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Küffer S, Müller D, Marx A, Ströbel P. Non-Mutational Key Features in the Biology of Thymomas. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:942. [PMID: 38473304 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16050942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2024] [Revised: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Thymomas (THs) are a unique group of heterogeneous tumors of the thymic epithelium. In particular, the subtypes B2 and B3 tend to be aggressive and metastatic. Radical tumor resection remains the only curative option for localized tumors, while more advanced THs require multimodal treatment. Deep sequencing analyses have failed to identify known oncogenic driver mutations in TH, with the notable exception of the GTF2I mutation, which occurs predominantly in type A and AB THs. However, there are multiple alternative non-mutational mechanisms (e.g., perturbed thymic developmental programs, metabolism, non-coding RNA networks) that control cellular behavior and tumorigenesis through the deregulation of critical molecular pathways. Here, we attempted to show how the results of studies investigating such alternative mechanisms could be integrated into a current model of TH biology. This model could be used to focus ongoing research and therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Küffer
- Institute of Pathology, University Medical Center Göttingen, University of Göttingen, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Denise Müller
- Institute of Pathology, University Medical Center Göttingen, University of Göttingen, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Alexander Marx
- Institute of Pathology, University Medical Center Göttingen, University of Göttingen, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Philipp Ströbel
- Institute of Pathology, University Medical Center Göttingen, University of Göttingen, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
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2
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Khayatan D, Bagherzadeh Oskouei A, Alam M, Mohammadikhah M, Badkoobeh A, Golkar M, Abbasi K, Karami S, Sayyad Soufdoost R, Kamali Hakim L, Hussain A, Tebyaniyan H, Heboyan A. Cross Talk Between Cells and the Current Bioceramics in Bone Regeneration: A Comprehensive Review. Cell Transplant 2024; 33:9636897241236030. [PMID: 38494898 PMCID: PMC10946075 DOI: 10.1177/09636897241236030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2023] [Revised: 01/21/2024] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024] Open
Abstract
The conventional approach for addressing bone defects and stubborn non-unions typically involves the use of autogenous bone grafts. Nevertheless, obtaining these grafts can be challenging, and the procedure can lead to significant morbidity. Three primary treatment strategies for managing bone defects and non-unions prove resistant to conventional treatments: synthetic bone graft substitutes (BGS), a combination of BGS with bioactive molecules, and the use of BGS in conjunction with stem cells. In the realm of synthetic BGS, a multitude of biomaterials have emerged for creating scaffolds in bone tissue engineering (TE). These materials encompass biometals like titanium, iron, magnesium, and zinc, as well as bioceramics such as hydroxyapatite (HA) and tricalcium phosphate (TCP). Bone TE scaffolds serve as temporary implants, fostering tissue ingrowth and the regeneration of new bone. They are meticulously designed to enhance bone healing by optimizing geometric, mechanical, and biological properties. These scaffolds undergo continual remodeling facilitated by bone cells like osteoblasts and osteoclasts. Through various signaling pathways, stem cells and bone cells work together to regulate bone regeneration when a portion of bone is damaged or deformed. By targeting signaling pathways, bone TE can improve bone defects through effective therapies. This review provided insights into the interplay between cells and the current state of bioceramics in the context of bone regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danial Khayatan
- GI Pharmacology Interest Group, Universal Scientific Education and Research Network, Tehran, Iran
| | - Asal Bagherzadeh Oskouei
- Dental Research Center, Research Institute of Dental Sciences, School of Dentistry, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mostafa Alam
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, School of Dentistry, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Meysam Mohammadikhah
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, School of Dentistry, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
| | - Ashkan Badkoobeh
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, School of Dentistry, Qom University of Medical Sciences, Qom, Iran
| | - Mohsen Golkar
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, School of Dentistry, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Kamyar Abbasi
- Department of Prosthodontics, School of Dentistry, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | | | | | - Ahmed Hussain
- School of Dentistry, Edmonton Clinic Health Academy, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Hamid Tebyaniyan
- Department of Prosthodontics, Faculty of Stomatology, Yerevan State Medical University after Mkhitar Heratsi, Yerevan, Armenia
| | - Artak Heboyan
- Department of Prosthodontics, Faculty of Stomatology, Yerevan State Medical University after Mkhitar Heratsi, Yerevan, Armenia
- Department of Science and Research, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
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3
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Fujimori S, Ohigashi I. The role of thymic epithelium in thymus development and age-related thymic involution. THE JOURNAL OF MEDICAL INVESTIGATION 2024; 71:29-39. [PMID: 38735722 DOI: 10.2152/jmi.71.29] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/14/2024]
Abstract
The establishment of an adaptive immune system is critical for protecting our bodies from neoplastic cancers and invading pathogens such as viruses and bacteria. As a primary lymphoid organ, the thymus generates lymphoid T cells that play a major role in the adaptive immune system. T cell generation in the thymus is controlled by interactions between thymocytes and other thymic cells, primarily thymic epithelial cells. Thus, the normal development and function of thymic epithelial cells are important for the generation of immunocompetent and self-tolerant T cells. On the other hand, the degeneration of the thymic epithelium due to thymic aging causes thymic involution, which is associated with the decline of adaptive immune function. Herein we summarize basic and current knowledge of the development and function of thymic epithelial cells and the mechanism of thymic involution. J. Med. Invest. 71 : 29-39, February, 2024.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sayumi Fujimori
- Division of Experimental Immunology, Institute of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Izumi Ohigashi
- Division of Experimental Immunology, Institute of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima, Japan
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4
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Lee S, Song SG, Chung DH. Comprehensive Transcriptomic Analysis for Thymic Epithelial Cells of Aged Mice and Humans. Immune Netw 2023; 23:e36. [PMID: 37970235 PMCID: PMC10643332 DOI: 10.4110/in.2023.23.e36] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2023] [Revised: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Thymic epithelial cells (TECs) play a critical role in thymic development and thymopoiesis. As individuals age, TECs undergo various changes that impact their functions, leading to a reduction in cell numbers and impaired thymic selection. These age-related alterations have been observed in both mice and humans. However, the precise mechanisms underlying age-related TEC dysfunction remain unclear. Furthermore, there is a lack of a comprehensive study that connects mouse and human biological processes in this area. To address this gap, we conducted an extensive transcriptome analysis of young and old TECs in mice, complemented by further analysis of publicly available human TEC single-cell RNA sequencing data. Our analysis revealed alterations in both known and unknown pathways that potentially contribute to age-related TEC dysfunction. Specifically, we observed downregulation of pathways related to cell proliferation, T cell development, metabolism, and cytokine signaling in old age TECs. Conversely, TGF-β, BMP, and Wnt signaling pathways were upregulated, which have been known to be associated with age-related TEC dysfunctions or newly discovered in this study. Importantly, we found that these age-related changes in mouse TECs were consistently present in human TECs as well. This cross-species validation further strengthens the significance of our findings. In conclusion, our comprehensive analysis provides valuable insight into the biological and immunological characteristics of aged TECs in both mice and humans. These findings contribute to a better understanding of thymic involution and age-induced immune dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sangsin Lee
- Laboratory of Immune Regulation, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Korea
| | - Seung Geun Song
- Department of Pathology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Korea
| | - Doo Hyun Chung
- Laboratory of Immune Regulation, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Korea
- Department of Pathology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Korea
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5
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Zhang X, He J, Zhao K, Liu S, Xuan L, Chen S, Xue R, Lin R, Xu J, Zhang Y, Xiang AP, Jin H, Liu Q. Mesenchymal stromal cells ameliorate chronic GVHD by boosting thymic regeneration in a CCR9-dependent manner in mice. Blood Adv 2023; 7:5359-5373. [PMID: 37363876 PMCID: PMC10509672 DOI: 10.1182/bloodadvances.2022009646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2022] [Revised: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGVHD) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Mature donor T cells within the graft contribute to severe damage of thymic epithelial cells (TECs), which are known as key mediators in the continuum of acute GVHD (aGVHD) and cGVHD pathology. Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) are reportedly effective in the prevention and treatment of cGVHD. In our previous pilot clinical trial in patients with refractory aGVHD, the incidence and severity of cGVHD were decreased, along with an increase in levels of blood signal joint T-cell receptor excision DNA circles after MSCs treatment, which indicated an improvement in thymus function of patients with GVHD, but the mechanisms leading to these effects remain unknown. Here, we show in a murine GVHD model that MSCs promoted the quantity and maturity of TECs as well as elevated the proportion of Aire-positive medullary TECs, improving both CD4+CD8+ double-positive thymocytes and thymic regulatory T cells, balancing the CD4:CD8 ratio in the blood. In addition, CCL25-CCR9 signaling axis was found to play an important role in guiding MSC homing to the thymus. These studies reveal mechanisms through which MSCs ameliorate cGVHD by boosting thymic regeneration and offer innovative strategies for improving thymus function in patients with GVHD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Zhang
- Department of Hematology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Jiabao He
- Department of Hematology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Clinical Medical Research Center of Hematology Diseases of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ke Zhao
- Department of Hematology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Clinical Medical Research Center of Hematology Diseases of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shiqi Liu
- Department of Hematology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Clinical Medical Research Center of Hematology Diseases of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, China
| | - Li Xuan
- Department of Hematology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Clinical Medical Research Center of Hematology Diseases of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shan Chen
- Department of Hematology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Clinical Medical Research Center of Hematology Diseases of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, China
| | - Rongtao Xue
- Department of Hematology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Clinical Medical Research Center of Hematology Diseases of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ren Lin
- Department of Hematology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Clinical Medical Research Center of Hematology Diseases of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jun Xu
- Department of Hematology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Clinical Medical Research Center of Hematology Diseases of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- Department of Hematology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Clinical Medical Research Center of Hematology Diseases of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, China
| | - Andy Peng Xiang
- Center for Stem Cell Biology and Tissue Engineering, Key Laboratory for Stem Cells and Tissue Engineering, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hua Jin
- Department of Hematology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Clinical Medical Research Center of Hematology Diseases of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qifa Liu
- Department of Hematology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Clinical Medical Research Center of Hematology Diseases of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, China
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6
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Song J, Li L, Fang Y, Lin Y, Wu L, Wan W, Wei G, Hua F, Ying J. FOXN Transcription Factors: Regulation and Significant Role in Cancer. Mol Cancer Ther 2023; 22:1028-1039. [PMID: 37566097 DOI: 10.1158/1535-7163.mct-23-0208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2023] [Revised: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023]
Abstract
A growing number of studies have demonstrated that cancer development is closely linked to abnormal gene expression, including alterations in the transcriptional activity of transcription factors. The Forkhead box class N (FOXN) proteins FOXN1-6 form a highly conserved class of transcription factors, which have been shown in recent years to be involved in the regulation of malignant progression in a variety of cancers. FOXNs mediate cell proliferation, cell-cycle progression, cell differentiation, metabolic homeostasis, embryonic development, DNA damage repair, tumor angiogenesis, and other critical biological processes. Therefore, transcriptional dysregulation of FOXNs can directly affect cellular physiology and promote cancer development. Numerous studies have demonstrated that the transcriptional activity of FOXNs is regulated by protein-protein interactions, microRNAs (miRNA), and posttranslational modifications (PTM). However, the mechanisms underlying the molecular regulation of FOXNs in cancer development are unclear. Here, we reviewed the molecular regulatory mechanisms of FOXNs expression and activity, their role in the malignant progression of tumors, and their value for clinical applications in cancer therapy. This review may help design experimental studies involving FOXN transcription factors, and enhance their therapeutic potential as antitumor targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiali Song
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang City, Jiangxi Province, P.R. China
| | - Longshan Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang City, Jiangxi Province, P.R. China
| | - Yang Fang
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang City, Jiangxi Province, P.R. China
| | - Yue Lin
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang City, Jiangxi Province, P.R. China
| | - Luojia Wu
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang City, Jiangxi Province, P.R. China
| | - Wei Wan
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang City, Jiangxi Province, P.R. China
| | - Gen Wei
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang City, Jiangxi Province, P.R. China
| | - Fuzhou Hua
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang City, Jiangxi Province, P.R. China
| | - Jun Ying
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang City, Jiangxi Province, P.R. China
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7
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Bosticardo M, Notarangelo LD. Human thymus in health and disease: Recent advances in diagnosis and biology. Semin Immunol 2023; 66:101732. [PMID: 36863139 PMCID: PMC10134747 DOI: 10.1016/j.smim.2023.101732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Revised: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 03/04/2023]
Abstract
The thymus is the crucial tissue where thymocytes develop from hematopoietic precursors that originate from the bone marrow and differentiate to generate a repertoire of mature T cells able to respond to foreign antigens while remaining tolerant to self-antigens. Until recently, most of the knowledge on thymus biology and its cellular and molecular complexity have been obtained through studies in animal models, because of the difficulty to gain access to thymic tissue in humans and the lack of in vitro models able to faithfully recapitulate the thymic microenvironment. This review focuses on recent advances in the understanding of human thymus biology in health and disease obtained through the use of innovative experimental techniques (eg. single cell RNA sequencing, scRNAseq), diagnostic tools (eg. next generation sequencing), and in vitro models of T-cell differentiation (artificial thymic organoids) and thymus development (eg. thymic epithelial cell differentiation from embryonic stem cells or induced pluripotent stem cells).
