allergic asthma, atopic dermatitis and food allergy. CONCLUSION Future research efforts should focus on investigating the physiological functions of microbiota-derived metabolites to help develop new diagnostic and therapeutic interventions for allergic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Purevsuren Losol
- Department of Internal MedicineSeoul National University Bundang HospitalSeongnamKorea
- Department of Molecular Biology and GeneticsSchool of BiomedicineMongolian National University of Medical SciencesUlaanbaatarMongolia
| | - Magdalena Wolska
- Laboratory of Host‐Microbiota InteractionsNencki Institute of Experimental BiologyPolish Academy of SciencesWarsawPoland
| | - Tomasz P. Wypych
- Laboratory of Host‐Microbiota InteractionsNencki Institute of Experimental BiologyPolish Academy of SciencesWarsawPoland
| | - Lu Yao
- APC Microbiome IrelandUniversity College CorkCorkIreland
- Department of MedicineUniversity College CorkCorkIreland
- School of MicrobiologyUniversity College CorkCorkIreland
| | - Liam O'Mahony
- APC Microbiome IrelandUniversity College CorkCorkIreland
- Department of MedicineUniversity College CorkCorkIreland
- School of MicrobiologyUniversity College CorkCorkIreland
| | - Milena Sokolowska
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF)University of ZurichDavosSwitzerland
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Xia L, Hantrakun V, Teparrukkul P, Wongsuvan G, Kaewarpai T, Dulsuk A, Day NPJ, Lemaitre RN, Chantratita N, Limmathurotsakul D, Shojaie A, Gharib SA, West TE. Plasma Metabolomics Reveals Distinct Biological and Diagnostic Signatures for Melioidosis. Am J Respir Crit Care Med 2024; 209:288-298. [PMID: 37812796 PMCID: PMC10840774 DOI: 10.1164/rccm.202207-1349oc] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2022] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 10/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Rationale: The global burden of sepsis is greatest in low-resource settings. Melioidosis, infection with the gram-negative bacterium Burkholderia pseudomallei, is a frequent cause of fatal sepsis in endemic tropical regions such as Southeast Asia. Objectives: To investigate whether plasma metabolomics would identify biological pathways specific to melioidosis and yield clinically meaningful biomarkers. Methods: Using a comprehensive approach, differential enrichment of plasma metabolites and pathways was systematically evaluated in individuals selected from a prospective cohort of patients hospitalized in rural Thailand with infection. Statistical and bioinformatics methods were used to distinguish metabolomic features and processes specific to patients with melioidosis and between fatal and nonfatal cases. Measurements and Main Results: Metabolomic profiling and pathway enrichment analysis of plasma samples from patients with melioidosis (n = 175) and nonmelioidosis infections (n = 75) revealed a distinct immuno-metabolic state among patients with melioidosis, as suggested by excessive tryptophan catabolism in the kynurenine pathway and significantly increased levels of sphingomyelins and ceramide species. We derived a 12-metabolite classifier to distinguish melioidosis from other infections, yielding an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.87 in a second validation set of patients. Melioidosis nonsurvivors (n = 94) had a significantly disturbed metabolome compared with survivors (n = 81), with increased leucine, isoleucine, and valine metabolism, and elevated circulating free fatty acids and acylcarnitines. A limited eight-metabolite panel showed promise as an early prognosticator of mortality in melioidosis. Conclusions: Melioidosis induces a distinct metabolomic state that can be examined to distinguish underlying pathophysiological mechanisms associated with death. A 12-metabolite signature accurately differentiates melioidosis from other infections and may have diagnostic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Xia
- Department of Biostatistics
| | | | - Prapit Teparrukkul
- Department of Internal Medicine, Sunpasitthiprasong Hospital, Ubon Ratchathani, Thailand; and
| | | | | | - Adul Dulsuk
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, and
| | - Nicholas P. J. Day
- Mahidol Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | | | - Narisara Chantratita
- Mahidol Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, and
| | - Direk Limmathurotsakul
- Mahidol Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit
- Department of Tropical Hygiene, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | | | - Sina A. Gharib
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, Department of Medicine, and
| | - T. Eoin West
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, Department of Medicine, and
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
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16
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Stone TW, Williams RO. Tryptophan metabolism as a 'reflex' feature of neuroimmune communication: Sensor and effector functions for the indoleamine-2, 3-dioxygenase kynurenine pathway. J Neurochem 2023. [PMID: 38102897 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.16015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2023] [Revised: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
