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Joseph J, Sandel G, Kulkarni R, Alatrash R, Herrera BB, Jain P. Antibody and Cell-Based Therapies against Virus-Induced Cancers in the Context of HIV/AIDS. Pathogens 2023; 13:14. [PMID: 38251321 PMCID: PMC10821063 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens13010014] [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: 11/03/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Infectious agents, notably viruses, can cause or increase the risk of cancer occurrences. These agents often disrupt normal cellular functions, promote uncontrolled proliferation and growth, and trigger chronic inflammation, leading to cancer. Approximately 20% of all cancer cases in humans are associated with an infectious pathogen. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) recognizes seven viruses as direct oncogenic agents, including Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV), Kaposi's Sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV), human T-cell leukemia virus type-1 (HTLV-1), human papilloma virus (HPV), hepatitis C virus (HCV), hepatitis B virus (HBV), and human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1). Most viruses linked to increased cancer risk are typically transmitted through contact with contaminated body fluids and high-risk behaviors. The risk of infection can be reduced through vaccinations and routine testing, as well as recognizing and addressing risky behaviors and staying informed about public health concerns. Numerous strategies are currently in pre-clinical phases or undergoing clinical trials for targeting cancers driven by viral infections. Herein, we provide an overview of risk factors associated with increased cancer incidence in people living with HIV (PLWH) as well as other chronic viral infections, and contributing factors such as aging, toxicity from ART, coinfections, and comorbidities. Furthermore, we highlight both antibody- and cell-based strategies directed against virus-induced cancers while also emphasizing approaches aimed at discovering cures or achieving complete remission for affected individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Joseph
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19129, USA; (J.J.); (G.S.)
| | - Grace Sandel
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19129, USA; (J.J.); (G.S.)
| | - Ratuja Kulkarni
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19129, USA; (J.J.); (G.S.)
| | - Reem Alatrash
- Global Health Institute, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA; (R.A.); (B.B.H.)
- Department of Medicine, Division of Allergy, Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Child Health Institute of New Jersey, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA
| | - Bobby Brooke Herrera
- Global Health Institute, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA; (R.A.); (B.B.H.)
- Department of Medicine, Division of Allergy, Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Child Health Institute of New Jersey, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA
| | - Pooja Jain
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19129, USA; (J.J.); (G.S.)
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Joseph J, Premeaux TA, Pinto DO, Rao A, Guha S, Panfil AR, Carey AJ, Ndhlovu LC, Bergmann‐Leitner ES, Jain P. Retroviral b-Zip protein (HBZ) contributes to the release of soluble and exosomal immune checkpoint molecules in the context of neuroinflammation. JOURNAL OF EXTRACELLULAR BIOLOGY 2023; 2:e102. [PMID: 37547182 PMCID: PMC10399615 DOI: 10.1002/jex2.102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2023] [Revised: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023]
Abstract
HTLV-I-associated myelopathy/tropical spastic paraparesis (HAM/TSP) is a chronic, progressive, neuroinflammatory demyelinating condition of the spinal cord. We have previously shown that aberrant expression and activity of immune checkpoint (ICP) molecules such as PD-1 and PD-L1/PD-L2, negatively associates with the cytolytic potential of T cells in individuals with HAM/TSP. Interestingly, ICPs can exist in a soluble cell-free form and can be carried on extracellular vesicles (EVs) and exosomes (small EVs, <300nm) while maintaining their immunomodulatory activity. Therefore, we investigated the role of soluble and exosomal ICPs in HTLV-1 associated neuroinflammation. For the very first time, we demonstrate a unique elevated presence of several stimulatory (CD27, CD28, 4-1BB) and inhibitory (BTLA, CTLA-4, LAG-3, PD-1, PD-L2) ICP receptors in HAM/TSP sera, and in purified exosomes from a HAM/TSP-derived HTLV-1-producing (OSP2) cells. These ICPs were found to be co-localized with the endosomal sorting complex required for transport (ESCRT) pathway proteins and exhibited functional binding with their respective ligands. Viral proteins and cytokines (primarily IFNγ) were found to be present in