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Affiliation(s)
- Marita Bosticardo
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunology and Microbiology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA.
| | - Luigi D Notarangelo
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunology and Microbiology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
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8
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Perkins RS, Singh R, Abell AN, Krum SA, Miranda-Carboni GA. The role of WNT10B in physiology and disease: A 10-year update. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1120365. [PMID: 36814601 PMCID: PMC9939717 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1120365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2023] Open
Abstract
WNT10B, a member of the WNT family of secreted glycoproteins, activates the WNT/β-catenin signaling cascade to control proliferation, stemness, pluripotency, and cell fate decisions. WNT10B plays roles in many tissues, including bone, adipocytes, skin, hair, muscle, placenta, and the immune system. Aberrant WNT10B signaling leads to several diseases, such as osteoporosis, obesity, split-hand/foot malformation (SHFM), fibrosis, dental anomalies, and cancer. We reviewed WNT10B a decade ago, and here we provide a comprehensive update to the field. Novel research on WNT10B has expanded to many more tissues and diseases. WNT10B polymorphisms and mutations correlate with many phenotypes, including bone mineral density, obesity, pig litter size, dog elbow dysplasia, and cow body size. In addition, the field has focused on the regulation of WNT10B using upstream mediators, such as microRNAs (miRNAs) and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs). We also discussed the therapeutic implications of WNT10B regulation. In summary, research conducted during 2012-2022 revealed several new, diverse functions in the role of WNT10B in physiology and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel S. Perkins
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Biomedical Engineering, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, United States
| | - Rishika Singh
- College of Medicine, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, United States
| | - Amy N. Abell
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Memphis, Memphis, TN, United States
| | - Susan A. Krum
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Biomedical Engineering, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, United States,Center for Cancer Research, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, United States
| | - Gustavo A. Miranda-Carboni
- Center for Cancer Research, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, United States,Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology and Oncology, College of Medicine, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, United States,*Correspondence: Gustavo A. Miranda-Carboni,
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9
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Morales-Sanchez A, Shissler SC, Cowan JE, Bhandoola A. Revelations in Thymic Epithelial Cell Biology and Heterogeneity from Single-Cell RNA Sequencing and Lineage Tracing Methodologies. Methods Mol Biol 2023; 2580:25-49. [PMID: 36374449 PMCID: PMC10802793 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-2740-2_2] [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] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Thymic epithelial cells (TECs) make up the thymic microenvironments that support the generation of a functionally competent and self-tolerant T-cell repertoire. Cortical (c)TECs, present in the cortex, are essential for early thymocyte development including selection of thymocytes expressing functional TCRs (positive selection). Medullary (m)TECs, located in the medulla, play a key role in late thymocyte development, including depletion of self-reactive T cells (negative selection) and selection of regulatory T cells. In recent years, transcriptomic analysis by single-cell (sc)RNA sequencing (Seq) has revealed TEC heterogeneity previously masked by population-level RNA-Seq or phenotypic studies. We summarize the discoveries made possible by scRNA-Seq, including the identification of novel mTEC subsets, advances in understanding mTEC promiscuous gene expression, and TEC alterations from embryonic to adult stages. Whereas pseudotime analyses of scRNA-Seq data can suggest relationships between TEC subsets, experimental methods such as lineage tracing and reaggregate thymic organ culture (RTOC) are required to test these hypotheses. Lineage tracing - namely, of β5t or Aire expressing cells - has exposed progenitor and parent-daughter cellular relationships within TEC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abigail Morales-Sanchez
- Laboratory of Genome Integrity, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA.
- Children's Hospital of Mexico Federico Gomez, Mexico City, Mexico.
| | - Susannah C Shissler
- Laboratory of Genome Integrity, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Jennifer E Cowan
- Laboratory of Genome Integrity, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Avinash Bhandoola
- Laboratory of Genome Integrity, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA.
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10
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Nitta T. Mesenchymal stromal cells in the thymus. Inflamm Regen 2022; 42:33. [PMID: 36320070 PMCID: PMC9628078 DOI: 10.1186/s41232-022-00219-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
The microenvironment of the thymus is composed of a group of stromal cells that include endoderm-derived thymic epithelial cells (TECs) and mesenchymal stromal cells such as fibroblasts and serves as a site for the development of T cells. TECs are known to play an essential role in T cell differentiation and selection. Mesenchymal stromal cells have been less studied in terms of their immunological significance compared to TECs. Recently, new technologies have made it possible to identify and characterize mesenchymal stromal cells in the thymus, revealing their unique functions in thymic organogenesis and T cell development. This review outlines the current views on mesenchymal stromal cells in the thymus, particularly highlighting the newly discovered function of thymic fibroblasts in T cell repertoire selection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takeshi Nitta
- grid.26999.3d0000 0001 2151 536XDepartment of Immunology, Graduate School of Medicine and Faculty of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
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11
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Yuan H, Hatleberg WL, Degnan BM, Degnan SM. Gene activation of metazoan Fox transcription factors at the onset of metamorphosis in the marine demosponge Amphimedon queenslandica. Dev Growth Differ 2022; 64:455-468. [PMID: 36155915 PMCID: PMC9828451 DOI: 10.1111/dgd.12812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2022] [Revised: 09/13/2022] [Accepted: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Transcription factors encoded by the Forkhead (Fox) gene family have diverse, sometimes conserved, regulatory roles in eumetazoan development, immunity, and physiology. Although this gene family includes members that predate the origin of the animal kingdom, the majority of metazoan Fox genes evolved after the divergence of animals and choanoflagellates. Here, we characterize the composition, structure, and expression of Fox genes in the marine demosponge Amphimedon queenslandica to better understand the origin and evolution of this family. The Fox gene repertoire in A. queenslandica appears to be similar to the ancestral metazoan Fox gene family. All 17 A. queenslandica Fox genes are differentially expressed during development and in adult cell types. Remarkably, eight of these, all of which appear to be metazoan-specific, are induced within just 1 h of larval settlement and commencement of metamorphosis. Gene co-expression analyses suggest that these eight Fox genes regulate developmental and physiological processes similar to their roles in other animals. These findings are consistent with Fox genes playing deeply ancestral roles in animal development and physiology, including in response to changes in the external environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huifang Yuan
- School of Biological Sciences and Centre for Marine ScienceUniversity of QueenslandBrisbaneQueenslandAustralia
| | - William L. Hatleberg
- School of Biological Sciences and Centre for Marine ScienceUniversity of QueenslandBrisbaneQueenslandAustralia,Present address:
Department of Biological SciencesCarnegie Mellon UniversityPittsburghPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Bernard M. Degnan
- School of Biological Sciences and Centre for Marine ScienceUniversity of QueenslandBrisbaneQueenslandAustralia
| | - Sandie M. Degnan
- School of Biological Sciences and Centre for Marine ScienceUniversity of QueenslandBrisbaneQueenslandAustralia
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12
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Axin2/Conductin Is Required for Normal Haematopoiesis and T Lymphopoiesis. Cells 2022; 11:cells11172679. [PMID: 36078085 PMCID: PMC9454631 DOI: 10.3390/cells11172679] [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: 06/23/2022] [Revised: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 08/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The development of T lymphocytes in the thymus and their stem cell precursors in the bone marrow is controlled by Wnt signaling in strictly regulated, cell-type specific dosages. In this study, we investigated levels of canonical Wnt signaling during hematopoiesis and T cell development within the Axin2-mTurquoise2 reporter. We demonstrate active Wnt signaling in hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) and early thymocytes, but also in more mature thymic subsets and peripheral T lymphocytes. Thymic epithelial cells displayed particularly high Wnt signaling, suggesting an interesting crosstalk between thymocytes and thymic epithelial cells (TECs). Additionally, reporter mice allowed us to investigate the loss of Axin2 function, demonstrating decreased HSC repopulation upon transplantation and the partial arrest of early thymocyte development in Axin2Tg/Tg full mutant mice. Mechanistically, loss of Axin2 leads to supraphysiological Wnt levels that disrupt HSC differentiation and thymocyte development.