Although the central nervous system (CNS) and immune system were regarded as independent entities, it is now clear that immune system cells can influence the CNS, and neuroglial activity influences the immune system. Despite the many clinical implications for this 'neuroimmune interface', its detailed operation at the molecular level remains unclear. This narrative review focuses on the metabolism of tryptophan along the kynurenine pathway, since its products have critical actions in both the nervous and immune systems, placing it in a unique position to influence neuroimmune communication. In particular, since the kynurenine pathway is activated by pro-inflammatory mediators, it is proposed that physical and psychological stressors are the stimuli of an organismal protective reflex, with kynurenine metabolites as the effector arm co-ordinating protective neural and immune system responses. After a brief review of the neuroimmune interface, the general perception of tryptophan metabolism along the kynurenine pathway is expanded to emphasize this environmentally driven perspective. The initial enzymes in the kynurenine pathway include indoleamine-2,3-dioxygenase (IDO1), which is induced by tissue damage, inflammatory mediators or microbial products, and tryptophan-2,3-dioxygenase (TDO), which is induced by stress-induced glucocorticoids. In the immune system, kynurenic acid modulates leucocyte differentiation, inflammatory balance and immune tolerance by activating aryl hydrocarbon receptors and modulates pain via the GPR35 protein. In the CNS, quinolinic acid activates N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA)-sensitive glutamate receptors, whereas kynurenic acid is an antagonist: the balance between glutamate, quinolinic acid and kynurenic acid is a significant regulator of CNS function and plasticity. The concept of kynurenine and its metabolites as mediators of a reflex coordinated protection against stress helps to understand the variety and breadth of their activity. It should also help to understand the pathological origin of some psychiatric and neurodegenerative diseases involving the immune system and CNS, facilitating the development of new pharmacological strategies for treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trevor W Stone
- The Kennedy Institute of Rheumatology, NDORMS, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Richard O Williams
- The Kennedy Institute of Rheumatology, NDORMS, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
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17
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Aizaz M, Khan A, Khan F, Khan M, Musad Saleh EA, Nisar M, Baran N. The cross-talk between macrophages and tumor cells as a target for cancer treatment. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1259034. [PMID: 38033495 PMCID: PMC10682792 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1259034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Macrophages represent an important component of the innate immune system. Under physiological conditions, macrophages, which are essential phagocytes, maintain a proinflammatory response and repair damaged tissue. However, these processes are often impaired upon tumorigenesis, in which tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) protect and support the growth, proliferation, and invasion of tumor cells and promote suppression of antitumor immunity. TAM abundance is closely associated with poor outcome of cancer, with impediment of chemotherapy effectiveness and ultimately a dismal therapy response and inferior overall survival. Thus, cross-talk between cancer cells and TAMs is an important target for immune checkpoint therapies and metabolic interventions, spurring interest in it as a therapeutic vulnerability for both hematological cancers and solid tumors. Furthermore, targeting of this cross-talk has emerged as a promising strategy for cancer treatment with the antibody against CD47 protein, a critical macrophage checkpoint recognized as the "don't eat me" signal, as well as other metabolism-focused strategies. Therapies targeting CD47 constitute an important milestone in the advancement of anticancer research and have had promising effects on not only phagocytosis activation but also innate and adaptive immune system activation, effectively counteracting tumor cells' evasion of therapy as shown in the context of myeloid cancers. Targeting of CD47 signaling is only one of several possibilities to reverse the immunosuppressive and tumor-protective tumor environment with the aim of enhancing the antitumor response. Several preclinical studies identified signaling pathways that regulate the recruitment, polarization, or metabolism of TAMs. In this review, we summarize the current understanding of the role of macrophages in cancer progression and the mechanisms by which they communicate with tumor cells. Additionally, we dissect various therapeutic strategies developed to target macrophage-tumor cell cross-talk, including modulation of macrophage polarization, blockade of signaling pathways, and disruption of physical interactions between leukemia cells and macrophages. Finally, we highlight the challenges associated with tumor hypoxia and acidosis as barriers to effective cancer therapy and discuss opportunities for future research in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Aizaz
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Resistance Biology, College of Life Sciences, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, China
| | - Aakif Khan
- Centre of Excellence in Molecular Biology, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Faisal Khan
- Centre of Excellence in Molecular Biology, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Maria Khan
- Center of Biotechnology and Microbiology, University of Peshawar, Peshawar, Pakistan
| | - Ebraheem Abdu Musad Saleh
- Department of Chemistry, College of Arts & Science, Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, Alkharj, Saudi Arabia
| | - Maryum Nisar
