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Kannan S, Rutkowski JM. VEGFR-3 signaling in macrophages: friend or foe in disease? Front Immunol 2024; 15:1349500. [PMID: 38464522 PMCID: PMC10921555 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1349500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Lymphatic vessels have been increasingly appreciated in the context of immunology not only as passive conduits for immune and cancer cell transport but also as key in local tissue immunomodulation. Targeting lymphatic vessel growth and potential immune regulation often takes advantage of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-3 (VEGFR-3) signaling to manipulate lymphatic biology. A receptor tyrosine kinase, VEGFR-3, is highly expressed on lymphatic endothelial cells, and its signaling is key in lymphatic growth, development, and survival and, as a result, often considered to be "lymphatic-specific" in adults. A subset of immune cells, notably of the monocyte-derived lineage, have been identified to express VEGFR-3 in tissues from the lung to the gut and in conditions as varied as cancer and chronic kidney disease. These VEGFR-3+ macrophages are highly chemotactic toward the VEGFR-3 ligands VEGF-C and VEGF-D. VEGFR-3 signaling has also been implicated in dictating the plasticity of these cells from pro-inflammatory to anti-inflammatory phenotypes. Conversely, expression may potentially be transient during monocyte differentiation with unknown effects. Macrophages play critically important and varied roles in the onset and resolution of inflammation, tissue remodeling, and vasculogenesis: targeting lymphatic vessel growth and immunomodulation by manipulating VEGFR-3 signaling may thus impact macrophage biology and their impact on disease pathogenesis. This mini review highlights the studies and pathologies in which VEGFR-3+ macrophages have been specifically identified, as well as the activity and polarization changes that macrophage VEGFR-3 signaling may elicit, and affords some conclusions as to the importance of macrophage VEGFR-3 signaling in disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Joseph M. Rutkowski
- Department of Medical Physiology, Texas A&M University School of Medicine, Bryan, TX, United States
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Clahsen T, Hadrian K, Notara M, Schlereth SL, Howaldt A, Prokosch V, Volatier T, Hos D, Schroedl F, Kaser-Eichberger A, Heindl LM, Steven P, Bosch JJ, Steinkasserer A, Rokohl AC, Liu H, Mestanoglu M, Kashkar H, Schumacher B, Kiefer F, Schulte-Merker S, Matthaei M, Hou Y, Fassbender S, Jantsch J, Zhang W, Enders P, Bachmann B, Bock F, Cursiefen C. The novel role of lymphatic vessels in the pathogenesis of ocular diseases. Prog Retin Eye Res 2023; 96:101157. [PMID: 36759312 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2022.101157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2022] [Revised: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 12/17/2022] [Indexed: 02/10/2023]
Abstract
Historically, the eye has been considered as an organ free of lymphatic vessels. In recent years, however, it became evident, that lymphatic vessels or lymphatic-like vessels contribute to several ocular pathologies at various peri- and intraocular locations. The aim of this review is to outline the pathogenetic role of ocular lymphatics, the respective molecular mechanisms and to discuss current and future therapeutic options based thereon. We will give an overview on the vascular anatomy of the healthy ocular surface and the molecular mechanisms contributing to corneal (lymph)angiogenic privilege. In addition, we present (i) current insights into the cellular and molecular mechanisms occurring during pathological neovascularization of the cornea triggered e.g. by inflammation or trauma, (ii) the role of lymphatic vessels in different ocular surface pathologies such as dry eye disease, corneal graft rejection, ocular graft versus host disease, allergy, and pterygium, (iii) the involvement of lymphatic vessels in ocular tumors and metastasis, and (iv) the novel role of the lymphatic-like structure of Schlemm's canal in glaucoma. Identification of the underlying molecular mechanisms and of novel modulators of lymphangiogenesis will contribute to the development of new therapeutic targets for the treatment of ocular diseases associated with pathological lymphangiogenesis in the future. The preclinical data presented here outline novel therapeutic concepts for promoting transplant survival, inhibiting metastasis of ocular tumors, reducing inflammation of the ocular surface, and treating glaucoma. Initial data from clinical trials suggest first success of novel treatment strategies to promote transplant survival based on pretransplant corneal lymphangioregression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Clahsen
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany; Center for Molecular Medicine (CMMC), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Karina Hadrian
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany; Center for Molecular Medicine (CMMC), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Maria Notara
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany; Center for Molecular Medicine (CMMC), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Simona L Schlereth
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany; Center for Molecular Medicine (CMMC), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Antonia Howaldt
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Verena Prokosch
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Thomas Volatier
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Deniz Hos
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany; Center for Molecular Medicine (CMMC), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Falk Schroedl
- Center for Anatomy and Cell Biology, Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology - Salzburg, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Alexandra Kaser-Eichberger
- Center for Anatomy and Cell Biology, Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology - Salzburg, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Ludwig M Heindl
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Philipp Steven
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany; Cluster of Excellence: Cellular Stress Responses in Ageing-Associated Diseases, CECAD, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Jacobus J Bosch
- Centre for Human Drug Research and Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | | | - Alexander C Rokohl
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Hanhan Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Mert Mestanoglu
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Hamid Kashkar
- Institute for Molecular Immunology, Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), CECAD Research Center, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital of Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Björn Schumacher
- Center for Molecular Medicine (CMMC), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany; Cluster of Excellence: Cellular Stress Responses in Ageing-Associated Diseases, CECAD, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Friedemann Kiefer
- European Institute for Molecular Imaging (EIMI), University of Münster, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Stefan Schulte-Merker
- Institute for Cardiovascular Organogenesis and Regeneration, Faculty of Medicine, WWU Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Mario Matthaei
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Yanhong Hou
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany; Eye Institute and Department of Ophthalmology, Eye & ENT Hospital, Fudan University, 83 Fenyang Road, Xuhui District, Shanghai, China
| | - Sonja Fassbender
- IUF‒Leibniz Research Institute for Environmental Medicine, Duesseldorf, Germany; Immunology and Environment, Life & Medical Sciences (LIMES) Institute, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Jonathan Jantsch
- Institute for Medical Microbiology, Immunology and Hygiene, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Wei Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Philip Enders
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Björn Bachmann
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Felix Bock
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany; Center for Molecular Medicine (CMMC), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Claus Cursiefen
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany; Center for Molecular Medicine (CMMC), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany; Cluster of Excellence: Cellular Stress Responses in Ageing-Associated Diseases, CECAD, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany.
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Patnam M, Dommaraju SR, Masood F, Herbst P, Chang JH, Hu WY, Rosenblatt MI, Azar DT. Lymphangiogenesis Guidance Mechanisms and Therapeutic Implications in Pathological States of the Cornea. Cells 2023; 12:cells12020319. [PMID: 36672254 PMCID: PMC9856498 DOI: 10.3390/cells12020319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2022] [Revised: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Corneal lymphangiogenesis is one component of the neovascularization observed in several inflammatory pathologies of the cornea including dry eye disease and corneal graft rejection. Following injury, corneal (lymph)angiogenic privilege is impaired, allowing ingrowth of blood and lymphatic vessels into the previously avascular cornea. While the mechanisms underlying pathological corneal hemangiogenesis have been well described, knowledge of the lymphangiogenesis guidance mechanisms in the cornea is relatively scarce. Various signaling pathways are involved in lymphangiogenesis guidance in general, each influencing one or multiple stages of lymphatic vessel development. Most endogenous factors that guide corneal lymphatic vessel growth or regression act via the vascular endothelial growth factor C signaling pathway, a central regulator of lymphangiogenesis. Several exogenous factors have recently been repurposed and shown to regulate corneal lymphangiogenesis, uncovering unique signaling pathways not previously known to influence lymphatic vessel guidance. A strong understanding of the relevant lymphangiogenesis guidance mechanisms can facilitate the development of targeted anti-lymphangiogenic therapeutics for corneal pathologies. In this review, we examine the current knowledge of lymphatic guidance cues, their regulation of inflammatory states in the cornea, and recently discovered anti-lymphangiogenic therapeutic modalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehul Patnam
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Illinois Eye and Ear Infirmary, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Sunil R. Dommaraju
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Illinois Eye and Ear Infirmary, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Faisal Masood
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Illinois Eye and Ear Infirmary, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Paula Herbst
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Illinois Eye and Ear Infirmary, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Jin-Hong Chang
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Illinois Eye and Ear Infirmary, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-(312)-413-5590; Fax: +1-(312)-996-7770
| | - Wen-Yang Hu
- Department of Urology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Mark I. Rosenblatt
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Illinois Eye and Ear Infirmary, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Dimitri T. Azar
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Illinois Eye and Ear Infirmary, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
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Wysmołek ME, Długosz E, Wiśniewski M. The Immunological Role of Vascular and Lymphatic Endothelial Cells in Filarial Infections. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12040426. [PMID: 35203133 PMCID: PMC8868237 DOI: 10.3390/ani12040426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Revised: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 02/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The endothelium is a monolayer of cells forming a thin membrane that lines the inside of blood vessels. These cells release molecules that regulate vascular relaxation, contraction, and can control blood clotting and the immune response. During infections with filarial nematodes, common parasites of humans and animals, the endothelium is believed to play a key role in the communication between the host and the parasite, since the embryonic stage of filaroids is distributed in the bloodstream. Therefore, this review aims to gather research from different scientists in order to better understand the host immune response in infections with filarial nematodes. Abstract The embryonic stage of filarial nematodes, or microfilariae (Mf), shows daily and seasonal periodicity that requires their migration through blood vessels into the lungs, where they are sequestered when not circulating in the peripheral blood. Therefore, Mf and the host endothelium are likely in a permanent state of hide and seek. Interestingly, filarial nematodes co-cultured in media with a murine endothelial cell line survive eight times longer than those cultured in media alone. This suggests that the endothelium is an important element of the immune response in filarial nematodes, perversely promoting their survival in the host. In this review, we will focus on potential pathways involved in the relationship between filarial nematodes and the host endothelium, including the role of endothelial ICAM/VCAM/PECAM adhesion molecules, surface markers involved in the passage of Mf through host tissue, anti-thrombolic effects caused by the presence of filarial nematodes (including plasmins), endothelial cell proliferation (VEGF), and other aspects of the immune activation of the endothelium. The aim of this review is to merge the knowledge about the cross-talk between Mf of different filarial nematode species and endothelial cells (EC), thus allowing a better understanding of the mechanism of these parasitic infections.
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Kataru RP, Baik JE, Park HJ, Ly CL, Shin J, Schwartz N, Lu TT, Ortega S, Mehrara BJ. Lymphatic-specific intracellular modulation of receptor tyrosine kinase signaling improves lymphatic growth and function. Sci Signal 2021; 14:eabc0836. [PMID: 34376570 PMCID: PMC8567054 DOI: 10.1126/scisignal.abc0836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Exogenous administration of lymphangiogenic growth factors is widely used to study changes in lymphatic function in pathophysiology. However, this approach can result in off-target effects, thereby generating conflicting data. To circumvent this issue, we modulated intracellular VEGF-C signaling by conditionally knocking out the lipid phosphatase PTEN using the Vegfr3 promoter to drive the expression of Cre-lox in lymphatic endothelial cells (LECs). PTEN is an intracellular brake that inhibits the downstream effects of the activation of VEGFR3 by VEGF-C. Activation of Cre-lox recombination in adult mice resulted in an expanded functional lymphatic network due to LEC proliferation that was independent of lymphangiogenic growth factor production. Furthermore, compared with lymphangiogenesis induced by VEGF-C injection, LECPTEN animals had mature, nonleaky lymphatics with intact cell-cell junctions and reduced local tissue inflammation. Last, compared with wild-type or VEGF-C-injected mice, LECPTEN animals had an improved capacity to resolve inflammatory responses. Our findings indicate that intracellular modulation of lymphangiogenesis is effective in inducing functional lymphatic networks and has no off-target inflammatory effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raghu P Kataru
- Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSKCC), New York, NY 10065, USA.