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13
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Kadouri N, Givony T, Nevo S, Hey J, Ben Dor S, Damari G, Dassa B, Dobes J, Weichenhan D, Bähr M, Paulsen M, Haffner-Krausz R, Mall MA, Plass C, Goldfarb Y, Abramson J. Transcriptional regulation of the thymus master regulator Foxn1. Sci Immunol 2022; 7:eabn8144. [PMID: 36026441 DOI: 10.1126/sciimmunol.abn8144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
FOXN1 is a transcription factor critical for the development of both thymic epithelial cell (TEC) and hair follicle cell (HFC) compartments. However, mechanisms controlling its expression remain poorly understood. To address this question, we performed thorough analyses of the evolutionary conservation and chromatin status of the Foxn1 locus in different tissues and states and identified several putative cis-regulatory regions unique to TECs versus HFCs. Furthermore, experiments using genetically modified mice with specific deletions in the Foxn1 locus and additional bioinformatic analyses helped us identify key regions and transcription factors involved in either positive or negative regulation of Foxn1 in both TECs and HFCs. Specifically, we identified SIX1 and FOXN1 itself as key factors inducing Foxn1 expression in embryonic and neonatal TECs. Together, our data provide important mechanistic insights into the transcriptional regulation of the Foxn1 gene in TEC versus HFC and highlight the role of FOXN1 in its autoregulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noam Kadouri
- Department of Immunology and Regenerative Biology, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Tal Givony
- Department of Immunology and Regenerative Biology, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Shir Nevo
- Department of Immunology and Regenerative Biology, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Joschka Hey
- Division of Cancer Epigenomics, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany.,Ruprecht Karl University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Shifra Ben Dor
- Bioinformatics Unit, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Golda Damari
- Department of Veterinary Resources, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Bareket Dassa
- Bioinformatics Unit, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Jan Dobes
- Department of Immunology and Regenerative Biology, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Dieter Weichenhan
- Division of Cancer Epigenomics, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Marion Bähr
- Division of Cancer Epigenomics, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Michelle Paulsen
- Translational Lung Research Center Heidelberg (TLRC), German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Heidelberg, Germany.,Department of Translational Pulmonology, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | | | - Marcus A Mall
- Translational Lung Research Center Heidelberg (TLRC), German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Heidelberg, Germany.,Department of Translational Pulmonology, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.,Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Christoph Plass
- Division of Cancer Epigenomics, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Yael Goldfarb
- Department of Immunology and Regenerative Biology, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Jakub Abramson
- Department of Immunology and Regenerative Biology, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
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14
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Zhang X, Schalke B, Kvell K, Kriegsmann K, Kriegsmann M, Graeter T, Preissler G, Ott G, Kurz K, Bulut E, Ströbel P, Marx A, Belharazem D. WNT4 overexpression and secretion in thymic epithelial tumors drive an autocrine loop in tumor cells in vitro. Front Oncol 2022; 12:920871. [PMID: 35965500 PMCID: PMC9372913 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.920871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2022] [Accepted: 07/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BackgroundWNT4-driven non-canonical signaling is crucial for homeostasis and age-related involution of the thymus. Abnormal WNT signaling is important in many cancers, but the role of WNT signaling in thymic tumors is largely unknown.Materials & MethodsExpression and function of WNT4 and FZD6 were analyzed using qRT–PCR, Western blot, ELISA, in biopsies of non-neoplastic thymi (NT), thymoma and thymic carcinomas. ShRNA techniques and functional assays were used in primary thymic epithelial cells (pTECs) and TC cell line 1889c. Cells were conventionally (2D) grown and in three-dimensional (3D) spheroids.ResultsIn biopsy, WHO classified B3 thymomas and TCs showed increased WNT4 expression compared with NTs. During short-term 2D culture, WNT4 expression and secretion declined in neoplastic pTECs but not in 3D spheroids or medium supplemented with recombinant WNT4 cultures. Under the latter condition, the growth of pTECs was accompanied by increased expression of non-canonical targets RAC1 and JNK. Down-regulation of WNT4 by shRNA induced cell death in pTECs derived from B3 thymomas and led to decreased RAC1, but not JNK protein phosphorylation. Pharmacological inhibition of NF-κB decreased both RAC1 and JNK phosphorylation in neoplastic pTECs.ConclusionsLack of the age-related decline of non-canonical WNT4 expression in TETs and restoration of declining WNT4 expression through exogeneous WNT4 or 3D culture of pTECs hints at an oncogenic role of WNT4 in TETs and is compatible with the WNT4 autocrine loop model. Crosstalk between WNT4 and NF-κB signaling may present a promising target for combined interventions in TETs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaonan Zhang
- Institute of Pathology and Medical Research Center, University Medical Centre Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Berthold Schalke
- Department of Neurology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Krisztian Kvell
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Pecs, Pecs, Hungary
| | - Katharina Kriegsmann
- Department of Hematology, Oncology and Rheumatology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Mark Kriegsmann
- Translational Lung Research Centre Heidelberg, German Centre for Lung Research, Heidelberg, Germany
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Thomas Graeter
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, University Medical Centre Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Gerhard Preissler
- Department of Thoraxic Surgery, Clinic Schillerhöhe, Robert-Bosch-Hospital, Gerlingen, Löwenstein, Germany
| | - German Ott
- Department of Clinical Pathology, Robert-Bosch-Hospital, Stuttgart, Germany
- Dr. Margarete Fischer-Bosch Institute for Clinical Pharmacology, Robert-Bosch-Hospital, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Katrin Kurz
- Department of Clinical Pathology, Robert-Bosch-Hospital, Stuttgart, Germany
- Dr. Margarete Fischer-Bosch Institute for Clinical Pharmacology, Robert-Bosch-Hospital, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Elena Bulut
- Department of Thoraxic Surgery, Thoraxklinik at Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Philipp Ströbel
- Institute of Pathology, University Medical Center Göttingen, University of Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Alexander Marx
- Institute of Pathology and Medical Research Center, University Medical Centre Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Djeda Belharazem
- Institute of Pathology and Medical Research Center, University Medical Centre Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
- *Correspondence: Djeda Belharazem,
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15
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Zhang M, Lin X, Yang Z, Li X, Zhou Z, Love PE, Huang J, Zhao B. Metabolic regulation of T cell development. Front Immunol 2022; 13:946119. [PMID: 35958585 PMCID: PMC9357944 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.946119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2022] [Accepted: 06/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
T cell development in the thymus is tightly controlled by complex regulatory mechanisms at multiple checkpoints. Currently, many studies have focused on the transcriptional and posttranslational control of the intrathymic journey of T-cell precursors. However, over the last few years, compelling evidence has highlighted cell metabolism as a critical regulator in this process. Different thymocyte subsets are directed by distinct metabolic pathways and signaling networks to match the specific functional requirements of the stage. Here, we epitomize these metabolic alterations during the development of a T cell and review several recent works that provide insights into equilibrating metabolic quiescence and activation programs. Ultimately, understanding the interplay between cellular metabolism and T cell developmental programs may offer an opportunity to selectively regulate T cell subset functions and to provide potential novel therapeutic approaches to modulate autoimmunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengdi Zhang
- National Clinical Research Center for Metabolic Diseases, Key Laboratory of Diabetes Immunology, Ministry of Education, and Department of Metabolism and Endocrinology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Xiaoxi Lin
- National Clinical Research Center for Metabolic Diseases, Key Laboratory of Diabetes Immunology, Ministry of Education, and Department of Metabolism and Endocrinology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Zhou Yang
- National Clinical Research Center for Metabolic Diseases, Key Laboratory of Diabetes Immunology, Ministry of Education, and Department of Metabolism and Endocrinology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Xia Li
- National Clinical Research Center for Metabolic Diseases, Key Laboratory of Diabetes Immunology, Ministry of Education, and Department of Metabolism and Endocrinology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Zhiguang Zhou
- National Clinical Research Center for Metabolic Diseases, Key Laboratory of Diabetes Immunology, Ministry of Education, and Department of Metabolism and Endocrinology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Paul E. Love
- Section on Hematopoiesis and Lymphocyte Biology, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Jiaqi Huang
- National Clinical Research Center for Metabolic Diseases, Key Laboratory of Diabetes Immunology, Ministry of Education, and Department of Metabolism and Endocrinology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
- *Correspondence: Bin Zhao, ; ; Jiaqi Huang, ;;
| | - Bin Zhao
- National Clinical Research Center for Metabolic Diseases, Key Laboratory of Diabetes Immunology, Ministry of Education, and Department of Metabolism and Endocrinology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
- *Correspondence: Bin Zhao, ; ; Jiaqi Huang, ;;
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16
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Provin N, Giraud M. Differentiation of Pluripotent Stem Cells Into Thymic Epithelial Cells and Generation of Thymic Organoids: Applications for Therapeutic Strategies Against APECED. Front Immunol 2022; 13:930963. [PMID: 35844523 PMCID: PMC9277542 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.930963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2022] [Accepted: 05/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The thymus is a primary lymphoid organ essential for the induction of central immune tolerance. Maturing T cells undergo several steps of expansion and selection mediated by thymic epithelial cells (TECs). In APECED and other congenital pathologies, a deficiency in genes that regulate TEC development or their ability to select non auto-reactive thymocytes results in a defective immune balance, and consequently in a general autoimmune syndrome. Restoration of thymic function is thus crucial for the emergence of curative treatments. The last decade has seen remarkable progress in both gene editing and pluripotent stem cell differentiation, with the emergence of CRISPR-based gene correction, the trivialization of reprogramming of somatic cells to induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSc) and their subsequent differentiation into multiple cellular fates. The combination of these two approaches has paved the way to the generation of genetically corrected thymic organoids and their use to control thymic genetic pathologies affecting self-tolerance. Here we review the recent advances in differentiation of iPSc into TECs and the ability of the latter to support a proper and efficient maturation of thymocytes into functional and non-autoreactive T cells. A special focus is given on thymus organogenesis and pathway modulation during iPSc differentiation, on the impact of the 2/3D structure on the generated TECs, and on perspectives for therapeutic strategies in APECED based on patient-derived iPSc corrected for AIRE gene mutations.
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17
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Bhalla P, Su DM, van Oers NSC. Thymus Functionality Needs More Than a Few TECs. Front Immunol 2022; 13:864777. [PMID: 35757725 PMCID: PMC9229346 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.864777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Accepted: 05/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The thymus, a primary lymphoid organ, produces the T cells of the immune system. Originating from the 3rd pharyngeal pouch during embryogenesis, this organ functions throughout life. Yet, thymopoiesis can be transiently or permanently damaged contingent on the types of systemic stresses encountered. The thymus also undergoes a functional decline during aging, resulting in a progressive reduction in naïve T cell output. This atrophy is evidenced by a deteriorating thymic microenvironment, including, but not limited, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transitions, fibrosis and adipogenesis. An exploration of cellular changes in the thymus at various stages of life, including mouse models of in-born errors of immunity and with single cell RNA sequencing, is revealing an expanding number of distinct cell types influencing thymus functions. The thymus microenvironment, established through interactions between immature and mature thymocytes with thymus epithelial cells (TEC), is well known. Less well appreciated are the contributions of neural crest cell-derived mesenchymal cells, endothelial cells, diverse hematopoietic cell populations, adipocytes, and fibroblasts in the thymic microenvironment. In the current review, we will explore the contributions of the many stromal cell types participating in the formation, expansion, and contraction of the thymus under normal and pathophysiological processes. Such information will better inform approaches for restoring thymus functionality, including thymus organoid technologies, beneficial when an individuals’ own tissue is congenitally, clinically, or accidentally rendered non-functional.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pratibha Bhalla
- Department of Immunology, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States
| | - Dong-Ming Su
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Genetics, The University of North Texas Health Sciences Center, Fort Worth, TX, United States
| | - Nicolai S C van Oers
- Department of Immunology, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States.,Department of Microbiology, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States.,Department of Pediatrics, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States
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18
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García-León MJ, Mosquera M, Cela C, Alcain J, Zuklys S, Holländer G, Toribio ML. Abrogation of Notch Signaling in Embryonic TECs Impacts Postnatal mTEC Homeostasis and Thymic Involution. Front Immunol 2022; 13:867302. [PMID: 35707539 PMCID: PMC9189879 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.867302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Accepted: 04/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Notch signaling is crucial for fate specification and maturation of thymus-seeding progenitors along the T-cell lineage. Recent studies have extended the role of Notch signaling to thymic epithelial cells (TECs), showing that Notch regulates TEC progenitor maintenance and emergence of medullary TECs (mTECs) in fetal thymopoiesis. Based on immunohistochemistry studies of spatiotemporal regulation of Notch activation in the postnatal thymus, we show that in vivo Notch activation is not confined to fetal TECs. Rather, Notch signaling, likely mediated through the Notch1 receptor, is induced in postnatal cortical and medullary TECs, and increases significantly with age in the latter, in both humans and mice, suggesting a conserved role for Notch signaling in TEC homeostasis during thymus aging. To investigate the functional impact of Notch activation in postnatal TEC biology, we used a mouse model in which RPBJκ, the transcriptional effector of canonical Notch signaling, is deleted in epithelial cells, including TECs, under the control of the transcription factor Foxn1. Immunohistochemistry and flow cytometry analyses revealed no significant differences in TEC composition in mutant (RPBJκ-KOTEC) and wild-type (WT) littermate mice at early postnatal ages. However, a significant reduction of the medullary region was observed in mutant compared to WT older thymi, which was accompanied by an accelerated decrease of postnatal mTEC numbers. Also, we found that organization and integrity of the postnatal thymic medulla critically depends on activation of the canonical Notch signaling pathway, as abrogation of Notch signaling in TECs led to the disruption of the medullary thymic microenvironment and to an accelerated thymus atrophy. These features paralleled a significant increase in the proportion of intrathymic non-T lineage cells, mostly B cells, and a slight decrease of DP thymocyte numbers compatible with a compromised thymic function in mutant mice. Therefore, impaired Notch signaling induced in embryonic development impacts postnatal TECs and leads to an accelerated mTEC degeneration and a premature thymus involution. Collectively, our data have uncovered a new role for Notch1 signaling in the control of adult mTEC homeostasis, and point toward Notch signaling manipulation as a novel strategy for thymus regeneration and functional recovery from immunosenescence.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Jesús García-León
- Immune System Development and Function Unit, Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (UAM), Madrid, Spain
| | - Marta Mosquera
- Immune System Development and Function Unit, Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (UAM), Madrid, Spain
| | - Carmela Cela
- Immune System Development and Function Unit, Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (UAM), Madrid, Spain
| | - Juan Alcain