purified exosomes. IFNγ exposure enhanced the release of ICP molecules while antiretroviral drugs (Azidothymidine and Lopinavir) significantly inhibited this process. HTLV-1 b-Zip protein (HBZ) has been linked to factors that enhance EV release and concurrent knockdown here led to the reduced expression of ESCRT associated genes (eg. Hrs, Vsp4, Alix, Tsg101) as well as abrogated the release of ICP molecules, suggesting HBZ involvement in this process. Moreso, exosomes from OSP2 cells adversely affected CD8 T-cell functions by dimishing levels of cytokines and cytotoxic factors. Collectively, these findings highlight exosome-mediated immunmodulation of T-cell functions with HBZ and ESCRT pathways as an underlying mechanism in the context of HTLV-1-induced neuroinflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Joseph
- Department of Microbiology & ImmunologyDrexel University College of MedicinePhiladelphiaPAUSA
| | - Thomas A. Premeaux
- Weill Cornel Medicine Department of MedicineDivision of Infectious DiseasesNew YorkNYUSA
| | - Daniel O. Pinto
- Immunology Core, Biologics Research and DevelopmentWalter Reed Army Institute of ResearchSilver SpringsMDUSA
- Oak Ridge Institute for Science and EducationOak RidgeTNUSA
| | - Abhishek Rao
- Department of Microbiology & ImmunologyDrexel University College of MedicinePhiladelphiaPAUSA
| | - Shrobona Guha
- Department of Neurobiology and AnatomyDrexel University College of MedicinePhiladelphiaPAUSA
| | - Amanda R. Panfil
- The Ohio State University, College of Veterinary Medicine, Center for Retrovirus ResearchColumbusOhioUSA
| | - Alison J. Carey
- Department of Microbiology & ImmunologyDrexel University College of MedicinePhiladelphiaPAUSA
- Department of PediatricsDrexel University College of MedicinePhiladelphiaPAUSA
| | - Lishomwa C. Ndhlovu
- Weill Cornel Medicine Department of MedicineDivision of Infectious DiseasesNew YorkNYUSA
| | - Elke S. Bergmann‐Leitner
- Immunology Core, Biologics Research and DevelopmentWalter Reed Army Institute of ResearchSilver SpringsMDUSA
| | - Pooja Jain
- Department of Microbiology & ImmunologyDrexel University College of MedicinePhiladelphiaPAUSA
- Department of Neurobiology and AnatomyDrexel University College of MedicinePhiladelphiaPAUSA
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Seighali N, Shafiee A, Rafiee MA, Aminzade D, Mozhgani SH. Human T-cell lymphotropic virus type 1 (HTLV-1) proposed vaccines: a systematic review of preclinical and clinical studies. BMC Infect Dis 2023; 23:320. [PMID: 37170214 PMCID: PMC10173209 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-023-08289-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Numerous vaccination research experiments have been conducted on non-primate hosts to prevent or control HTLV-1 infection. Therefore, reviewing recent advancements for status assessment and strategic planning of future preventative actions to reduce HTLV-1 infection and its consequences would be essential. METHODS MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, and Clinicaltrials.gov were searched from each database's inception through March 27, 2022. All original articles focusing on developing an HTLV-1 vaccine candidate were included. RESULTS A total of 47 studies were included. They used a variety of approaches to develop the HTLV-1 vaccine, including DNA-based, dendritic-cell-based, peptide/protein-based, and recombinant vaccinia virus approaches. The majority of the research that was included utilized Tax, Glycoprotein (GP), GAG, POL, REX, and HBZ as their main peptides in order to develop the vaccine. The immunization used in dendritic cell-based investigations, which were more recently published, was accomplished by an activated CD-8 T-cell response. Although there hasn't been much attention lately on this form of the vaccine, the initial attempts to develop an HTLV-1 immunization depended on recombinant vaccinia virus, and the majority of results seem positive and effective for this type of vaccine. Few studies were conducted on humans. Most of the studies were experimental studies using animal models. Adenovirus, Cytomegalovirus (CMV), vaccinia, baculovirus, hepatitis B, measles, and pox were the most commonly used vectors. CONCLUSIONS This systematic review reported recent progression in the development of HTLV-1 vaccines to identify candidates with the most promising preventive and therapeutic effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niloofar Seighali
- Student Research Committee, School of Medicine, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
| | - Arman Shafiee
- Student Research Committee, School of Medicine, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
| | - Mohammad Ali Rafiee
- School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Dlnya Aminzade
- School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sayed-Hamidreza Mozhgani
- Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran.
