IL-10 signaling prevents gluten-dependent intraepithelial CD4+ cytotoxic T lymphocyte infiltration and epithelial damage in the small intestine

RIPK1 ablation in T cells results in spontaneous enteropathy and TNF-driven villus atrophy

RIPK1 is a crucial regulator of cell survival, inflammation and cell death. Human RIPK1 deficiency leads to early-onset intestinal inflammation and peripheral T cell imbalance, though its role in αβT cell-mediated intestinal homeostasis remains unclear. In this study, we demonstrate that mice with RIPK1 ablation in conventional αβT cells (Ripk1ΔCD4) developed a severe small intestinal pathology characterized by small intestinal elongation, crypt hyperplasia, and duodenum-specific villus atrophy. Using mixed bone marrow chimeras reveals a survival disadvantage of αβT cells compared to γδT cells in the small intestine. Broad-spectrum antibiotic treatment ameliorates crypt hyperplasia and prevents intestinal elongation, though villus atrophy persists. Conversely, crossing Ripk1ΔCD4 with TNF receptor 1 Tnfr1-/- knockout mice rescues villus atrophy but not intestinal elongation. Finally, combined ablation of Ripk1∆CD4 and Casp8∆CD4 fully rescues intestinal pathology, revealing that αβT cell apoptosis in Ripk1∆CD4 drives the enteropathy. These findings demonstrate that RIPK1-mediated survival of αβT cells is essential for proximal small intestinal homeostasis. In Ripk1∆CD4 mice, the imbalanced T cell compartment drives microbiome-mediated intestinal elongation and TNF-driven villus atrophy.

Pathways and mechanisms of CD4+CD8αα+ intraepithelial T cell development

The mammalian small intestine epithelium harbors a peculiar population of CD4+CD8αα+ T cells that are derived from mature CD4+ T cells through reprogramming of lineage-specific transcription factors. CD4+CD8αα+ T cells occupy a unique niche in T cell biology because they exhibit mixed phenotypes and functional characteristics of both CD4+ helper and CD8+ cytotoxic T cells. The molecular pathways driving their generation are not fully mapped. However, recent studies demonstrate the unique role of the commensal gut microbiota as well as distinct cytokine and chemokine requirements in the differentiation and survival of these cells. We review the established and newly identified factors involved in the generation of CD4+CD8αα+ intraepithelial lymphocytes (IELs) and place them in the context of the molecular machinery that drives their phenotypic and functional differentiation.

IL-10-producing regulatory cells impact on celiac disease evolution

Celiac Disease (CD) is a T-cell mediated disorder caused by immune response to gluten, although the mechanisms underlying CD progression are still elusive. We analyzed immune cell composition, plasma cytokines, and gliadin-specific T-cell responses in patients with positive serology and normal intestinal mucosa (potential-CD) or villous atrophy (acute-CD), and after gluten-free diet (GFD). We found: an inflammatory signature and the presence of circulating gliadin-specific IFN-γ+ T cells in CD patients regardless of mucosal damage; an increased frequency of IL-10-secreting dendritic cells (DC-10) in the gut and of circulating gliadin-specific IL-10-secreting T cells in potential-CD; IL-10 inhibition increased IFN-γ secretion by gliadin-specific intestinal T cells from acute- and potential-CD. On GFD, inflammatory cytokines normalized, while IL-10-producing T cells accumulated in the gut. We show that IL-10-producing cells are fundamental in controlling pathological T-cell responses to gluten: DC-10 protect the intestinal mucosa from damage and represent a marker of potential-CD.

Extracellular CIRP induces CD4CD8αα intraepithelial lymphocyte cytotoxicity in sepsis

BACKGROUND

In sepsis, intestinal barrier dysfunction is often caused by the uncontrolled death of intestinal epithelial cells (IECs). CD4CD8αα intraepithelial lymphocytes (IELs), a subtype of CD4+ T cells residing within the intestinal epithelium, exert cytotoxicity by producing granzyme B (GrB) and perforin (Prf). Extracellular cold-inducible RNA-binding protein (eCIRP) is a recently identified alarmin which stimulates TLR4 on immune cells to induce proinflammatory responses. Here, we hypothesized that eCIRP enhances CD4CD8αα IEL cytotoxicity and induces IEC death in sepsis.