- Immune System Development and Function Unit, Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (UAM), Madrid, Spain
| | - Saulius Zuklys
- Department of Biomedicine and University Children's Hospital of Basel, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Georg Holländer
- Department of Biomedicine and University Children's Hospital of Basel, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.,Department of Paediatrics and the Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - María L Toribio
- Immune System Development and Function Unit, Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (UAM), Madrid, Spain
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19
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Rosichini M, Catanoso M, Screpanti I, Felli MP, Locatelli F, Velardi E. Signaling Crosstalks Drive Generation and Regeneration of the Thymus. Front Immunol 2022; 13:920306. [PMID: 35734178 PMCID: PMC9207182 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.920306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Optimal recovery of immune competence after periods of hematopoietic insults or stress is crucial to re-establish patient response to vaccines, pathogens and tumor antigens. This is particularly relevant for patients receiving high doses of chemotherapy or radiotherapy, who experience prolonged periods of lymphopenia, which can be associated with an increased risk of infections, malignant relapse, and adverse clinical outcome. While the thymus represents the primary organ responsible for the generation of a diverse pool of T cells, its function is profoundly impaired by a range of acute insults (including those caused by cytoreductive chemo/radiation therapy, infections and graft-versus-host disease) and by the chronic physiological deterioration associated with aging. Impaired thymic function increases the risk of infections and tumor antigen escape due to a restriction in T-cell receptor diversity and suboptimal immune response. Therapeutic approaches that can promote the renewal of the thymus have the potential to restore immune competence in patients. Previous work has documented the importance of the crosstalk between thymocytes and thymic epithelial cells in establishing correct architecture and function of thymic epithelium. This crosstalk is relevant not only during thymus organogenesis, but also to promote the recovery of its function after injuries. In this review, we will analyze the signals involved in the crosstalk between TECs and hematopoietic cells. We will focus in particular on how signals from T-cells can regulate TEC function and discuss the relevance of these pathways in restoring thymic function and T-cell immunity in experimental models, as well as in the clinical setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Rosichini
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Cell and Gene Therapy, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Marialuigia Catanoso
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Cell and Gene Therapy, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Isabella Screpanti
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Pia Felli
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Franco Locatelli
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Cell and Gene Therapy, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
- Department of Maternal and Child Health, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Enrico Velardi
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Cell and Gene Therapy, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
- *Correspondence: Enrico Velardi,
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20
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Handel AE, Cheuk S, Dhalla F, Maio S, Hübscher T, Rota I, Deadman ME, Ekwall O, Lütolf M, Weinberg K, Holländer G. Developmental dynamics of the neural crest-mesenchymal axis in creating the thymic microenvironment. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2022; 8:eabm9844. [PMID: 35559672 PMCID: PMC9106291 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abm9844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2021] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The thymic stroma is composed of epithelial and nonepithelial cells providing separate microenvironments controlling homing, differentiation, and selection of hematopoietic precursor cells to functional T cells. Here, we explore at single-cell resolution the complex composition and dynamic changes of the nonepithelial stromal compartment across different developmental stages in the human and mouse thymus, and in an experimental model of the DiGeorge syndrome, the most common form of human thymic hypoplasia. The detected gene expression signatures identify previously unknown stromal subtypes and relate their individual molecular profiles to separate differentiation trajectories and functions, revealing an unprecedented heterogeneity of different cell types that emerge at discrete developmental stages and vary in their expression of key regulatory signaling circuits and extracellular matrix components. Together, these findings highlight the dynamic complexity of the nonepithelial thymus stroma and link this to separate instructive roles essential for normal thymus organogenesis and tissue maintenance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam E. Handel
- Department of Paediatrics and the Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Stanley Cheuk
- Department of Paediatrics and the Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Department of Rheumatology and Inflammation Research, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Fatima Dhalla
- Department of Paediatrics and the Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Stefano Maio
- Department of Paediatrics and the Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Tania Hübscher
- Laboratory of Stem Cell Bioengineering, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Ioanna Rota
- Department of Paediatrics and the Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Mary E. Deadman
- Department of Paediatrics and the Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Olov Ekwall
- Department of Rheumatology and Inflammation Research, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Matthias Lütolf
- Laboratory of Stem Cell Bioengineering, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Kenneth Weinberg
- Division of Stem Cell Transplantation and Regenerative Medicine Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Georg Holländer
- Department of Paediatrics and the Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Paediatric Immunology, Department of Biomedicine, University of Basel and University Children’s Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Basel, Switzerland
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21
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Magaletta ME, Lobo M, Kernfeld EM, Aliee H, Huey JD, Parsons TJ, Theis FJ, Maehr R. Integration of single-cell transcriptomes and chromatin landscapes reveals regulatory programs driving pharyngeal organ development. Nat Commun 2022; 13:457. [PMID: 35075189 PMCID: PMC8786836 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-28067-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2021] [Accepted: 01/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Maldevelopment of the pharyngeal endoderm, an embryonic tissue critical for patterning of the pharyngeal region and ensuing organogenesis, ultimately contributes to several classes of human developmental syndromes and disorders. Such syndromes are characterized by a spectrum of phenotypes that currently cannot be fully explained by known mutations or genetic variants due to gaps in characterization of critical drivers of normal and dysfunctional development. Despite the disease-relevance of pharyngeal endoderm, we still lack a comprehensive and integrative view of the molecular basis and gene regulatory networks driving pharyngeal endoderm development. To close this gap, we apply transcriptomic and chromatin accessibility single-cell sequencing technologies to generate a multi-omic developmental resource spanning pharyngeal endoderm patterning to the emergence of organ-specific epithelia in the developing mouse embryo. We identify cell-type specific gene regulation, distill GRN models that define developing organ domains, and characterize the role of an immunodeficiency-associated forkhead box transcription factor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margaret E Magaletta
- Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
- Diabetes Center of Excellence, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Macrina Lobo
- Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
- Diabetes Center of Excellence, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Eric M Kernfeld
- Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
- Diabetes Center of Excellence, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Hananeh Aliee
- Institute of Computational Biology, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Munich, Germany
| | - Jack D Huey
- Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
- Diabetes Center of Excellence, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Teagan J Parsons
- Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
- Diabetes Center of Excellence, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Fabian J Theis
- Institute of Computational Biology, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Munich, Germany
- Department of Mathematics, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany
- School of Life Sciences Weihenstephan, Technische Universität München, Freising, Germany
| | - René Maehr
- Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA.
- Diabetes Center of Excellence, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA.
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22
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Fujimori S, Ohigashi I, Abe H, Matsushita Y, Katagiri T, Taketo MM, Takahama Y, Takada S. Fine-tuning of β-catenin in mouse thymic epithelial cells is required for postnatal T-cell development. eLife 2022; 11:69088. [PMID: 35042581 PMCID: PMC8769649 DOI: 10.7554/elife.69088] [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: 04/03/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
In the thymus, the thymic epithelium provides a microenvironment essential for the development of functionally competent and self-tolerant T cells. Previous findings showed that modulation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling in mouse thymic epithelial cells (TECs) disrupts embryonic thymus organogenesis. However, the role of β-catenin in TECs for postnatal T-cell development remains to be elucidated. Here, we analyzed gain-of-function (GOF) and loss-of-function (LOF) of β-catenin highly specific in mouse TECs. We found that GOF of β-catenin in TECs results in severe thymic dysplasia and T-cell deficiency beginning from the embryonic period. By contrast, LOF of β-catenin in TECs reduces the number of cortical TECs and thymocytes modestly and only postnatally. These results indicate that fine-tuning of β-catenin expression within a permissive range is required for TECs to generate an optimal microenvironment to support postnatal T-cell development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sayumi Fujimori
- Division of Experimental Immunology, Institute of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tokushima University
- National Institute for Basic Biology, National Institutes of Natural Sciences
| | - Izumi Ohigashi
- Division of Experimental Immunology, Institute of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tokushima University
| | - Hayato Abe
- Student Laboratory, School of Medicine, Tokushima University
| | - Yosuke Matsushita
- Division of Genome Medicine, Institute of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tokushima University
| | - Toyomasa Katagiri
- Division of Genome Medicine, Institute of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tokushima University
| | - Makoto M Taketo
- Institute for Advancement of Clinical and Translational Science, Kyoto University Hospital
| | - Yousuke Takahama
- Experimental Immunology Branch, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health
| | - Shinji Takada
- National Institute for Basic Biology, National Institutes of Natural Sciences
- Exploratory Research Center on Life and Living Systems, National Institutes of Natural Sciences
- Department of Basic Biology in the School of Life Science, The Graduate University for Advanced Studies (SOKENDAI)
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23
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Martinez-Ruíz GU, Morales-Sánchez A, Bhandoola A. Transcriptional and epigenetic regulation in thymic epithelial cells. Immunol Rev 2022; 305:43-58. [PMID: 34750841 PMCID: PMC8766885 DOI: 10.1111/imr.13034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2021] [Revised: 10/22/2021] [Accepted: 10/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
The thymus is required for the development of both adaptive and innate-like T cell subsets. There is keen interest in manipulating thymic function for therapeutic purposes in circumstances of autoimmunity, immunodeficiency, and for purposes of immunotherapy. Within the thymus, thymic epithelial cells play essential roles in directing T cell development. Several transcription factors are known to be essential for thymic epithelial cell development and function, and a few transcription factors have been studied in considerable detail. However, the role of many other transcription factors is less well understood. Further, it is likely that roles exist for other transcription factors not yet known to be important in thymic epithelial cells. Recent progress in understanding of thymic epithelial cell heterogeneity has provided some new insight into transcriptional requirements in subtypes of thymic epithelial cells. However, it is unknown whether progenitors of thymic epithelial cells exist in the adult thymus, and consequently, developmental relationships linking putative precursors with differentiated cell types are poorly understood. While we do not presently possess a clear understanding of stage-specific requirements for transcription factors in thymic epithelial cells, new single-cell transcriptomic and epigenomic technologies should enable rapid progress in this field. Here, we review our current knowledge of transcription factors involved in the development, maintenance, and function of thymic epithelial cells, and the mechanisms by which they act.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gustavo Ulises Martinez-Ruíz
- T Cell Biology and Development Unit, Laboratory of Genome Integrity, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
- Research Division, Faculty of Medicine, National Autonomous University of Mexico, Mexico City, Mexico
- Children’s Hospital of Mexico Federico Gomez, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Abigail Morales-Sánchez
- T Cell Biology and Development Unit, Laboratory of Genome Integrity, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
- Children’s Hospital of Mexico Federico Gomez, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Avinash Bhandoola
- T Cell Biology and Development Unit, Laboratory of Genome Integrity, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
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24
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Hu C, Zhang K, Jiang F, Wang H, Shao Q. Epigenetic modifications in thymic epithelial cells: an evolutionary perspective for thymus atrophy. Clin Epigenetics 2021; 13:210. [PMID: 34819170 PMCID: PMC8612001 DOI: 10.1186/s13148-021-01197-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The thymic microenvironment is mainly comprised of thymic epithelial cells, the cytokines, exosomes, surface molecules, and hormones from the cells, and plays a vital role in the development, differentiation, maturation and homeostasis of T lymphocytes. However, the thymus begins to degenerate as early as the second year of life and continues through aging in human beings, leading to a decreased output of naïve T cells, the limited TCR diversity and an expansion of monoclonal memory T cells in the periphery organs. These alternations will reduce the adaptive immune response to tumors and emerging infectious diseases, such as COVID-19, also it is easier to suffer from autoimmune diseases in older people. In the context of global aging, it is important to investigate and clarify the causes and mechanisms of thymus involution. Main body Epigenetics include histone modification, DNA methylation, non-coding RNA effects, and chromatin remodeling. In this review, we discuss how senescent thymic epithelial cells determine and control age-related thymic atrophy, how this process is altered by epigenetic modification. How the thymus adipose influences the dysfunctions of the thymic epithelial cells, and the prospects of targeting thymic epithelial cells for the treatment of thymus atrophy. Conclusion Epigenetic modifications are emerging as key regulators in governing the development and senescence of thymic epithelial cells. It is beneficial to re-establish effective thymopoiesis, identify the potential therapeutic strategy and rejuvenate the immune function in the elderly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cexun Hu
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China.,Department of Immunology, Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine of Jiangsu Province, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, No. 301 Xuefu Road, Zhenjiang, 212013, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Keyu Zhang
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China.,Department of Immunology, Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine of Jiangsu Province, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, No. 301 Xuefu Road, Zhenjiang, 212013, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Feng Jiang
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China.,Department of Immunology, Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine of Jiangsu Province, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, No. 301 Xuefu Road, Zhenjiang, 212013, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Hui Wang
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China. .,Department of Immunology, Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine of Jiangsu Province, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, No. 301 Xuefu Road, Zhenjiang, 212013, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China.
| | - Qixiang Shao
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China. .,Department of Immunology, Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine of Jiangsu Province, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, No. 301 Xuefu Road, Zhenjiang, 212013, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China. .,Jiangsu College of Nursing, School of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine, Huai'an, 223002, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China.