| | - Jung Eun Baik
- Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSKCC), New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Hyeung Ju Park
- Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSKCC), New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Catherine L Ly
- Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSKCC), New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Jinyeon Shin
- Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSKCC), New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Noa Schwartz
- Autoimmunity and Inflammation Program and Rheumatology, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, NY 10021, USA
| | - Theresa T Lu
- Autoimmunity and Inflammation Program and Rheumatology, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, NY 10021, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10021, USA
| | - Sagrario Ortega
- Transgenic Mice Unit, Biotechnology Programme, Spanish National Cancer Research Center (CNIO), Madrid, 20829, Spain
| | - Babak J Mehrara
- Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSKCC), New York, NY 10065, USA
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Ung L, Chodosh J. Foundational concepts in the biology of bacterial keratitis. Exp Eye Res 2021; 209:108647. [PMID: 34097906 PMCID: PMC8595513 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2021.108647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2021] [Revised: 04/28/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Bacterial infections of the cornea, or bacterial keratitis (BK), are notorious for causing rapidly fulminant disease and permanent vision loss, even among treated patients. In the last sixty years, dramatic upward trajectories in the frequency of BK have been observed internationally, driven in large part by the commercialization of hydrogel contact lenses in the late 1960s. Despite this worsening burden of disease, current evidence-based therapies for BK - including broad-spectrum topical antibiotics and, if indicated, topical corticosteroids - fail to salvage vision in a substantial proportion of affected patients. Amid growing concerns of rapidly diminishing antibiotic utility, there has been renewed interest in urgently needed novel treatments that may improve clinical outcomes on an individual and public health level. Bridging the translational gap in the care of BK requires the identification of new therapeutic targets and rational treatment design, but neither of these aims can be achieved without understanding the complex biological processes that determine how bacterial corneal infections arise, progress, and resolve. In this chapter, we synthesize the current wealth of human and animal experimental data that now inform our understanding of basic BK pathophysiology, in context with modern concepts in ocular immunology and microbiology. By identifying the key molecular determinants of clinical disease, we explore how novel treatments can be developed and translated into routine patient care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lawson Ung
- Department of Ophthalmology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Infectious Disease Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - James Chodosh
- Department of Ophthalmology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Infectious Disease Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
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Blume C, Geiger MF, Müller M, Clusmann H, Mainz V, Kalder J, Brandenburg LO, Mueller CA. Decreased angiogenesis as a possible pathomechanism in cervical degenerative myelopathy. Sci Rep 2021; 11:2497. [PMID: 33510227 PMCID: PMC7843718 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-81766-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2020] [Accepted: 01/07/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Endogenous immune mediated reactions of inflammation and angiogenesis are components of the spinal cord injury in patients with degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM). The aim of this study was to identify alteration of certain mediators participating in angiogenetic and inflammatory reactions in patients with DCM. A consecutive series of 42 patients with DCM and indication for surgical decompression were enrolled for the study. 28 DCM patients were included, as CSF samples were taken preoperatively. We enrolled 42 patients requiring surgery for a thoracic abdominal aortic aneurysm (TAAA) as neurologically healthy controls. In 38 TAAA patients, CSF samples were taken prior to surgery and thus included. We evaluated the neurological status of patients and controls prior to surgery including NDI and mJOA. Protein-concentrations of factors with a crucial role in inflammation and angiogenesis were measured in CSF via ELISA testing (pg/ml): Angiopoietin 2, VEGF-A and C, RANTES, IL 1 beta and IL 8. Additionally, evaluated the status of the blood-spinal cord barrier (BSCB) by Reibers´diagnostic in all participants. Groups evidently differed in their neurological status (mJOA: DCM 10.1 ± 3.3, TAAA 17.3 ± 1.2, p < .001; NDI: DCM 47.4 ± 19.7, TAAA 5.3 ± 8.6, p < .001). There were no particular differences in age and gender distribution. However, we detected statistically significant differences in concentrations of mediators between the groups: Angiopoietin 2 (DCM 267.1.4 ± 81.9, TAAA 408.6 ± 177.1, p < .001) and VEGF C (DCM 152.2 ± 96.1, TAAA 222.4 ± 140.3, p = .04). DCM patients presented a mild to moderate BSCB disruption, controls had no signs of impairment. In patients with DCM, we measured decreased concentrations of angiogenic mediators. These results correspond to findings of immune mediated secondary harm in acute spinal cord injury. Reduced angiogenic activity could be a relevant part of the pathogenesis of DCM and secondary harm to the spinal cord.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Blume
- Department of Neurosurgery, RWTH Aachen University, Pauwelstrasse 30, 52074, Aachen, Germany.
| | - M F Geiger
- Department of Neurosurgery, RWTH Aachen University, Pauwelstrasse 30, 52074, Aachen, Germany
| | - M Müller
- Department of Neuroradiology, RWTH Aachen University, Pauwelstrasse 30, 52074, Aachen, Germany
| | - H Clusmann
- Department of Neurosurgery, RWTH Aachen University, Pauwelstrasse 30, 52074, Aachen, Germany
| | - V Mainz
- Department of Medical Psychology and Medical Sociology, RWTH Aachen University, Pauwelsstrasse 19, 52074, Aachen, Germany
| | - J Kalder
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Gießen University, Rudolf-Buchheim-str. 7, 35392, Gießen, Germany
| | - L O Brandenburg
- Institute of Anatomy, Rostock University Medical Center, Gertrudenstrasse 9, 18057, Rostock, Germany
| | - C A Mueller
- Department of Neurosurgery, RWTH Aachen University, Pauwelstrasse 30, 52074, Aachen, Germany
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Pro-lymphangiogenic VEGFR-3 signaling modulates memory T cell responses in allergic airway inflammation. Mucosal Immunol 2021; 14:144-151. [PMID: 32518367 PMCID: PMC7725864 DOI: 10.1038/s41385-020-0308-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2019] [Revised: 04/06/2020] [Accepted: 05/20/2020] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
In allergic airway inflammation, VEGFR-3-mediated lymphangiogenesis occurs in humans and mouse models, yet its immunological roles, particularly in adaptive immunity, are poorly understood. Here, we explored how pro-lymphangiogenic signaling affects the allergic response to house dust mite (HDM). In the acute inflammatory phase, the lungs of mice treated with blocking antibodies against VEGFR-3 (mF4-31C1) displayed less inflammation overall, with dramatically reduced innate and T-cell numbers and reduced inflammatory chemokine levels. However, when inflammation was allowed to resolve and memory recall was induced 2 months later, mice treated with mF4-31C1 as well as VEGF-C/-D knockout models showed exacerbated type 2 memory response to HDM, with increased Th2 cells, eosinophils, type 2 chemokines, and pathological inflammation scores. This was associated with lower CCL21 and decreased TRegs in the lymph nodes. Together, our data imply that VEGFR-3 activation in allergic airways helps to both initiate the acute inflammatory response and regulate the adaptive (memory) response, possibly in part by shifting the TReg/Th2 balance. This introduces new immunomodulatory roles for pro-lymphangiogenic VEGFR-3 signaling in allergic airway inflammation and suggests that airway lymphatics may be a novel target for treating allergic responses.
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Regulation of lymphatic function and injury by nitrosative stress in obese mice. Mol Metab 2020; 42:101081. [PMID: 32941994 PMCID: PMC7536739 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmet.2020.101081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2020] [Revised: 09/02/2020] [Accepted: 09/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Obesity results in lymphatic dysfunction, but the cellular mechanisms that mediate this effect remain largely unknown. Previous studies in obese mice have shown that inducible nitric oxide synthase-expressing (iNOS+) inflammatory cells accumulate around lymphatic vessels. In the current study, we therefore tested the hypothesis that increased expression of iNOS results in nitrosative stress and injury to the lymphatic endothelial cells (LECs). In addition, we tested the hypothesis that lymphatic injury, independent of obesity, can modulate glucose and lipid metabolism. Methods We compared the metabolic changes and lymphatic function of wild-type and iNOS knockout mice fed a normal chow or high-fat diet for 16 weeks. To corroborate our in vivo findings, we analyzed the effects of reactive nitrogen species on isolated LECs. Finally, using a genetically engineered mouse model that allows partial ablation of the lymphatic system, we studied the effects of acute lymphatic injury on glucose and lipid metabolism in lean mice. Results The mesenteric lymphatic vessels of obese wild-type animals were dilated, leaky, and surrounded by iNOS+ inflammatory cells with resulting increased accumulation of reactive nitrogen species when compared with lean wild-type or obese iNOS knockout animals. These changes in obese wild-type mice were associated with systemic glucose and lipid abnormalities, as well as decreased mesenteric LEC expression of lymphatic-specific genes, including vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 3 (VEGFR-3) and antioxidant genes as compared with lean wild-type or obese iNOS knockout animals. In vitro experiments demonstrated that isolated LECs were more sensitive to reactive nitrogen species than blood endothelial cells, and that this sensitivity was ameliorated by antioxidant therapies. Finally, using mice in which the lymphatics were specifically ablated using diphtheria toxin, we found that the interaction between metabolic abnormalities caused by obesity and lymphatic dysfunction is bidirectional. Targeted partial ablation of mesenteric lymphatic channels of lean mice resulted in increased accumulation of iNOS+ inflammatory cells and increased reactive nitrogen species. Lymphatic ablation also caused marked abnormalities in insulin sensitivity, serum glucose and insulin concentrations, expression of insulin-sensitive genes, lipid metabolism, and significantly increased systemic and mesenteric white adipose tissue (M-WAT) inflammatory responses. Conclusions Our studies suggest that increased iNOS production in obese animals plays a key role in regulating lymphatic injury by increasing nitrosative stress. In addition, our studies suggest that obesity-induced lymphatic injury may amplify metabolic abnormalities by increasing systemic and local inflammatory responses and regulating insulin sensitivity. These findings suggest that manipulation of the lymphatic system may represent a novel means of treating metabolic abnormalities associated with obesity. Increased iNOS+ cells around mesenteric lymphatics of high fat diet-induced obese mice. iNOS knockout mice are protected from obesity-induced lymphatic dysfunction. Lymphatic endothelial cells are highly sensitive to nitrosative stress. Nitrosative stress causes lymphatic gene regulation. Lymphatic injury alone enhances iNOS+ cells and causes insulin resistance and dyslipidemia.
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Systemic Sclerosis Serum Significantly Impairs the Multi-Step Lymphangiogenic Process: in Vitro Evidence. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20246189. [PMID: 31817940 PMCID: PMC6940874 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20246189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2019] [Revised: 11/22/2019] [Accepted: 12/06/2019] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
In systemic sclerosis (SSc), the possible involvement of lymphatic microcirculation and lymphangiogenesis has traditionally been overshadowed by the greater emphasis placed on dysfunctional blood vascular system and angiogenesis. In the present in vitro study, we explore for the first time whether the SSc microenvironment may interfere with lymphangiogenesis, a complex, multi-step process in which lymphatic microvascular endothelial cells (LMVECs) sprout, migrate, and proliferate to generate new lymphatic capillaries. Normal human adult dermal LMVECs from three donors were treated with serum from SSc patients (n = 8), serum from healthy individuals (n = 8), or recombinant human vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-C as a positive control for lymphangiogenesis. Cell proliferation, Boyden chamber Matrigel chemoinvasion, wound healing capacity, and lymphatic capillary morphogenesis on Geltrex were assayed. VEGF-C serum levels were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Gene and protein expression levels of the lymphangiogenic orchestrators VEGF receptor-3 (VEGFR-3)/Flt-4 and neuropilin-2 (NRP-2) were determined by real-time PCR and Western blotting, respectively. Conditioning with SSc serum significantly inhibited LMVEC proliferation, Matrigel invasion, and wound healing capacity with respect to healthy serum. The ability of LMVECs to form lymphatic tubes on Geltrex was also severely compromised in the presence of SSc serum. VEGF-C levels were comparable in SSc and healthy sera. Treatment with SSc serum resulted in a significant downregulation of both VEGFR-3/Flt-4 and NRP-2 mRNA and protein levels. In SSc, the pathologic environment severely hampers every lymphangiogenesis step, likely through the reduction of pro-lymphangiogenic VEGFR-3/NRP-2 co-receptor signaling. The impairment of the lymphangiogenic process opens a new scenario underlying SSc vascular pathophysiology, which is worth investigating further.