- School of Interdisciplinary Engineering & Sciences, National University of Sciences and Technology, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Natalia Baran
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
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18
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Ying ZH, Mao CL, Xie W, Yu CH. Postbiotics in rheumatoid arthritis: emerging mechanisms and intervention perspectives. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1290015. [PMID: 38029106 PMCID: PMC10662086 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1290015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a prevalent chronic autoimmune disease that affects individuals of all age groups. Recently, the association between RA and the gut microbiome has led to the investigation of postbiotics as potential therapeutic strategies. Postbiotics refer to inactivated microbial cells, cellular components, or their metabolites that are specifically intended for the microbiota. Postbiotics not only profoundly influence the occurrence and development of RA, but they also mediate various inflammatory pathways, immune processes, and bone metabolism. Although they offer a variety of mechanisms and may even be superior to more conventional "biotics" such as probiotics and prebiotics, research on their efficacy and clinical significance in RA with disruptions to the intestinal microbiota remains limited. In this review, we provide an overview of the concept of postbiotics and summarize the current knowledge regarding postbiotics and their potential use in RA therapy. Postbiotics show potential as a viable adjunctive therapy option for RA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhen-Hua Ying
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Arthritis Diagnosis and Research, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
| | - Cheng-Liang Mao
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Arthritis Diagnosis and Research, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
- Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, China
| | - Wei Xie
- Key Laboratory of Experimental Animal and Safety Evaluation, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
- Institute of Cancer and Basic Medicine, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, China
| | - Chen-Huan Yu
- Institute of Cancer and Basic Medicine, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, China
- Cancer Hospital of the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (Zhejiang Cancer Hospital), Hangzhou, China
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19
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Xodo S, Londero AP, Orsaria M, Marzinotto S, Colussi G, Cagnacci A, Mariuzzi L, Gri G. Examining the Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor Network in the Placental Tissues of Pregnancies Complicated by Pre-Eclampsia: An Explorative Case-Control Analysis. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:2122. [PMID: 38004262 PMCID: PMC10672047 DOI: 10.3390/life13112122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2023] [Revised: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Severe maternal and newborn morbidity and mortality associated with pre-eclampsia, which are caused partly by premature delivery, affect a factual proportion of pregnancies. Despite its prevalence, the underlying causes of pre-eclampsia remain elusive, with emerging evidence implicating the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) in its pathogenesis. This study sought to elucidate the involvement of the AhR and its associated pathway in pre-eclampsia by comparing placental components of the AhR pathway in pregnant individuals with and without pre-eclampsia. This case-control investigation was conducted at the University Hospital of Udine from May 2021 to February 2023. The AhR was assessed using immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence, and its mRNA was evaluated using a Real-Time Quantitative Reverse Transcription PCR. Levels of mRNA expression were also estimated for other components of the AhR pathway (CYP1B1, IDO1, ARNT, TIPARP, S100A4, and AHRR). Our findings show decreased levels of expression of AhR, IDO1, ARNT, TiPARP, and S100A4 in the placental tissues of individuals with pre-eclampsia compared to controls (p < 0.05). The AhR exhibited a distinct localization within the syncytiotrophoblast (nuclei and cytoplasm) and CD45-positive cells (nuclei and cytoplasm). Furthermore, a significant positive correlation between the AhR and S100A4 (rho = 0.81) was observed in normal placentas, while CYP1B1 displayed a significant negative correlation with the AhR (rho = -0.72), within addition to its negative correlation with TiPARP (rho = -0.83). This study illuminates pre-eclampsia's molecular aberrations, suggesting new diagnostic, therapeutic, and mechanistic approaches. This study emphasizes the need for more research to validate and broaden these findings to improve the management of this complex pregnancy condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serena Xodo
- Clinic of Obstetrics and Gynecology, “Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Integrata di Udine”, DAME, University of Udine, 33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Ambrogio P. Londero
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Infant Health, University of Genoa, 16132 Genova, Italy;
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, 16147 Genova, Italy
| | - Maria Orsaria
- Institute of Pathology, “Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Integrata di Udine”, DAME, University of Udine, 33100 Udine, Italy; (M.O.)
