1
|
Weitz HT, Ettich J, Rafii P, Wittich C, Schultz L, Frank NC, Heise D, Krusche M, Lokau J, Garbers C, Behnke K, Floss DM, Kolmar H, Moll JM, Scheller J. Interleukin-11 receptor is an alternative α-receptor for interleukin-6 and the chimeric cytokine IC7. FEBS J 2025; 292:523-536. [PMID: 39473075 PMCID: PMC11796321 DOI: 10.1111/febs.17309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2024] [Revised: 07/30/2024] [Accepted: 10/16/2024] [Indexed: 02/06/2025]
Abstract
The cytokine interleukin 6 (IL-6) signals via the IL-6 α-receptor (IL-6Rα or IL-6R) in complex with the gp130 β-receptor. Cell type restricted expression of the IL-6R limits the action of IL-6 mainly to hepatocytes and some immune cells. Here, we show that IL-6 also binds to the IL-11 α receptor (IL-11Rα or IL-11R) and induces signaling via IL-11R:gp130 complexes, albeit with a lower affinity compared to IL-11. Antagonistic antibodies directed against IL-11R, but not IL-6R, inhibit IL-6 signaling via IL-11R:gp130 receptor complexes. Notably, IL-11 did not cross-react with IL-6R. IL-11R has also been identified as an alternative α receptor for the CNTF/IL-6-derived chimeric cytokine IC7, which has recently been shown to induce weight loss in mice. Accordingly, the effects of therapeutic monoclonal antibodies against IL-6 or IL-6R, which both block IL-6 signaling, may be slightly different. These findings provide new insights into IL-6 signaling and therefore offer new potential therapeutic intervention options in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hendrik T. Weitz
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology II, Medical Faculty and University Hospital DüsseldorfHeinrich Heine University DüsseldorfGermany
| | - Julia Ettich
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology II, Medical Faculty and University Hospital DüsseldorfHeinrich Heine University DüsseldorfGermany
| | - Puyan Rafii
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology II, Medical Faculty and University Hospital DüsseldorfHeinrich Heine University DüsseldorfGermany
| | - Christoph Wittich
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology II, Medical Faculty and University Hospital DüsseldorfHeinrich Heine University DüsseldorfGermany
| | - Laura Schultz
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology II, Medical Faculty and University Hospital DüsseldorfHeinrich Heine University DüsseldorfGermany
| | - Nils C. Frank
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology II, Medical Faculty and University Hospital DüsseldorfHeinrich Heine University DüsseldorfGermany
| | - Denise Heise
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology II, Medical Faculty and University Hospital DüsseldorfHeinrich Heine University DüsseldorfGermany
| | - Matthias Krusche
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology II, Medical Faculty and University Hospital DüsseldorfHeinrich Heine University DüsseldorfGermany
| | - Juliane Lokau
- Institute of Clinical BiochemistryHannover Medical SchoolGermany
| | | | - Kristina Behnke
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology II, Medical Faculty and University Hospital DüsseldorfHeinrich Heine University DüsseldorfGermany
| | - Doreen M. Floss
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology II, Medical Faculty and University Hospital DüsseldorfHeinrich Heine University DüsseldorfGermany
| | - Harald Kolmar
- Institute for Organic Chemistry and BiochemistryTechnical University of DarmstadtGermany
- Centre of Synthetic BiologyTechnical University of DarmstadtGermany
| | - Jens M. Moll
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology II, Medical Faculty and University Hospital DüsseldorfHeinrich Heine University DüsseldorfGermany
| | - Jürgen Scheller
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology II, Medical Faculty and University Hospital DüsseldorfHeinrich Heine University DüsseldorfGermany
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Liang P, Ness J, Rapp J, Boneva S, Schwämmle M, Jung M, Schlunck G, Agostini H, Bucher F. Characterization of the angiomodulatory effects of Interleukin 11 cis- and trans-signaling in the retina. J Neuroinflammation 2024; 21:230. [PMID: 39294742 PMCID: PMC11412048 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-024-03223-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2024] [Accepted: 09/03/2024] [Indexed: 09/21/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The IL-6 cytokine family, with its crucial and pleiotropic intracellular signaling pathway STAT3, is a promising target for treating vasoproliferative retinal diseases. Previous research has shown that IL-6 cis-signaling (via membrane-bound receptors) and trans-signaling (via soluble receptors) can have distinct effects on target cells, leading to their application in various disease treatments. While IL-6 has been extensively studied, less is known about the angiogenic effects of IL-11, another member of the IL-6 family, in the retina. Therefore, the aim of this study was to characterize the effects of IL-11 on retinal angiogenesis. MAIN TEXT In vitreous samples from proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) patients, elevated levels of IL-11Rα, but not IL-11, were detected. In vitro studies using vascular endothelial cells revealed distinct effects of cis- and trans-signaling: cis-signaling (IL-11 alone) had antiangiogenic effects, while trans-signaling (IL-11 + sIL-11Rα) had proangiogenic and pro-migratory effects. These differences can be attributed to their individual signaling responses and associated transcriptomic changes. Notably, no differences in cis- and trans-signaling were detected in primary mouse Müller cell cultures. STAT3 and STAT1 siRNA knockdown experiments revealed opposing effects on IL-11 signaling, with STAT3 functioning as an antiproliferative and proapoptotic player while STAT1 acts in opposition to STAT3. In vivo, both IL-11 and IL-11 + sIL-11Rα led to a reduction in retinal neovascularization. Immunohistochemical staining revealed Müller cell activation in response to treatment, suggesting that IL-11 affects multiple retinal cell types in vivo beyond vascular endothelial cells. CONCLUSIONS Cis- and trans-signaling by IL-11 have contrasting angiomodulatory effects on endothelial cells in vitro. In vivo, cis- and trans-signaling also influence Müller cells, ultimately determining the overall angiomodulatory impact on the retina, highlighting the intricate interplay between vascular and glial cells in the retina.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paula Liang
- Eye Center, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Klinik für Augenheilkunde, Kilianstrasse 5, 79106, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Jan Ness
- Eye Center, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Klinik für Augenheilkunde, Kilianstrasse 5, 79106, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Julian Rapp
- Eye Center, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Klinik für Augenheilkunde, Kilianstrasse 5, 79106, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
- Department of Medicine I, Medical Center - Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Stefaniya Boneva
- Eye Center, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Klinik für Augenheilkunde, Kilianstrasse 5, 79106, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Melanie Schwämmle
- Eye Center, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Klinik für Augenheilkunde, Kilianstrasse 5, 79106, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
- Faculty of Biology, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Malte Jung
- Eye Center, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Klinik für Augenheilkunde, Kilianstrasse 5, 79106, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Günther Schlunck
- Eye Center, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Klinik für Augenheilkunde, Kilianstrasse 5, 79106, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Hansjürgen Agostini
- Eye Center, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Klinik für Augenheilkunde, Kilianstrasse 5, 79106, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Felicitas Bucher
- Eye Center, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Klinik für Augenheilkunde, Kilianstrasse 5, 79106, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Scheller J, Ettich J, Wittich C, Pudewell S, Floss DM, Rafii P. Exploring the landscape of synthetic IL-6-type cytokines. FEBS J 2024; 291:2030-2050. [PMID: 37467060 DOI: 10.1111/febs.16909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Revised: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023]
Abstract
Interleukin-6 (IL-6)-type cytokines not only have key immunomodulatory functions that affect the pathogenesis of diseases such as autoimmune diseases, chronic inflammatory conditions, and cancer, but also fulfill important homeostatic tasks. Even though the pro-inflammatory arm has hindered the development of therapeutics based on natural-like IL-6-type cytokines to date, current synthetic trends might pave the way to overcome these limitations and eventually lead to immune-inert designer cytokines to aid type 2 diabetes and brain injuries. Those synthetic biology approaches include mutations, fusion proteins, and inter-cytokine swapping, and resulted in IL-6-type cytokines with altered receptor affinities, extended target cell profiles, and targeting of non-natural cytokine receptor complexes. Here, we survey synthetic cytokine developments within the IL-6-type cytokine family and discuss potential clinical applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jürgen Scheller
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology II, Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine-University, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Julia Ettich
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology II, Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine-University, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Christoph Wittich
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology II, Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine-University, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Silke Pudewell
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology II, Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine-University, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Doreen M Floss
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology II, Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine-University, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Puyan Rafii
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology II, Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine-University, Düsseldorf, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Gardner S, Jin Y, Fyfe PK, Voisin TB, Bellón JS, Pohler E, Piehler J, Moraga I, Bubeck D. Structural insights into IL-11-mediated signalling and human IL6ST variant-associated immunodeficiency. Nat Commun 2024; 15:2071. [PMID: 38453915 PMCID: PMC10920896 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-46235-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024] Open
Abstract
IL-11 and IL-6 activate signalling via assembly of the cell surface receptor gp130; however, it is unclear how signals are transmitted across the membrane to instruct cellular responses. Here we solve the cryoEM structure of the IL-11 receptor recognition complex to discover how differences in gp130-binding interfaces may drive signalling outcomes. We explore how mutations in the IL6ST gene encoding for gp130, which cause severe immune deficiencies in humans, impair signalling without blocking cytokine binding. We use cryoEM to solve structures of both IL-11 and IL-6 complexes with a mutant form of gp130 associated with human disease. Together with molecular dynamics simulations, we show that the disease-associated variant led to an increase in flexibility including motion within the cytokine-binding core and increased distance between extracellular domains. However, these distances are minimized as the transmembrane helix exits the membrane, suggesting a stringency in geometry for signalling and dimmer switch mode of action.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Scott Gardner
- Department of Life Sciences, Sir Ernst Chain Building, Imperial College London, London, SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - Yibo Jin
- Department of Life Sciences, Sir Ernst Chain Building, Imperial College London, London, SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - Paul K Fyfe
- Division of Cell Signalling and Immunology, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Tomas B Voisin
- Department of Life Sciences, Sir Ernst Chain Building, Imperial College London, London, SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - Junel Sotolongo Bellón
- Department of Biology/Chemistry and Centre for Cellular Nanoanalytics, Osnabrück University, Osnabrück, Germany
| | - Elizabeth Pohler
- Division of Cell Signalling and Immunology, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Jacob Piehler
- Department of Biology/Chemistry and Centre for Cellular Nanoanalytics, Osnabrück University, Osnabrück, Germany
| | - Ignacio Moraga
- Division of Cell Signalling and Immunology, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK.