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11
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Tacconi C, Ungaro F, Correale C, Arena V, Massimino L, Detmar M, Spinelli A, Carvello M, Mazzone M, Oliveira AI, Rubbino F, Garlatti V, Spanò S, Lugli E, Colombo FS, Malesci A, Peyrin-Biroulet L, Vetrano S, Danese S, D'Alessio S. Activation of the VEGFC/VEGFR3 Pathway Induces Tumor Immune Escape in Colorectal Cancer. Cancer Res 2019; 79:4196-4210. [PMID: 31239267 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-18-3657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2018] [Revised: 05/09/2019] [Accepted: 06/13/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Colorectal cancer is a major cause of cancer-related death in Western countries and is associated with increased numbers of lymphatic vessels (LV) and tumor-associated macrophages (TAM). The VEGFC/VEGFR3 pathway is regarded as the principal inducer of lymphangiogenesis and it contributes to metastases; however, no data are available regarding its role during primary colorectal cancer development. We found that both VEGFC and VEGFR3 were upregulated in human nonmetastatic colorectal cancer, with VEGFR3 expressed on both LVs and TAMs. With the use of three different preclinical models of colorectal cancer, we also discovered that the VEGFC/VEGFR3 axis can shape both lymphatic endothelial cells and TAMs to synergistically inhibit antitumor immunity and promote primary colorectal cancer growth. Therefore, VEGFR3-directed therapy could be envisioned for the treatment of nonmetastatic colorectal cancer. SIGNIFICANCE: The prolymphangiogenic factor VEGFC is abundant in colorectal cancer and activates VEGFR3 present on cancer-associated macrophages and lymphatic vessels; activation of VEGFR3 signaling fosters cancer immune escape, resulting in enhanced tumor growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlotta Tacconi
- Laboratory of Gastrointestinal Immunopathology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, Rozzano, Italy.,Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Federica Ungaro
- Laboratory of Gastrointestinal Immunopathology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, Rozzano, Italy.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Italy
| | - Carmen Correale
- Laboratory of Gastrointestinal Immunopathology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, Rozzano, Italy.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Arena
- Department of Internal Medicine, Catholic University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Luca Massimino
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milan-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - Michael Detmar
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Antonino Spinelli
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Italy.,Colon and Rectal Surgery Department, Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, Italy
| | - Michele Carvello
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Italy.,Colon and Rectal Surgery Department, Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, Italy
| | - Massimiliano Mazzone
- Laboratory of Tumor Inflammation and Angiogenesis, Center for Cancer Biology, Leuven, Belgium.,Lab of Tumor Inflammation and Angiogenesis, Department of Oncology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Ana I Oliveira
- Laboratory of Tumor Inflammation and Angiogenesis, Center for Cancer Biology, Leuven, Belgium.,Lab of Tumor Inflammation and Angiogenesis, Department of Oncology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Federica Rubbino
- Laboratory of Gastrointestinal Immunopathology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, Rozzano, Italy.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Italy
| | - Valentina Garlatti
- Laboratory of Gastrointestinal Immunopathology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, Rozzano, Italy.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Italy
| | - Salvatore Spanò
- Laboratory of Gastrointestinal Immunopathology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, Rozzano, Italy.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Italy
| | - Enrico Lugli
- Laboratory of Translational Immunology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, Rozzano, Italy.,Humanitas Flow Cytometry Core, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, Rozzano, Italy
| | - Federico S Colombo
- Humanitas Flow Cytometry Core, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, Rozzano, Italy
| | - Alberto Malesci
- Department of Biotechnologies and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, Rozzano (Milan), Italy.,Department of Gastroenterology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, Rozzano (Milan), Italy
| | - Laurent Peyrin-Biroulet
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale U954 and Department of Gastroenterology, Nancy University Hospital, Lorraine University, Nancy, France
| | - Stefania Vetrano
- Laboratory of Gastrointestinal Immunopathology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, Rozzano, Italy.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Italy
| | - Silvio Danese
- Laboratory of Gastrointestinal Immunopathology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, Rozzano, Italy.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Italy
| | - Silvia D'Alessio
- Laboratory of Gastrointestinal Immunopathology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, Rozzano, Italy. .,Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Italy
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12
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Varricchi G, Rossi FW, Galdiero MR, Granata F, Criscuolo G, Spadaro G, de Paulis A, Marone G. Physiological Roles of Mast Cells: Collegium Internationale Allergologicum Update 2019. Int Arch Allergy Immunol 2019; 179:247-261. [PMID: 31137021 DOI: 10.1159/000500088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2019] [Accepted: 04/02/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Mast cells are immune cells which have a widespread distribution in nearly all tissues. These cells and their mediators are canonically viewed as primary effector cells in allergic disorders. However, in the last years, mast cells have gained recognition for their involvement in several physiological and pathological conditions. They are highly heterogeneous immune cells displaying a constellation of surface receptors and producing a wide spectrum of inflammatory and immunomodulatory mediators. These features enable the cells to act as sentinels in harmful situations as well as respond to metabolic and immune changes in their microenvironment. Moreover, they communicate with many immune and nonimmune cells implicated in several immunological responses. Although mast cells contribute to host responses in experimental infections, there is no satisfactory model to study how they contribute to infection outcome in humans. Mast cells modulate physiological and pathological angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis, but their role in tumor initiation and development is still controversial. Cardiac mast cells store and release several mediators that can exert multiple effects in the homeostatic control of different cardiometabolic functions. Although mast cells and their mediators have been simplistically associated with detrimental roles in allergic disorders, there is increasing evidence that they can also have homeostatic or protective roles in several pathophysiological processes. These findings may reflect the functional heterogeneity of different subsets of mast cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gilda Varricchi
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences (DiSMeT), Naples, Italy.,Center for Basic and Clinical Immunology Research (CISI), University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy.,World Allergy Organization (WAO) Center of Excellence, Naples, Italy
| | - Francesca Wanda Rossi
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences (DiSMeT), Naples, Italy.,Center for Basic and Clinical Immunology Research (CISI), University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy.,World Allergy Organization (WAO) Center of Excellence, Naples, Italy
| | - Maria Rosaria Galdiero
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences (DiSMeT), Naples, Italy.,Center for Basic and Clinical Immunology Research (CISI), University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy.,World Allergy Organization (WAO) Center of Excellence, Naples, Italy
| | - Francescopaolo Granata
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences (DiSMeT), Naples, Italy.,Center for Basic and Clinical Immunology Research (CISI), University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy.,World Allergy Organization (WAO) Center of Excellence, Naples, Italy
| | - Gjada Criscuolo
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences (DiSMeT), Naples, Italy.,Center for Basic and Clinical Immunology Research (CISI), University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy.,World Allergy Organization (WAO) Center of Excellence, Naples, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Spadaro
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences (DiSMeT), Naples, Italy.,Center for Basic and Clinical Immunology Research (CISI), University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy.,World Allergy Organization (WAO) Center of Excellence, Naples, Italy
| | - Amato de Paulis
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences (DiSMeT), Naples, Italy.,Center for Basic and Clinical Immunology Research (CISI), University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy.,World Allergy Organization (WAO) Center of Excellence, Naples, Italy
| | - Gianni Marone
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences (DiSMeT), Naples, Italy, .,Center for Basic and Clinical Immunology Research (CISI), University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy, .,World Allergy Organization (WAO) Center of Excellence, Naples, Italy, .,Institute of Endocrinology and Experimental Oncology (IEOS), CNR, Naples, Italy,
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13
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Jha SK, Rauniyar K, Chronowska E, Mattonet K, Maina EW, Koistinen H, Stenman UH, Alitalo K, Jeltsch M. KLK3/PSA and cathepsin D activate VEGF-C and VEGF-D. eLife 2019; 8:44478. [PMID: 31099754 PMCID: PMC6588350 DOI: 10.7554/elife.44478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2019] [Accepted: 05/16/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Vascular endothelial growth factor-C (VEGF-C) acts primarily on endothelial cells, but also on non-vascular targets, for example in the CNS and immune system. Here we describe a novel, unique VEGF-C form in the human reproductive system produced via cleavage by kallikrein-related peptidase 3 (KLK3), aka prostate-specific antigen (PSA). KLK3 activated VEGF-C specifically and efficiently through cleavage at a novel N-terminal site. We detected VEGF-C in seminal plasma, and sperm liquefaction occurred concurrently with VEGF-C activation, which was enhanced by collagen and calcium binding EGF domains 1 (CCBE1). After plasmin and ADAMTS3, KLK3 is the third protease shown to activate VEGF-C. Since differently activated VEGF-Cs are characterized by successively shorter N-terminal helices, we created an even shorter hypothetical form, which showed preferential binding to VEGFR-3. Using mass spectrometric analysis of the isolated VEGF-C-cleaving activity from human saliva, we identified cathepsin D as a protease that can activate VEGF-C as well as VEGF-D. The lymphatic system is composed of networks of vessels that drain fluids from the body’s tissues and filter it back into the blood. Growing these vessels depends on a factor known as VEGF-C, which is released in an inactive form and must be cut by enzymes before it can work. One enzyme that is known to activate the VEGF-C signal when the early embryo is developing is ADAMTS3. If this signal fails to switch on this can result in a condition known as lymphedema – whereby problems in the lymphatic system cause tissues to swell due to insufficient drainage. However, it is unknown whether the VEGF-C signal can be activated by enzymes other than ADAMTS3. To investigate this Jha, Rauniyar et al. tested a specific family of proteins commonly found in the human prostate, which have previously been predicted to act on VEGF-C. This revealed that the lymphatic vessel growth factor can also be activated by an enzyme found in seminal fluid called prostate specific antigen, or PSA for short. To see if enzymes in other bodily fluids could switch on VEGF-C, different components of human saliva were separated and tested to see which could cut inactive VEGF-C. This showed that VEGF-C could be converted to an active form by another enzyme called cathepsin D. Unexpectedly, Jha, Rauniyar et al. found that VEGF-C was also present in semen. For conception to occur PSA must liquify the semen following ejaculation. It was discovered that PSA activates VEGF-C just as the semen starts to liquify, suggesting that the lymphatic vessel growth factor might also play an important role in reproduction. In addition to VEGF-C, both PSA and cathepsin D were found to activate another growth factor called VEGF-D, which has an unknown role in the human body. VEGF-C helps the spread of tumors, and blocking the two enzymes that activate this growth factor may be a new therapeutic approach for cancer. However, more work is needed to validate which types of tumor, if any, use these enzymes to activate VEGF-C. In addition, understanding the relationship between PSA and VEGF-C could help improve our knowledge of human reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sawan Kumar Jha
- Individualized Drug Therapy Research Program, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,Wihuri Research Institute, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Khushbu Rauniyar
- Individualized Drug Therapy Research Program, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Ewa Chronowska
- Individualized Drug Therapy Research Program, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,Jagiellonian University Medical College, Cracow, Poland
| | - Kenny Mattonet
- Max Planck Institute for Heart and Lung Research, Bad Nauheim, Germany
| | - Eunice Wairimu Maina
- Individualized Drug Therapy Research Program, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Hannu Koistinen
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Ulf-Håkan Stenman
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Kari Alitalo
- Wihuri Research Institute, Helsinki, Finland.,Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland.,Translational Cancer Medicine Research Program, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Michael Jeltsch
- Individualized Drug Therapy Research Program, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,Wihuri Research Institute, Helsinki, Finland
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14
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Hori J, Yamaguchi T, Keino H, Hamrah P, Maruyama K. Immune privilege in corneal transplantation. Prog Retin Eye Res 2019; 72:100758. [PMID: 31014973 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2019.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2019] [Revised: 04/14/2019] [Accepted: 04/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Corneal transplantation is the most successful solid organ transplantation performed in humans. The extraordinary success of orthotopic corneal allografts, in both humans and experimental animals, is related to the phenomenon of "immune privilege". Inflammation is self-regulated to preserve ocular functions because the eye has immune privilege. At present, three major mechanisms are considered to provide immune privilege in corneal transplantation: 1) anatomical, cellular, and molecular barriers in the cornea; 2) tolerance related to anterior chamber-associated immune deviation and regulatory T cells; and 3) an immunosuppressive intraocular microenvironment. This review describes the mechanisms of immune privilege that have been elucidated from animal models of ocular inflammation, especially those involving corneal transplantation, and its relevance for the clinic. An update on molecular, cellular, and neural interactions in local and systemic immune regulation is provided. Therapeutic strategies for restoring immune privilege are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junko Hori
- Department of Ophthalmology, Nippon Medical School, 1-1-5 Sendagi, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8603, Japan; Department of Ophthalmology, Nippon Medical School, Tama-Nagayama Hospital, 1-7-1 Nagayama, Tama, Tokyo, 206-8512, Japan.
| | - Takefumi Yamaguchi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tokyo Dental College Ichikawa General Hospital, 5-11-13 Sugano, Ichikawa-shi, Chiba, 272-8513, Japan; Department of Ophthalmology, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 160-8582, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Keino
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kyorin University School of Medicine, 6-20-2 Shinkawa, Mitaka-shi, Tokyo, 181-8611, Japan
| | - Pedram Hamrah
- Center for Translational Ocular Immunology, Tufts Medical Center, Tufts University School of Medicine, Tufts University, 800 Washington St, Boston, MA, 02111, USA; Department of Ophthalmology, Tufts Medical Center, Tufts University School of Medicine, Tufts University, 800 Washington St, Boston, MA, 02111, USA
| | - Kazuichi Maruyama
- Department of Innovative Visual Science, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, 2-2 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
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15
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Hsu MC, Pan MR, Hung WC. Two Birds, One Stone: Double Hits on Tumor Growth and Lymphangiogenesis by Targeting Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Receptor 3. Cells 2019; 8:cells8030270. [PMID: 30901976 PMCID: PMC6468620 DOI: 10.3390/cells8030270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2019] [Revised: 03/17/2019] [Accepted: 03/19/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 3 (VEGFR3) has been known for its involvement in tumor-associated lymphangiogenesis and lymphatic metastasis. The VEGFR3 signaling is stimulated by its main cognate ligand, vascular endothelial growth factor C (VEGF-C), which in turn promotes tumor progression. Activation of VEGF-C/VEGFR3 signaling in lymphatic endothelial cells (LECs) was shown to enhance the proliferation of LECs and the formation of lymphatic vessels, leading to increased lymphatic metastasis of tumor cells. In the past decade, the expression and pathological roles of VEGFR3 in tumor cells have been described. Moreover, the VEGF-C/VEGFR3 axis has been implicated in regulating immune tolerance and suppression. Therefore, the inhibition of the VEGF-C/VEGFR3 axis has emerged as an important therapeutic strategy for the treatment of cancer. In this review, we discuss the current findings related to VEGF-C/VEGFR3 signaling in cancer progression and recent advances in the development of therapeutic drugs targeting VEGF-C/VEGFR3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming-Chuan Hsu
- National Institute of Cancer Research, National Health Research Institutes, Tainan 704, Taiwan.
| | - Mei-Ren Pan
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan.
| | - Wen-Chun Hung
- National Institute of Cancer Research, National Health Research Institutes, Tainan 704, Taiwan.