- Non-Communicable Disease Research Center, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran.
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Hijacking Host Immunity by the Human T-Cell Leukemia Virus Type-1: Implications for Therapeutic and Preventive Vaccines. Viruses 2022; 14:v14102084. [DOI: 10.3390/v14102084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2022] [Revised: 09/15/2022] [Accepted: 09/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Human T-cell Leukemia virus type-1 (HTLV-1) causes adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma (ATLL), HTLV-1-associated myelopathy/tropical spastic paraparesis (HAM/TSP) and other inflammatory diseases. High viral DNA burden (VL) in peripheral blood mononuclear cells is a documented risk factor for ATLL and HAM/TSP, and patients with HAM/TSP have a higher VL in cerebrospinal fluid than in peripheral blood. VL alone is not sufficient to differentiate symptomatic patients from healthy carriers, suggesting the importance of other factors, including host immune response. HTLV-1 infection is life-long; CD4+-infected cells are not eradicated by the immune response because HTLV-1 inhibits the function of dendritic cells, monocytes, Natural Killer cells, and adaptive cytotoxic CD8+ responses. Although the majority of infected CD4+ T-cells adopt a resting phenotype, antigen stimulation may result in bursts of viral expression. The antigen-dependent “on-off” viral expression creates “conditional latency” that when combined with ineffective host responses precludes virus eradication. Epidemiological and clinical data suggest that the continuous attempt of the host immunity to eliminate infected cells results in chronic immune activation that can be further exacerbated by co-morbidities, resulting in the development of severe disease. We review cell and animal model studies that uncovered mechanisms used by HTLV-1 to usurp and/or counteract host immunity.
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Mulherkar TH, Gómez DJ, Sandel G, Jain P. Co-Infection and Cancer: Host–Pathogen Interaction between Dendritic Cells and HIV-1, HTLV-1, and Other Oncogenic Viruses. Viruses 2022; 14:v14092037. [PMID: 36146843 PMCID: PMC9503663 DOI: 10.3390/v14092037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2022] [Revised: 09/08/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Dendritic cells (DCs) function as a link between innate and adaptive immune responses. Retroviruses HIV-1 and HTLV-1 modulate DCs to their advantage and utilize them to propagate infection. Coinfection of HTLV-1 and HIV-1 has implications for cancer malignancies. Both viruses initially infect DCs and propagate the infection to CD4+ T cells through cell-to-cell transmission using mechanisms including the formation of virologic synapses, viral biofilms, and conduits. These retroviruses are both neurotrophic with neurovirulence determinants. The neuropathogenesis of HIV-1 and HTLV-1 results in neurodegenerative diseases such as HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders (HAND) and HTLV-1-associated myelopathy/tropical spastic paraparesis (HAM/TSP). Infected DCs are known to traffic to the brain (CNS) and periphery (PNS, lymphatics) to induce neurodegeneration in HAND and HAM/TSP patients. Elevated levels of neuroinflammation have been correlated with cognitive decline and impairment of motor control performance. Current vaccinations and therapeutics for HIV-1 and HTLV-1 are assessed and can be applied to patients with HIV-1-associated cancers and adult T cell leukemia/lymphoma (ATL). These diseases caused by co-infections can result in both neurodegeneration and cancer. There are associations with cancer malignancies and HIV-1 and HTLV-1 as well as other human oncogenic viruses (EBV, HBV, HCV, HDV, and HPV). This review contains current knowledge on DC sensing of HIV-1 and HTLV-1 including DC-SIGN, Tat, Tax, and current viral therapies. An overview of DC interaction with oncogenic viruses including EBV, Hepatitis viruses, and HPV is also provided. Vaccines and therapeutics targeting host–pathogen interactions can provide a solution to co-infections, neurodegeneration, and cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tania H. Mulherkar
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Drexel University, College of Medicine, 2900 Queen Lane, Philadelphia, PA 19129, USA
| | - Daniel Joseph Gómez
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Drexel University, College of Medicine, 2900 Queen Lane, Philadelphia, PA 19129, USA