| | - Doryen Bubeck
- Department of Life Sciences, Sir Ernst Chain Building, Imperial College London, London, SW7 2AZ, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Pleiotropic, Unique and Shared Responses Elicited by IL-6 Family Cytokines in Human Vascular Endothelial Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23031448. [PMID: 35163371 PMCID: PMC8836206 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23031448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2021] [Revised: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Vascular endothelial cells express glycoprotein 130 (gp130), which is utilized as a signaling receptor by cytokines in the interleukin-6 (IL-6) family. Several IL-6 family cytokines can be found in the circulatory system during physiological or pathological conditions, and may influence endothelial function and response. This study evaluated and compared the cellular and molecular responses induced by IL-6 family cytokines in human endothelial cells. A proteomic analysis showed that IL-6 family cytokines induce the release of a range of proteins from endothelial cells, such as C-C motif chemokine ligand 23, hepatocyte growth factor, and IL-6. Pathway analysis indicated that gp130-signaling in endothelial cells regulates several functions related to angiogenesis and immune cell recruitment. The present investigation also disclosed differences and similarities between different IL-6 family cytokines in their ability to induce protein release and regulate gene expression and intracellular signaling, in regards to which oncostatin M showed the most pronounced effect. Further, this study showed that soluble gp130 preferentially blocks trans-signaling-induced responses, but does not affect responses induced by classic signaling. In conclusion, IL-6 family cytokines induce both specific and overlapping molecular responses in endothelial cells, and regulate genes and proteins involved in angiogenesis and immune cell recruitment.
Collapse
|
6
|
Heise D, Derrac Soria A, Hansen S, Dambietz C, Akbarzadeh M, Berg AF, Waetzig GH, Jones SA, Dvorsky R, Ahmadian MR, Scheller J, Moll JM. Selective inhibition of IL-6 trans-signaling by a miniaturized, optimized chimeric soluble gp130 inhibits T H17 cell expansion. Sci Signal 2021; 14:eabc3480. [PMID: 34404751 DOI: 10.1126/scisignal.abc3480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
The cytokine interleukin-6 (IL-6) signals through three mechanisms called classic signaling, trans-signaling, and trans-presentation. IL-6 trans-signaling is distinctly mediated through a soluble form of its transmembrane receptor IL-6R (sIL-6R) and the coreceptor gp130 and is implicated in multiple autoimmune diseases. Although a soluble form of gp130 (sgp130) inhibits only IL-6 trans-signaling, it also blocks an analogous trans-signaling mechanism of IL-11 and its soluble receptor sIL-11R. Here, we report miniaturized chimeric soluble gp130 variants that efficiently trap IL-6:sIL-6R but not IL-11:sIL-11R complexes. We designed a novel IL-6 trans-signaling trap by fusing a miniaturized sgp130 variant to an IL-6:sIL-6R complex-binding nanobody and the Fc portion of immunoglobulin G (IgG). This trap, called cs-130Fc, exhibited improved inhibition of as well as increased selectivity for IL-6 trans-signaling compared to the conventional fusion protein sgp130Fc. We introduced affinity-enhancing mutations in cs-130Fc and sgp130Fc that further improved selectivity toward IL-6 trans-signaling. Moreover, cs-130Fc efficiently inhibited the expansion of T helper 17 (TH17) cells in cultures of mouse CD4+ T cells treated with IL-6:sIL-6R. Thus, these variants may provide or lead to the development of more precisely targeted therapeutics for inflammatory disorders associated with IL-6 trans-signaling.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Denise Heise
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology II, Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine-University, Düsseldorf 40225, Germany
| | - Alicia Derrac Soria
- Division of Infection and Immunity, School of Medicine, Systems Immunity University Research Institute, College of Biomedical and Life Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff CF14 4XN, UK
| | - Selina Hansen
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology II, Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine-University, Düsseldorf 40225, Germany
| | - Christine Dambietz
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology II, Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine-University, Düsseldorf 40225, Germany
| | - Mohammad Akbarzadeh
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology II, Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine-University, Düsseldorf 40225, Germany
| | - Anna F Berg
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology II, Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine-University, Düsseldorf 40225, Germany
| | - Georg H Waetzig
- Institute of Clinical Molecular Biology, Kiel University and University Medical Center Schleswig-Holstein, Kiel 24105, Germany
- CONARIS Research Institute AG, Kiel 24118, Germany
| | - Simon A Jones
- Division of Infection and Immunity, School of Medicine, Systems Immunity University Research Institute, College of Biomedical and Life Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff CF14 4XN, UK
| | - Radovan Dvorsky
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology II, Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine-University, Düsseldorf 40225, Germany
| | - Mohammad R Ahmadian
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology II, Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine-University, Düsseldorf 40225, Germany
| | - Jürgen Scheller
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology II, Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine-University, Düsseldorf 40225, Germany.
| | - Jens M Moll
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology II, Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine-University, Düsseldorf 40225, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Emerging roles for the IL-6 family of cytokines in pancreatic cancer. Clin Sci (Lond) 2020; 134:2091-2115. [PMID: 32808663 PMCID: PMC7434989 DOI: 10.1042/cs20191211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2020] [Revised: 07/29/2020] [Accepted: 08/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer has one of the poorest prognoses of all malignancies, with little improvement in clinical outcome over the past 40 years. Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma is responsible for the vast majority of pancreatic cancer cases, and is characterised by the presence of a dense stroma that impacts therapeutic efficacy and drives pro-tumorigenic programs. More specifically, the inflammatory nature of the tumour microenvironment is thought to underlie the loss of anti-tumour immunity and development of resistance to current treatments. Inflammatory pathways are largely mediated by the expression of, and signalling through, cytokines, chemokines, and other cellular messengers. In recent years, there has been much attention focused on dual targeting of cancer cells and the tumour microenvironment. Here we review our current understanding of the role of IL-6, and the broader IL-6 cytokine family, in pancreatic cancer, including their contribution to pancreatic inflammation and various roles in pancreatic cancer pathogenesis. We also summarise potential opportunities for therapeutic targeting of these pathways as an avenue towards combating poor patient outcomes.