- Institute of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan.
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16
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Flavonoids are identified from the extract of Scutellariae Radix to suppress inflammatory-induced angiogenic responses in cultured RAW 264.7 macrophages. Sci Rep 2018; 8:17412. [PMID: 30479366 PMCID: PMC6258719 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-35817-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2018] [Accepted: 11/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Scutellariae Radix (SR), also named Huangqin in China, is the dried root of Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi. Historically, the usage of SR was targeted to against inflammation. In fact, chronic inflammation has a close relationship with hypoxia and abnormal angiogenesis in tumor cells. Hence, we would like to probe the water extract of SR in suppressing the inflammation-induced angiogenesis. Prior to determine the pharmaceutical values of SR, the first step is to analysis the chemical compositions of SR according to China Pharmacopeia (2015). From the results, the amount of baicalin was 12.6% by weight. Furthermore, the anti-angiogenic properties of SR water extract were evaluated in lipopolysaccharide (LPS) pre-treated cultured macrophage RAW 264.7 cells by detecting the inflammatory markers, i.e. Cox-2, cytokine and iNOS, as well as the translocation activity of NFκB and angiogenic biomarker, i.e. VEGF. This herbal extract was capable of declining both inflammatory and angiogenic hallmarks in a concentration-dependent manner. Moreover, the SR-derived flavonoids, i.e. baicalin, baicalein, wogonin and wogonoside, were shown to be active chemicals in the anti-inflammatory-induced angiogenesis. Therefore, the inflammation-induced angiogenesis is believed to be suppressed by SR water extract, or its major ingredients. These results shed light in the benefiting role of SR in the inflammation-induced angiogenesis in vitro.
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17
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Pipi E, Nayar S, Gardner DH, Colafrancesco S, Smith C, Barone F. Tertiary Lymphoid Structures: Autoimmunity Goes Local. Front Immunol 2018; 9:1952. [PMID: 30258435 PMCID: PMC6143705 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.01952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2018] [Accepted: 08/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Tertiary lymphoid structures (TLS) are frequently observed in target organs of autoimmune diseases. TLS present features of secondary lymphoid organs such as segregated T and B cell zones, presence of follicular dendritic cell networks, high endothelial venules and specialized lymphoid fibroblasts and display the mechanisms to support local adaptive immune responses toward locally displayed antigens. TLS detection in the tissue is often associated with poor prognosis of disease, auto-antibody production and malignancy development. This review focuses on the contribution of TLS toward the persistence of the inflammatory drive, the survival of autoreactive lymphocyte clones and post-translational modifications, responsible for the pathogenicity of locally formed autoantibodies, during autoimmune disease development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Pipi
- Rheumatology Research Group, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom.,Experimental Medicine Unit, Immuno-Inflammation Therapeutic Area, GSK Medicines Research Centre, Stevenage, United Kingdom
| | - Saba Nayar
- Rheumatology Research Group, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - David H Gardner
- Rheumatology Research Group, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | | | - Charlotte Smith
- Rheumatology Research Group, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Francesca Barone
- Rheumatology Research Group, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
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18
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Asosingh K, Weiss K, Queisser K, Wanner N, Yin M, Aronica M, Erzurum S. Endothelial cells in the innate response to allergens and initiation of atopic asthma. J Clin Invest 2018; 128:3116-3128. [PMID: 29911993 DOI: 10.1172/jci97720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2017] [Accepted: 05/01/2018] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Protease-activated receptor 2 (PAR-2), an airway epithelial pattern recognition receptor (PRR), participates in the genesis of house dust mite-induced (HDM-induced) asthma. Here, we hypothesized that lung endothelial cells and proangiogenic hematopoietic progenitor cells (PACs) that express high levels of PAR-2 contribute to the initiation of atopic asthma. HDM extract (HDME) protease allergens were found deep in the airway mucosa and breaching the endothelial barrier. Lung endothelial cells and PACs released the Th2-promoting cytokines IL-1α and GM-CSF in response to HDME, and the endothelium had PAC-derived VEGF-C-dependent blood vessel sprouting. Blockade of the angiogenic response by inhibition of VEGF-C signaling lessened the development of inflammation and airway remodeling in the HDM model. Reconstitution of the bone marrow in WT mice with PAR-2-deficient bone marrow also reduced airway inflammation and remodeling. Adoptive transfer of PACs that had been exposed to HDME induced angiogenesis and Th2 inflammation with remodeling similar to that induced by allergen challenge. Our findings identify that lung endothelium and PACs in the airway sense allergen and elicit an angiogenic response that is central to the innate nonimmune origins of Th2 inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Mei Yin
- Imaging Core, Lerner Research Institute, and
| | - Mark Aronica
- Department of Inflammation and Immunity.,Respiratory Institute, the Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Serpil Erzurum
- Department of Inflammation and Immunity.,Respiratory Institute, the Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
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19
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Jha SK, Rauniyar K, Jeltsch M. Key molecules in lymphatic development, function, and identification. Ann Anat 2018; 219:25-34. [PMID: 29842991 DOI: 10.1016/j.aanat.2018.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2018] [Revised: 05/02/2018] [Accepted: 05/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
While both blood and lymphatic vessels transport fluids and thus share many similarities, they also show functional and structural differences, which can be used to differentiate them. Specific visualization of lymphatic vessels has historically been and still is a pivot point in lymphatic research. Many of the proteins that are investigated by molecular biologists in lymphatic research have been defined as marker molecules, i.e. to visualize and distinguish lymphatic endothelial cells (LECs) from other cell types, most notably from blood vascular endothelial cells (BECs) and cells of the hematopoietic lineage. Among the factors that drive the developmental differentiation of lymphatic structures from venous endothelium, Prospero homeobox protein 1 (PROX1) is the master transcriptional regulator. PROX1 maintains lymphatic identity also in the adult organism and thus is a universal LEC marker. Vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-3 (VEGFR-3) is the major tyrosine kinase receptor that drives LEC proliferation and migration. The major activator for VEGFR-3 is vascular endothelial growth factor-C (VEGF-C). However, before VEGF-C can signal, it needs to be proteolytically activated by an extracellular protein complex comprised of Collagen and calcium binding EGF domains 1 (CCBE1) protein and the protease A disintegrin and metallopeptidase with thrombospondin type 1 motif 3 (ADAMTS3). This minireview attempts to give an overview of these and a few other central proteins that scientific inquiry has linked specifically to the lymphatic vasculature. It is limited in scope to a brief description of their main functions, properties and developmental roles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sawan Kumar Jha
- Translational Cancer Biology Research Program, University of Helsinki, Finland
| | - Khushbu Rauniyar
- Translational Cancer Biology Research Program, University of Helsinki, Finland
| | - Michael Jeltsch
- Translational Cancer Biology Research Program, University of Helsinki, Finland; Wihuri Research Institute, Biomedicum Helsinki, Finland.
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20
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Park HJ, Yuk CM, Shin K, Lee SH. Interleukin-17A negatively regulates lymphangiogenesis in T helper 17 cell-mediated inflammation. Mucosal Immunol 2018; 11:590-600. [PMID: 28930285 DOI: 10.1038/mi.2017.76] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2017] [Accepted: 07/20/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
During inflammation lymphatic vessels (LVs) are enlarged and their density is increased to facilitate the migration of activated immune cells and antigens. However, after antigen clearance, the expanded LVs shrink to maintain homeostasis. Here we show that interleukin (IL)-17A, secreted from T helper type 17 (TH17) cells, is a negative regulator of lymphangiogenesis during the resolution phase of TH17-mediated immune responses. Moreover, IL-17A suppresses the expression of major lymphatic markers in lymphatic endothelial cells and decreases in vitro LV formation. To investigate the role of IL-17A in vivo, we utilized a cholera toxin-mediated inflammation model and identified inflammation and resolution phases based on the numbers of recruited immune cells. IL-17A, markedly produced by TH17 cells even after the peak of inflammation, was found to participate in the negative regulation of LV formation. Moreover, blockade of IL-17A resulted in not only increased density of LVs in tissues but also their enhanced function. Taken together, these findings improve the current understanding of the relationship between LVs and inflammatory cytokines in pathologic conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- H J Park
- Biomedical Science and Engineering Interdisciplinary Program, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Daejeon, Korea
| | - C M Yuk
- Biomedical Science and Engineering Interdisciplinary Program, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Daejeon, Korea
| | - K Shin
- Graduate School of Medical Science and Engineering, Biomedical Research Center, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Daejeon, Korea.,Department of Dermatology, Pusan National University School of Medicine, Busan, Korea
| | - S-H Lee
- Biomedical Science and Engineering Interdisciplinary Program, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Daejeon, Korea.,Graduate School of Medical Science and Engineering, Biomedical Research Center, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Daejeon, Korea
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21
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Zarei-Ghanavati M, Mousavi E, Nabavi A, Latifi G, Mehrjardi HZ, Mohebbi M, Ghassemi H, Mirzaie F, Zare MA. Changes in in vivo confocal microscopic findings of ocular surface squamous neoplasia during treatment with topical interferon alfa-2b. Ocul Surf 2018; 16:235-241. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jtos.2017.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2017] [Revised: 11/08/2017] [Accepted: 12/31/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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22
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Mueller CG, Nayar S, Gardner D, Barone F. Cellular and Vascular Components of Tertiary Lymphoid Structures. Methods Mol Biol 2018; 1845:17-30. [PMID: 30141005 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-8709-2_2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Inflammatory immune cells recruited at the site of chronic inflammation form structures that resemble secondary lymphoid organs (SLO). These are characterized by segregated areas of prevalent T- or B-cell aggregation, differentiation of high endothelial venules, and local activation of resident stromal cells, including lymphatic endothelial cells. B-cell proliferation and affinity maturation toward locally displayed autoantigens have been demonstrated at these sites, known as tertiary lymphoid structures (TLS). TLS formation during chronic inflammation has been associated with local disease persistence and progression, as well as increased systemic manifestations. While bearing a similar histological structure to SLO, the signals that regulate TLS and SLO formation can diverge and a series of pro-inflammatory cytokines have been ascribed as responsible for TLS formation at different anatomical sites. Moreover, for a long time the structural compartment that regulates TLS homeostasis, including survival and recirculation of leucocytes has been neglected. In this chapter, we summarize the novel data available on TLS formation, structural organization, and the functional and anatomical links connecting TLS and SLOs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher George Mueller
- Laboratoire d'Immunologie, Immunopathologie et Chimie Thérapeutique, Institut de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire (IBMC), CNRS UPR 3572, University of Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Saba Nayar
- Rheumatology Research Group, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing (IIA), University of Birmingham, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham, UK
| | - David Gardner
- Rheumatology Research Group, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing (IIA), University of Birmingham, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham, UK
| | - Francesca Barone
- Rheumatology Research Group, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing (IIA), University of Birmingham, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham, UK.