METHODS

We subjected wild-type (WT) and CIRP-/- mice to sepsis by cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) and collected the small intestines to isolate IELs. The expression of GrB and Prf in CD4CD8αα IELs was assessed by flow cytometry. IELs isolated from WT and TLR4-/- mice were challenged with recombinant mouse CIRP (eCIRP) and assessed the expression of GrB and Prf in CD4CD8αα by flow cytometry. Organoid-derived IECs were co-cultured with eCIRP-treated CD4CD8αα cells in the presence/absence of GrB and Prf inhibitors and assessed IEC death by flow cytometry.

RESULTS

We found a significant increase in the expression of GrB and Prf in CD4CD8αα IELs of septic mice compared to sham mice. We found that GrB and Prf levels in CD4CD8αα IELs were increased in the small intestines of WT septic mice, while CD4CD8αα IELs of CIRP-/- mice did not show an increase in those cytotoxic granules after sepsis. We found that eCIRP upregulated GrB and Prf in CD4CD8αα IELs isolated from WT mice but not from TLR4-/- mice. Furthermore, we also revealed that eCIRP-treated CD4CD8αα cells induced organoid-derived IEC death, which was mitigated by GrB and Prf inhibitors. Finally, histological analysis of septic mice revealed that CIRP-/- mice were protected from tissue injury and cell death in the small intestines compared to WT mice.

CONCLUSION

In sepsis, the cytotoxicity initiated by the eCIRP/TLR4 axis in CD4CD8αα IELs is associated with intestinal epithelial cell (IEC) death, which could lead to gut injury.

Ingestion of Bean Leaves Reduces Metabolic Complications and Restores Intestinal Integrity in C57BL/6 Mice with Obesity Induced by a High-Fat and High-Fructose Diet

Consumption of foods with fiber and compounds can promote gastrointestinal health and reduce obesity complications. Therefore, treatment with common bean leaves (BL) against obesity was evaluated in mice with a high-fat and high-fructose diet (HFFD) for 14 weeks. The bromatological and phytochemical characterization of BL were determined. Afterwards, the animals were supplemented with BL (10%) or a standard diet (SD) as a strategy to encourage a healthy diet for 12 additional weeks. Changes in body composition, lipid profile, and intestinal integrity were analyzed. The characterization of BL stood out for its content of 27.2% dietary fiber, total phenolics (475.04 mg/100 g), and saponins (2.2 mg/100 g). The visceral adipose tissue (VAT) decreased in the BL group by 52% compared to the HFFD group. Additionally, triglyceride levels were 23% lower in the BL consumption group compared to the HFFD group. The improvement in lipid profile was attributed to the 1.77-fold higher fecal lipid excretion in the BL consumption group compared to the HFFD group and the inhibition of pancreatic lipase by 29%. Furthermore, BL supplementation reduced the serum levels of IL-6 (4.4-fold) and FITC-dextran by 50% compared with those in the HFFD group. Metabolic endotoxemia was inhibited after BL supplementation (-33%) compared to the HFFD group. BL consumption as a treatment in obese mice reduces adipose tissue accumulation and improves the lipid profile. Furthermore, we report for the first time that BL consumption improves intestinal integrity.

Chemotherapy-induced microbiota exacerbates the toxicity of chemotherapy through the suppression of interleukin-10 from macrophages

The gut microbiota has been shown to influence the efficacy and toxicity of chemotherapy, thereby affecting treatment outcomes. Understanding the mechanism by which microbiota affects chemotherapeutic toxicity would have a profound impact on cancer management. In this study, we report that fecal microbiota transplantation from oxaliplatin-exposed mice promotes toxicity in recipient mice. Splenic RNA sequencing and macrophage depletion experiment showed that the microbiota-induced toxicity of oxaliplatin in mice was dependent on macrophages. Furthermore, oxaliplatin-mediated toxicity was exacerbated in Il10-/- mice, but not attenuated in Rag1-/- mice. Adoptive transfer of macrophage into Il10-/- mice confirmed the role of macrophage-derived IL-10 in the improvement of oxaliplatin-induced toxicity. Depletion of fecal Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium was associated with the exacerbation of oxaliplatin-mediated toxicity, whereas supplementation with these probiotics alleviated chemotherapy-induced toxicity. Importantly, IL-10 administration and probiotics supplementation did not attenuate the antitumor efficacy of chemotherapy. Clinically, patients with colorectal cancer exposed to oxaliplatin exhibited downregulation of peripheral CD45+IL-10+ cells. Collectively, our findings indicate that microbiota-mediated IL-10 production influences tolerance to chemotherapy, and thus represents a potential clinical target.