Collapse
|
8
|
Lokau J, Garbers C. The length of the interleukin-11 receptor stalk determines its capacity for classic signaling. J Biol Chem 2018; 293:6398-6409. [PMID: 29523682 PMCID: PMC5925790 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.ra118.001879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2018] [Revised: 02/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Interleukin (IL)-11 is a multifunctional cytokine that was traditionally recognized for its hematopoietic and anti-inflammatory functions, but has recently been shown also to be involved in tumorigenesis. IL-11 signaling is initiated by binding of the cytokine to the IL-11 receptor (IL-11R), which is not directly involved in signaling but required for IL-11 binding to the signal-transducing receptor glycoprotein (gp) 130. In classic signaling, IL-11 binds to the membrane-bound IL-11R to initiate signal transduction. Additionally, IL-11 signaling can be initiated via soluble IL-11R, known as trans-signaling, and this pathway only requires the three extracellular domains of the IL-11R, but not stalk, transmembrane, or intracellular region. Here, we analyzed the role of the IL-11R stalk region, a 55 amino acid stretch connecting the extracellular domains with the transmembrane helix, in classic IL-11 signaling with the help of cytokine-dependent cell lines. We showed that the stalk region is crucial for IL-11 signaling via the membrane-bound IL-11R. Using different deletion variants, we found that a minimal length of 23 amino acid residues is required for efficient signal transduction. We further found that classic IL-11 signaling depended solely on the length, but not the sequence, of the IL-11R stalk region, suggesting that the stalk functions as a spacer in the signaling complex. We previously described the IL-11R stalk region as determinant of proteolysis and regulator of IL-11 trans-signaling. The results presented here reveal an additional function in classic IL-11 signaling, highlighting the importance of the IL-11R stalk in IL-11 signaling.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Juliane Lokau
- From the Institute of Biochemistry, Kiel University, 24118 Kiel, Germany
| | - Christoph Garbers
- From the Institute of Biochemistry, Kiel University, 24118 Kiel, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Abstract
The interleukin (IL)-6 family cytokines is a group of cytokines consisting of IL-6, IL-11, ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF), leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF), oncostatin M (OSM), cardiotrophin 1 (CT-1), cardiotrophin-like cytokine (CLC), and IL-27. They are grouped into one family because the receptor complex of each cytokine contains two (IL-6 and IL-11) or one molecule (all others cytokines) of the signaling receptor subunit gp130. IL-6 family cytokines have overlapping but also distinct biologic activities and are involved among others in the regulation of the hepatic acute phase reaction, in B-cell stimulation, in the regulation of the balance between regulatory and effector T cells, in metabolic regulation, and in many neural functions. Blockade of IL-6 family cytokines has been shown to be beneficial in autoimmune diseases, but bacterial infections and metabolic side effects have been observed. Recent advances in cytokine blockade might help to minimize such side effects during therapeutic blockade.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Rose-John
- Institute of Biochemistry, Kiel University, Olshausenstrasse 40, Kiel, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Lokau J, Agthe M, Flynn CM, Garbers C. Proteolytic control of Interleukin-11 and Interleukin-6 biology. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-MOLECULAR CELL RESEARCH 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2017.06.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
|
11
|
Production and characterization of genetically modified human IL-11 variants. Biochim Biophys Acta Gen Subj 2016; 1861:205-217. [PMID: 27884519 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagen.2016.11.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2016] [Revised: 11/02/2016] [Accepted: 11/16/2016] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Interleukin-11 (IL-11) has been expected as a drug on severe thrombocytopenia caused by myelo-suppressive chemotherapy. Whereas, development of IL-11 inhibitor is also expected for a treatment against IL-11 related cancer progression. Here, we will demonstrate the creation of various kinds of genetically modified hIL-11s. Modified vectors were constructed by introducing N- or O-glycosylation site on the region of hIL-11 that does not belong to the core α-helical motif based on the predicted secondary structure. N-terminal (N: between 22 to 23 aa), the first loop (M1:70 to 71 aa), the second loop (M2:114-115 aa), the third loop (M3:160-161 aa) and C-terminal (C: 200- aa) were selected for modification. A large scale production system was established and the characteristics of modified hIL-11s were evaluated. The structure was analyzed by amino acid sequence and composition analysis and CD-spectra. Glycan was assessed by monosaccharide composition analysis. Growth promoting activity and biological stability were analyzed by proliferation of T1165 cells. N-terminal modified proteins were well glycosylated and produced. Growth activity of 3NN with NASNASNAS sequence on N-terminal was about tenfold higher than wild type (WT). Structural and biological stabilities of 3NN were also better than WT and residence time in mouse blood was longer than WT. M1 variants lacked growth activity though they are well glycosylated and secondary structure is very stable. Both of 3NN and OM1 with AAATPAPG on M1 associated with hIL-11R strongly. These results indicate N-terminal and M1 variants will be expected for practical use as potent agonists or antagonists of hIL-11.
Collapse
|
12
|
Generation of Soluble Interleukin-11 and Interleukin-6 Receptors: A Crucial Function for Proteases during Inflammation. Mediators Inflamm 2016; 2016:1785021. [PMID: 27493449 PMCID: PMC4963573 DOI: 10.1155/2016/1785021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2016] [Accepted: 06/14/2016] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The cytokines interleukin-11 (IL-11) and IL-6 are important proteins with well-defined pro- and anti-inflammatory functions. They activate intracellular signaling cascades through a homodimer of the ubiquitously expressed signal-transducing β-receptor glycoprotein 130 (gp130). Specificity is gained through the cell- and tissue-specific expression of the nonsignaling IL-11 and IL-6 α-receptors (IL-11R and IL-6R), which determine the responsiveness of the cell to these two cytokines. IL-6 is a rare example, where its soluble receptor (sIL-6R) has agonistic properties, so that the IL-6/sIL-6R complex is able to activate cells that are usually not responsive to IL-6 alone (trans-signaling). Recent evidence suggests that IL-11 can signal via a similar trans-signaling mechanism. In this review, we highlight similarities and differences in the functions of IL-11 and IL-6. We summarize current knowledge about the generation of the sIL-6R and sIL-11R by different proteases and discuss possible roles during inflammatory processes. Finally, we focus on the selective and/or combined inhibition of IL-6 and IL-11 signaling and how this might translate into the clinics.
Collapse
|
13
|
Lokau J, Nitz R, Agthe M, Monhasery N, Aparicio-Siegmund S, Schumacher N, Wolf J, Möller-Hackbarth K, Waetzig GH, Grötzinger J, Müller-Newen G, Rose-John S, Scheller J, Garbers C. Proteolytic Cleavage Governs Interleukin-11 Trans-signaling. Cell Rep 2016; 14:1761-1773. [PMID: 26876177 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2016.01.053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 108] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2015] [Revised: 12/22/2015] [Accepted: 01/14/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Interleukin (IL)-11 has been shown to be a crucial factor for intestinal tumorigenesis, lung carcinomas, and asthma. IL-11 is thought to exclusively mediate its biological functions through cell-type-specific expression of the membrane-bound IL-11 receptor (IL-11R). Here, we show that the metalloprotease ADAM10, but not ADAM17, can release the IL-11R ectodomain. Chimeric proteins of the IL-11R and the IL-6 receptor (IL-6R) revealed that a small juxtamembrane portion is responsible for this substrate specificity of ADAM17. Furthermore, we show that the serine proteases neutrophil elastase and proteinase 3 can also cleave the IL-11R. The resulting soluble IL-11R (sIL-11R) is biologically active and binds IL-11 to activate cells. This IL-11 trans-signaling pathway can be inhibited specifically by the anti-inflammatory therapeutic compound sgp130Fc. In conclusion, proteolysis of the IL-11R represents a molecular switch that controls the IL-11 trans-signaling pathway and widens the number of cells that can be activated by IL-11.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Juliane Lokau
- Institute of Biochemistry, Kiel University, 24098 Kiel, Germany
| | - Rebecca Nitz
- Medical Faculty, Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology II, Heinrich-Heine-University, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Maria Agthe
- Institute of Biochemistry, Kiel University, 24098 Kiel, Germany
| | - Niloufar Monhasery
- Medical Faculty, Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology II, Heinrich-Heine-University, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | | | | | - Janina Wolf
- Institute of Biochemistry, Kiel University, 24098 Kiel, Germany
| | | | | | | | - Gerhard Müller-Newen
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, RWTH Aachen, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | | | - Jürgen Scheller
- Medical Faculty, Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology II, Heinrich-Heine-University, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany.
| | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
Schrage R, De Min A, Hochheiser K, Kostenis E, Mohr K. Superagonism at G protein-coupled receptors and beyond. Br J Pharmacol 2015; 173:3018-27. [PMID: 26276510 DOI: 10.1111/bph.13278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2015] [Revised: 07/01/2015] [Accepted: 08/08/2015] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Ligands targeting GPCRs can be categorized according to their intrinsic efficacy to trigger a specific, receptor-mediated response. A ligand endowed with the same level of efficacy as the endogenous agonist can be classified as a full agonist, whereas a compound that displays greater efficacy, that is, higher receptor signalling output than the endogenous agonist, can be called a superagonist. Subsequent to GPCR activation, an intracellular signalling cascade is set in motion, which may generate substantial amplification of the signal. This may obscure superagonism in pharmacological assays and, therefore, the definition of superagonism necessitates a combination of operational approaches, reduction of spare receptors or estimation of receptor activation close to the receptor level to quantify relative agonist efficacies in a particular system. The first part of this review will compare GPCR superagonism with superagonism in the field of immunology, where this term is well established. In the second part, known GPCR superagonists will be reviewed. Then, the experimental and analytical challenges in the deconvolution of GPCR superagonism will be addressed. Finally, the potential benefit of superagonism is discussed. The molecular mechanisms behind GPCR superagonism are not completely understood. However, crystallography shows that agonist binding alone is not sufficient for a fully active receptor state and that binding of the G protein is at least equally important. Accordingly, the emerging number of reported superagonists implies that ligand-induced receptor conformations more active than the ones stabilized by the endogenous agonist are indeed feasible. Superagonists may have therapeutic potential when receptor function is impaired or to induce negative feedback mechanisms. Linked Articles This article is part of a themed section on Molecular Pharmacology of G Protein-Coupled Receptors. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v173.20/issuetoc.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- R Schrage
- Pharmacology & Toxicology Section, Institute of Pharmacy, University of Bonn, 53121, Bonn, Germany.