- Department of Biological Sciences, California State University, 25800 Carlos Bee Blvd, Hayward, CA 94542, USA
| | - Grace Sandel
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Drexel University, College of Medicine, 2900 Queen Lane, Philadelphia, PA 19129, USA
| | - Pooja Jain
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Drexel University, College of Medicine, 2900 Queen Lane, Philadelphia, PA 19129, USA
- Correspondence:
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Selective APC-targeting of a novel Fc-fusion multi-immunodominant recombinant protein ( tTax- tEnv:mFcγ2a) for HTLV-1 vaccine development. Life Sci 2022; 308:120920. [PMID: 36044973 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2022.120920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2022] [Revised: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
AIMS HTLV-1 causes two life-threatening diseases: adult T-cell leukaemia/lymphoma and HTLV-1-associated myelopathy/tropical spastic paraparesis. Due to the lack of proper treatment, an effective HTLV-1 vaccine is urgently needed. MAIN METHODS DNA sequences of 11-19 and 178-186 amino acids of HTLV-1-Tax and SP2 and P21 were fused to the mouse-Fcγ2a, or His-tag called tTax-tEnv:mFcγ2a and tTax-tEnv:His, respectively. These constructs were produced in Pichia pastoris, and their immunogenicity and protective properties were assessed in a mouse challenging model with an HTLV-1-MT2 cell line. KEY FINDINGS The immunogenicity assessments showed significant increase in IFN-γ production in animals receiving tTax-tEnv:mFcγ2a (1537.2 ± 292.83 pg/mL) compared to tTax-tEnv:His (120.28 ± 23.9, p = 0.02). IL-12 production also increased in group receiving tTax-tEnv:mFcγ2a than tTax-tEnv:His group, (23 ± 2.6 vs 1.5 ± 0.6, p = 0.01), respectively. The IFN-γ and IL-12 levels in the Fc-immunised group were negatively correlated with PVL (R = -0.82, p < 0.04) and (R = -0.87, p = 0.05), respectively. While, IL-4 was increased by tTax-tEnv:His (21.16 ± 1.76 pg/mL) compared to tTax-tEnv:mFcγ2a (13.7 ± 1.49, p = 0.019) with a negative significant correlation to PVL (R = -0.95, p = 0.001). SIGNIFICANCE The mouse challenging assay with tTax-tEnv:mFcγ2a showed 50 % complete protection and a 50 % low level of HTLV-1-PVL compared to the positive control receiving HTLV-1-MT2 (p = 0.001). Challenging experiments for the His-tag protein showed the same outcome (p = 0.002) but by different mechanisms. The Fc-fusion construct induced more robust Th1, and His-tag protein shifted more to Th2 immune responses. Therefore, inducing both T helper responses, but a Th1/Th2 balance in favour of Th1 might be necessary for appropriate protection against HTLV-1 infection, spreading via cell-to-cell contact manner.
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Lin E, Panfil AR, Sandel G, Jain P. Novel perspectives on antisense transcription in HIV-1, HTLV-1, and HTLV-2. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:1042761. [PMID: 36620051 PMCID: PMC9822710 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.1042761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2022] [Accepted: 11/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The genome of retroviruses contains two promoter elements (called long terminal repeat or LTR) at the 5' and 3' end of their genome. Although the expression of retroviral genes generally depends on the promoter located in the 5' LTR, the 3' LTR also has promoter activity responsible for producing antisense transcripts. These natural antisense transcripts (NATs) are a class of RNA molecules transcribed from the opposite strand of a protein-coding gene. NATs have been identified in many prokaryotic and eukaryotic systems, as well as in human retroviruses such as human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) and HTLV-1/2 (human T-cell leukemia virus type 1/2). The antisense transcripts of HIV-1, HTLV-1, and HTLV-2 have been briefly characterized over the past several years. However, a complete appreciation of the role these transcripts play in the virus lifecycle and the cellular factors which regulate their transcription is still lacking. This review provides an overview of antisense transcription in human retroviruses with a specific focus on the MEF-2 family of transcription factors, the function(s) of the antisense protein products, and the application of antisense transcription models in therapeutics against HIV-1 and HTLV-1 in the context of co-infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edward Lin