Characterization of Bovine Intraepithelial T Lymphocytes in the Gut

Intraepithelial T lymphocytes (T-IELs), which constitute over 50% of the total T lymphocytes in the animal, patrol the mucosal epithelial lining to defend against pathogen invasion while maintaining gut homeostasis. In addition to expressing T cell markers such as CD4 and CD8, T-IELs display T cell receptors (TCR), including either TCRαβ or TCRγδ. Both humans and mice share similar T-IEL subsets: TCRγδ+, TCRαβ+CD8αα+, TCRαβ+CD4+, and TCRαβ+CD8αβ+. Among these subsets, human T-IELs are predominantly TCRαβ+ (over 80%), whereas those in mice are mostly TCRγδ+ (~60%). Of note, the majority of the TCRγδ+ subset expresses CD8αα in both species. Although T-IELs have been extensively studied in humans and mice, their profiles in cattle have not been well examined. Our study is the first to characterize bovine T-IELs using flow cytometry, where we identified several distinct features. The percentage of TCRγδ+ was comparable to that of TCRαβ+ T-IELs (both ~50% of CD3+), and the majority of bovine TCRγδ+ T-IELs did not express CD8 (CD8-) (above 60%). Furthermore, about 20% of TCRαβ+ T-IELs were CD4+CD8αβ+, and the remaining TCRαβ+ T-IELs were evenly distributed between CD4+ and CD8αβ+ (~40% of TCRαβ+ T-IELs each) with no TCRαβ+CD8αα+ identified. Despite these unique properties, bovine T-IELs, similar to those in humans and mice, expressed a high level of CD69, an activation and tissue-retention marker, and a low level of CD62L, a lymphoid adhesion marker. Moreover, bovine T-IELs produced low levels of inflammatory cytokines such as IFNγ and IL17A, and secreted small amounts of the immune regulatory cytokine TGFβ1. Hence, bovine T-IELs' composition largely differs from that of human and mouse, with the dominance of the CD8- population among TCRγδ+ T-IELs, the substantial presence of TCRαβ+CD4+CD8αβ+ cells, and the absence of TCRαβ+CD8αα+ T-IELs. These results provide the groundwork for conducting future studies to examine how bovine T-IELs respond to intestinal pathogens and maintain the integrity of the gut epithelial barrier in animals.

Dietary protein shapes the profile and repertoire of intestinal CD4+ T cells

The intestinal immune system must tolerate food antigens to avoid allergy, a process requiring CD4+ T cells. Combining antigenically defined diets with gnotobiotic models, we show that food and microbiota distinctly influence the profile and T cell receptor repertoire of intestinal CD4+ T cells. Independent of the microbiota, dietary proteins contributed to accumulation and clonal selection of antigen-experienced CD4+ T cells at the intestinal epithelium, imprinting a tissue-specialized transcriptional program including cytotoxic genes on both conventional and regulatory CD4+ T cells (Tregs). This steady state CD4+ T cell response to food was disrupted by inflammatory challenge, and protection against food allergy in this context was associated with Treg clonal expansion and decreased proinflammatory gene expression. Finally, we identified both steady-state epithelium-adapted CD4+ T cells and tolerance-induced Tregs that recognize dietary antigens, suggesting that both cell types may be critical for preventing inappropriate immune responses to food.