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23
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Cavalcanti BM, Cruzat A, Sahin A, Pavan-Langston D, Samayoa E, Hamrah P. In vivo confocal microscopy detects bilateral changes of corneal immune cells and nerves in unilateral herpes zoster ophthalmicus. Ocul Surf 2017; 16:101-111. [PMID: 28923503 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtos.2017.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2017] [Revised: 08/05/2017] [Accepted: 09/12/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To analyze bilateral corneal immune cell and nerve alterations in patients with unilateral herpes zoster ophthalmicus (HZO) by laser in vivo confocal microscopy (IVCM) and their correlation with corneal sensation and clinical findings. MATERIALS AND METHODS This is a prospective, cross-sectional, controlled, single-center study. Twenty-four eyes of 24 HZO patients and their contralateral clinically unaffected eyes and normal controls (n = 24) were included. Laser IVCM (Heidelberg Retina Tomograph/Rostock Cornea Module), corneal esthesiometry (Cochet-Bonnet) were performed. Changes in corneal dendritiform cell (DC) density and morphology, number and length of subbasal nerve fibers and their correlation to corneal sensation, pain, lesion location, disease duration, and number of episodes were analyzed. RESULTS HZO-affected and contralateral eyes showed a significant increase in DC influx of the central cornea as compared to controls (147.4 ± 33.9, 120.1 ± 21.2, and 23.0 ± 3.6 cells/mm2; p < 0.0001). In HZO eyes DCs were larger in area (319.4 ± 59.8 μm2; p < 0.001) and number of dendrites (3.5 ± 0.4 n/cell; p = 0.01) as compared to controls (52.2 ± 11.7, and 2.3 ± 0.5). DC density and size showed moderate negative correlation with total nerve length (R = -0.43 and R = -0.57, respectively; all p < 0.001). A higher frequency of nerve beading and activated DCs close to nerve fibers were detected specifically in pain patients. CONCLUSIONS Chronic unilateral HZO causes significant bilateral increase in corneal DC density and decrease of the corneal subbasal nerves as compared to controls. Negative correlation was observed for DC density and size to nerve parameters, suggesting interplay between the immune and nervous systems. Patients with chronic pain also showed increased nerve beading and activated DCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bernardo M Cavalcanti
- Ocular Surface Imaging Center and Cornea & Refractive Surgery Service, Massachusetts Eye & Ear Infirmary, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, 243 Charles Street, Boston, MA 02114, USA; Post-Graduate Program, Surgery Department, Pernambuco Federal University (UFPE), Recife, PE, Brazil
| | - Andrea Cruzat
- Ocular Surface Imaging Center and Cornea & Refractive Surgery Service, Massachusetts Eye & Ear Infirmary, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, 243 Charles Street, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Afsun Sahin
- Ocular Surface Imaging Center and Cornea & Refractive Surgery Service, Massachusetts Eye & Ear Infirmary, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, 243 Charles Street, Boston, MA 02114, USA; Koc University Medical School, Research Center for Translational Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey; Boston Image Reading Center, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Deborah Pavan-Langston
- Ocular Surface Imaging Center and Cornea & Refractive Surgery Service, Massachusetts Eye & Ear Infirmary, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, 243 Charles Street, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Eric Samayoa
- Ocular Surface Imaging Center and Cornea & Refractive Surgery Service, Massachusetts Eye & Ear Infirmary, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, 243 Charles Street, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Pedram Hamrah
- Ocular Surface Imaging Center and Cornea & Refractive Surgery Service, Massachusetts Eye & Ear Infirmary, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, 243 Charles Street, Boston, MA 02114, USA; Boston Image Reading Center, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA; Cornea Service, New England Eye Center, Department of Ophthalmology, Tufts Medical Center, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA.
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24
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Bron AJ, de Paiva CS, Chauhan SK, Bonini S, Gabison EE, Jain S, Knop E, Markoulli M, Ogawa Y, Perez V, Uchino Y, Yokoi N, Zoukhri D, Sullivan DA. TFOS DEWS II pathophysiology report. Ocul Surf 2017; 15:438-510. [PMID: 28736340 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtos.2017.05.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 949] [Impact Index Per Article: 135.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2017] [Accepted: 05/26/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The TFOS DEWS II Pathophysiology Subcommittee reviewed the mechanisms involved in the initiation and perpetuation of dry eye disease. Its central mechanism is evaporative water loss leading to hyperosmolar tissue damage. Research in human disease and in animal models has shown that this, either directly or by inducing inflammation, causes a loss of both epithelial and goblet cells. The consequent decrease in surface wettability leads to early tear film breakup and amplifies hyperosmolarity via a Vicious Circle. Pain in dry eye is caused by tear hyperosmolarity, loss of lubrication, inflammatory mediators and neurosensory factors, while visual symptoms arise from tear and ocular surface irregularity. Increased friction targets damage to the lids and ocular surface, resulting in characteristic punctate epithelial keratitis, superior limbic keratoconjunctivitis, filamentary keratitis, lid parallel conjunctival folds, and lid wiper epitheliopathy. Hybrid dry eye disease, with features of both aqueous deficiency and increased evaporation, is common and efforts should be made to determine the relative contribution of each form to the total picture. To this end, practical methods are needed to measure tear evaporation in the clinic, and similarly, methods are needed to measure osmolarity at the tissue level across the ocular surface, to better determine the severity of dry eye. Areas for future research include the role of genetic mechanisms in non-Sjögren syndrome dry eye, the targeting of the terminal duct in meibomian gland disease and the influence of gaze dynamics and the closed eye state on tear stability and ocular surface inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony J Bron
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK; Vision and Eye Research Unit, Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge, UK.
| | - Cintia S de Paiva
- Department of Ophthalmology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Sunil K Chauhan
- Schepens Eye Research Institute & Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Stefano Bonini
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Campus Biomedico, Rome, Italy
| | - Eric E Gabison
- Department of Ophthalmology, Fondation Ophtalmologique Rothschild & Hôpital Bichat Claude Bernard, Paris, France
| | - Sandeep Jain
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Erich Knop
- Departments of Cell and Neurobiology and Ocular Surface Center Berlin, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Maria Markoulli
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Yoko Ogawa
- Department of Ophthalmology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Victor Perez
- Department of Ophthalmology, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Yuichi Uchino
- Department of Ophthalmology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Norihiko Yokoi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Driss Zoukhri
- Tufts University School of Dental Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - David A Sullivan
- Schepens Eye Research Institute & Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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25
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Hayashi T, Usui T, Yamagami S. Suppression of Allograft Rejection with Soluble VEGF Receptor 2 Chimeric Protein in a Mouse Model of Corneal Transplantation. TOHOKU J EXP MED 2017; 239:81-8. [PMID: 27212075 DOI: 10.1620/tjem.239.81] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
When a transparent cornea becomes opaque due to infectious diseases, trauma, or ophthalmic surgery, the impaired cornea is replaced with a donor cornea to improve visual function. In this corneal transplantation, the graft survival rate is comparatively high, partly because of lacking vascular and lymphatic vessel in cornea. However, the transplanted corneas sometimes become opaque if allograft rejection occurs. Suppression of allograft rejection is critical for favorable outcomes of corneal transplantation. The essential effects of endogenous monomeric soluble vascular endothelial growth factor receptors (VEGFRs) 1 and 2 have been reported in corneal angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis. This study investigated the effects of dimeric soluble VEGFR2/Fc chimera protein on corneal allograft rejection for future clinical application. Allogeneic full-thickness corneal transplantation was performed in C57BL/6 to BALB/c mice. The recipients were treated by intrastromal injection of soluble VEGFR1/Fc chimera (sR1/Fc group), soluble VEGFR2/Fc chimera (sR2/Fc group), or human IgG1/Fc protein (IgG/Fc group) at 0, 7, and 14 days after surgery. Both hemangiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis were significantly suppressed in the corneas of the sR2/Fc group compared with the IgG/Fc group. All grafts failed due to corneal wound rupture in the sR1/Fc group. In the sR2/Fc group, respective donor-derived MHC class II(+)/CD11c(+) cells and CD11b-positive macrophage infiltration were reduced in the DLNs and the corneas showing a negative delayed-type hypersensitivity, compared with the IgG/Fc group. Our findings demonstrate that soluble VEGFR2/Fc chimera protein efficiently suppresses corneal allo-rejection, while reducing hemangiogenesis and lymhangiogenesis, and immune-competent cell-trafficking and may be a powerful tool for corneal allograft survival.
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26
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Ran S, Wilber A. Novel role of immature myeloid cells in formation of new lymphatic vessels associated with inflammation and tumors. J Leukoc Biol 2017; 102:253-263. [PMID: 28408396 DOI: 10.1189/jlb.1mr1016-434rr] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2016] [Revised: 03/14/2017] [Accepted: 03/17/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Inflammation triggers an immune cell-driven program committed to restoring homeostasis to injured tissue. Central to this process is vasculature restoration, which includes both blood and lymphatic networks. Generation of new vessels or remodeling of existing vessels are also important steps in metastasis-the major cause of death for cancer patients. Although roles of the lymphatic system in regulation of inflammation and cancer metastasis are firmly established, the mechanisms underlying the formation of new lymphatic vessels remain a subject of debate. Until recently, generation of new lymphatics in adults was thought to occur exclusively through sprouting of existing vessels without help from recruited progenitors. However, emerging findings from clinical and experimental studies show that lymphoendothelial progenitors, particularly those derived from immature myeloid cells, play an important role in this process. This review summarizes current evidence for the existence and significant roles of myeloid-derived lymphatic endothelial cell progenitors (M-LECPs) in generation of new lymphatics. We describe specific markers of M-LECPs and discuss their biologic behavior in culture and in vivo, as well as currently known molecular mechanisms of myeloid-lymphatic transition (MLT). We also discuss the implications of M-LECPs for promoting adaptive immunity, as well as cancer metastasis. We conclude that improved mechanistic understanding of M-LECP differentiation and its role in adult lymphangiogenesis may lead to new therapeutic approaches for correcting lymphatic insufficiency or excessive formation of lymphatic vessels in human disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophia Ran
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Immunology, and Cell Biology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, and Simmons Cancer Institute, Springfield, Illinois, USA
| | - Andrew Wilber
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Immunology, and Cell Biology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, and Simmons Cancer Institute, Springfield, Illinois, USA
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27
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Lymphangiogenesis is a feature of acute GVHD, and VEGFR-3 inhibition protects against experimental GVHD. Blood 2017; 129:1865-1875. [PMID: 28096093 DOI: 10.1182/blood-2016-08-734210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2016] [Accepted: 01/09/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Lymph vessels play a crucial role in immune reactions in health and disease. In oncology the inhibition of lymphangiogenesis is an established therapeutic concept for reducing metastatic spreading of tumor cells. During allogeneic tissue transplantation, the inhibition of lymphangiogenesis has been successfully used to attenuate graft rejection. Despite its critical importance for tumor growth, alloimmune responses, and inflammation, the role of lymphangiogenesis has not been investigated during allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT). We found that acute graft-versus-host disease (aGVHD) is associated with lymphangiogenesis in murine allo-HSCT models as well as in patient intestinal biopsies. Inhibition of aGVHD-associated lymphangiogenesis by monoclonal antibodies against vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 3 (VEGFR-3) ameliorated aGVHD and improved survival in murine models. The administration of anti-VEGFR-3 antibodies did not interfere with hematopoietic engraftment and improved immune reconstitution in allo-HSCT recipients with aGVHD. Anti-VEGFR-3 therapy had no significant impact on growth of malignant lymphoma after allo-HSCT. We conclude that aGVHD is associated with lymphangiogenesis in intestinal lesions and in lymph nodes. Our data show that anti-VEGFR-3 treatment ameliorates lethal aGVHD and identifies the lymphatic vasculature as a novel therapeutic target in the setting of allo-HSCT.