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25
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Chen L, Ren M, Cao J, Sang H, Chen H, Xu A, Zhao M. Zuogui Wan alleviated maternal kidney-yin deficiency-induced thymic epithelial cell dysfunction in newborn rats through Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2021; 279:114337. [PMID: 34146629 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2021.114337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2020] [Revised: 04/15/2021] [Accepted: 06/11/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Kidney-yin deficiency (KYD) during pregnancy is common and associated with possibility of thymus hypoplasia in neonates. Zuogui Wan (ZGW) is a classic traditional medicine to treat KYD. AIM OF STUDY The Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway is essential for thymic epithelial cell (TEC) viability, function and for thymus integrity. We evaluated whether maternal diets with ZGW in KYD rats ameliorates epithelial cell dysfunction in the fetal thymus, and investigated its underlying mechanism in which the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway is involved. MATERIALS AND METHODS Rats were randomly assigned to four groups (n = 8). Two experimental groups received KYD induction with or without ZGW supplementation. The other 2 vehicle groups were sham operated and administrated with normal saline or ZGW. KYD was established using periodically chronic shaken stimulus and threaten stress. Success of the model induction was evaluated by the general observation, changing of the body weight and plasma thyroxine level. Then, pregnant of vehicle and KYD rats were fed with or without ZGW-supplemented diet throughout the F1 gestation. Postnatal thymi samples were obtained after delivery for histological examination. In vitro, TECs of the newborn rats whose mother suffered KYD were isolated, and cultured using the serum containing ZGW with or without the supplement of Wnt4/β-catenin pathway inhibitor ICG-001. Cell viability was evaluated by CCK-8 assay. Meanwhile, the thymi tissues and TECs were collected for biochemical analysis. Levels of thymosin β4 (TMSβ4) and thymosin α1 (Tα1) were detected by ELISA assay. The mRNA and protein expression of Wnt4, β-catenin, and Foxn1 were determined by RT-qPCR and Western blot respectively. RESULTS In vivo, KYD resulted in significantly increased apoptosis of TECs and atrophy of the thymi, especially in the medullary zone. The morphological changes observed in KYD rats were ameliorated by ZGW treatment. Meanwhile, the decreased TMSβ4, Tα1, Wnt4, β-catenin, and Foxn1 levels in KYD rats were also significantly alleviated by ZGW administration. In vitro, elevated TMSβ4 and Tα1 levels accompanied with upregulated Wnt4, β-catenin, and Foxn1 expressions in the TECs were observed after ZGW intervention, however, which were significantly downregulated by ICG-001 supplement. CONCLUSIONS Maternal kidney-yin deficiency could result in TEC dysfunction in newborn rats. ZGW was able to improve the growth and development of TEC, potentially by regulating the Wnt/β-catenin pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Longyun Chen
- 1 Huangjiahu Road, Basic Medical Division, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, Hubei, 430065, China.
| | - Meirong Ren
- 1 Huangjiahu Road, Basic Medical Division, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, Hubei, 430065, China.
| | - Jigang Cao
- 1 Huangjiahu Road, Basic Medical Division, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, Hubei, 430065, China.
| | - Hongling Sang
- 1 Huangjiahu Road, Clinical Division, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, Hubei, 430065, China.
| | - Huimin Chen
- 1 Huangjiahu Road, Basic Medical Division, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, Hubei, 430065, China.
| | - Anli Xu
- 1 Huangjiahu Road, Basic Medical Division, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, Hubei, 430065, China.
| | - Min Zhao
- 1 Huangjiahu Road, Basic Medical Division, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, Hubei, 430065, China.
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26
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Wu H, Li X, Zhou C, Yu Q, Ge S, Pan Z, Zhao Y, Xia S, Zhou X, Liu X, Wang H, Shao Q. Circulating mature dendritic cells homing to the thymus promote thymic epithelial cells involution via the Jagged1/Notch3 axis. Cell Death Discov 2021; 7:225. [PMID: 34462426 PMCID: PMC8404188 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-021-00619-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2021] [Revised: 08/13/2021] [Accepted: 08/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Multiple proinflammatory conditions, including chemotherapy, radiotherapy, transplant rejection, and microbial infections, have been identified to induce involution of the thymus. However, the underlying cellular and molecular mechanisms of these inflammatory conditions inducing apoptosis of thymic epithelial cells (TECs), the main components of the thymus, remain largely unknown. In the circulation, mature dendritic cells (mDCs), the predominant initiator of innate and adaptive immune response, can migrate into the thymus. Herein, we demonstrated that mDCs were able to directly inhibit TECs proliferation and induce their apoptosis by activating the Jagged1/Notch3 signaling pathway. Intrathymic injection of either mDCs or recombinant mouse Jagged1-human Fc fusion protein (rmJagged1-hFc) into mice resulted in acute atrophy of the thymus. Furthermore, DAPT, a γ-secretase inhibitor, reversed the effects induced by mDC or rmJagged1-hFc. These findings suggest that acute or aging-related thymus degeneration can be induced either by mass migration of circulating mDCs in a short period of time or by a few but constantly homing mDCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haojie Wu
- Reproductive Sciences Institute, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine, Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, Jiangsu, P. R. China
| | - Xiaohan Li
- Reproductive Sciences Institute, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine, Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, Jiangsu, P. R. China
| | - Chen Zhou
- Reproductive Sciences Institute, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine, Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, Jiangsu, P. R. China
| | - Qihong Yu
- Reproductive Sciences Institute, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine, Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, Jiangsu, P. R. China
| | - Shiyao Ge
- Reproductive Sciences Institute, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine, Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, Jiangsu, P. R. China
| | - Zihui Pan
- Reproductive Sciences Institute, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine, Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, Jiangsu, P. R. China
| | - Yangjing Zhao
- Reproductive Sciences Institute, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine, Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, Jiangsu, P. R. China
| | - Sheng Xia
- Reproductive Sciences Institute, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine, Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, Jiangsu, P. R. China
| | - Xiaoming Zhou
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine, Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, Jiangsu, P. R. China
| | - Xia Liu
- Reproductive Sciences Institute, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine, Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, Jiangsu, P. R. China
| | - Hui Wang
- Reproductive Sciences Institute, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine, Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, Jiangsu, P. R. China.
| | - Qixiang Shao
- Reproductive Sciences Institute, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine, Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, Jiangsu, P. R. China.
- Institute of Medical Genetics and Reproductive Immunity, School of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine, Jiangsu College of Nursing, Huai'an, 223002, Jiangsu, P. R. China.
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27
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Montero-Herradón S, Zapata AG. Delayed maturation of thymic epithelium in mice with specific deletion of β-catenin gene in FoxN1 positive cells. Histochem Cell Biol 2021; 156:315-332. [PMID: 34254201 PMCID: PMC8550644 DOI: 10.1007/s00418-021-02012-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/30/2021] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Wnt signalling pathways have been reported to be involved in thymus development but their precise role in the development of both thymic epithelium (TE) and thymocytes is controversial. Herein, we examined embryonic, postnatal and adult thymi of mice with a specific deletion of β-catenin gene in FoxN1+ thymic epithelial cells (TECs). Together with a high postnatal mouse mortality, the analysis showed severe thymic hypocellularity, largely due an important reduction in numbers of developing thymocytes, and delayed, partially blocked maturation of mutant TECs. Affected TECs included largely cortical (c) TEC subsets, such as immature MTS20+ TECs, Ly51+ cTECs and a remarkable, rare Ly51+MTS20+MHCIIhi cell subpopulation previously reported to contain thymic epithelial progenitor cells (TEPCs) (Ulyanchenko et al., Cell Rep 14:2819-2832, 2016). In addition, altered postnatal organization of mutant thymic medulla failed to organize a unique, central epithelial area. This delayed maturation of TE cell components correlated with low transcript production of some molecules reported to be masters for TEC maturation, such as EphB2, EphB3 and RANK. Changes in the thymic lymphoid component became particularly evident after birth, when molecules expressed by TECs and involved in early T-cell maturation, such as CCL25, CXCL12 and Dll4, exhibited minimal values. This represented a partial blockade of the progression of DN to DP cells and reduced proportions of this last thymocyte subset. At 1 month, in correlation with a significant increase in transcript production, the DP cell percentage increased in correlation with a significant fall in the number of mature TCRαβhi thymocytes and peripheral T lymphocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Montero-Herradón
- Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Biology, Complutense University of Madrid, C/ José Antonio Nováis 2, 28040, Madrid, Spain.,Health Research Institute, Hospital 12 de Octubre (imas12), Madrid, Spain
| | - Agustín G Zapata
- Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Biology, Complutense University of Madrid, C/ José Antonio Nováis 2, 28040, Madrid, Spain. .,Health Research Institute, Hospital 12 de Octubre (imas12), Madrid, Spain.