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Amanda R. Panfil
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, Center for Retrovirus Research, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Grace Sandel
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Pooja Jain
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, United States
- *Correspondence: Pooja Jain,
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Kardani K, Basimi P, Fekri M, Bolhassani A. Antiviral therapy for the sexually transmitted viruses: recent updates on vaccine development. Expert Rev Clin Pharmacol 2020; 13:1001-1046. [PMID: 32838584 DOI: 10.1080/17512433.2020.1814743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The sexually transmitted infections (STIs) caused by viruses including human T cell leukemia virus type-1 (HTLV-1), human immunodeficiency virus-1 (HIV-1), human simplex virus-2 (HSV-2), hepatitis C virus (HCV), hepatitis B virus (HBV), and human papillomavirus (HPV) are major public health issues. These infections can cause cancer or result in long-term health problems. Due to high prevalence of STIs, a safe and effective vaccine is required to overcome these fatal viruses. AREAS COVERED This review includes a comprehensive overview of the literatures relevant to vaccine development against the sexually transmitted viruses (STVs) using PubMed and Sciencedirect electronic search engines. Herein, we discuss the efforts directed toward development of effective vaccines using different laboratory animal models including mice, guinea pig or non-human primates in preclinical trials, and human in clinical trials with different phases. EXPERT OPINION There is no effective FDA approved vaccine against the sexually transmitted viruses (STVs) except for HBV and HPV as prophylactic vaccines. Many attempts are underway to develop vaccines against these viruses. There are several approaches for improving prophylactic or therapeutic vaccines such as heterologous prime/boost immunization, delivery system, administration route, adjuvants, etc. In this line, further studies can be helpful for understanding the immunobiology of STVs in human. Moreover, development of more relevant animal models is a worthy goal to induce effective immune responses in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kimia Kardani
- Department of Hepatitis and AIDS, Pasteur Institute of Iran , Tehran, Iran
| | - Parya Basimi
- Department of Hepatitis and AIDS, Pasteur Institute of Iran , Tehran, Iran
| | - Mehrshad Fekri
- Department of Hepatitis and AIDS, Pasteur Institute of Iran , Tehran, Iran
| | - Azam Bolhassani
- Department of Hepatitis and AIDS, Pasteur Institute of Iran , Tehran, Iran
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Transgenic animals in research and industry. Anim Biotechnol 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-811710-1.00021-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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MEF-2 isoforms' (A-D) roles in development and tumorigenesis. Oncotarget 2019; 10:2755-2787. [PMID: 31105874 PMCID: PMC6505634 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.26763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2018] [Accepted: 02/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Myocyte enhancer factor (MEF)-2 plays a critical role in proliferation, differentiation, and development of various cell types in a tissue specific manner. Four isoforms of MEF-2 (A-D) differentially participate in controlling the cell fate during the developmental phases of cardiac, muscle, vascular, immune and skeletal systems. Through their associations with various cellular factors MEF-2 isoforms can trigger alterations in complex protein networks and modulate various stages of cellular differentiation, proliferation, survival and apoptosis. The role of the MEF-2 family of transcription factors in the development has been investigated in various cell types, and the evolving alterations in this family of transcription factors have resulted in a diverse and wide spectrum of disease phenotypes, ranging from cancer to infection. This review provides a comprehensive account on MEF-2 isoforms (A-D) from their respective localization, signaling, role in development and tumorigenesis as well as their association with histone deacetylases (HDACs), which can be exploited for therapeutic intervention.