| | - Stefania Marzinotto
- Institute of Pathology, “Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Integrata di Udine”, DAME, University of Udine, 33100 Udine, Italy; (M.O.)
| | - Gianluca Colussi
- Hypertension Unit, Department of Medicine, ASFO “Santa Maria degli Angeli” Hospital of Pordenone, 33170 Pordenone, Italy;
| | - Angelo Cagnacci
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Infant Health, University of Genoa, 16132 Genova, Italy;
- Academic Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology, IRCCS Ospedale San Martino, 16132 Genoa, Italy
| | - Laura Mariuzzi
- Institute of Pathology, “Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Integrata di Udine”, DAME, University of Udine, 33100 Udine, Italy; (M.O.)
| | - Giorgia Gri
- DIMEC—Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy;
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20
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Guo Y, Wei S, Yin M, Cao D, Li Y, Wen C, Zhou J. Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry Reveals Stage-Specific Metabolic Signatures of Ankylosing Spondylitis. Metabolites 2023; 13:1058. [PMID: 37887383 PMCID: PMC10608640 DOI: 10.3390/metabo13101058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2023] [Revised: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a type of chronic rheumatic immune disease, and the crucial point of AS treatment is identifying the correct stage of the disease. However, there is a lack of effective diagnostic methods for AS staging. The primary objective of this study was to perform an untargeted metabolomic approach in AS patients in an effort to reveal metabolic differences between patients in remission and acute stages. Serum samples from 40 controls and 57 AS patients were analyzed via gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Twenty-four kinds of differential metabolites were identified between the healthy controls and AS patients, mainly involving valine/leucine/isoleucine biosynthesis and degradation, phenylalanine/tyrosine/tryptophan biosynthesis, glutathione metabolism, etc. Furthermore, the levels of fatty acids (linoleate, dodecanoate, hexadecanoate, and octadecanoate), amino acids (serine and pyroglutamate), 2-hydroxybutanoate, glucose, etc., were lower in patients in the acute stage than those in the remission stage, which may be associated with the aggravated inflammatory response and elevated oxidative stress in the acute stage. Multiple stage-specific metabolites were significantly correlated with inflammatory indicators (CRP and ESR). In addition, the combination of serum 2-hydroxybutanoate and hexadecanoate plays a significant role in the diagnosis of AS stages. These metabolomics-based findings provide new perspectives for AS staging, treatment, and pathogenesis studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yixuan Guo
- Institute of Basic Research in Clinical Medicine, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China; (Y.G.); (S.W.); (M.Y.); (D.C.); (Y.L.)
| | - Shuangshuang Wei
- Institute of Basic Research in Clinical Medicine, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China; (Y.G.); (S.W.); (M.Y.); (D.C.); (Y.L.)
| | - Mengdi Yin
- Institute of Basic Research in Clinical Medicine, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China; (Y.G.); (S.W.); (M.Y.); (D.C.); (Y.L.)
| | - Dandan Cao
- Institute of Basic Research in Clinical Medicine, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China; (Y.G.); (S.W.); (M.Y.); (D.C.); (Y.L.)
| | - Yiling Li
- Institute of Basic Research in Clinical Medicine, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China; (Y.G.); (S.W.); (M.Y.); (D.C.); (Y.L.)
| | - Chengping Wen
- Institute of Basic Research in Clinical Medicine, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China; (Y.G.); (S.W.); (M.Y.); (D.C.); (Y.L.)