Ablation of CD226 on CD4+ T cells modulates asthma progress associated with altered IL-10 response and gut microbiota

To investigate the role of the costimulatory molecule CD226 in asthma pathogenesis, we produced a CD4⁺ T-cell-specific CD226 knockout mice model (Cd226^ΔCD4) and induced airway allergic inflammation by administering ovalbumin (OVA). Our results revealed alleviated lung inflammation, decreased levels of OVA-specific IgE, and increased levels of IL-10 in the serum of Cd226^ΔCD4 mice (P < 0.05). Moreover, IL-10 levels in CD4⁺ T cells were significantly elevated in the mediastinal lymph node, spleen, and Peyer's patches in the Cd226^ΔCD4 mice compared with those in controls (P < 0.05 to P < 0.01). Notably, there was a significantly higher IL-10 mRNA levels in the large intestine of the mice (P < 0.05). The protective effect of CD226 deficiency is also associated with the accumulation of gut TCRγδ⁺ intraepithelial lymphocytes and reversion of the gut microbiome dysbiosis. The Bacteroidetes-to-Firmicutes ratio and the abundance of Akkermansia increased in the absence of CD226 after OVA treatment. Our data reveal the synchronous changes in the lung and intestine in OVA-treated CD226-knockout mice, supporting the gut-lung axis concept and providing evidence for novel therapeutic approaches for asthma.

Dietary protein shapes the profile and repertoire of intestinal CD4 + T cells

The intestinal immune system must tolerate food antigens to avoid allergy, a process requiring CD4 ⁺ T cells. Combining antigenically defined diets with gnotobiotic models, we show that food and microbiota distinctly influence the profile and T cell receptor repertoire of intestinal CD4 ⁺ T cells. Independent of the microbiota, dietary proteins contributed to accumulation and clonal selection of antigen-experienced CD4 ⁺ T cells at the intestinal epithelium, imprinting a tissue specialized transcriptional program including cytotoxic genes on both conventional and regulatory CD4 ⁺ T cells (Tregs). This steady state CD4 ⁺ T cell response to food was disrupted by inflammatory challenge, and protection against food allergy in this context was associated with Treg clonal expansion and decreased pro-inflammatory gene expression. Finally, we identified both steady state epithelium-adapted CD4 ⁺ T cells and tolerance-induced Tregs that recognize dietary antigens, suggesting that both cell types may be critical for preventing inappropriate immune responses to food.

Rapamycin improves Graves' orbitopathy by suppressing CD4+ cytotoxic T lymphocytes

CD4+ cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) were recently implicated in immune-mediated inflammation and fibrosis progression of Graves' orbitopathy (GO). However, little is known about therapeutic targeting of CD4+ CTLs. Herein, we studied the effect of rapamycin, an approved mTOR complex 1 (mTORC1) inhibitor, in a GO mouse model, in vitro, and in patients with refractory GO. In the adenovirus-induced model, rapamycin significantly decreased the incidence of GO. This was accompanied by the reduction of both CD4+ CTLs and the reduction of orbital inflammation, adipogenesis, and fibrosis. CD4+ CTLs from patients with active GO showed upregulation of the mTOR pathway, while rapamycin decreased their proportions and cytotoxic function. Low-dose rapamycin treatment substantially improved diplopia and the clinical activity score in steroid-refractory patients with GO. Single-cell RNA-Seq revealed that eye motility improvement was closely related to suppression of inflammation and chemotaxis in CD4+ CTLs. In conclusion, rapamycin is a promising treatment for CD4+ CTL-mediated inflammation and fibrosis in GO.

RNA binding protein DDX5 restricts RORγt+ Treg suppressor function to promote intestine inflammation

Retinoid-related orphan receptor (RAR) gamma (RORγt)-expressing regulatory T cells (RORγt+ Tregs) play pivotal roles in preventing T cell hyperactivation and maintaining tissue homeostasis, in part by secreting the anti-inflammation cytokine interleukin-10 (IL-10). Here, we report that hypoxia-induced factor 1α (HIF1α) is the master transcription factor for Il10 in RORγt+ Tregs. This critical anti-inflammatory pathway is negatively regulated by an RNA binding protein DEAD box helicase 5 (DDX5). As a transcriptional corepressor, DDX5 restricts the expression of HIF1α and its downstream target gene Il10 in RORγt+ Tregs. T cell-specific Ddx5 knockout (DDX5ΔT) mice have augmented RORγt+ Treg suppressor activities and are better protected from intestinal inflammation. Genetic ablation or pharmacologic inhibition of HIF1α restores enteropathy susceptibility in DDX5ΔT mice. The DDX5-HIF1α-IL-10 pathway is conserved in mice and humans. These findings reveal potential therapeutic targets for intestinal inflammatory diseases.