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28
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Dashkevich A, Hagl C, Beyersdorf F, Nykänen AI, Lemström KB. VEGF Pathways in the Lymphatics of Healthy and Diseased Heart. Microcirculation 2016; 23:5-14. [PMID: 26190445 DOI: 10.1111/micc.12220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2015] [Accepted: 07/13/2015] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Cardiac lymphatic system is a rare focus of the modern cardiovascular research. Nevertheless, the growing body of evidence is depicting lymphatic endothelium as an important functional unit in healthy and diseased myocardium. Since the discovery of angiogenic VEGF-A in 1983 and lymphangiogenic VEGF-C in 1997, an increasing amount of knowledge has accumulated on the essential roles of VEGF ligands and receptors in physiological and pathological angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis. Tissue adaptation to several stimuli such as hypoxia, pathogen invasion, degenerative process and inflammation often involves coordinated changes in both blood and lymphatic vessels. As lymphatic vessels are involved in the initiation and resolution of inflammation and regulation of tissue edema, VEGF family members may have important roles in myocardial lymphatics in healthy and in cardiac disease. We will review the properties of VEGF ligands and receptors concentrating on their lymphatic vessel effects first in normal myocardium and then in cardiac disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexey Dashkevich
- Cardiac Surgery, University Hospital Munich, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Munich, Germany.,Cardiac Surgery, Heart and Lung Center, Helsinki University Central Hospital, Helsinki, Finland.,Transplantation Laboratory, Haartman Institute, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Christian Hagl
- Cardiac Surgery, University Hospital Munich, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Munich, Germany
| | | | - Antti I Nykänen
- Cardiac Surgery, Heart and Lung Center, Helsinki University Central Hospital, Helsinki, Finland.,Transplantation Laboratory, Haartman Institute, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Karl B Lemström
- Cardiac Surgery, Heart and Lung Center, Helsinki University Central Hospital, Helsinki, Finland.,Transplantation Laboratory, Haartman Institute, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
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29
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Farid M, Agrawal A, Fremgen D, Tao J, Chuyi H, Nesburn AB, BenMohamed L. Age-related Defects in Ocular and Nasal Mucosal Immune System and the Immunopathology of Dry Eye Disease. Ocul Immunol Inflamm 2016; 24:327-47. [PMID: 25535823 PMCID: PMC4478284 DOI: 10.3109/09273948.2014.986581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Dry eye disease (DED) is a prevalent public health concern that affects up to 30% of adults and is particularly chronic and severe in the elderly. Two interconnected mechanisms cause DED: (1) an age-related dysfunction of lacrimal and meibomian glands, which leads to decreased tear production and/or an increase in tear evaporation; and (2) an age-related uncontrolled inflammation of the surface of the eye triggered by yet-to-be-determined internal immunopathological mechanisms, independent of tear deficiency and evaporation. In this review we summarize current knowledge on animal models that mimic both the severity and chronicity of inflammatory DED and that have been reliably used to provide insights into the immunopathological mechanisms of DED, and we provide an overview of the opportunities and limitations of the rabbit model in investigating the role of both ocular and nasal mucosal immune systems in the immunopathology of inflammatory DED and in testing novel immunotherapies aimed at delaying or reversing the uncontrolled age-related inflammatory DED.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marjan Farid
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Immunology, Gavin Herbert Eye Institute, University of California Irvine, School of Medicine, Irvine, California, USA
| | - Anshu Agrawal
- Division of Basic and Clinical Immunology, Department of Medicine, University of California Irvine, School of Medicine, Irvine, California, USA
| | - Daniel Fremgen
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Immunology, Gavin Herbert Eye Institute, University of California Irvine, School of Medicine, Irvine, California, USA
| | - Jeremiah Tao
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Immunology, Gavin Herbert Eye Institute, University of California Irvine, School of Medicine, Irvine, California, USA
| | - He Chuyi
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Immunology, Gavin Herbert Eye Institute, University of California Irvine, School of Medicine, Irvine, California, USA
| | - Anthony B. Nesburn
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Immunology, Gavin Herbert Eye Institute, University of California Irvine, School of Medicine, Irvine, California, USA
| | - Lbachir BenMohamed
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Immunology, Gavin Herbert Eye Institute, University of California Irvine, School of Medicine, Irvine, California, USA
- Department of Molecular Biology, University of California Irvine, School of Medicine, Irvine, California, USA
- Biochemistry and Institute for Immunology, University of California Irvine, School of Medicine, Irvine, California, USA
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30
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Gagliostro V, Seeger P, Garrafa E, Salvi V, Bresciani R, Bosisio D, Sozzani S. Pro-lymphangiogenic properties of IFN-γ-activated human dendritic cells. Immunol Lett 2016; 173:26-35. [PMID: 26987844 DOI: 10.1016/j.imlet.2016.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2016] [Accepted: 03/11/2016] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Dendritic cells (DCs) play a crucial role in the initiation of adaptive immune responses. In addition, through the release of pro- and anti-angiogenic mediators, DCs are key regulators of blood vessel remodeling, a process that characterizes inflammation. Less information is available on the role of DCs in lymphangiogenesis. This study reports that human DCs produce VEGF-C, a cytokine with potent pro-lymphangiogenic activity when stimulated with IFN-γ. DC-derived VEGF-C was biologically active, being able to promote tube-like structure formation in cultures of human lymphatic endothelial cells (LECs). DCs co-cultured with IL-15-activated NK cells produced high levels of VEGF-C, suggesting a role for NK-DC cross-talk in peripheral lymphoid and non-lymphoid tissues in inflammation-associated lymphangiogenesis. Induction of VEGF-C by IFN-γ was detected also in other myeloid cells, such as blood-purified CD1c(+) DCs, CD14(+) monocytes and in monocyte-derived macrophages. In all these cell types, VEGF-C was found associated with the cell membrane by low affinity, heparan sulphate-mediated, interactions. Therefore, human DCs should be considered as new players in inflammation-associated lymphangiogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincenzo Gagliostro
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Pascal Seeger
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Emirena Garrafa
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Valentina Salvi
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Roberto Bresciani
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Daniela Bosisio
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Silvano Sozzani
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy; Humanitas Clinical Research Center, Rozzano, Italy.
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31
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Tang X, Sun J, Du L, Du H, Wang L, Mai J, Zhang F, Liu P. Neuropilin-2 contributes to LPS-induced corneal inflammatory lymphangiogenesis. Exp Eye Res 2015; 143:110-9. [PMID: 26500194 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2015.10.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2015] [Revised: 08/30/2015] [Accepted: 10/19/2015] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Neuropilin-2 (NP2), a high-affinity kinase-deficient co-receptor for vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-C, is involved in embryonic vessel development, tumor growth, tumor lymphangiogenesis and metastasis. However, the pathological role of NP2 in other disorders, particularly under inflammatory lymphangiogenic conditions, remains largely unknown. In this study, we investigated the role of NP2 in inflammation-induced lymphangiogenesis in vivo using a lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced corneal neovascularization mouse model and in vitro using a macrophage-mouse lymphatic endothelial cell (mLEC) co-culture system. In the mouse model of LPS-induced inflammatory corneal neovascularization, NP2 and VEGFR-3 expression were rapidly up-regulated after LPS stimulation, and microRNA-mediated knockdown of NP2 significantly inhibited the up-regulation of VEGFR-3. Moreover, NP2 knockdown specifically inhibited the increase in the number of corneal lymphatic vessels but did not influence the increase in the number of blood vessels or macrophage recruitment induced by LPS. In a macrophage-LEC co-culture system, LPS up-regulated VEGFR-3 expression and induced mLEC migration and proliferation, and NP2 knockdown inhibited the up-regulation of VEGFR-3 expression and mLEC migration but not proliferation. Taken together, these results suggested that NP2 might be involved in the regulation of lymphangiogenesis via the regulation of VEGFR-3 expression during corneal inflammation. Therefore, NP2-targeted therapy might be a promising strategy for selective inhibition of inflammatory lymphangiogenesis in corneal inflammatory diseases, transplant immunology and oncology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xianling Tang
- Eye Hospital, First Affiliated Hospital, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, PR China
| | - Junfeng Sun
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, PR China
| | - Lingling Du
- Eye Hospital, First Affiliated Hospital, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, PR China
| | - Haitao Du
- Eye Hospital, First Affiliated Hospital, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, PR China
| | - Liyuan Wang
- Eye Hospital, First Affiliated Hospital, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, PR China
| | - Jieying Mai
- Eye Hospital, First Affiliated Hospital, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, PR China
| | - Fengmin Zhang
- Department of Microbiology, Heilongjiang Province Key Laboratory for Immunity and Infection, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, PR China
| | - Ping Liu
- Eye Hospital, First Affiliated Hospital, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, PR China.
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32
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Buckley CD, Barone F, Nayar S, Bénézech C, Caamaño J. Stromal Cells in Chronic Inflammation and Tertiary Lymphoid Organ Formation. Annu Rev Immunol 2015; 33:715-45. [DOI: 10.1146/annurev-immunol-032713-120252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 154] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Christopher D. Buckley
- Rheumatology Research Group, Center for Translational Inflammation Research, University of Birmingham Research Laboratories, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham B15 2WD, United Kingdom
- School of Immunity and Infection, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, United Kingdom;
| | - Francesca Barone
- Rheumatology Research Group, Center for Translational Inflammation Research, University of Birmingham Research Laboratories, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham B15 2WD, United Kingdom
- School of Immunity and Infection, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, United Kingdom;
| | - Saba Nayar
- Rheumatology Research Group, Center for Translational Inflammation Research, University of Birmingham Research Laboratories, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham B15 2WD, United Kingdom
- School of Immunity and Infection, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, United Kingdom;
| | - Cecile Bénézech
- School of Immunity and Infection, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, United Kingdom;
| | - Jorge Caamaño
- School of Immunity and Infection, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, United Kingdom;
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Shin YJ, Riew TR, Park JH, Pak HJ, Lee MY. Expression of vascular endothelial growth factor-C (VEGF-C) and its receptor (VEGFR-3) in the glial reaction elicited by human mesenchymal stem cell engraftment in the normal rat brain. J Histochem Cytochem 2014; 63:170-80. [PMID: 25473093 DOI: 10.1369/0022155414564218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
To determine whether vascular endothelial growth factor-C (VEGF-C) and its receptor (VEGFR-3) are involved in the glial reaction elicited by transplanted mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), we examined the cellular localization of VEGF-C and VEGFR-3 proteins in the striatum of adult normal rats that received bone marrow-derived human MSCs. The MSC grafts were infiltrated with activated microglia/macrophages and astrocytes over a 2-week period post-transplantation, which appeared to parallel the loss of transplanted MSCs. VEGF-C/VEGFR-3 was expressed in activated microglia/macrophages recruited to the graft site, where the induction of VEGF-C protein was rather late compared with that of its receptor. VEGF-C protein was absent or very weak on day 3, whereas VEGFR-3 immunoreactivity was evident within the first three days. Furthermore, within three days, VEGF-C could be detected in the brain macrophages localized immediately adjacent to the needle track. At the same time, almost all the brain macrophages in both regions expressed VEGFR-3. Reactive astrocytes at the graft site expressed VEGFR-3, but not VEGF-C. These data demonstrated the characteristic time- and cell-dependent expression patterns for VEGF-C and VEGFR-3 within the engrafted brain tissue, suggesting that they may contribute to neuroinflammation in MSC transplantation, possibly through the recruitment and/or activation of microglia/macrophages and astrogliosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoo-Jin Shin
- Department of Anatomy, Catholic Neuroscience Institute, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea (YJS, TRR, JHP, HJP, MYL)
| | - Tae-Ryong Riew
- Department of Anatomy, Catholic Neuroscience Institute, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea (YJS, TRR, JHP, HJP, MYL)
| | - Joo-Hee Park
- Department of Anatomy, Catholic Neuroscience Institute, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea (YJS, TRR, JHP, HJP, MYL)
| | - Ha-Jin Pak
- Department of Anatomy, Catholic Neuroscience Institute, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea (YJS, TRR, JHP, HJP, MYL)
| | - Mun-Yong Lee
- Department of Anatomy, Catholic Neuroscience Institute, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea (YJS, TRR, JHP, HJP, MYL)
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Kostis G, Ioannis L, Helen K, Helen P. The expression of vascular endothelial growth factor-C correlates with lymphatic microvessel density and lymph node metastasis in prostate carcinoma: An immunohistochemical study. Urol Ann 2014; 6:224-30. [PMID: 25125895 PMCID: PMC4127859 DOI: 10.4103/0974-7796.134275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2013] [Accepted: 03/05/2013] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim: To evaluate the expression of two different lymphatic vascular density (LVD) markers (D2-40 and LYVE-1) and a lymphangiogenic cytokine (Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor-C, [VEGF-C]) in prostate carcinoma and to investigate their relationship with the lymph node status. Settings and Design: Archival material study of 92 non-consecutive radical prostatectomy specimens. Materials and Methods: The mean LVD was assessed immunohistochemically in 24 prostate carcinoma specimens from patients with clinically localized disease, who were found to have nodal metastasis (pN1), and was compared with 68 pN0 cases. Furthermore, the mean LVD, VEGF-C expression, and lymphatic invasion were examined in relation to lymph node involvement. Results: Peritumoral (but not intratumoral) mean LVD assessed by D2-40 was higher in pN1 tumors (P = 0.015). LYVE-1 expression was limited and not associated with lymph node status. The VEGF-C expression was higher in the N1 cases and also correlated with the increased mean LVD in both the peri- and intratumoral compartments. Lymphatic invasion was strongly associated with nodal metastasis and higher VEGF-C expression. Conclusions: Our results indicate that increased peritumoral (but not intratumoral) LVD in the tumor specimen is associated with lymph node metastasis. Increased expression of VEGF-C is associated with higher LVD (in both intratumoral and peritumoral compartments) and with positive lymph node status, indicating a possible dual role in both lymphangiogenesis and lymphatic vessel invasion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gyftopoulos Kostis
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, University of Patras, Rion, Greece
| | - Lilis Ioannis
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, University of Patras, Rion, Greece
| | - Kourea Helen
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, University of Patras, Rion, Greece
| | - Papadaki Helen
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, University of Patras, Rion, Greece
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Emami-Naeini P, Dohlman TH, Omoto M, Hattori T, Chen Y, Lee HS, Chauhan SK, Dana R. Soluble vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-3 suppresses allosensitization and promotes corneal allograft survival. Graefes Arch Clin Exp Ophthalmol 2014; 252:1755-62. [PMID: 25091513 DOI: 10.1007/s00417-014-2749-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2014] [Revised: 07/09/2014] [Accepted: 07/11/2014] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate the effect of VEGF-C and VEGF-D blockade via soluble VEGFR-3 (sVEGFR-3) on T cell allosensitization, corneal neovascularization, and transplant survival. METHODS Corneal intrastromal suture placement and allogeneic transplantation were performed on BALB/c mice to evaluate the effect of sVEGFR-3 on corneal neovascularization. Soluble VEGFR-3 trap was injected intraperitoneally to block VEGF-C/D (every other day starting the day of surgery). Immunohistochemical staining of corneal whole mounts was performed using anti-CD31 (PECAM-1) and anti-LYVE-1 antibodies to quantify the levels of hem- and lymphangiogenesis, respectively. Mixed lymphocyte reaction (MLR) was performed to assess indirect and direct host T cell allosensitization and the frequencies of IFN-γ-producing T cells in the draining lymph nodes were assessed using flow cytometry. Graft opacity and survival was evaluated by slit-lamp biomicroscopy. RESULTS Treatment with sVEGFR-3 resulted in a significant blockade of lymphangiogenesis 2 weeks post-transplantation and significantly prolonged corneal allograft survival compared to the control group at 8 weeks post-transplantation (87.5 % vs. 50 %), and this was associated with significant reduction in the frequencies of allosensitized T cells and decreased frequencies of IFN-γ-producing CD4 T cells. CONCLUSIONS Soluble VEGFR-3 suppresses corneal lymphangiogenesis and allograft rejection and may offer a viable therapeutic modality for corneal neovascularization and corneal transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parisa Emami-Naeini
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye & Ear Infirmary, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, 20 Staniford Street, Boston, MA, 02114, USA
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Abstract
The main function of the lymphatic system is to control and maintain fluid homeostasis, lipid transport, and immune cell trafficking. In recent years, the pathological roles of lymphangiogenesis, the generation of new lymphatic vessels from preexisting ones, in inflammatory diseases and cancer progression are beginning to be elucidated. Sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P), a bioactive lipid, mediates multiple cellular events, such as cell proliferation, differentiation, and trafficking, and is now known as an important mediator of inflammation and cancer. In this review, we will discuss recent findings showing the emerging role of S1P in lymphangiogenesis, in inflammation, and in cancer.