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Kannagi M, Hasegawa A, Nagano Y, Iino T, Okamura J, Suehiro Y. Maintenance of long remission in adult T-cell leukemia by Tax-targeted vaccine: A hope for disease-preventive therapy. Cancer Sci 2019; 110:849-857. [PMID: 30666755 PMCID: PMC6398881 DOI: 10.1111/cas.13948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2018] [Revised: 12/27/2018] [Accepted: 01/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma (ATL) is an aggressive lymphoproliferative disease caused by human T-cell leukemia virus type 1 (HTLV-1). Multi-agent chemotherapy can reduce ATL cells but frequently allows relapses within a short period of time. Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT) following chemotherapy is now a standard therapy for ATL in Japan as it can achieve long-term remission in approximately one-third of recipient ATL patients; however, it also has a risk of treatment-related mortality. Allo-HSCT often induces HTLV-1 Tax-specific cytotoxic T cells (CTL) as well as graft-versus-host (GVH) response in ATL patients. This observation led to development of a new therapeutic vaccine to activate Tax-specific CTL, anticipating anti-ATL effects without GVH response. The newly developed Tax-DC vaccine consists of autologous dendritic cells pulsed with Tax peptides corresponding to CTL epitopes that have been identified in post-allo-HSCT ATL patients. In a pilot study of Tax-DC therapy in three ATL patients after various initial therapies, two patients survived for more than 4 years after vaccination without severe adverse effects (UMIN000011423). The Tax-DC vaccine is currently under phase I trial, showing a promising clinical outcome so far. These findings indicate the importance of patients' own HTLV-1-specific T-cell responses in maintaining remission and provide a new approach to anti-ATL immunotherapy targeting Tax. Although Tax-targeted vaccination is ineffective against Tax-negative ATL cells, it can be a safe alternative maintenance therapy for Tax-positive ATL and may be further applicable for treatment of indolent ATL or even prophylaxis of ATL development among HTLV-1-carriers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mari Kannagi
- Department of Immunotherapeutics, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Atsuhiko Hasegawa
- Department of Immunotherapeutics, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yoshiko Nagano
- Department of Immunotherapeutics, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tadafumi Iino
- Center for Advanced Medicine Innovation, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Jun Okamura
- Institute for Clinical Research, National Kyushu Cancer Center, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Youko Suehiro
- Department of Hematology, National Kyushu Cancer Center, Fukuoka, Japan
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Human T cell leukemia virus type 1 and Zika virus: tale of two reemerging viruses with neuropathological sequelae of public health concern. J Neurovirol 2019; 25:289-300. [PMID: 30693421 DOI: 10.1007/s13365-019-00720-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2018] [Revised: 12/16/2018] [Accepted: 01/03/2019] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Human T cell leukemia virus type 1 (HTLV-1) and Zika virus (ZIKV) have been considered neglected viruses of low public health concern until recently when incidences of HTLV-1 and ZIKV were observed to be linked to serious immune-related disease and neurological complications. This review will discuss the epidemiology, genomic evolution, virus-host interactions, virulence factors, neuropathological sequelae, and current perspectives of these reemerging viruses. There are no FDA-approved therapeutics or vaccines against these viruses, and as such, it is important for clinical trials to focus on developing vaccines that can induce cell-mediated immune response to confer long-term protective immunity. Furthermore, attention should be paid to reducing the transmission of these viruses through unprotected sex, infected blood during sharing of contaminated needles, donated blood and organs, and vertical transmission from mother to baby via breastfeeding. There is an urgent need to re-evaluate repurposing current antiviral therapies as well as developing novel antiviral agents with enhanced efficacy due to the high morbidity rate associated with these two reemerging chronic viral diseases.
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Anderson MR, Pleet ML, Enose-Akahata Y, Erickson J, Monaco MC, Akpamagbo Y, Velluci A, Tanaka Y, Azodi S, Lepene B, Jones J, Kashanchi F, Jacobson S. Viral antigens detectable in CSF exosomes from patients with retrovirus associated neurologic disease: functional role of exosomes. Clin Transl Med 2018; 7:24. [PMID: 30146667 PMCID: PMC6110307 DOI: 10.1186/s40169-018-0204-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2017] [Accepted: 07/06/2018] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND HTLV-1 infects over 20 million people worldwide and causes a progressive neuroinflammatory disorder in a subset of infected individuals called HTLV-1 associated myelopathy/tropical spastic paraparesis (HAM/TSP). The detection of HTLV-1 specific T cells