| | - A De Min
- Pharmacology & Toxicology Section, Institute of Pharmacy, University of Bonn, 53121, Bonn, Germany
| | - K Hochheiser
- Peter Doherty Institute, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, 3100, Australia
| | - E Kostenis
- Molecular-, Cellular-, and Pharmacobiology Section, Institute of Pharmaceutical Biology, University of Bonn, 53115, Bonn, Germany
| | - K Mohr
- Pharmacology & Toxicology Section, Institute of Pharmacy, University of Bonn, 53121, Bonn, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Abstract
Interleukin-6 is a cytokine involved in the regulation of the immune system and the central nervous system. Interleukin-6 binds to an interleukin-6 receptor, and then associates with a dimer of the ubiquitously expressed gp130 receptor subunit, which initiates intracellular signaling. The interleukin-6 receptor is found in a soluble form, which is generated by proteolytic cleavage and also to a minor extent by translation from an alternatively spliced mRNA. The complex of interleukin-6 bound to the interleukin-6 receptor can stimulate cells, which only express gp130. Such cells are not responsive to interleukin-6 alone. We have for the first time identified the molecular basis of pro-and anti-inflammatory properties of interleukin-6 and we have defined the generation of the soluble IL-6R as a crucial point in the regulation between these two properties. Furthermore, we have deduced a therapeutic principle, which enables us to exclusively block the pro-inflammatory activities of this important cytokine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Rose-John
- Department of Biochemistry, Christian-Albrechts-Universität zu Kiel, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Garbers C, Aparicio-Siegmund S, Rose-John S. The IL-6/gp130/STAT3 signaling axis: recent advances towards specific inhibition. Curr Opin Immunol 2015; 34:75-82. [PMID: 25749511 DOI: 10.1016/j.coi.2015.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 328] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2014] [Revised: 02/12/2015] [Accepted: 02/15/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Interleukin-6 has long been recognized as a prototypic pro-inflammatory cytokine that is involved in the pathogenesis of all inflammatory diseases. Activation of the gp130 homodimer by IL-6 leads to the initiation of Jak/STAT signaling, a pathway that is often constitutively switched on in inflammatory malignancies. However, a plethora of studies in the last decade has convincingly shown that only signaling via the soluble IL-6R (trans-signaling) accounts for the deleterious effects of IL-6, whereas classic signaling via the membrane-bound receptor is essential for the regenerative and anti-bacterial effects of IL-6 (classic signaling). In this review, we highlight recent developments in the field of IL-6 research, and specifically focus on advances towards a safe and specific inhibition of IL-6 trans-signaling.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christoph Garbers
- Institute of Biochemistry, Kiel University, Olshausenstrasse 40, Kiel, Germany
| | | | - Stefan Rose-John
- Institute of Biochemistry, Kiel University, Olshausenstrasse 40, Kiel, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Keupp K, Li Y, Vargel I, Hoischen A, Richardson R, Neveling K, Alanay Y, Uz E, Elcioğlu N, Rachwalski M, Kamaci S, Tunçbilek G, Akin B, Grötzinger J, Konas E, Mavili E, Müller-Newen G, Collmann H, Roscioli T, Buckley MF, Yigit G, Gilissen C, Kress W, Veltman J, Hammerschmidt M, Akarsu NA, Wollnik B. Mutations in the interleukin receptor IL11RA cause autosomal recessive Crouzon-like craniosynostosis. Mol Genet Genomic Med 2013; 1:223-37. [PMID: 24498618 PMCID: PMC3865590 DOI: 10.1002/mgg3.28] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2013] [Revised: 06/21/2013] [Accepted: 06/24/2013] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
We have characterized a novel autosomal recessive Crouzon-like craniosynostosis syndrome in a 12-affected member family from Antakya, Turkey, the presenting features of which include: multiple suture synostosis, midface hypoplasia, variable degree of exophthalmos, relative prognathism, a beaked nose, and conductive hearing loss. Homozygosity mapping followed by targeted next-generation sequencing identified a c.479+6T>G mutation in the interleukin 11 receptor alpha gene (IL11RA) on chromosome 9p21. This donor splice-site mutation leads to a high percentage of aberrant IL11RA mRNA transcripts in an affected individual and altered mRNA splicing determined by in vitro exon trapping. An extended IL11RA mutation screen was performed in a cohort of 79 patients with an initial clinical diagnosis of Crouzon syndrome, pansynostosis, or unclassified syndromic craniosynostosis. We identified mutations segregating with the disease in five families: a German patient of Turkish origin and a Turkish family with three affected sibs all of whom were homozygous for the previously identified IL11RA c.479+6T>G mutation; a family with pansynostosis with compound heterozygous missense mutations, p.Pro200Thr and p.Arg237Pro; and two further Turkish families with Crouzon-like syndrome carrying the homozygous nonsense mutations p.Tyr232* and p.Arg292*. Using transient coexpression in HEK293T and COS7 cells, we demonstrated dramatically reduced IL11-mediated STAT3 phosphorylation for all mutations. Immunofluorescence analysis of mouse Il11ra demonstrated specific protein expression in cranial mesenchyme which was localized around the coronal suture tips and in the lambdoidal suture. In situ hybridization analysis of adult zebrafish also detected zfil11ra expression in the coronal suture between the overlapping frontal and parietal plates. This study demonstrates that mutations in the IL11RA gene cause an autosomal recessive Crouzon-like craniosynostosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katharina Keupp
- Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University of Cologne 50931, Cologne, Germany ; Institute of Human Genetics, University of Cologne 50931, Cologne, Germany ; Cologne Excellence Cluster on Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases (CECAD), University of Cologne 50931, Cologne, Germany
| | - Yun Li
- Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University of Cologne 50931, Cologne, Germany ; Institute of Human Genetics, University of Cologne 50931, Cologne, Germany ; Cologne Excellence Cluster on Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases (CECAD), University of Cologne 50931, Cologne, Germany
| | - Ibrahim Vargel
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Hacettepe University Medical Faculty 06100, Ankara, Turkey ; Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Medical Faculty, Kirikkale University 71100, Kirikkale, Turkey
| | - Alexander Hoischen
- Department of Human Genetics, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre 6500HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Rebecca Richardson
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Bristol BS8 1TD Bristol, U.K
| | - Kornelia Neveling
- Department of Human Genetics, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre 6500HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Yasemin Alanay
- Department of Pediatrics, Pediatric Genetics Unit, Hacettepe University Medical Faculty 06100, Ankara, Turkey ; Department of Pediatrics, Pediatric Genetics Unit, Acibadem University 34457, İstanbul, Turkey
| | - Elif Uz
- Department of Medical Genetics, Gene Mapping Laboratory, Hacettepe University Medical Faculty 06100, Ankara, Turkey ; Department of Biology, Duzce University 81620, Duzce, Turkey
| | - Nursel Elcioğlu
- Department of Pediatric Genetics, Marmara University Medical Faculty 34668, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Martin Rachwalski
- Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University of Cologne 50931, Cologne, Germany ; Institute of Human Genetics, University of Cologne 50931, Cologne, Germany
| | - Soner Kamaci
- Department of Orthodontics, Hacettepe University Faculty of Dentistry 06100, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Gökhan Tunçbilek
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Hacettepe University Medical Faculty 06100, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Burcu Akin
- Department of Medical Genetics, Gene Mapping Laboratory, Hacettepe University Medical Faculty 06100, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Joachim Grötzinger
- Medical Faculty, Institute of Biochemistry, University of Kiel 24118, Kiel, Germany
| | - Ersoy Konas
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Hacettepe University Medical Faculty 06100, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Emin Mavili
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Hacettepe University Medical Faculty 06100, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Gerhard Müller-Newen
- Medical Faculty, Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, RWTH Aachen University 52074, Aachen, Germany
| | - Hartmut Collmann
- Department for Neurosurgery, Medical Faculty, University of Würzburg 97070, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Tony Roscioli
- Department of Human Genetics, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre 6500HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands ; Department of Haematology and Genetics, South Eastern Area Laboratory Services 2031, Sydney, Australia
| | - Michael F Buckley
- Department of Human Genetics, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre 6500HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands ; Department of Haematology and Genetics, South Eastern Area Laboratory Services 2031, Sydney, Australia
| | - Gökhan Yigit
- Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University of Cologne 50931, Cologne, Germany ; Institute of Human Genetics, University of Cologne 50931, Cologne, Germany ; Cologne Excellence Cluster on Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases (CECAD), University of Cologne 50931, Cologne, Germany
| | - Christian Gilissen
- Department of Human Genetics, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre 6500HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Wolfram Kress