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Alagappan VKT, de Boer WI, Misra VK, Mooi WJ, Sharma HS. Angiogenesis and vascular remodeling in chronic airway diseases. Cell Biochem Biophys 2014; 67:219-34. [PMID: 23975597 DOI: 10.1007/s12013-013-9713-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease remain a global health problem, with increasing morbidity and mortality. Despite differences in the causal agents, both diseases exhibit various degrees of inflammatory changes, structural alterations of the airways leading to airflow limitation. The existence of transient disease phenotypes which overlap both diseases and which progressively decline the lung function has complicated the search for an effective therapy. Important characteristics of chronic airway diseases include airway and vascular remodeling, of which the molecular mechanisms are complex and poorly understood. Recently, we and others have shown that airway smooth muscle (ASM) cells are not only structural and contractile components of airways, rather they bear capabilities of producing large number of pro-inflammatory and mitogenic factors. Increase in size and number of blood vessels both inside and outside the smooth muscle layer as well as hyperemia of bronchial vasculature are contributing factors in airway wall remodeling in patients with chronic airway diseases, proposing for the ongoing mechanisms like angiogenesis and vascular dilatation. We believe that vascular changes directly add to the airway narrowing and hyper-responsiveness by exudation and transudation of proinflammatory mediators, cytokines and growth factors; facilitating trafficking of inflammatory cells; causing oedema of the airway wall and promoting ASM accumulation. One of the key regulators of angiogenesis, vascular endothelial growth factor in concerted action with other endothelial mitogens play pivotal role in regulating bronchial angiogenesis. In this review article we address recent advances in pulmonary angiogenesis and remodelling that contribute in the pathogenesis of chronic airway diseases.
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Espagnolle N, Barron P, Mandron M, Blanc I, Bonnin J, Agnel M, Kerbelec E, Herault JP, Savi P, Bono F, Alam A. Specific Inhibition of the VEGFR-3 Tyrosine Kinase by SAR131675 Reduces Peripheral and Tumor Associated Immunosuppressive Myeloid Cells. Cancers (Basel) 2014; 6:472-90. [PMID: 24589997 PMCID: PMC3980599 DOI: 10.3390/cancers6010472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2013] [Revised: 02/06/2014] [Accepted: 02/17/2014] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Myeloid derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) and tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) represent prominent components in cancer progression. We previously showed that inhibition of the VEGFR-3 pathway by SAR131675 leads to reduction of TAM infiltration and tumor growth. Here, we found that treatment with SAR131675 prevents the accumulation of immunosuppressive blood and splenic MDSCs which express VEGFR-3, in 4T1 tumor bearing mice. Moreover we showed that soluble factors secreted by tumor cells promote MDSCs proliferation and differentiation into M2 polarized F4/80+ macrophages. In addition, cell sorting and transcriptomic analysis of tumor infiltrating myeloid cells revealed the presence of a heterogeneous population that could be divided into 3 subpopulations: (i) immature cells with a MDSC phenotype (GR1+/CD11b+/F4/80−); (ii) “immuno-incompetent” macrophages (F4/80high/CD86neg/MHCIILow) strongly expressing M2 markers such as Legumain, CD206 and Mgl1/2 and (iii) “immuno-competent”-M1 like macrophages (F4/80Low/CD86+/MHCIIHigh). SAR131675 treatment reduced MDSCs in lymphoid organs as well as F4/80High populations in tumors. Interestingly, in the tumor SAR131675 was able to increase the immunocompetent M1 like population (F4/80low). Altogether these results demonstrate that the specific VEGFR-3 inhibitor SAR131675 exerts its anti tumoral activity by acting on different players that orchestrate immunosuppression and cancer progression in a tumoral context: MDSCs in peripheral lymphoid organs and TAMs infiltrating the tumor.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Pauline Barron
- Sanofi Recherche et Développement, Early to Candidate DPU, Toulouse 31036, France.
| | - Marie Mandron
- Sanofi Recherche et Développement, Early to Candidate DPU, Toulouse 31036, France.
| | - Isabelle Blanc
- Sanofi Recherche et Développement, Early to Candidate DPU, Toulouse 31036, France.
| | - Jacques Bonnin
- Sanofi Recherche et Développement, Early to Candidate DPU, Toulouse 31036, France.
| | - Magali Agnel
- Molecular Biology Unit, Biologics Department, Sanofi, Vitry-sur-Seine 94400, France.
| | - Erwan Kerbelec
- Molecular Biology Unit, Biologics Department, Sanofi, Vitry-sur-Seine 94400, France.
| | - Jean Pascal Herault
- Sanofi Recherche et Développement, Early to Candidate DPU, Toulouse 31036, France.
| | - Pierre Savi
- Sanofi Recherche et Développement, Early to Candidate DPU, Toulouse 31036, France.
| | - Françoise Bono
- Sanofi Recherche et Développement, Early to Candidate DPU, Toulouse 31036, France.
| | - Antoine Alam
- Sanofi Recherche et Développement, Early to Candidate DPU, Toulouse 31036, France.
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Inflammatory lymphangiogenesis: cellular mediators and functional implications. Angiogenesis 2014; 17:373-81. [DOI: 10.1007/s10456-014-9419-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2013] [Accepted: 01/15/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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40
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Dieterich LC, Seidel CD, Detmar M. Lymphatic vessels: new targets for the treatment of inflammatory diseases. Angiogenesis 2013; 17:359-71. [PMID: 24212981 DOI: 10.1007/s10456-013-9406-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2013] [Accepted: 10/30/2013] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The lymphatic system plays an important role in the physiological control of the tissue fluid balance and in the initiation of immune responses. Recent studies have shown that lymphangiogenesis, the growth of new lymphatic vessels and/or the expansion of existing lymphatic vessels, is a characteristic feature of acute inflammatory reactions and of chronic inflammatory diseases. In these conditions, lymphatic vessel expansion occurs at the tissue level but also within the draining lymph nodes. Surprisingly, activation of lymphatic vessel function by delivery of vascular endothelial growth factor-C exerts anti-inflammatory effects in several models of cutaneous and joint inflammation. These effects are likely mediated by enhanced drainage of extravasated fluid and inflammatory cells, but also by lymphatic vessel-mediated modulation of immune responses. Although some of the underlying mechanisms are just beginning to be identified, lymphatic vessels have emerged as important targets for the development of new therapeutic strategies to treat inflammatory conditions. In this context, it is of great interest that some of the currently used anti-inflammatory drugs also potently activate lymphatic vessels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lothar C Dieterich
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH) Zurich, Wolfgang-Pauli-Strasse 10, HCI H 303, 8093, Zurich, Switzerland
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41
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Udagawa T, Narumi K, Suzuki K, Aida K, Miyakawa R, Ikarashi Y, Makimoto A, Chikaraishi T, Yoshida T, Aoki K. Vascular endothelial growth factor-D-mediated blockade of regulatory T cells within tumors is induced by hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2013; 191:3440-52. [PMID: 23966628 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.1201454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Lymphopenia-induced homeostatic proliferation of T cells after autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) skews the T cell repertoire by engaging tumor-associated Ags, leading to an induction of antitumor immunity. However, how HSCT alters the immunosuppressive microenvironment in the tumors is unknown. In this study, we first analyzed the kinetics of regulatory T cells (Tregs) in the tumors after syngeneic HSCT. Unexpectedly, the frequency of CD4⁺ cells expressing Foxp3 was increased in the spleens, whereas the frequency was clearly decreased in the tumors after HSCT. The origin of reconstituted CD4⁺ and Foxp3⁺ cells in the tumors was mainly from the expansion of transferred splenic T cells. Then, to examine the mechanism of Treg suppression after HSCT, we isolated CD11c⁺ cells from tumors. A large amount of Treg-inhibitory cytokine IL-6 was secreted from the CD11c⁺ cells in the tumors, but not in the spleens in the recipient mice. Furthermore, to understand what factor affects the activity of CD11c⁺ cells in the tumors after HSCT, we analyzed the expression of various cytokines/chemokines with mouse cytokine Ab arrays, and noticed that VEGF-D concentration was increased in the tumors in the early period after HSCT. The CD11c⁺ cells produced IL-6 in response to VEGF-D stimulation, and an administration of VEGF receptor-3 neutralizing Ab significantly suppressed the production of IL-6 from CD11c⁺ cells accompanied with the increase of Tregs in the tumors of HSCT recipients. Autologous HSCT creates an environment that strongly supports the enhancement of antitumor immunity in reconstituted lymphopenic recipients through the suppression of Tregs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takeshi Udagawa
- Division of Gene and Immune Medicine, National Cancer Center Research Institute, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 104-0045, Japan
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Abstract
The lymphatic vascular system and the hematopoietic system are intimately connected in ontogeny and in physiology. During embryonic development, mammalian species derive a first lymphatic vascular plexus from the previously formed anterior cardinal vein, whereas birds and amphibians have a lymphatic vascular system of dual origin, composed of lymphatic endothelial cells (LECs) of venous origin combined with LECs derived from mesenchymal lymphangioblasts. The contribution of hematopoietic cells as building blocks of nascent lymphatic structures in mammals is still under debate. In contrast, the importance of myeloid cells to direct lymphatic vessel growth and function postnatally has been experimentally shown. For example, myeloid cells communicate with LECs via paracrine factors or cell-cell contacts, and they also can acquire lymphatic endothelial morphology and marker gene expression, a process reminiscent of developmental vasculogenesis. Here, we present an overview of the current understanding of how lymphatic vessels and the hematopoietic system, in particular myeloid cells, interact during embryonic development, in normal organ physiology, and in disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrian Zumsteg
- Institute of Biochemistry and Genetics, Department of Biomedicine, University of Basel, CH-4058 Basel, Switzerland
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43
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Maruotti N, Annese T, Cantatore FP, Ribatti D. Macrophages and angiogenesis in rheumatic diseases. Vasc Cell 2013; 5:11. [PMID: 23725043 PMCID: PMC3680215 DOI: 10.1186/2045-824x-5-11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2013] [Accepted: 04/26/2013] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Angiogenesis plays a key role in several rheumatic diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, systemic sclerosis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and vasculitides. An imbalance between angiogenic inducers and inhibitors seems to be a critical factor in pathogenesis of these diseases. Macrophages promote angiogenesis during rheumatoid arthritis. In addition, macrophages can produce a variety of pro-angiogenic factors that have been associated with the angiogenic response occurring during other rheumatic diseases. Lastly, macrophages could be a target in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis and other rheumatic diseases. Nevertheless, further studies are needed to better elucidate the exact role of macrophage in angiogenesis in these diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Maruotti
- Rheumatology Clinic, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Foggia Medical School- Ospedale “ D’Avanzo”, Foggia, Italy
| | - Tiziana Annese
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neurosciences and Sensory Organs, University of Bari Medical School, Piazza Giulio Cesare, 11, Policlinico, 70124, Bari, Italy
| | - Francesco Paolo Cantatore
- Rheumatology Clinic, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Foggia Medical School- Ospedale “ D’Avanzo”, Foggia, Italy
| | - Domenico Ribatti
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neurosciences and Sensory Organs, University of Bari Medical School, Piazza Giulio Cesare, 11, Policlinico, 70124, Bari, Italy
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Induction of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-3 expression in perivascular cells of the ischemic core following focal cerebral ischemia in rats. Acta Histochem 2013; 115:170-7. [PMID: 22771250 DOI: 10.1016/j.acthis.2012.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2012] [Revised: 06/16/2012] [Accepted: 06/18/2012] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR)-3, a receptor for VEGF-C and VEGF-D, has recently been reported to be induced within vessel-like structures in the ischemic brain. The purpose of the present study was to characterize and define further the cellular phenotypes of vascular-associated cells that manifest induced VEGFR-3 expression in a rat model of ischemic stroke. Vessel-associated cells expressing VEGFR-3 were found to be perivascular astrocytes in the peri-infarct region, whereas in the ischemic core, where astrocytes had virtually disappeared, induction of VEGFR-3 mRNA and protein was still prominent in vascular structures 3-7 days after reperfusion. VEGFR-3 and nestin expression were colocated in almost all cells associated with the vasculature in the ischemic core, and most (~82%) of the VEGFR-3/nestin double-labeled cells were proliferative. A subpopulation of these VEGFR-3-expressing cells appeared to be included in two immunophenotypically distinct perivascular cells: NG2-positive pericytes and ED2- or OX6-perivascular macrophages. However, most of these cells did not show markers for vasculature-associated cell types such as endothelial cells, microglia/macrophages, and smooth muscle cells. Thus, our data indicated that vasculature-associated VEGFR-3-expressing cells in the ischemic core may represent a heterogeneous population of cells with functional diversity, rather than a uniform cell type.