Dihydromyricetin Attenuates High-Intensity Exercise-Induced Intestinal Barrier Dysfunction Associated with the Modulation of the Phenotype of Intestinal Intraepithelial Lymphocytes

BACKGROUND

Exercise-induced gastrointestinal syndrome (GIS) has symptoms commonly induced by strenuous sports. The study aimed to determine the effect of dihydromyricetin (DHM) administration on high-intensity exercise (HIE)-induced intestinal barrier dysfunction and the underlying mechanism involved with intestinal intraepithelial lymphocytes (IELs).

METHODS

The HIE model was established with male C57BL/6 mice using a motorized treadmill for 2 weeks, and DHM was given once a day by oral gavage. After being sacrificed, the small intestines of the mice were removed immediately.

RESULTS

We found that DHM administration significantly suppressed HIE-induced intestinal inflammation, improved intestinal barrier integrity, and inhibited a HIE-induced increase in the number of IELs and the frequency of CD8αα⁺ IELs. Meanwhile, several markers associated with the activation, gut homing and immune functions of CD8αα⁺ IELs were regulated by DHM. Mechanistically, luciferase reporter assay and molecular docking assay showed DHM could activate the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR).

CONCLUSIONS

These data indicate that DHM exerts a preventive effect against HIE-induced intestinal barrier dysfunction, which is associated with the modulation of the quantity and phenotype of IELs in the small intestine. The findings provide a foundation to identify novel preventive strategies based on DHM supplementation for HIE-induced GIS.

Alteration of interleukin-10-producing Type 1 regulatory cells in autoimmune diseases

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This review highlights findings describing the role of interleukin (IL)-10-producing Type 1 regulatory T (Tr1) cells in controlling autoimmune diseases and possible approaches to restore their function and number.

RECENT FINDINGS

Reduced frequency and/or function of cell subsets playing a role in Tr1 cell induction (e.g., DC-10 and Bregs), was found in patients with autoimmunity and may impact on Tr1 cell frequency.

SUMMARY

IL-10 is a pleiotropic cytokine with fundamental anti-inflammatory functions acting as negative regulator of immune responses. IL-10 is critically involved in the induction and functions of Tr1 cells, a subset of memory CD4+ T cells induced in the periphery to suppress immune responses to a variety of antigens (Ags), including self-, allogeneic, and dietary Ags. Alterations in IL-10-related pathways and/or in the frequency and activities of Tr1 cells have been associated to several autoimmune diseases. We will give an overview of the alterations of IL-10 and IL-10-producing Tr1 cells in Multiple Sclerosis, Type 1 Diabetes, and Celiac Disease, in which similarities in the role of these tolerogenic mechanisms are present. Current and future approaches to overcome Tr1 cell defects and restore tolerance in these diseases will also be discussed.

IFN-γ+ cytotoxic CD4+ T lymphocytes are involved in the pathogenesis of colitis induced by IL-23 and the food colorant Red 40

The food colorant Red 40 is an environmental risk factor for colitis development in mice with increased expression of interleukin (IL)-23. This immune response is mediated by CD4+ T cells, but mechanistic insights into how these CD4+ T cells trigger and perpetuate colitis have remained elusive. Here, using single-cell transcriptomic analysis, we found that several CD4+ T-cell subsets are present in the intestines of colitic mice, including an interferon (IFN)-γ-producing subset. In vivo challenge of primed mice with Red 40 promoted rapid activation of CD4+ T cells and caused marked intestinal epithelial cell (IEC) apoptosis that was attenuated by depletion of CD4+ cells and blockade of IFN-γ. Ex vivo experiments showed that intestinal CD4+ T cells from colitic mice directly promoted apoptosis of IECs and intestinal enteroids. CD4+ T cell-mediated cytotoxicity was contact-dependent and required FasL, which promoted caspase-dependent cell death in target IECs. Genetic ablation of IFN-γ constrained IL-23- and Red 40-induced colitis development, and blockade of IFN-γ inhibited epithelial cell death in vivo. These results advance the understanding of the mechanisms regulating colitis development caused by IL-23 and food colorants and identify IFN-γ+ cytotoxic CD4+ T cells as a new potential therapeutic target for colitis.