- Medical Faculty, Institute of Human Genetics, University of Würzburg 97047, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Joris Veltman
- Department of Human Genetics, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre 6500HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Matthias Hammerschmidt
- Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University of Cologne 50931, Cologne, Germany ; Cologne Excellence Cluster on Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases (CECAD), University of Cologne 50931, Cologne, Germany ; Institute of Developmental Biology, University of Cologne 50674, Cologne, Germany
| | - Nurten A Akarsu
- Department of Medical Genetics, Gene Mapping Laboratory, Hacettepe University Medical Faculty 06100, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Bernd Wollnik
- Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University of Cologne 50931, Cologne, Germany ; Institute of Human Genetics, University of Cologne 50931, Cologne, Germany ; Cologne Excellence Cluster on Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases (CECAD), University of Cologne 50931, Cologne, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
|
19
|
Garbers C, Hermanns HM, Schaper F, Müller-Newen G, Grötzinger J, Rose-John S, Scheller J. Plasticity and cross-talk of interleukin 6-type cytokines. Cytokine Growth Factor Rev 2012; 23:85-97. [PMID: 22595692 DOI: 10.1016/j.cytogfr.2012.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 311] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2012] [Accepted: 04/06/2012] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Interleukin (IL)-6-type cytokines are critically involved in health and disease. The duration and strength of IL-6-type cytokine-mediated signaling is tightly regulated to avoid overshooting activities. Here, molecular mechanisms of inter-familiar cytokine cross-talk are reviewed which regulate dynamics and strength of IL-6 signal transduction. Both plasticity and cytokine cross-talk are significantly involved in pro- and anti-inflammatory/regenerative properties of IL-6-type cytokines. Furthermore, we focus on IL-6-type cytokine/cytokine receptor plasticity and cross-talk exemplified by the recently identified composite cytokines IL-30/IL-6R and IL-35, the first inter-familiar IL-6/IL-12 family member. The complete understanding of the intra- and extracellular cytokine networks will aid to develop novel tailor-made therapeutic strategies with reduced side effects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christoph Garbers
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology II, Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine University, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
Dams-Kozlowska H, Gryska K, Kwiatkowska-Borowczyk E, Izycki D, Rose-John S, Mackiewicz A. A designer hyper interleukin 11 (H11) is a biologically active cytokine. BMC Biotechnol 2012; 12:8. [PMID: 22433466 PMCID: PMC3382428 DOI: 10.1186/1472-6750-12-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2011] [Accepted: 03/21/2012] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Interleukin 11 (IL-11) is a pleiotropic cytokine with anti-apoptotic, anti-inflammatory and hematopoietic potential. The IL-11 activity is determined by the expression of the IL-11R receptor alpha (IL-11Rα) and the signal transducing subunit β (gp130) on the cell membrane. A recombinant soluble form of the IL-11Rα (sIL-11Rα) in combination with IL-11 acts as an agonist on cells expressing the gp130 molecule. We constructed a designer cytokine Hyper IL-11 (H11), which is exclusively composed of naturally existing components. It contains the full length sIL-11Rα connected with the mature IL-11 protein using their natural sequences only. Such a construct has two major advantages: (i) its components are as close as possible to the natural forms of both proteins and (ii) it lacks an artificial linker what should avoid induction of antibody production. Results The H11 construct was generated, the protein was produced in a baculovirus expression system and was then purified by using ion exchange chromatography. The H11 protein displayed activity in three independent bioassays, (i) it induced acute phase proteins production in HepG2 cells expressing IL-11, IL-11Rα and gp130, (ii) it stimulated the proliferation of B9 cells (cells expressing IL-11Rα and gp130) and (iii) proliferation of Baf/3-gp130 cells (cells not expressing IL-11 and IL-11Rα but gp130). Moreover, the preliminary data indicated that H11 was functionally distinct from Hyper-IL-6, a molecule which utilizes the same homodimer of signal transducing receptor (gp130). Conclusions The biologically active H11 may be potentially useful for treatment of thrombocytopenia, infertility, multiple sclerosis, cardiovascular diseases or inflammatory disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hanna Dams-Kozlowska
- Department of Cancer Diagnostics and Immunology, Greater Poland Cancer Centre, 15 Garbary St, 61-866 Poznan, Poland.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
21
|
Suchorska WM, Dams-Kozlowska H, Kazimierczak U, Wysocki PJ, Mackiewicz A. Hyper-interleukin-11 novel designer molecular adjuvant targeting gp130 for whole cell cancer vaccines. Expert Opin Biol Ther 2011; 11:1555-67. [PMID: 21995459 DOI: 10.1517/14712598.2011.627852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hyper-IL-11 (H11) is a fusion protein comprising IL-11 and soluble IL-11 receptor directly targeting gp130. We evaluated efficacy of H11 as a molecular adjuvant in therapeutic whole tumor cell vaccine formulation. METHODS H11 was tested in ectopic and orthotopic murine renal cell carcinoma (RENCA) models. H11 cDNA was transduced into RENCA cells (RENCA-H11). Mice were immunized with RENCA-H11 or control vaccine (RENCA-IRR) in prophylactic, adjuvant and therapeutic settings. Tumor formation, survival and immune mechanisms activated by H11 were studied. RESULTS Biologically active H11 was secreted by RENCA-H11 cells. Immunization with RENCA-H11 resulted in mounting specific anti-RENCA response. Treatment of tumor bearing mice in adjuvant setting prevented disease recurrence in therapeutic setting eradicated tumors. In induction phase H11 inhibited T-regulatory cell formation and activated recruitment and maturation of dendritic cells. Downstream of immunization tumors were densely infiltrated by CD8(+), CD4(+), NK cells, cells expressing CD8(+)CD69(+) and CD4(+)CD62L(low). CONCLUSIONS H11 is a good candidate for adjuvant of whole tumor cell vaccines. Direct targeting of gp130 leads to induction of specific and long lasting anticancer immune response. Enhancement of tumor antigen presentation, abrogation of immune tolerance, and activation of NK cells and generation of memory cells lead to eradication of existing tumors.
Collapse
|
22
|
Overexpression of a splice variant of oncostatin M receptor beta in human esophageal squamous carcinoma. Cell Oncol (Dordr) 2011; 34:177-87. [DOI: 10.1007/s13402-011-0011-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/19/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
|
23
|
Yanaka S, 谷 中, Sano E, 佐 野, Naruse N, 成 瀬, Miura KI, 三 浦, Futatsumori-Sugai M, 二 ツ, Caaveiro JMM, Tsumoto K, 津 本. Non-core region modulates interleukin-11 signaling activity: generation of agonist and antagonist variants. J Biol Chem 2010; 286:8085-8093. [PMID: 21138838 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m110.152561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Human interleukin-11 (hIL-11) is a pleiotropic cytokine administered to patients with low platelet counts. From a structural point of view hIL-11 belongs to the long-helix cytokine superfamily, which is characterized by a conserved core motif consisting of four α-helices. We have investigated the region of hIL-11 that does not belong to the α-helical bundle motif, and that for the purpose of brevity we have termed "non-core region." The primary sequence of the interleukin was altered at various locations within the non-core region by introducing glycosylation sites. Functional consequences of these modifications were examined in cell-based as well as biophysical assays. Overall, the data indicated that the non-core region modulates the function of hIL-11 in two ways. First, the majority of muteins displayed enhanced cell-stimulatory properties (superagonist behavior) in a glycosylation-dependent manner, suggesting that the non-core region is biologically designed to limit the full potential of hIL-11. Second, specific modification of a predicted mini α-helix led to cytokine inactivation, demonstrating that this putative structural element belongs to site III engaging a second copy of cell-receptor gp130. These findings have unveiled new and unexpected elements modulating the biological activity of hIL-11, which may be exploited to develop more versatile medications based on this important cytokine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Saeko Yanaka
- From the Department of Medical Genome Science, School of Frontier Sciences, and
| | - 中冴子 谷
- From the Department of Medical Genome Science, School of Frontier Sciences, and
| | - Emiko Sano
- From the Department of Medical Genome Science, School of Frontier Sciences, and; The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Kashiwa 277-8562 and
| | - 野恵海子 佐
- From the Department of Medical Genome Science, School of Frontier Sciences, and; The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Kashiwa 277-8562 and
| | | | - 瀬紀男 成
- Proteios Inc., Kamakura, 248-8555, Japan
| | - Kin-Ichiro Miura
- From the Department of Medical Genome Science, School of Frontier Sciences, and
| | - 浦謹一郎 三
- From the Department of Medical Genome Science, School of Frontier Sciences, and
| | | | - ツ森ー菅井睦美 二
- From the Department of Medical Genome Science, School of Frontier Sciences, and
| | - Jose M M Caaveiro
- From the Department of Medical Genome Science, School of Frontier Sciences, and; The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Kashiwa 277-8562 and
| | - Kouhei Tsumoto
- From the Department of Medical Genome Science, School of Frontier Sciences, and; The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Kashiwa 277-8562 and.