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28
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Koch S. Regulation of Wnt Signaling by FOX Transcription Factors in Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13143446. [PMID: 34298659 PMCID: PMC8307807 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13143446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2021] [Revised: 07/04/2021] [Accepted: 07/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Cancer is caused by a breakdown of cell-to-cell communication, which results in the unrestricted expansion of cells within a tissue. In many cases, tumor growth is maintained by the continuous activation of cell signaling programs that normally drive embryonic development and wound repair. In this review article, I discuss how one of the largest human protein families, namely FOX proteins, controls the activity of the Wnt pathway, a major regulatory signaling cascade in developing organisms and adult stem cells. Evidence suggests that there is considerable crosstalk between FOX proteins and the Wnt pathway, which contributes to cancer initiation and progression. A better understanding of FOX biology may therefore lead to the development of new targeted treatments for many types of cancer. Abstract Aberrant activation of the oncogenic Wnt signaling pathway is a hallmark of numerous types of cancer. However, in many cases, it is unclear how a chronically high Wnt signaling tone is maintained in the absence of activating pathway mutations. Forkhead box (FOX) family transcription factors are key regulators of embryonic development and tissue homeostasis, and there is mounting evidence that they act in part by fine-tuning the Wnt signaling output in a tissue-specific and context-dependent manner. Here, I review the diverse ways in which FOX transcription factors interact with the Wnt pathway, and how the ectopic reactivation of FOX proteins may affect Wnt signaling activity in various types of cancer. Many FOX transcription factors are partially functionally redundant and exhibit a highly restricted expression pattern, especially in adults. Thus, precision targeting of individual FOX proteins may lead to safe treatment options for Wnt-dependent cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Koch
- Wallenberg Centre for Molecular Medicine (WCMM), Linköping University, 58185 Linköping, Sweden; ; Tel.: +46-132-829-69
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences (BKV), Linköping University, 58185 Linköping, Sweden
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29
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Nitta T, Ota A, Iguchi T, Muro R, Takayanagi H. The fibroblast: An emerging key player in thymic T cell selection. Immunol Rev 2021; 302:68-85. [PMID: 34096078 PMCID: PMC8362222 DOI: 10.1111/imr.12985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2021] [Revised: 05/04/2021] [Accepted: 05/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Fibroblasts have recently attracted attention as a key stromal component that controls the immune responses in lymphoid tissues. The thymus has a unique microenvironment comprised of a variety of stromal cells, including fibroblasts and thymic epithelial cells (TECs), the latter of which is known to be important for T cell development because of their ability to express self‐antigens. Thymic fibroblasts contribute to thymus organogenesis during embryogenesis and form the capsule and medullary reticular network in the adult thymus. However, the immunological significance of thymic fibroblasts has thus far only been poorly elucidated. In this review, we will summarize the current views on the development and functions of thymic fibroblasts as revealed by new technologies such as multicolor flow cytometry and single cell–based transcriptome profiling. Furthermore, the recently discovered role of medullary fibroblasts in the establishment of T cell tolerance by producing a unique set of self‐antigens will be highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takeshi Nitta
- Department of Immunology, Graduate School of Medicine and Faculty of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ayami Ota
- Department of Immunology, Graduate School of Medicine and Faculty of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takahiro Iguchi
- Department of Immunology, Graduate School of Medicine and Faculty of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ryunosuke Muro
- Department of Immunology, Graduate School of Medicine and Faculty of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Takayanagi
- Department of Immunology, Graduate School of Medicine and Faculty of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
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30
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Han J, Zúñiga-Pflücker JC. A 2020 View of Thymus Stromal Cells in T Cell Development. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2021; 206:249-256. [PMID: 33397738 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.2000889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2020] [Accepted: 10/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The thymus is an intricate primary lymphoid organ, wherein bone marrow-derived lymphoid progenitor cells are induced to develop into functionally competent T cells that express a diverse TCR repertoire, which is selected to allow for the recognition of foreign Ags while avoiding self-reactivity or autoimmunity. Thymus stromal cells, which can include all non-T lineage cells, such as thymic epithelial cells, endothelial cells, mesenchymal/fibroblast cells, dendritic cells, and B cells, provide signals that are essential for thymocyte development as well as for the homeostasis of the thymic stroma itself. In this brief review, we focus on the key roles played by thymic stromal cells during early stages of T cell development, such as promoting the homing of thymic-seeding progenitors, inducing T lineage differentiation, and supporting thymocyte survival and proliferation. We also discuss recent advances on the transcriptional regulation that govern thymic epithelial cell function as well as the cellular and molecular changes that are associated with thymic involution and regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianxun Han
- Sunnybrook Research Institute, Toronto, Ontario M4N 3M5, Canada; and
| | - Juan Carlos Zúñiga-Pflücker
- Sunnybrook Research Institute, Toronto, Ontario M4N 3M5, Canada; and.,Department of Immunology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5S 1A8, Canada
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31
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Suthon S, Perkins RS, Bryja V, Miranda-Carboni GA, Krum SA. WNT5B in Physiology and Disease. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:667581. [PMID: 34017835 PMCID: PMC8129536 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.667581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2021] [Accepted: 04/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
WNT5B, a member of the WNT family of proteins that is closely related to WNT5A, is required for cell migration, cell proliferation, or cell differentiation in many cell types. WNT5B signals through the non-canonical β-catenin-independent signaling pathway and often functions as an antagonist of canonical WNT signaling. Although WNT5B has a high amino acid identity with WNT5A and is often assumed to have similar activities, WNT5B often exhibits unique expression patterns and functions. Here, we describe the distinct effects and mechanisms of WNT5B on development, bone, adipose tissue, cardiac tissue, the nervous system, the mammary gland, the lung and hematopoietic cells, compared to WNT5A. We also highlight aberrances in non-canonical WNT5B signaling contributing to diseases such as osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus, neuropathology, and chronic diseases associated with aging, as well as various cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarocha Suthon
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Biomedical Engineering, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, United States
| | - Rachel S Perkins
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Biomedical Engineering, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, United States
| | - Vitezslav Bryja
- Department of Experimental Biology, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Brno, Czechia.,Department of Cytokinetics, Institute of Biophysics, Czech Academy of Sciences, Brno, Czechia
| | - Gustavo A Miranda-Carboni
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, United States.,Center for Cancer Research, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, United States
| | - Susan A Krum
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Biomedical Engineering, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, United States.,Center for Cancer Research, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, United States
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32
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Bukowska J, Walendzik K, Kopcewicz M, Cierniak P, Gawronska-Kozak B. Wnt signaling and the transcription factor Foxn1 contribute to cutaneous wound repair in mice. Connect Tissue Res 2021; 62:238-248. [PMID: 31690137 DOI: 10.1080/03008207.2019.1688314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Aim: The transcription factor Foxn1 is a regulator of scar-ended cutaneous wound healing in mice. However, the link between Foxn1 and Wnt signaling has not been explored in the context of cutaneous repair. Here, we investigate the effects of β-catenin-dependent and -independent Wnt signaling represented by Wnt10a and Wnt11, respectively, in healing of full-thickness cutaneous wounds in C57BL/6 mice. Material and Methods: Quantitative polymerase chain reaction, western blot, and immunostaining were performed to assess the spatial and temporal distribution of Wnt10a, Wnt11, and β-catenin in skin during wound healing. A co-culture system consisting of keratinocytes transfected with an adenoviral vector carrying Foxn1-GFP and dermal fibroblasts (DFs) was employed to determine the influence of epidermal signals on the capacity of DFs to produce extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins in vitro. The levels of types I and III collagen in conditioned media from DFs cultures were examined via enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results: The expression of Wnt10a, Wnt11, and β-catenin increased at post-wounding days 14 and 21 when tissue remodeling occurred. Foxn1::Egfp transgenic mice experiments demonstrated that Wnts were abundant in the epidermis adjacent to the wound margin and to a lesser extent in the dermis. The Wnt10a signal colocalized with Foxn1-eGFP in the epithelial tongue and neo-epidermis during the initial stage of wound healing. Foxn1 overexpression in keratinocytes affected DFs function related to collagen synthesis. Conclusions: Wnt ligands contribute to cutaneous wound repair, predominantly by engagement in ECM maturation. The data indicates a possible relationship between Foxn1 and Wnts in post-traumatic skin tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Bukowska
- Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences , Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Walendzik
- Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences , Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Marta Kopcewicz
- Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences , Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Patrycja Cierniak
- Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences , Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Barbara Gawronska-Kozak
- Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences , Olsztyn, Poland
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33
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Bautista JL, Cramer NT, Miller CN, Chavez J, Berrios DI, Byrnes LE, Germino J, Ntranos V, Sneddon JB, Burt TD, Gardner JM, Ye CJ, Anderson MS, Parent AV. Single-cell transcriptional profiling of human thymic stroma uncovers novel cellular heterogeneity in the thymic medulla. Nat Commun 2021; 12:1096. [PMID: 33597545 PMCID: PMC7889611 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-21346-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2020] [Accepted: 01/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The thymus' key function in the immune system is to provide the necessary environment for the development of diverse and self-tolerant T lymphocytes. While recent evidence suggests that the thymic stroma is comprised of more functionally distinct subpopulations than previously appreciated, the extent of this cellular heterogeneity in the human thymus is not well understood. Here we use single-cell RNA sequencing to comprehensively profile the human thymic stroma across multiple stages of life. Mesenchyme, pericytes and endothelial cells are identified as potential key regulators of thymic epithelial cell differentiation and thymocyte migration. In-depth analyses of epithelial cells reveal the presence of ionocytes as a medullary population, while the expression of tissue-specific antigens is mapped to different subsets of epithelial cells. This work thus provides important insight on how the diversity of thymic cells is established, and how this heterogeneity contributes to the induction of immune tolerance in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jhoanne L Bautista
- Diabetes Center, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Nathan T Cramer
- Diabetes Center, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Corey N Miller
- Diabetes Center, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Jessica Chavez
- Diabetes Center, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - David I Berrios
- Diabetes Center, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Lauren E Byrnes
- Diabetes Center, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Joe Germino
- Diabetes Center, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Bakar Institute for Computational Health Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Vasilis Ntranos
- Diabetes Center, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Bakar Institute for Computational Health Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Julie B Sneddon
- Diabetes Center, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Broad Center of Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Anatomy, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Cell and Tissue Biology, School of Dentistry, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Trevor D Burt
- Broad Center of Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Division of Neonatology and the Children's Health & Discovery Initiative, Department of Pediatrics, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - James M Gardner
- Diabetes Center, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Chun J Ye
- Bakar Institute for Computational Health Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Institute for Human Genetics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Chan Zuckerberg Biohub, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Mark S Anderson
- Diabetes Center, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Audrey V Parent
- Diabetes Center, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
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34
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Deng Y, Chen H, Zeng Y, Wang K, Zhang H, Hu H. Leaving no one behind: tracing every human thymocyte by single-cell RNA-sequencing. Semin Immunopathol 2021; 43:29-43. [PMID: 33449155 DOI: 10.1007/s00281-020-00834-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2020] [Accepted: 12/22/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
The thymus is the primary organ for T-cell development, providing an essential microenvironment consisting of the appropriate cytokine milieu and specialized stromal cells. Thymus-seeding progenitors from circulation immigrate into the thymus and undergo the stepwise T-cell specification, commitment, and selection processes. The transcriptional factors, epigenetic regulators, and signaling pathways involved in the T-cell development have been intensively studied using mouse models. Despite our growing knowledge of T-cell development, major questions remain unanswered regarding the ontogeny and early events of T-cell development at the fetal stage, especially in humans. The recently developed single-cell RNA-sequencing technique provides an ideal tool to investigate the heterogeneity of T-cell precursors and the molecular mechanisms underlying the divergent fates of certain T-cell precursors at the single-cell level. In this review, we aim to summarize the current progress of the study on human thymus organogenesis and thymocyte and thymic epithelial cell development, which is to shed new lights on developing novel strategies for in vitro T-cell regeneration and thymus rejuvenation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yujun Deng
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, and West China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Chengdu, China
| | - Hong Chen
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, and West China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Chengdu, China
| | - Yang Zeng
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100071, China.,State Key Laboratory of Proteomics, Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Academy of Military Sciences, Beijing, 100071, China
| | - Keyue Wang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, and West China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Chengdu, China
| | - Huiyuan Zhang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, and West China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Chengdu, China.
| | - Hongbo Hu
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, and West China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Chengdu, China.
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35
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Nitta T, Takayanagi H. Non-Epithelial Thymic Stromal Cells: Unsung Heroes in Thymus Organogenesis and T Cell Development. Front Immunol 2021; 11:620894. [PMID: 33519827 PMCID: PMC7840694 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.620894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2020] [Accepted: 11/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The stromal microenvironment in the thymus is essential for generating a functional T cell repertoire. Thymic epithelial cells (TECs) are numerically and phenotypically one of the most prominent stromal cell types in the thymus, and have been recognized as one of most unusual cell types in the body by virtue of their unique functions in the course of the positive and negative selection of developing T cells. In addition to TECs, there are other stromal cell types of mesenchymal origin, such as fibroblasts and endothelial cells. These mesenchymal stromal cells are not only components of the parenchymal and vascular architecture, but also have a pivotal role in controlling TEC development, although their functions have been less extensively explored than TECs. Here, we review both the historical studies on and recent advances in our understanding of the contribution of such non-TEC stromal cells to thymic organogenesis and T cell development. In particular, we highlight the recently discovered functional effect of thymic fibroblasts on T cell repertoire selection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takeshi Nitta
- Department of Immunology, Graduate School of Medicine and Faculty of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
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36
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Fibroblasts as a source of self-antigens for central immune tolerance. Nat Immunol 2020; 21:1172-1180. [PMID: 32839611 DOI: 10.1038/s41590-020-0756-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2019] [Accepted: 07/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Fibroblasts are one of the most common but also neglected types of stromal cells, the heterogeneity of which underlies the specific function of tissue microenvironments in development and regeneration. In the thymus, autoreactive T cells are thought to be negatively selected by reference to the self-antigens expressed in medullary epithelial cells, but the contribution of other stromal cells to tolerance induction has been poorly examined. In the present study, we report a PDGFR+ gp38+ DPP4- thymic fibroblast subset that is required for T cell tolerance induction. The deletion of the lymphotoxin β-receptor in thymic fibroblasts caused an autoimmune phenotype with decreased expression of tissue-restricted and fibroblast-specific antigens, offering insight into the long-sought target of lymphotoxin signaling in the context of the regulation of autoimmunity. Thus, thymic medullary fibroblasts play an essential role in the establishment of central tolerance by producing a diverse array of self-antigens.