in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) suggests this disease is immunopathologically mediated and that it may be driven by viral antigens. Exosomes are microvesicles originating from the endosomal compartment that are shed into the extracellular space by various cell types. It is now understood that several viruses take advantage of this mode of intercellular communication for packaging of viral components as well. We sought to understand if this is the case in HTLV-1 infection, and specifically if HTLV-1 proteins can be found in the CSF of HAM/TSP patients where we know free virus is absent, and furthermore, if exosomes containing HTLV-1 Tax have functional consequences. RESULTS Exosomes that were positive for HTLV-1 Tax by Western blot were isolated from HAM/TSP patient PBMCs (25/36) in ex vivo cultures by trapping exosomes from culture supernatants. HTLV-1 seronegative PBMCs did not have exosomes with Tax (0/12), (Fisher exact test, p = 0.0001). We were able to observe HAM/TSP patient CSF (12/20) containing Tax+ exosomes but not in HTLV-1 seronegative MS donors (0/5), despite the absence of viral detection in the CSF supernatant (Fisher exact test p = 0.0391). Furthermore, exosomes cultivated from HAM/TSP PBMCs were capable of sensitizing target cells for HTLV-1 specific CTL lysis. CONCLUSION Cumulatively, these results show that there are HTLV-1 proteins present in exosomes found in virus-free CSF. HAM/TSP PBMCs, particularly CD4+CD25+ T cells, can excrete these exosomes containing HTLV-1 Tax and may be a source of the exosomes found in patient CSF. Importantly, these exosomes are capable of sensitizing an HTLV-1 specific immune response, suggesting that they may play a role in the immunopathology observed in HAM/TSP. Given the infiltration of HTLV-1 Tax-specific CTLs into the CNS of HAM/TSP patients, it is likely that exosomes may also contribute to the continuous activation and inflammation observed in HAM/TSP, and may suggest future targeted therapies in this disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monique R Anderson
- Department of Pathology, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, 22901, USA.,Viral Immunology Section, Neuroimmunology Branch, National Institute for Neurological Disease and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, 10 Center Drive Rm 5C103, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Michelle L Pleet
- Laboratory of Molecular Virology, George Mason University, Manassas, VA, 20110, USA
| | - Yoshimi Enose-Akahata
- Viral Immunology Section, Neuroimmunology Branch, National Institute for Neurological Disease and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, 10 Center Drive Rm 5C103, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - James Erickson
- Laboratory of Molecular Virology, George Mason University, Manassas, VA, 20110, USA
| | - Maria Chiara Monaco
- Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Neuroscience, National Institutes for Neurological Disease and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Yao Akpamagbo
- Laboratory of Molecular Virology, George Mason University, Manassas, VA, 20110, USA
| | - Ashley Velluci
- Viral Immunology Section, Neuroimmunology Branch, National Institute for Neurological Disease and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, 10 Center Drive Rm 5C103, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Yuetsu Tanaka
- Department of Immunology, University of the Ryukyus Graduate School of Medicine, Okinawa, 903-0125, Japan
| | - Shila Azodi
- Viral Immunology Section, Neuroimmunology Branch, National Institute for Neurological Disease and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, 10 Center Drive Rm 5C103, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Ben Lepene
- Ceres Nanosciences, Manassas, VA, 20109, USA
| | - Jennifer Jones
- Vaccine Branch, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Fatah Kashanchi
- Laboratory of Molecular Virology, George Mason University, Manassas, VA, 20110, USA
| | - Steven Jacobson
- Viral Immunology Section, Neuroimmunology Branch, National Institute for Neurological Disease and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, 10 Center Drive Rm 5C103, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA.
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14
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Mulherkar R, Karabudak A, Ginwala R, Huang X, Rowan A, Philip R, Murphy EL, Clements D, Ndhlovu LC, Khan ZK, Jain P. In vivo and in vitro immunogenicity of novel MHC class I presented epitopes to confer protective immunity against chronic HTLV-1 infection. Vaccine 2018; 36:5046-5057. [PMID: 30005946 PMCID: PMC6091894 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2018.