| | - 本浩平 津
- From the Department of Medical Genome Science, School of Frontier Sciences, and; The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Kashiwa 277-8562 and
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Rose-John S, Schooltink H. Cytokines are a therapeutic target for the prevention of inflammation-induced cancers. RECENT RESULTS IN CANCER RESEARCH. FORTSCHRITTE DER KREBSFORSCHUNG. PROGRES DANS LES RECHERCHES SUR LE CANCER 2007; 174:57-66. [PMID: 17302185 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-540-37696-5_5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Interleukin-6 (IL-6) is an inflammatory cytokine with a well-documented role in cancer. The cytokine binds to a membrane-bound IL-6 receptor (IL-6R) and this complex associates with two molecules of the signal transducing protein gp130, initiating intracellular signaling. Whereas gp130 is expressed on all cells of the body, the IL-6R is only found on some cells, mainly hepatocytes and several leukocytes. Cells, which only express gp130 and no IL-6R, cannot respond to IL-6. We have shown that the IL-6R exists as a soluble protein generated by limited proteolysis of the membrane-bound receptor or by translation from an alternatively spliced mRNA. The complex of soluble IL-6R (sIL-6R) and IL-6 can bind to gp130 on cells that lack the membrane-bound IL-6R and trigger gp130 signaling. We have named this process trans-signaling. We review data that show that IL-6 uses classical signaling via the membrane-bound receptor and trans-signaling via the soluble receptor in physiological and pathophysiological situations. We have developed designer cytokines, which specifically enhance or inhibit IL-6 trans-signaling. These designer cytokines have been shown to be extremely useful in therapeutic applications such as blockade of chronic inflammation and cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Rose-John
- Biochemisches Institut, Christian-Albrechts-Universität zu Kiel, Germany
| | | |
Collapse
|
25
|
Diveu C, Venereau E, Froger J, Ravon E, Grimaud L, Rousseau F, Chevalier S, Gascan H. Molecular and Functional Characterization of a Soluble Form of Oncostatin M/Interleukin-31 Shared Receptor. J Biol Chem 2006; 281:36673-82. [PMID: 17028186 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m607005200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Activation of the signaling transduction pathways mediated by oncostatin M (OSM) requires the binding of the cytokine to either type I OSM receptor (leukemia inhibitory factor receptor/gp130) or to type II OSM receptor (OSMR/gp130). In the present work we have developed an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay detecting a soluble form of OSMR (sOSMR) secreted by glioblastoma, hepatoma, and melanoma tumor cell lines. sOSMR was also present in sera of healthy individuals, with increased levels in multiple myeloma. Molecular cloning of a corresponding cDNA was carried out, and it encoded for a 70-kDa protein consisting of a half cytokine binding domain containing the canonical WSXWS motif, an immunoglobulin-like domain, and the first half of a second cytokine binding domain with cysteines in fixed positions. Analysis of the soluble receptor distribution revealed a preferential expression in lung, liver, pancreas, and placenta. sOSMR was able to bind OSM and interleukin-31 when associated to soluble gp130 or soluble interleukin-31R, respectively, and to neutralize both cytokine properties. We have also shown that OSM could positively regulate the synthesis of its own soluble receptor in tumor cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Diveu
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, U564, F-49033 Angers, France
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
26
|
Abstract
Interleukin-6 (IL-6) is a cytokine, which plays an important role in many chronic inflammatory diseases. IL-6 belongs to a family of 10 cytokines, which all act via receptor complexes containing the cytokine receptor subunit gp130. On cells, IL-6 first binds to a specific membrane-bound IL-6R and the complex of IL-6 and IL-6R interacts with gp130 leading to signal initiation. Whereas gp130 is widely expressed throughout the body, the IL-6R is only found on some cells including hepatocytes and some leucocytes. A soluble form of the IL-6R is an agonist capable of transmitting signals through interaction with the gp130 protein. In vivo, the IL-6/soluble IL-6R complex stimulates several types of target cells, which are unresponsive to IL-6 alone, as they do not express the membrane-bound IL-6R. We have named this process trans-signalling. We provided evidence that a soluble form of the IL-6 family signalling receptor subunit gp130 is the natural inhibitor of IL-6 trans-signalling responses. We showed that in chronic inflammatory diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease, peritonitis, rheumatoid arthritis, asthma as well as in colon cancer, IL-6 trans-signalling is critically involved in the maintenance of the disease state. Moreover, in all these animal models, the progression of the disease can be interrupted by specifically interfering with IL-6 trans-signalling using recombinant-soluble gp130Fc protein. The pathophysiologic mechanisms by which the IL-6/soluble IL-6R complex perpetuates the inflammatory state are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J Scheller
- Biochemisches Institut, Christian-Albrechts-Universität zu Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
27
|
Mortier E, Quéméner A, Vusio P, Lorenzen I, Boublik Y, Grötzinger J, Plet A, Jacques Y. Soluble interleukin-15 receptor alpha (IL-15R alpha)-sushi as a selective and potent agonist of IL-15 action through IL-15R beta/gamma. Hyperagonist IL-15 x IL-15R alpha fusion proteins. J Biol Chem 2005; 281:1612-9. [PMID: 16284400 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m508624200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 245] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Interleukin-15 (IL-15) is crucial for the generation of multiple lymphocyte subsets (natural killer (NK), NK-T cells, and memory CD8 T cells), and transpresentation of IL-15 by monocytes and dendritic cells has been suggested to be the dominant activating process of these lymphocytes. We have previously shown that a natural soluble form of IL-15R alpha chain corresponding to the entire extracellular domain of IL-15R alpha behaves as a high affinity IL-15 antagonist. In sharp contrast with this finding, we demonstrate in this report that a recombinant, soluble sushi domain of IL-15R alpha, which bears most of the binding affinity for IL-15, behaves as a potent IL-15 agonist by enhancing its binding and biological effects (proliferation and protection from apoptosis) through the IL-15R beta/gamma heterodimer, whereas it does not affect IL-15 binding and function of the tripartite IL-15R alpha/beta/gamma membrane receptor. Our results suggest that, if naturally produced, such soluble sushi domains might be involved in the IL-15 transpresentation mechanism. Fusion proteins (RLI and ILR), in which IL-15 and IL-15R alpha-sushi are attached by a flexible linker, are even more potent than the combination of IL-15 plus sIL-15R alpha-sushi. After binding to IL-15R beta/gamma, RLI is internalized and induces a biological response very similar to the IL-15 high affinity response. Such hyper-IL-15 fusion proteins appear to constitute potent adjuvants for the expansion of lymphocyte subsets.