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37
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Giardino G, Borzacchiello C, De Luca M, Romano R, Prencipe R, Cirillo E, Pignata C. T-Cell Immunodeficiencies With Congenital Alterations of Thymic Development: Genes Implicated and Differential Immunological and Clinical Features. Front Immunol 2020; 11:1837. [PMID: 32922396 PMCID: PMC7457079 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.01837] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2020] [Accepted: 07/08/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Combined Immunodeficiencies (CID) are rare congenital disorders characterized by defective T-cell development that may be associated with B- and NK-cell deficiency. They are usually due to alterations in genes expressed in hematopoietic precursors but in few cases, they are caused by impaired thymic development. Athymia was classically associated with DiGeorge Syndrome due to TBX1 gene haploinsufficiency. Other genes, implicated in thymic organogenesis include FOXN1, associated with Nude SCID syndrome, PAX1, associated with Otofaciocervical Syndrome type 2, and CHD7, one of the genes implicated in CHARGE syndrome. More recently, chromosome 2p11.2 microdeletion, causing FOXI3 haploinsufficiency, has been identified in 5 families with impaired thymus development. In this review, we will summarize the main genetic, clinical, and immunological features related to the abovementioned gene mutations. We will also focus on different therapeutic approaches to treat SCID in these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuliana Giardino
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Pediatric Section, Federico II University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Carla Borzacchiello
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Pediatric Section, Federico II University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Martina De Luca
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Pediatric Section, Federico II University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Roberta Romano
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Pediatric Section, Federico II University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Rosaria Prencipe
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Pediatric Section, Federico II University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Emilia Cirillo
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Pediatric Section, Federico II University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Claudio Pignata
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Pediatric Section, Federico II University of Naples, Naples, Italy
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38
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Thymus Inception: Molecular Network in the Early Stages of Thymus Organogenesis. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21165765. [PMID: 32796710 PMCID: PMC7460828 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21165765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2020] [Accepted: 08/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The thymus generates central immune tolerance by producing self-restricted and self-tolerant T-cells as a result of interactions between the developing thymocytes and the stromal microenvironment, mainly formed by the thymic epithelial cells. The thymic epithelium derives from the endoderm of the pharyngeal pouches, embryonic structures that rely on environmental cues from the surrounding mesenchyme for its development. Here, we review the most recent advances in our understanding of the molecular mechanisms involved in early thymic organogenesis at stages preceding the expression of the transcription factor Foxn1, the early marker of thymic epithelial cells identity. Foxn1-independent developmental stages, such as the specification of the pharyngeal endoderm, patterning of the pouches, and thymus fate commitment are discussed, with a special focus on epithelial–mesenchymal interactions.
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39
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Shen JM, Ma L, He K, Guo WQ, Ding C, Hoffman RD, He BQ, Zheng HB, Gao JL. Identification and functional study of immortalized mouse thymic epithelial cells. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2020; 525:440-446. [PMID: 32107001 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2020.02.083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2020] [Accepted: 02/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
As the key cells in a three-dimensional scaffold within the thymus, Thymic epithelial cells (TECs) play critical roles in the homing, migration and differentiation of T cell precursors through adhesive interactions and the release of various cytokines. In this study, primary cultures of mouse TECs were isolated and identified with TEC-specific antibodies CK5 and CK8. These TECs were immortalized by retroviral transduction of simian virus (SV) 40 large T antigen. We then compared the functions of TECs and immortalized TECs (iTECs). Cell morphology and the proliferative capacity of TECs and iTECs were observed by inverted microscope photography and crystal violet assay after passage. A soft agar assay was then performed to observe their clone formation ability. The expression levels of epithelial cell related factors, such as IL-7, Lptin, Pax-9, Sema3A and et al., were detected by IF and qPCR. TECs were co-cultured with human acute monocytic leukemia cells (THP-1), and the effect of TECs on promoting THP-1 proliferation was observed with flow cytometry and CFSE labeling. Senescence-associated β-galactosidase assay was measured to detect the anti-aging capabilities of the cells. Cell cycle distribution was analyzed by propidium iodide (PI) staining, and paclitaxel (PTX)-induced apoptosis was detected by Annexin V-PI staining to evaluate the anti-apoptotic ability of the cells. Throughout, we found that the immortalized TECs still retain the characteristics of primary TECs, such as the morphology, function and epithelial characteristics; however, iTECs have stronger capabilities in proliferation and anti-aging. Our research suggests that the iTECs were successfully immortalized by SV40 large T antigen, and that the biological characteristics and functions of iTECs were similar to the original TECs. This immortalized cell can be used as an efficient cell model in functional research of the thymus substituting primary TECs with iTECs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia-Man Shen
- Collage of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310053, China
| | - Li Ma
- College of Basic Medical Science, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310053, China
| | - Kai He
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Medical School of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310009, China
| | - Wen-Qin Guo
- Collage of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310053, China
| | - Chuan Ding
- Collage of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310053, China
| | - Robert D Hoffman
- International Education College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310053, China; DAOM Department, Five Branches University, San Jose, CA, 95131, USA
| | - Bing-Qian He
- International Education College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310053, China
| | - Hong-Bin Zheng
- College of Basic Medical Science, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310053, China.
| | - Jian-Li Gao
- International Education College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310053, China.
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40
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Age-related transcriptional modules and TF-miRNA-mRNA interactions in neonatal and infant human thymus. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0227547. [PMID: 32294112 PMCID: PMC7159188 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0227547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2019] [Accepted: 12/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The human thymus suffers a transient neonatal involution, recovers and then starts a process of decline between the 1st and 2nd years of life. Age-related morphological changes in thymus were extensively investigated, but the genomic mechanisms underlying this process remain largely unknown. Through Weighted Gene Co-expression Network Analysis (WGCNA) and TF-miRNA-mRNA integrative analysis we studied the transcriptome of neonate and infant thymic tissues grouped by age: 0–30 days (A); 31days-6 months (B); 7–12 months (C); 13–18 months (D); 19-31months (E). Age-related transcriptional modules, hubs and high gene significance (HGS) genes were identified, as well as TF-miRNA-hub/HGS co-expression correlations. Three transcriptional modules were correlated with A and/or E groups. Hubs were mostly related to cellular/metabolic processes; few were differentially expressed (DE) or related to T-cell development. Inversely, HGS genes in groups A and E were mostly DE. In A (neonate) one third of the hyper-expressed HGS genes were related to T-cell development, against one-twentieth in E, what may correlate with the early neonatal depletion and recovery of thymic T-cell populations. This genomic mechanism is tightly regulated by TF-miRNA-hub/HGS interactions that differentially govern cellular and molecular processes involved in the functioning of the neonate thymus and in the beginning of thymic decline.
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41
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Differentiation of human pluripotent stem cells toward pharyngeal endoderm derivatives: Current status and potential. Curr Top Dev Biol 2020; 138:175-208. [PMID: 32220297 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ctdb.2020.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
The pharyngeal apparatus, a transient embryological structure, includes diverse cells from all three germ layers that ultimately contribute to a variety of adult tissues. In particular, pharyngeal endoderm produces cells of the inner ear, palatine tonsils, the thymus, parathyroid and thyroid glands, and ultimobranchial bodies. Each of these structures and organs contribute to vital human physiological processes, including central immune tolerance (thymus) and metabolic homeostasis (parathyroid and thyroid glands, and ultimobranchial bodies). Thus, improper development or damage to pharyngeal endoderm derivatives leads to complicated and severe human maladies, such as autoimmunity, immunodeficiency, hypothyroidism, and/or hypoparathyroidism. To study and treat such diseases, we can utilize human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs), which differentiate into functionally mature cells in vitro given the proper developmental signals. Here, we discuss current efforts regarding the directed differentiation of hPSCs toward pharyngeal endoderm derivatives. We further discuss model system and therapeutic applications of pharyngeal endoderm cell types produced from hPSCs. Finally, we provide suggestions for improving hPSC differentiation approaches to pharyngeal endoderm derivatives with emphasis on current single cell-omics and 3D culture system technologies.
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42
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Wang HX, Pan W, Zheng L, Zhong XP, Tan L, Liang Z, He J, Feng P, Zhao Y, Qiu YR. Thymic Epithelial Cells Contribute to Thymopoiesis and T Cell Development. Front Immunol 2020; 10:3099. [PMID: 32082299 PMCID: PMC7005006 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.03099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2019] [Accepted: 12/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The thymus is the primary lymphoid organ responsible for the generation and maturation of T cells. Thymic epithelial cells (TECs) account for the majority of thymic stromal components. They are further divided into cortical and medullary TECs based on their localization within the thymus and are involved in positive and negative selection, respectively. Establishment of self-tolerance in the thymus depends on promiscuous gene expression (pGE) of tissue-restricted antigens (TRAs) by TECs. Such pGE is co-controlled by the autoimmune regulator (Aire) and forebrain embryonic zinc fingerlike protein 2 (Fezf2). Over the past two decades, research has found that TECs contribute greatly to thymopoiesis and T cell development. In turn, signals from T cells regulate the differentiation and maturation of TECs. Several signaling pathways essential for the development and maturation of TECs have been discovered. New technology and animal models have provided important observations on TEC differentiation, development, and thymopoiesis. In this review, we will discuss recent advances in classification, development, and maintenance of TECs and mechanisms that control TEC functions during thymic involution and central tolerance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong-Xia Wang
- Laboratory Medicine Center, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.,State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Wenrong Pan
- Department of General Surgery, Taihe Branch of Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lei Zheng
- Laboratory Medicine Center, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiao-Ping Zhong
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Department of Pediatrics, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, United States
| | - Liang Tan
- Department of Urological Organ Transplantation, Center of Organ Transplantation, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Zhanfeng Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jing He
- Laboratory Medicine Center, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Pingfeng Feng
- Laboratory Medicine Center, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yong Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yu-Rong Qiu
- Laboratory Medicine Center, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
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43
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de Rezende MM, Ng-Blichfeldt JP, Justo GZ, Paredes-Gamero EJ, Gosens R. Divergent effects of Wnt5b on IL-3- and GM-CSF-induced myeloid differentiation. Cell Signal 2019; 67:109507. [PMID: 31857239 PMCID: PMC7116107 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2019.109507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2019] [Revised: 12/12/2019] [Accepted: 12/16/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The multiple specialized cell types of the hematopoietic system originate from differentiation of hematopoietic stem cells and progenitors (HSPC), which can generate both lymphoid and myeloid lineages. The myeloid lineage is preferentially maintained during ageing, but the mechanisms that contribute to this process are incompletely understood. Here, we studied the roles of Wnt5a and Wnt5b, ligands that have previously been linked to hematopoietic stem cell ageing and that are abundantly expressed by both hematopoietic progenitors and bone-marrow derived niche cells. Whereas Wnt5a had no major effects on primitive cell differentiation, Wnt5b had profound and divergent effects on cytokine-induced myeloid differentiation. Remarkably, while IL-3- mediated myeloid differentiation was largely repressed by Wnt5b, GM-CSF-induced myeloid differentiation was augmented. Furthermore, in the presence of IL-3, Wnt5b enhanced HSPC self-renewal, whereas in the presence ofGM-CSF, Wnt5b accelerated differentiation, leading to progenitor cell exhaustion. Our results highlight discrepancies between IL-3 and GM-CSF, and reveal novel effects of Wnt5b on the hematopoietic system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Mastelaro de Rezende
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo 04044-020, Brazil; Department of Molecular Pharmacology, University of Groningen, Groningen 9713AV, Netherlands
| | - John-Poul Ng-Blichfeldt
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, University of Groningen, Groningen 9713AV, Netherlands; MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge CB2 0QH, UK
| | - Giselle Zenker Justo
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo 04044-020, Brazil; Departamento de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), Diadema 09913-030, Brazil
| | - Edgar Julian Paredes-Gamero
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo 04044-020, Brazil; Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Alimentos e Nutrição, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso do Sul, 79070-900, Campo Grande, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil
| | - Reinoud Gosens
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, University of Groningen, Groningen 9713AV, Netherlands.