Cellular Origins and Pathogenesis of Gastrointestinal NK- and T-Cell Lymphoproliferative Disorders

The intestinal immune system, which must ensure appropriate immune responses to both pathogens and commensal microflora, comprises innate lymphoid cells and various T-cell subsets, including intra-epithelial lymphocytes (IELs). An example of innate lymphoid cells is natural killer cells, which may be classified into tissue-resident, CD56bright NK-cells that serve a regulatory function and more mature, circulating CD56dim NK-cells with effector cytolytic properties. CD56bright NK-cells in the gastrointestinal tract give rise to indolent NK-cell enteropathy and lymphomatoid gastropathy, as well as the aggressive extranodal NK/T cell lymphoma, the latter following activation by EBV infection and neoplastic transformation. Conventional CD4+ TCRαβ+ and CD8αβ+ TCRαβ+ T-cells are located in the lamina propria and the intraepithelial compartment of intestinal mucosa as type 'a' IELs. They are the putative cells of origin for CD4+ and CD8+ indolent T-cell lymphoproliferative disorders of the gastrointestinal tract and intestinal T-cell lymphoma, NOS. In addition to such conventional T-cells, there are non-conventional T-cells in the intra-epithelial compartment that express CD8αα and innate lymphoid cells that lack TCRs. The central feature of type 'b' IELs is the expression of CD8αα homodimers, seen in monomorphic epitheliotropic intestinal T-cell lymphoma (MEITL), which primarily arises from both CD8αα+ TCRαβ+ and CD8αα+ TCRγδ+ IELs. EATL is the other epitheliotropic T-cell lymphoma in the GI tract, a subset of which arises from the expansion and reprograming of intracytoplasmic CD3+ innate lymphoid cells, driven by IL15 and mutations of the JAK-STAT pathway.

CD4+ Cytotoxic T cells - Phenotype, Function and Transcriptional Networks Controlling Their Differentiation Pathways

The two major subsets of peripheral T cells are classically divided into the CD4⁺ T helper cells and the cytotoxic CD8⁺ T cell lineage. However, the appearance of some effector CD4⁺ T cell populations displaying cytotoxic activity, in particular during viral infections, has been observed, thus breaking the functional dichotomy of CD4⁺ and CD8⁺ T lymphocytes. The strong association of the appearance of CD4⁺ cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CD4 CTLs) with viral infections suggests an important role of this subset in antiviral immunity by controlling viral replication and infection. Moreover, CD4 CTLs have been linked with anti-tumor activity and might also cause immunopathology in autoimmune diseases. This raises interest into the molecular mechanisms regulating CD4 CTL differentiation, which are poorly understood in comparison to differentiation pathways of other Th subsets. In this review, we provide a brief overview about key features of CD4 CTLs, including their role in viral infections and cancer immunity, and about the link between CD4 CTLs and immune-mediated diseases. Subsequently, we will discuss the current knowledge about transcriptional and epigenetic networks controlling CD4 CTL differentiation and highlight recent data suggesting a role for histone deacetylases in the generation of CD4 CTLs.

Cytolytic CD4+ and CD8+ Regulatory T-Cells and Implications for Developing Immunotherapies to Combat Graft-Versus-Host Disease

Regulatory T-cells (Treg) are critical for the maintenance of immune homeostasis and tolerance induction. While the immunosuppressive mechanisms of Treg have been extensively investigated for decades, the mechanisms responsible for Treg cytotoxicity and their therapeutic potential in regulating immune responses have been incompletely explored and exploited. Conventional cytotoxic T effector cells (Teffs) are known to be important for adaptive immune responses, particularly in the settings of viral infections and cancer. CD4+ and CD8+ Treg subsets may also share similar cytotoxic properties with conventional Teffs. Cytotoxic effector Treg (cyTreg) are a heterogeneous population in the periphery that retain the capacity to suppress T-cell proliferation and activation, induce cellular apoptosis, and migrate to tissues to ensure immune homeostasis. The latter can occur through several cytolytic mechanisms, including the Granzyme/Perforin and Fas/FasL signaling pathways. This review focuses on the current knowledge and recent advances in our understanding of cyTreg and their potential application in the treatment of human disease, particularly Graft-versus-Host Disease (GVHD).