Collapse
MESH Headings
- Animals
- CHO Cells
- Cell Line, Tumor
- Cricetinae
- Dimerization
- Humans
- Interleukin Receptor Common gamma Subunit
- Interleukin-15/chemistry
- Interleukin-15/pharmacology
- Interleukin-2 Receptor beta Subunit
- Kinetics
- Leukemia, Erythroblastic, Acute
- Models, Molecular
- Protein Binding
- Protein Structure, Secondary
- Receptors, Interleukin/physiology
- Receptors, Interleukin-15
- Receptors, Interleukin-2/agonists
- Receptors, Interleukin-2/chemistry
- Receptors, Interleukin-2/physiology
- Recombinant Fusion Proteins/chemistry
- Recombinant Fusion Proteins/metabolism
- Recombinant Fusion Proteins/pharmacology
- Transfection
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Erwan Mortier
- INSERM, U601, Groupe de Recherche Cytokines et Récepteurs, Institut de Biologie, Nantes F-44093, France
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
28
|
Jones SA, Richards PJ, Scheller J, Rose-John S. IL-6 transsignaling: the in vivo consequences. J Interferon Cytokine Res 2005; 25:241-53. [PMID: 15871661 DOI: 10.1089/jir.2005.25.241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 196] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Cytokine receptors exist in membrane-bound and soluble forms. They bind their ligands with comparable affinity. Although most soluble receptors are antagonists because they compete with their membrane counterparts for their ligands, some soluble receptors are agonists. In this case, on target cells, the complex of cytokine and soluble cytokine receptor binds to a second receptor subunit and initiates intracellular signal transduction. The soluble receptors of the interleukin-6 (IL-6) family of cytokines--soluble IL-6 receptor (sIL-6R), sIL-11R, and soluble ciliary neurotrophic factor receptor (sCNTFR)--are agonists. In vivo, the IL-6/sIL-6R complex stimulates several types of target cells not stimulated by IL-6 alone, as they do not express the membrane- bound IL-6R. This process has been named transsignaling. We have shown recently that in several chronic inflammatory diseases, such as chronic inflammatory bowl disease, peritonitis, and rheumatoid arthritis, as well as in colon cancer, transsignaling via the sIL-6R complexed to IL-6 is a crucial point in the maintenance of the disease. The mechanism by which the IL-6/sIL-6R complex regulates the inflammatory or neoplastic state is discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Simon A Jones
- Cardiff School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff CF10 3US, Wales, UK
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
29
|
Kallen KJ, Galle PR, Rose-John S. New developments in IL-6 dependent biology and therapy: where do we stand and what are the options? Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2005; 8:1327-49. [PMID: 15992152 DOI: 10.1517/13543784.8.9.1327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Interleukin-6 (IL-6) is a four-helical protein which, on target cells, binds to a specific IL-6-receptor and two molecules of the promiscuous signal transducing protein gp130. Structure-function analysis defined three molecular contact sites between IL-6 and its receptor subunits. Using this information, competitive antagonistic proteins as well as hyperagonistic proteins were developed. Possible therapeutic applications of IL-6 antagonists are in IL-6 dependent haematological disorders (Castleman's disease, POEMS syndrome, multiple myeloma) and bone diseases (Paget's disease, osteoporosis). Designer IL-6 antagonists could suppress inflammatory activity in rheumatic and autoimmune diseases and could prevent secondary amyloidosis. IL-6 antagonists could also prove advantageous in myocardial infarction and unstable angina pectoris. IL-6 antagonists might slow down development of (mesangioproliferative) glomerulonephritis. On the other hand, hyperagonistic variants of IL-6 have a potential in ex vivo expansion of bone marrow stem cells and as thrombopoietic agents. They might also be developed into drugs to support liver regeneration in vivo and to treat stress-induced cardiac insufficiency.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- K J Kallen
- Medizinische Klinik, Abteilung Pathophysiology Johannes Gutenberg Universität Mainz, Obere Zahlbacher Str. 63, D-55101 Mainz, Germany
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
30
|
Sun Y, Pia M, Uwe O, Ge JG, Stefan RJ. Expression of a fusion protein of human ciliary neurotrophic factor and soluble CNTF-receptor and identification of its activity. JOURNAL OF ZHEJIANG UNIVERSITY. SCIENCE 2003; 4:340-345. [PMID: 12765290 DOI: 10.1631/jzus.2003.0340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) has pleiotropic actions on many neuronal populations as well as on glia. Signal transduction by CNTF requires that it bind first to CNTF-R, permitting the recruitment of gp130 and LIF-R, forming a tripartite receptor complex. Cells that only express gp130 and LIF-R, but not CNTF-R are refractory to stimulation by CNTF. On many target cells CNTF only acts in the presence of its specific agonistic soluble receptors. We engineered a soluble fusion protein by linking the COOH-terminus of sCNTF-R to the NH2-terminus of CNTF. Recombinant CNTF/sCNTF-R fusion protein (Hyper-CNTF) was successfully expressed in COS-7 cells. The apparent molecular mass of the Hyper-CNTF protein was estimated from western blots to be 75 kDa. Proliferation assays of transfected BAF/3 cells in response to CNTF and Hyper-CNTF were used to verify the activity of the cytokines. The proliferative results confirmed that CNTF required homodimerization of the gp130, CNTF-R and LIF-R receptor subunit whereas Hyper-CNTF required heterodimerization of the gp130 and LIF-R receptor subunit. We concluded that the fusion protein Hyper-CNTF had superagonistic activity on target cells expressing gp130 and LIF-R, but lacking membrane-bound CNTF-R.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yi Sun
- College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, China.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
31
|
März P, Ozbek S, Fischer M, Voltz N, Otten U, Rose-John S. Differential response of neuronal cells to a fusion protein of ciliary neurotrophic factor/soluble CNTF-receptor and leukemia inhibitory factor. EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF BIOCHEMISTRY 2002; 269:3023-31. [PMID: 12071967 DOI: 10.1046/j.1432-1033.2002.02977.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) displays neurotrophic activities on motor neurons and neural cell populations both in vivo and in vitro. On target cells lacking intrinsic expression of specific receptor alpha subunits cytokines of the IL-6 family only act in the presence of their specific agonistic soluble receptors. Here, we report the construction and expression of a CNTF/soluble CNTF-receptor (sCNTF-R) fusion protein (Hyper-CNTF) with enhanced biological activity on cells expressing gp130 and leukemia inhibitory factor receptor (LIF-R), but not membrane-bound CNTF-R. At the cDNA level, the C-terminus of the extracellular domain of human CNTF-R (amino acids 1-346) was linked via a single glycine residue to the N-terminus of human CNTF (amino acids 1-186). Recombinant Hyper-CNTF protein was expressed in COS-7 cells. Hyper-CNTF efficiently induced dose-dependent STAT3 phosphorylation and proliferation of BAF-3 cells stably transfected with gp130 and LIF-R cDNAs. While on BAF3/gp130/LIF-R cells, Hyper-CNTF and LIF exhibited similar biological responses, the activity of Hyper-CNTF on pheochromocytoma cells (PC12 cells) was quite distinct from that of LIF. In contrast to LIF, Hyper-CNTF stimulated neurite outgrowth of PC12 cells in a time- and dose-dependent manner correlating with the ability to phosphorylate MAP kinases. These data indicate that although LIF and Hyper-CNTF use the same heterodimeric receptor complex of gp130 and LIFR, only Hyper-CNTF induces neuronal differentiation. The therapeutic potential of Hyper-CNTF as a superagonistic neurotrophin is discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pia März
- Department of Physiology, University of Basel, Switzerland.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
32
|
Guillet C, Lelièvre E, Plun-Favreau H, Froger J, Chabbert M, Hermann J, Benoit de Coignac A, Bonnefoy JY, Gascan H, Gauchat JF, Elson G. Functionally active fusion protein of the novel composite cytokine CLC/soluble CNTF receptor. EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF BIOCHEMISTRY 2002; 269:1932-41. [PMID: 11952795 DOI: 10.1046/j.1432-1033.2002.02850.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The heterodimeric cytokine composed of the soluble ciliary neurotrophic factor receptor (sCNTFR) and the IL-6 family member cardiotrophin-like cytokine (CLC) was recently identified as a new ligand for gp130-leukemia inhibitory factor receptor (LIFR) complex [Plun-Favreau, H., Elson, G., Chabbert, M., Froger, J., deLapeyriere, O., Lelievre, E., Guillet, C., Hermann, J., Gauchat, J. F., Gascan, H. & Chevalier, S. (2001) EMBO J. 20, 1692-1703]. This heterodimer shows overlapping biological properties with LIF. Although CLC contains a putative signal peptide and therefore should enter into the classical secretory pathway, the protein has been shown to be retained within transfected mammalian cells, unless coexpressed with either sCNTFR or cytokine like factor (CLF) [Elson, G. C., Lelievre, E., Guillet, C., Chevalier, S., Plun-Favreau, H., Froger, J., Suard, I., de Coignac, A. B., Delneste, Y., Bonnefoy, J. Y., Gauchat, J. F. & Gascan, H. (2000) Nat. Neurosci. 3, 867-872]. In the present study, we demonstrate that a fusion protein comprising CLC covalently coupled through a glycine/serine linker to sCNTFR (CC-FP) is efficiently secreted from transfected mammalian cells. CC-FP shows enhanced activities in respect to the CLC/sCNTFR native complex, on a number of cells expressing gp130 and LIFR on their surface. In addition, CC-FP is able to compete with CNTF for cell binding, indicating that both cytokines share binding epitope(s) expressed by their receptor complex. Analysis of the downstream signaling events revealed the recruitment by CC-FP of the signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT)-3, Akt and mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase pathways. The monomeric bioactive CLC/sCNTFR fusion protein is therefore a powerful tool to study the biological role of the recently described cytokine CLC.
Collapse
|
33
|
Wang XM, Wilkin JM, Boisteau O, Harmegnies D, Blanc C, Vandenbussche P, Montero-Julian FA, Jacques Y, Content J. Engineering and use of (32)P-labeled human recombinant interleukin-11 for receptor binding studies. EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF BIOCHEMISTRY 2002; 269:61-8. [PMID: 11784299 DOI: 10.1046/j.0014-2956.2002.02622.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Human interleukin-11 (hIL-11) is a pleiotropic cytokine that is involved in numerous biological activities such as hematopoiesis, osteoclastogenesis, neurogenesis and female fertility. IL-11 is obviously a key reagent to study the IL-11 receptors. However, conventional radio-iodination techniques lead to a loss of IL-11 bioactivity. Here, we report the construction and the production of a new recombinant human IL-11 (FP Delta IL-11). In this molecule, a specific phosphorylation site (RRASVA) has been introduced at the N-terminus of rhIL-11. It can be specifically phosphorylated by bovine heart protein kinase and accordingly, easily radiolabeled with (32)P. A high radiological specific activity (250,000 c.p.m x ng(-1) of protein) was obtained with the retention of full biological activity of the protein. The binding of (32)P-labeled FP Delta IL-11 to Ba/F3 cells stably transfected with plasmids encoding human IL-11 receptors alpha and beta chains (IL-11R alpha and gp130) was specific and saturable with a high affinity as determined from Scatchard plot analysis. Availability of this new ligand should prompt further studies on IL-11R structure, expression and regulation.