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Rheumatology of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Jia Zhou
- Institute of Basic Research in Clinical Medicine, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China; (Y.G.); (S.W.); (M.Y.); (D.C.); (Y.L.)
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Rheumatology of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China
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21
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Parada-Kusz M, Clatworthy AE, Goering ER, Blackwood SM, Salm EJ, Choi C, Combs S, Lee JSW, Rodriguez-Osorio C, Tomita S, Hung DT. A tryptophan metabolite modulates the host response to bacterial infection via kainate receptors. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.08.16.553532. [PMID: 37645903 PMCID: PMC10462041 DOI: 10.1101/2023.08.16.553532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
Bacterial infection involves a complex interaction between the pathogen and host where the outcome of infection is not solely determined by pathogen eradication. To identify small molecules that promote host survival by altering the host-pathogen dynamic, we conducted an in vivo chemical screen using zebrafish embryos and found that treatment with 3-hydroxy-kynurenine protects from lethal gram-negative bacterial infection. 3-hydroxy-kynurenine, a metabolite produced through host tryptophan metabolism, has no direct antibacterial activity but enhances host survival by restricting bacterial expansion in macrophages by targeting kainate-sensitive glutamate receptors. These findings reveal new mechanisms by which tryptophan metabolism and kainate-sensitive glutamate receptors function and interact to modulate immunity, with significant implications for the coordination between the immune and nervous systems in pathological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margarita Parada-Kusz
- Department of Molecular Biology and Center for Computational and Integrative Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital; Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School; Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard; Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Anne E. Clatworthy
- Department of Molecular Biology and Center for Computational and Integrative Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital; Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School; Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard; Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Emily R. Goering
- Department of Molecular Biology and Center for Computational and Integrative Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital; Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School; Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard; Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Stephanie M. Blackwood
- Department of Molecular Biology and Center for Computational and Integrative Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital; Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard; Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Elizabeth J. Salm
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology and Neuroscience, Yale School of Medicine; New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Catherine Choi
- Department of Molecular Biology and Center for Computational and Integrative Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital; Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard; Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Senya Combs
- Department of Molecular Biology and Center for Computational and Integrative Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital; Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard; Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jenny S. W. Lee
- Department of Molecular Biology and Center for Computational and Integrative Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital; Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard; Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Carlos Rodriguez-Osorio
- Department of Molecular Biology and Center for Computational and Integrative Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital; Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School; Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard; Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Susumu Tomita
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology and Neuroscience, Yale School of Medicine; New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Deborah T. Hung
- Department of Molecular Biology and Center for Computational and Integrative Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital; Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School; Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard; Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
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22
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Yang P, Zhang J. Indoleamine 2,3-Dioxygenase (IDO) Activity: A Perspective Biomarker for Laboratory Determination in Tumor Immunotherapy. Biomedicines 2023; 11:1988. [PMID: 37509627 PMCID: PMC10377333 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11071988] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Revised: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase 1 (IDO1) is a heme enzyme involved in catalyzing the conversion of tryptophan (Trp) into kynurenine (Kyn) at the first rate-limiting step in the kynurenine pathway of L-tryptophan metabolism. It has been found to be involved in several biological functions such as aging, immune microorganism, neurodegenerative and infectious diseases, and cancer. IDO1 plays an important role in immune tolerance by depleting tryptophan in the tumor microenvironment and inhibiting the proliferation of effector T cells, which makes it an important emerging biomarker for cancer immunotherapy. Therefore, the research and development of IDO1 inhibitors are of great importance for tumor therapy. Of interest, IDO activity assays are of great value in the screening and evaluation of inhibitors. Herein, we mainly review the biological functions of IDO1, immune regulation, key signaling molecules in the response pathway, and the development of IDO1 inhibitors in clinical trials. Furthermore, this review provides a comprehensive overview and, in particular, a discussion of currently available IDO activity assays for use in the evaluation of IDO inhibitors in human blood. We believe that the IDO activity is a promising biomarker for the immune escape and laboratory evaluation of tumor immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pengbo Yang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Beijing Hospital, National Center of Gerontology, Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Junhua Zhang
- The Key Laboratory of Geriatrics, Beijing Institute of Geriatrics, Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing Hospital/National Center of Gerontology of National Health Commission, Beijing 100730, China
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