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45
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Barone F, Nayar S, Buckley CD. The role of non-hematopoietic stromal cells in the persistence of inflammation. Front Immunol 2013; 3:416. [PMID: 23335923 PMCID: PMC3543945 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2012.00416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2012] [Accepted: 12/20/2012] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Inflammation results from the complex interaction between hematopoietic and stromal cells and growing evidence supports a key role for the stroma in driving the switch from acute resolving to persistence in chronic inflammatory diseases. Stromal cells have also been shown to play a critical role in cancer biology, being involved in cancer growth, dissemination, and inhibition of the autologous immune response, ultimately favoring persistence and metastatic spread. Similarly, blood and lymphatic endothelial cells contribute to tissue homeostasis during physiological inflammation but also lead to discorded leukocyte and tumor cell accumulation in pathological inflammation and cancer. This review aims to summarize the role that pathogenic stroma plays in the pathogenesis of diseases such as cancer and chronic inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Barone
- Centre for Translational Inflammation Research, Arthritis Research UK, Rheumatology Research Group, School of Immunity and Infection, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham Research Laboratories, Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham, UK
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46
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Park JM, Shin YJ, Cho JM, Choi JY, Jeun SS, Cha JH, Lee MY. Upregulation of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-3 in the spinal cord of Lewis rats with experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis. J Histochem Cytochem 2012; 61:31-44. [PMID: 22983493 DOI: 10.1369/0022155412462975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
We investigated the spatiotemporal expression of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-3 (VEGFR-3) in the spinal cord of Lewis rats with experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), an animal model for multiple sclerosis. VEGFR-3 mRNA and protein were constitutively expressed in gray matter neurons and in a few white matter astrocytes. Induction of VEGFR-3 occurred predominantly in perivascular infiltrated macrophages in the spinal cord white matter during the inductive phase of EAE. VEGFR-3 expression was also induced in activated microglial cells in the gray and white matter, mainly in the peak phase. In addition, reactive astrocytes in the white matter, but not in the gray matter, expressed VEGFR-3 as disease severity increased. These data suggest that VEGFR-3 is involved in the recruitment of monocytic macrophages and in glial reactions during EAE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jang-Mi Park
- Department of Anatomy, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
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47
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Abstract
Substantial advances have accrued over the last decade in the identification of the processes that contribute to lymphatic vascular development in health and disease. Identification of distinct regulatory milestones, from a variety of genetic models, has led to a stepwise chronology of lymphatic development. Several molecular species have been identified as important tissue biomarkers of lymphatic development and function. At present, vascular endothelial growth-factor receptor (VEGFR)-3/VEGF-C/VEGF-D signaling has proven useful in the identification of clinical lymphatic metastatic potential and the assessment of cancer prognosis. Similar biomarkers, to be utilized as surrogates for the assessment of inherited and acquired diseases of the lymphatic circulation, are actively sought, and will represent a signal advance in biomedical investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenta Nakamura
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Center for Lymphatic and Venous Disorders, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
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Thomas SN, Rutkowski JM, Pasquier M, Kuan EL, Alitalo K, Randolph GJ, Swartz MA. Impaired humoral immunity and tolerance in K14-VEGFR-3-Ig mice that lack dermal lymphatic drainage. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2012; 189:2181-90. [PMID: 22844119 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.1103545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 97] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Lymphatic vessels transport interstitial fluid, soluble Ag, and immune cells from peripheral tissues to lymph nodes (LNs), yet the contribution of peripheral lymphatic drainage to adaptive immunity remains poorly understood. We examined immune responses to dermal vaccination and contact hypersensitivity (CHS) challenge in K14-VEGFR-3-Ig mice, which lack dermal lymphatic capillaries and experience markedly depressed transport of solutes and dendritic cells from the skin to draining LNs. In response to dermal immunization, K14-VEGFR-3-Ig mice produced lower Ab titers. In contrast, although delayed, T cell responses were robust after 21 d, including high levels of Ag-specific CD8+ T cells and production of IFN-γ, IL-4, and IL-10 upon restimulation. T cell-mediated CHS responses were strong in K14-VEGFR-3-Ig mice, but importantly, their ability to induce CHS tolerance in the skin was impaired. In addition, 1-y-old mice displayed multiple signs of autoimmunity. These data suggest that lymphatic drainage plays more important roles in regulating humoral immunity and peripheral tolerance than in effector T cell immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan N Thomas
- Institute of Bioengineering, School of Life Sciences, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology, Lausanne-EPFL, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
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49
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Alam A, Blanc I, Gueguen-Dorbes G, Duclos O, Bonnin J, Barron P, Laplace MC, Morin G, Gaujarengues F, Dol F, Hérault JP, Schaeffer P, Savi P, Bono F. SAR131675, a potent and selective VEGFR-3-TK inhibitor with antilymphangiogenic, antitumoral, and antimetastatic activities. Mol Cancer Ther 2012; 11:1637-49. [PMID: 22584122 DOI: 10.1158/1535-7163.mct-11-0866-t] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
SAR131675 is a potent and selective VEGFR-3 inhibitor. It inhibited VEGFR-3 tyrosine kinase activity and VEGFR-3 autophosphorylation in HEK cells with IC(50) values of 20 and 45 nmol/L, respectively. SAR131675 dose dependently inhibited the proliferation of primary human lymphatic cells, induced by the VEGFR-3 ligands VEGFC and VEGFD, with an IC(50) of about 20 nmol/L. SAR131675 was found to be highly selective for VEGFR-3 versus 107 receptors, enzymes, ion channels, and 65 kinases. However, it was moderately active on VEGFR-2 with a VEGFR-3/VEGFR-2 ratio of about 10. SAR131675 had no antiproliferative activity on a panel of 30 tumors and primary cells, further showing its high specificity and indicating that SAR131675 is not a cytotoxic or cytostatic agent. SAR131675 was very well tolerated in mice and showed a potent antitumoral effect in several orthotopic and syngenic models, including mammary 4T1 carcinoma and RIP1.Tag2 tumors. Interestingly, it significantly reduced lymph node invasion and lung metastasis, showing its antilymphangiogenic activity in vivo. Moreover, treatment of mice before resection of 4T1 primary tumors was sufficient to prevent metastasis. Tumor-associated macrophages (TAM) play an important role in tumor growth and metastasis. The expression of VEGFR-3 on TAMs has been recently described. F4/80 immunostaining clearly showed that SAR131675 significantly reduced TAM infiltration and aggregation in 4T1 tumors. Taken together, SAR131675 is the first highly specific VEGFR-3-TK inhibitor described to date, displaying significant antitumoral and antimetastatic activities in vivo through inhibition of lymphangiogenesis and TAM invasion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antoine Alam
- Sanofi Recherche et Développement, Early to Candidate DPU, 195, Route d'Espagne, 31036 Toulouse, France
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Zhao YC, Ni XJ, Wang MH, Zha XM, Zhao Y, Wang S. Tumor-derived VEGF-C, but not VEGF-D, promotes sentinel lymph node lymphangiogenesis prior to metastasis in breast cancer patients. Med Oncol 2012; 29:2594-600. [PMID: 22562155 DOI: 10.1007/s12032-012-0205-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2012] [Accepted: 02/29/2012] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Breast cancer usually initially metastases to the sentinel lymph nodes (SLNs). Recent studies have demonstrated that tumor cells induce SLN lymphangiogenesis before metastasis in several malignancies. In addition, tumor-derived VEGF-C or VEGF-D may induce lymphangiogenesis and promote lymph node metastasis. To explore the mechanisms of lymph node metastasis in breast cancer, we investigated whether primary tumors induce SLN lymphangiogenesis before metastasis and determined the function of tumor-derived VEGF-C and VEGF-D in SLN lymphangiogenesis. Expression of VEGF-C and VEGF-D was examined using immunohistochemistry in 63 primary breast tumors. No significant relationships between VEGF-C and VEGF-D (P=0.420), and VEGF-C or VEGF-D expression and clinical parameters (age, tumor size, grade, hormonal receptor status, her-2 status) were observed (P>0.05). Expression of the lymphatic-specific markers VEGFR-3, Prox-1 and LYVE-1 was measured using quantitative real-time RT-PCR in uninvolved SLNs from 63 patients and compared to control lymph nodes from patients with benign breast disease. Expression of Prox-1 and LYVE-1 mRNA was significantly higher in uninvolved SLNs from breast cancer patients than that in control lymph nodes (P<0.01). Interestingly, expression of VEGFR-3, Prox-1 and LYVE-1 was significantly higher in SLNs from patients with high VEGF-C-expressing tumors than low VEGF-C-expressing tumors (P<0.05), but not VEGF-D-high-expressing tumors (P>0.05). This study demonstrates that primary breast tumors induce SLN lymphangiogenesis before metastasis occurs and that tumor-derived VEGF-C, but not VEGF-D, plays an important role in SLN lymphangiogenesis in breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying-Chun Zhao
- Department of Breast Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital with Nanjing Medical University, 300 Guangzhou Road, Nanjing, 210029, China
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