Collapse
|
34
|
Chow D, Ho J, Nguyen Pham TL, Rose-John S, Garcia KC. In vitro reconstitution of recognition and activation complexes between interleukin-6 and gp130. Biochemistry 2001; 40:7593-603. [PMID: 11412113 DOI: 10.1021/bi010192q] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Gp130 is a shared signal-transducing receptor for a family of four-helix cytokines, of which interleukin-6 is a prototypic member. IL-6-type cytokines activate gp130 to elicit downstream intracellular JAK/STAT signaling cascades through formation of hetero-oligomeric receptor complexes. Interleukin-6 must first complex with its specific alpha-receptor (Ralpha) in order to bind and activate gp130. We have dissected the extracellular activation pathway of human gp130 by human IL-6 through reconstitution of soluble complexes representing intermediate and final states in the hierarchical assembly of the IL-6/IL-6Ralpha/gp130 signaling complex. To isolate these hetero-complexes, we have applied a protein engineering strategy of covalently linking IL-6 to its Ralpha, which results in a "hyperactive" single-chain complex (hyper-IL-6) which we express in both Escherichia coli and insect cells. We have determined that IL-6/IL-Ralpha and the cytokine-binding homology region (CHR) of gp130 (D2D3) form a stable trimolecular "recognition" complex (trimer) consisting of 1IL-6,1 IL-6Ralpha, and 1 gp130-CHR. Addition of the N-terminal (D1) Ig-like domain (IGD) of gp130 to the CHR results in a transition to a hexameric "activation" complex containing 2 IL-6, 2IL-6Ralpha, and 2 gp130. These results clearly demonstrate that the recognition and activation complexes are disparate hetero-oligomeric molecular species linked by the recruitment of the gp130 IGD by the unique site III epitope present on all gp130-class cytokines. The results of these studies are relevant to other members of the IL-6 family of gp130-cytokines and address a longstanding question concerning the respective roles of the gp130 CHR and IGD in assembly of the active signaling oligomer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- D Chow
- Departments of Microbiology & Immunology, and Structural Biology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Fairchild D319, 299 Campus Drive, Stanford, California 94305-5124, USA
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
35
|
Schleinkofer K, Dingley A, Tacken I, Federwisch M, Müller-Newen G, Heinrich PC, Vusio P, Jacques Y, Grötzinger J. Identification of the domain in the human interleukin-11 receptor that mediates ligand binding. J Mol Biol 2001; 306:263-74. [PMID: 11237599 DOI: 10.1006/jmbi.2000.4387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
The interleukin-11 receptor (IL-11R) belongs to the hematopoietic receptor superfamily. The functional receptor complex comprises IL-11, IL-11R and the signal-transducing subunit gp130. The extracellular part of the IL-11R consists of three domains: an N-terminal immunoglobulin-like domain, D1, and two fibronectin-type III-like (FNIII) domains and D2 and D3. The two FNIII domains comprise the cytokine receptor-homology region defined by a set of four conserved cysteine residues in the N-terminal domain (D2) and a WSXWS sequence motif in the C-terminal domain (D3). We investigated the structural and functional role of the third extracellular receptor domain of IL-11R. A molecular model of the human IL-11/IL-11R complex allowed the identification of amino acid residues in IL-11R to be involved in ligand binding. Most of them were located in the third extracellular domain, which therefore should be able to bind with high affinity to IL-11. To prove this prediction, domain D3 of the IL-11R was expressed in Escherichia coli, refolded and purified. For structural characterization, circular dichroism, fluorescence and NMR spectroscopy were used. By plasmon resonance experiments, we show that the ligand-binding capacity of this domain is as high as that one for the whole receptor. These results provide a basis for further structural investigations that could be used for the rational design of potential agonists and antagonists essential in human therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- K Schleinkofer
- Institut für Biochemie RWTH-Aachen, Universitätsklinikum, Pauwelsstr.30, Aachen, 52057, Germany
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
36
|
Jones SA, Horiuchi S, Topley N, Yamamoto N, Fuller GM. The soluble interleukin 6 receptor: mechanisms of production and implications in disease. FASEB J 2001; 15:43-58. [PMID: 11149892 DOI: 10.1096/fj.99-1003rev] [Citation(s) in RCA: 480] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Interleukin 6 (IL-6) performs a prominent role during disease and has been described as both a pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokine. A key feature in the regulation of IL-6 responses has been the identification of a soluble interleukin 6 receptor (sIL-6R), which forms a ligand-receptor complex with IL-6 that is capable of stimulating a variety of cellular responses including proliferation, differentiation and activation of inflammatory processes. Elevated sIL-6R levels have been documented in numerous clinical conditions indicating that its production is coordinated as part of a disease response. Thus, sIL-6R has the potential to regulate both local and systemic IL-6-mediated events. This review will outline the central role of sIL-6R in the coordination of IL-6 responses. Details relating to the mechanisms of sIL-6R production will be provided, while the potential significance of sIL-6R during the development of clinical conditions will be emphasized. We want to convey, therefore, that when thinking about the inflammatory capability of IL-6, it is essential to consider not only the action of IL-6 itself, but also the effect sIL-6R may have on cellular processes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S A Jones
- Cardiff School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff CF10 3US, Wales, UK.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
37
|
Blanc C, Vusio P, Schleinkofer K, Boisteau O, Pflanz S, Minvielle S, Grötzinger J, Müller-Newen G, Heinrich PC, Jacques Y, Montero-Julian FA. Monoclonal antibodies against the human interleukin-11 receptor alpha-chain (IL-11Ralpha) and their use in studies of human mononuclear cells. J Immunol Methods 2000; 241:43-59. [PMID: 10915848 DOI: 10.1016/s0022-1759(00)00194-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
A panel of 14 hybridoma cell lines secreting monoclonal antibodies against the human interleukin-11 receptor alpha chain (hIL-11Ralpha) was obtained using two different approaches. Two antibodies were raised against peptides of the N- and C-terminal sequences, respectively, of the extracellular part of the hIL-11Ralpha. Another group of 12 antibodies was generated against a hybrid protein consisting of the extracellular part of the hIL-11Ralpha fused to mature full-length human IL-2. All these antibodies recognized native hIL-11Ralpha and most also recognized the denatured receptor on immunoblots after SDS-PAGE. Four different epitopes were identified on the extracellular part of the hIL-11Ralpha. One epitope, defined by the E27 antibody, is located at the N-terminus and the other three epitopes are clustered in the membrane-proximal, C-terminal region. The antibodies defining epitopes I and II recognized membrane-bound hIL-11Ralpha expressed in gp130/hIL-11Ralpha-co-transfected Ba/F3 cells. The E27 antibody cross-reacted with murine IL-11Ralpha, in agreement with the fact that the N-terminal region is highly conserved between species. The other 13 antibodies all recognized a region between amino acids 319 and 363, which is the membrane-proximal part of the hIL-11Ralpha. This region, which is less conserved between mouse and human, is shown here to be an immunodominant region. Anti-IL-11Ralpha monoclonal antibodies, which have not been described previously enabled us to explore the expression and tissue distribution of IL-11Ralpha on human peripheral blood mononuclear cells and cell lines. The antibodies provide powerful tools for the study of the regulation and function of the receptor.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- C Blanc
- Immunotech: A Beckman-Coulter Company, Marseille, France
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
38
|
Abstract
Cytokines of the gp130 family exert their diverse biological effects by formation of stable high affinity transmembrane receptor complexes that are characterized by the presence of the shared transmembrane signalling receptor gp130. Different gp130 ligands form signalling complexes that vary in both composition and stoichiometry. Analysis of the three-dimensional structure of selected ligands and receptor elements indicates that ligands display three topologically conserved receptor recognition epitopes that interact with complementary ligand recognition elements. The composition of the signalling complex and downstream biological responses is defined by the relative affinity of different receptor components for these epitopes. The detailed structure of receptor recognition epitopes indicates that the generation of small molecule cytokine mimetics may be a feasible objective.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J Bravo
- MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Hills Road, Cambridge CB2 2QH, UK
| | | |
Collapse
|
39
|
The activity of interleukin-11 in the gastrointestinal tract. Curr Opin Crit Care 2000. [DOI: 10.1097/00075198-200004000-00012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
|