Immunosuppressive effect of mesenchymal stem cells on lung and gut CD8+ T cells in lipopolysaccharide-induced acute lung injury in mice

OBJECTIVES

Acute lung injury (ALI) not only affects pulmonary function but also leads to intestinal dysfunction, which in turn contributes to ALI. Mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) transplantation can be a potential strategy in the treatment of ALI. However, the mechanisms of synergistic regulatory effects by MSCs on the lung and intestine in ALI need more in-depth study.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We evaluated the therapeutic effects of MSCs on the murine model of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced ALI through survival rate, histopathology and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid. Metagenomic sequencing was performed to assess the gut microbiota. The levels of pulmonary and intestinal inflammation and immune response were assessed by analysing cytokine expression and flow cytometry.

RESULTS

Mesenchymal stem cells significantly improved the survival rate of mice with ALI, alleviated histopathological lung damage, improved intestinal barrier integrity, and reduced the levels of inflammatory cytokines in the lung and gut. Furthermore, MSCs inhibited the inflammatory response by decreasing the infiltration of CD8+ T cells in both small-intestinal lymphocytes and Peyer's patches. The gut bacterial community diversity was significantly altered by MSC transplantation. Furthermore, depletion of intestinal bacterial communities with antibiotics resulted in more severe lung and gut damages and mortality, while MSCs significantly alleviated lung injury due to their immunosuppressive effect.

CONCLUSIONS

The present research indicates that MSCs attenuate lung and gut injury partly via regulation of the immune response in the lungs and intestines and gut microbiota, providing new insights into the mechanisms underlying the therapeutic effects of MSC treatment for LPS-induced ALI.

A novel CD4+ CTL subtype characterized by chemotaxis and inflammation is involved in the pathogenesis of Graves' orbitopathy

Graves' orbitopathy (GO), the most severe manifestation of Graves' hyperthyroidism (GH), is an autoimmune-mediated inflammatory disorder, and treatments often exhibit a low efficacy. CD4+ T cells have been reported to play vital roles in GO progression. To explore the pathogenic CD4+ T cell types that drive GO progression, we applied single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-Seq), T cell receptor sequencing (TCR-Seq), flow cytometry, immunofluorescence and mixed lymphocyte reaction (MLR) assays to evaluate CD4+ T cells from GO and GH patients. scRNA-Seq revealed the novel GO-specific cell type CD4+ cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs), which are characterized by chemotactic and inflammatory features. The clonal expansion of this CD4+ CTL population, as demonstrated by TCR-Seq, along with their strong cytotoxic response to autoantigens, localization in orbital sites, and potential relationship with disease relapse provide strong evidence for the pathogenic roles of GZMB and IFN-γ-secreting CD4+ CTLs in GO. Therefore, cytotoxic pathways may become potential therapeutic targets for GO.

Innate and adaptive immunity in celiac disease

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The current review is prompted by recent studies indicating that adaptive immunity could be sufficient to explain rapid onset symptoms as well as many chronic effects of gluten in celiac disease.

RECENT FINDINGS

Gluten re-exposure in treated celiac disease drives a coordinated systemic cytokine release response implicating T-cell activation within 2 h. Instead of direct effects of gluten on innate immunity, long lasting memory CD4+ T cells activated within 2 h of ingesting gluten or injecting purified gluten peptides now appear to be responsible for acute digestive symptoms. In addition, memory B cells and plasma cells specific for gluten and transglutaminase 2, rather than innate immune cells, are the preferred antigen-presenting cells for gluten in the gut. A variety of innate immune stimuli such as transient infections and local intestinal microbiome, not necessarily gluten itself, may contribute to disease initiation and transition to overt intestinal mucosal injury. Gluten-specific adaptive immunity in the gut and blood are now shown to be closely linked, and systemic cytokine release after gluten provides an additional explanation for extraintestinal manifestations of celiac disease.