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44
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Walendzik K, Kopcewicz M, Bukowska J, Panasiewicz G, Szafranska B, Gawronska-Kozak B. The Transcription Factor FOXN1 Regulates Skin Adipogenesis and Affects Susceptibility to Diet-Induced Obesity. J Invest Dermatol 2019; 140:1166-1175.e9. [PMID: 31811821 DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2019.11.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2019] [Revised: 11/15/2019] [Accepted: 11/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
FOXN1, a transcription factor expressed in the epidermis, regulates keratinocyte differentiation and participates in skin wound healing. In this study, we explored the impact of FOXN1 insufficiency on diet-stimulated weight gain and dermal white adipose tissue regulation in the intact and wounded skin of FOXN1eGFP/+ (heterozygotes, FOXN1-insufficient) mice in the context of age and diet. The results showed that on a high-fat diet, FOXN1eGFP/+ mice gained significantly less body weight than their FOXN1+/+ counterparts (FOXN1-sufficient mice). The intact and wounded skin of FOXN1eGFP/+ mice displayed abrogated expression of the master regulators of adipogenesis, PPARγ, FABP4, and leptin, which decreased with age in FOXN1+/+ mice. FOXN1 insufficiency also resulted in a decreased percentage of adipocyte-committed precursor cells (CD24+) in the skin. The proadipogenic pathway genes Bmp2, Igf2, and Mest showed a gradual decrease in expression that accompanied the gradual inactivation of FOXN1 in the skin of FOXN1+/+, FOXN1eGFP/+, and FOXN1eGFP/eGFP (lack of FOXN1) mice. Bone morphogenetic protein 2 and insulin-like growth factor 2 signals colocalized with FOXN1-eGFP in the epidermis and in hair follicles. These data demonstrated that FOXN1 initiates the cascade of adipogenic signaling that regulates skin homeostasis and wound healing and affects susceptibility to diet-induced obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Walendzik
- Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Marta Kopcewicz
- Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Joanna Bukowska
- Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Grzegorz Panasiewicz
- Department of Animal Anatomy and Physiology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Bozena Szafranska
- Department of Animal Anatomy and Physiology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Barbara Gawronska-Kozak
- Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, Olsztyn, Poland.
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Larsen BM, Cowan JE, Wang Y, Tanaka Y, Zhao Y, Voisin B, Constantinides MG, Nagao K, Belkaid Y, Awasthi P, Takahama Y, Bhandoola A. Identification of an Intronic Regulatory Element Necessary for Tissue-Specific Expression of Foxn1 in Thymic Epithelial Cells. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2019; 203:686-695. [PMID: 31243087 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.1801540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2018] [Accepted: 05/28/2019] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
The thymus is critical for the establishment of the adaptive immune system and the development of a diverse T cell repertoire. T cell development depends upon cell-cell interactions with epithelial cells in the thymus. The thymus is composed of two different types of epithelial cells: cortical and medullary epithelial cells. Both of these express and critically depend on the transcription factor Foxn1 Foxn1 is also expressed in the hair follicle, and disruption of Foxn1 function in mice results in severe thymic developmental defects and the hairless (nude) phenotype. Despite its importance, little is known about the direct regulation of Foxn1 expression. In this study, we identify a cis-regulatory element (RE) critical for expression of Foxn1 in mouse thymic epithelial cells but dispensable for expression in hair follicles. Analysis of chromatin accessibility, histone modifications, and sequence conservation identified regions within the first intron of Foxn1 that possessed the characteristics of REs. Systematic knockout of candidate regions lead us to identify a 1.6 kb region that, when deleted, results in a near total disruption of thymus development. Interestingly, Foxn1 expression and function in the hair follicle were unaffected. RNA fluorescent in situ hybridization showed a near complete loss of Foxn1 mRNA expression in the embryonic thymic bud. Our studies have identified a genomic RE with thymic-specific control of Foxn1 gene expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian M Larsen
- Laboratory of Genome Integrity, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892
| | - Jennifer E Cowan
- Laboratory of Genome Integrity, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892
| | - Yueqiang Wang
- Laboratory of Genome Integrity, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892
| | - Yu Tanaka
- Experimental Immunology Branch, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892
| | - Yongge Zhao
- Laboratory of Genome Integrity, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892
| | - Benjamin Voisin
- Dermatology Branch, National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892
| | - Michael G Constantinides
- Metaorganism Immunity Section, Laboratory of Immune System Biology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892; and
| | - Keisuke Nagao
- Dermatology Branch, National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892
| | - Yasmine Belkaid
- Metaorganism Immunity Section, Laboratory of Immune System Biology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892; and
| | - Parirokh Awasthi
- Laboratory Animal Sciences Program, Leidos Biomedical Research Inc., Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, National Institutes of Health, Frederick, MD 21701
| | - Yousuke Takahama
- Experimental Immunology Branch, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892
| | - Avinash Bhandoola
- Laboratory of Genome Integrity, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892;
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Luan R, Liang Z, Zhang Q, Sun L, Zhao Y. Molecular regulatory networks of thymic epithelial cell differentiation. Differentiation 2019; 107:42-49. [PMID: 31238242 DOI: 10.1016/j.diff.2019.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2018] [Revised: 06/04/2019] [Accepted: 06/12/2019] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Functional mature T cells are generated in the thymus. Thymic epithelial cells (TECs) provide the essential microenvironment for T cell development and maturation. According to their function and localization, TECs are roughly divided into cortical TECs (cTECs) and medullary TECs (mTECs), which are responsible for positive and negative selection, respectively. This review summarizes the current understanding of TEC biology, the identification of fetal and adult bipotent TEC progenitors, and the signaling pathways that control the development and maturation of TECs. The understanding of the ontogeny, differentiation, maturation and function of cTECs lags behind that of mTECs. Better understanding TEC biology will provide clues about TEC development and the applications of thymus engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rong Luan
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Zhanfeng Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Qian Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Liguang Sun
- Institute of Translational Medicine, The First Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China.
| | - Yong Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China; Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.
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Abstract
The thymus is a primary lymphoid organ essential for the development of T lymphocytes, which orchestrate adaptive immune responses. T-cell development in the thymus is spatially regulated; key checkpoints in T-cell maturation and selection occur in cortical and medullary regions to eliminate self-reactive T cells, establish central tolerance, and export naïve T cells to the periphery with the potential to recognize diverse pathogens. Thymic output is also temporally regulated due to age-related involution of the thymus accompanied by loss of epithelial cells. This review discusses the structural and age-related control of thymus function in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Puspa Thapa
- Columbia Center for Translational Immunology, Columbia University Medical Center, 650 West 168th Street, BB1501, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Donna L Farber
- Department of Surgery, Columbia Center for Translational Immunology, Columbia University Medical Center, 650 West 168th Street, BB1501, New York, NY 10032, USA.
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Wabitsch S, Benzing C, Krenzien F, Splith K, Haber PK, Arnold A, Nösser M, Kamali C, Hermann F, Günther C, Hirsch D, Sauer IM, Pratschke J, Schmelzle M. Human Stem Cells Promote Liver Regeneration After Partial Hepatectomy in BALB/C Nude Mice. J Surg Res 2019; 239:191-200. [PMID: 30844633 DOI: 10.1016/j.jss.2019.02.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2018] [Revised: 01/16/2019] [Accepted: 02/05/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been suggested to augment liver regeneration after surgically and pharmacologically induced liver failure. To further investigate this we processed human bone marrow-derived MSC according to good manufacturing practice (GMP) and tested those cells for their modulatory capacities of metabolic alterations and liver regeneration after partial hepatectomy in BALB/c nude mice. METHODS Human MSCs were obtained by bone marrow aspiration of healthy donors as in a previously described GMP process. Transgenic GFP-MSCs were administered i.p. 24 h after 70% hepatectomy in BALB/c nude mice, whereas control mice received phosphate-buffered saline. Mice were sacrificed 2, 3, and 5 d after partial hepatectomy. Blood and organs were harvested and metabolic alterations as well as liver regeneration subsequently assessed by liver function tests, multianalyte profiling immunoassays, histology, and immunostaining. RESULTS Hepatocyte and sinusoidal endothelial cell proliferation were significantly increased after partial hepatectomy in mice receiving MSC compared to control mice (Hepatocyte postoperative day 3, P < 0.01; endothelial cell postoperative day 5, P < 0.05). Hepatocyte fat accumulation correlated inversely with hepatocyte proliferation (r2 = 0.4064, P < 0.01) 2 d after partial hepatectomy, with mice receiving MSC being protected from severe fat accumulation. No GFP-positive cells could be detected in the samples. Serum levels of IL-6, HGF, and IL-10 were significantly decreased at day 3 in mice receiving MSC when compared to control mice (P < 0.05). Relative body weight loss was significantly attenuated after partial hepatectomy in mice receiving MSC (2 d and 3 d, both P < 0.001) with a trend toward a faster relative restoration of liver weight, when compared to control mice. CONCLUSIONS Human bone marrow-derived MSC attenuate metabolic alterations and improve liver regeneration after partial hepatectomy in BALB/c nude mice. Obtained results using GMP-processed human MSC suggest functional links between fat accumulation and hepatocyte proliferation, without any evidence for cellular homing. This study using GMP-proceeded MSC has important regulatory implications for an urgently needed translation into a clinical trial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Wabitsch
- Department of Surgery, Campus Charité Mitte and Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Charité - Universitaetsmedizin, Berlin, Germany.
| | - Christian Benzing
- Department of Surgery, Campus Charité Mitte and Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Charité - Universitaetsmedizin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Felix Krenzien
- Department of Surgery, Campus Charité Mitte and Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Charité - Universitaetsmedizin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Katrin Splith
- Department of Surgery, Campus Charité Mitte and Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Charité - Universitaetsmedizin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Philipp Konstantin Haber
- Department of Surgery, Campus Charité Mitte and Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Charité - Universitaetsmedizin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Alexander Arnold
- Departement of Pathology, Campus Charité Mitte and Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Charité - Universitaetsmedizin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Maximilian Nösser
- Department of Surgery, Campus Charité Mitte and Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Charité - Universitaetsmedizin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Can Kamali
- Department of Surgery, Campus Charité Mitte and Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Charité - Universitaetsmedizin, Berlin, Germany
| | | | | | | | - Igor M Sauer
- Department of Surgery, Campus Charité Mitte and Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Charité - Universitaetsmedizin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Johann Pratschke
- Department of Surgery, Campus Charité Mitte and Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Charité - Universitaetsmedizin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Moritz Schmelzle
- Department of Surgery, Campus Charité Mitte and Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Charité - Universitaetsmedizin, Berlin, Germany
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Stemness, Pluripotentiality, and Wnt Antagonism: sFRP4, a Wnt antagonist Mediates Pluripotency and Stemness in Glioblastoma. Cancers (Basel) 2018; 11:cancers11010025. [PMID: 30591679 PMCID: PMC6356444 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11010025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2018] [Revised: 12/17/2018] [Accepted: 12/21/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Chemotherapeutic resistance of glioblastoma has been attributed to a self-renewing subpopulation, the glioma stem cells (GSCs), which is known to be maintained by the Wnt β−catenin pathway. Our previous findings demonstrated that exogeneous addition of the Wnt antagonist, secreted fizzled-related protein 4 (sFRP4) hampered stem cell properties in GSCs. Methods: To understand the molecular mechanism of sFRP4, we overexpressed sFRP4 (sFRP4 OE) in three human glioblastoma cell lines U87MG, U138MG, and U373MG. We also performed chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) sequencing of sFRP4 OE and RNA sequencing of sFRP4 OE and sFRP4 knocked down U87 cells. Results: We observed nuclear localization of sFRP4, suggesting an unknown nuclear role. ChIP-sequencing of sFRP4 pulldown DNA revealed a homeobox Cphx1, related to the senescence regulator ETS proto-oncogene 2 (ETS2). Furthermore, miRNA885, a p53-mediated apoptosis inducer, was upregulated in sFRP4 OE cells. RNA sequencing analysis suggested that sFRP4-mediated apoptosis is via the Fas-p53 pathway by activating the Wnt calcium and reactive oxygen species pathways. Interestingly, sFRP4 OE cells had decreased stemness, but when knocked down in multipotent mesenchymal stem cells, pluripotentiality was induced and the Wnt β-catenin pathway was upregulated. Conclusions: This study unveils a novel nuclear role for sFRP4 to promote apoptosis by a possible activation of DNA damage machinery in glioblastoma.
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Scaffolds Fabricated from Natural Polymers/Composites by Electrospinning for Bone Tissue Regeneration. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2018; 1078:49-78. [DOI: 10.1007/978-981-13-0950-2_4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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