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2018] [Revised: 06/29/2018] [Accepted: 07/01/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Human T-cell leukemia virus type 1 (HTLV-1) has infected as many as 10 million people worldwide. While 90% are asymptomatic, 5% develop severe diseases including adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoka (ATLL) and HTLV-1-associated myelopathy/tropical spastic paraparesis (HAM/TSP). No vaccine against HTLV-1 exists, and screening programs are not universal. However, patients with chronic HTLV-1 infection have high frequencies of HTLV-1-activated CD8+ T cells, and the two main HLA alleles (A2, A24) are present in 88% of infected individuals. We thus utilized an immunoproteomics approach to characterize MHC-I restricted epitopes presented by HLA-A2+, A24+ MT-2 and SLB-1 cell lines. Unlike traditional motif prediction algorithms, this approach identifies epitopes associated with cytotoxic T-cell responses in their naturally processed forms, minimizing differences in antigen processing and protein expression levels. Out of nine identified peptides, we confirmed six novel MHC-I restricted epitopes that were capable of binding HLA-A2 and HLA-A24 alleles and used in vitro and in vivo methods to generate CD8+ T cells specific for each of these peptides. MagPix MILLIPLEX data showed that in vitro generated epitope-specific CD8+ T cells secreted IFN-ɣ, granzyme B, MIP-1α, TNF-α, perforin and IL-10 when cultured in the presence of MT-2 cell line. Degranulation assay confirmed cytotoxic response through surface expression of CD107 on CD8+ T cells when cultured with MT-2 cells. A CD8+ T-cell killing assay indicated significant antiviral activity of CD8+ T cells specific against all identified peptides. In vivo generated CD8+ T cells similarly demonstrated immunogenicity on ELISpot, CD107 degranulation assay, and MagPix MILLIPLEX analysis. These epitopes are thus candidates for a therapeutic peptide-based vaccine against HTLV-1, and our results provide preclinical data for the advancement of such a vaccine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ria Mulherkar
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Aykan Karabudak
- Immunotope, Inc., Pennsylvania Institute for Biotechnology, Doylestown, PA, USA
| | - Rashida Ginwala
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Xiaofang Huang
- Immunotope, Inc., Pennsylvania Institute for Biotechnology, Doylestown, PA, USA
| | - Aileen Rowan
- Department of Medicine, Imperial College, London, UK
| | - Ramila Philip
- Immunotope, Inc., Pennsylvania Institute for Biotechnology, Doylestown, PA, USA
| | - Edward L. Murphy
- Department of Medicine and Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of California at San Francisco
- Blood Systems Research Institute San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Danielle Clements
- Department of Tropical Medicine, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, Hawaii, USA
| | - Lishomwa C. Ndhlovu
- Department of Tropical Medicine, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, Hawaii, USA
| | - Zafar K. Khan
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Pooja Jain
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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15
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Neco HVPDC, Teixeira VGDS, da Trindade ACL, Magalhães PMR, de Lorena VMB, Castellano LRC, de Souza JR, Vasconcelos LR, de Moura PMMF, de Morais CNL. Mediators Go Together: High Production of CXCL9, CXCL10, IFN-γ, and TNF-α in HTLV-1-Associated Myelopathy/Tropical Spastic Paraparesis. AIDS Res Hum Retroviruses 2017. [PMID: 28648091 DOI: 10.1089/aid.2016.0296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
HTLV-1-associated myelopathy/tropical spastic paraparesis (HAM/TSP) is a chronic demyelinating and disabling syndrome caused by human T lymphotropic virus 1 (HTLV-1). Although the pathogenic mechanisms that lead to HAM/TSP outcome have not been elucidated, genetic and immunological factors may be involved in the myelopathy occurrence. This study aimed to compare cytokines, chemokines, and nitric oxide (NO) levels in asymptomatic and HAM/TSP HTLV-1-infected patients. The study group consisted of 21 HAM/TSP and 48 asymptomatic HTLV-1 patients. Chemokines (CCL5, CCL2, CXCL8, CXCL9, and CXCL10) and cytokines [IL-2, interferon gamma (IFN-γ), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), IL-4, IL-6, and IL-10] were measured using cytometric bead array, whereas NO production was measured after reaction of supernatants with nitrate reduction solution. CXCL9 and CXCL10 chemokines levels were found to be higher in the HAM/TSP group. CXCL9 was also strongly correlated with CXCL10 and both CXCL9 and CXCL10 were moderately correlated with CCL2 and CCL5 levels, in both HAM/TSP and asymptomatic groups. There was no significant difference related to NO, IL-4, IL-6, and IL-10 levels between the clinical groups but TNF-α and IFN-γ levels were increased in HAM/TSP patients. Thus, factors such as CXCL9, CXCL10, TNF-α, and IFN-γ could be good prognostic biomarker candidates, and further studies may help to clarify their association with HAM/TSP immunopathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heytor Victor Pereira da Costa Neco
- Department of Virology and Experimental Therapy (LaViTE), Aggeu Magalhães Institute (IAM), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), Recife, Brazil
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Joelma Rodrigues de Souza
- Health Technical School, Federal University of Paraíba (UFPB), João Pessoa, Brazil
- Department of Physiology and Pathology, Health Science Center, Federal University of Paraíba (UFPB), João Pessoa, Brazil
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