SUMMARY

Clinical studies utilizing cytokines as new biomarkers for gluten immunity promise to improve understanding of clinical effects of gluten, accelerate therapeutics development, and augment diagnosis.

Nutrition Regulates Innate Immunity in Health and Disease

Nutrient content and nutrient timing are considered key regulators of human health and a variety of diseases and involve complex interactions with the mucosal immune system. In particular, the innate immune system is emerging as an important signaling hub that modulates the response to nutritional signals, in part via signaling through the gut microbiota. In this review we elucidate emerging evidence that interactions between innate immunity and diet affect human metabolic health and disease, including cardiometabolic disorders, allergic diseases, autoimmune disorders, infections, and cancers. Furthermore, we discuss the potential modulatory effects of the gut microbiota on interactions between the immune system and nutrition in health and disease, namely how it relays nutritional signals to the innate immune system under specific physiological contexts. Finally, we identify key open questions and challenges to comprehensively understanding the intersection between nutrition and innate immunity and how potential nutritional, immune, and microbial therapeutics may be developed into promising future avenues of precision treatment.

Exposures to uranium and arsenic alter intraepithelial and innate immune cells in the small intestine of male and female mice

Human exposures to environmental metals, including uranium (U) and arsenic (As) are a global public health concern. Chronic exposures to U and As are linked to many adverse health effects including, immune suppression and autoimmunity. The gastrointestinal (GI) tract is home to many immune cells vital in the maintenance of systemic immune health. However, very little is known about the immunotoxicity of U and As at this site. The present study examined the burden of U and As exposure in the GI tract as well as the resultant immunotoxicity to intraepithelial lymphocytes (IELs) and innate immune cells of the small intestine following chronic drinking water exposures of male and female mice to U (in the form of uranyl acetate, UA) and As (in the form of sodium arsenite, As3+). Exposure to U or As3+ resulted in high levels of U or As in the GI tract of male and female mice, respectively. A reduction of small intestinal CD4+ IELs (TCRαβ+, CD8αα+) was found following As3+ exposure, whereas U produced widespread suppression of CD4- IEL subsets (TCRαβ+ and TCRγδ+). Evaluation of innate immune cell subsets in the small intestinal lamina propria revealed a decrease in mature macrophages, along with a corresponding increase in immature/proinflammatory macrophages following As3+ exposures. These data show that exposures to two prevalent environmental contaminants, U and As produce significant immunotoxicity in the GI tract. Collectively, these findings provide a critical framework for understanding the underlying immune health issues reported in human populations chronically exposed to environmental metals.

Intestinal intraepithelial lymphocytes: Maintainers of intestinal immune tolerance and regulators of intestinal immunity

Intestinal immune tolerance is essential for the immune system, as it prevents abnormal immune responses to large quantities of antigens from the intestinal lumen, such as antigens from commensal microorganisms, and avoids self‐injury. Intestinal intraepithelial lymphocytes (IELs), a special group of mucosal T lymphocytes, play a significant role in intestinal immune tolerance. To accomplish this, IELs exhibit a high threshold of activation and low reactivity to most antigens from the intestinal lumen. In particular, CD8αα⁺TCRαβ⁺ IELs, TCRγδ⁺ IELs, and CD4⁺CD8αα⁺ IELs show great potential for maintaining intestinal immune tolerance and regulating intestinal immunity. However, if the intestinal microenvironment becomes abnormal or intestinal tolerance is broken, IELs may be activated abnormally and become pathogenic.

Histone deacetylases 1 and 2 restrain CD4+ cytotoxic T lymphocyte differentiation

Some effector CD4+ T cell subsets display cytotoxic activity, thus breaking the functional dichotomy of CD4+ helper and CD8+ cytotoxic T lymphocytes. However, molecular mechanisms regulating CD4+ cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CD4+ CTL) differentiation are poorly understood. Here we show that levels of histone deacetylases 1 and 2 (HDAC1-HDAC2) are key determinants of CD4+ CTL differentiation. Deletions of both Hdac1 and 1 Hdac2 alleles (HDAC1cKO-HDAC2HET) in CD4+ T cells induced a T helper cytotoxic program that was controlled by IFN-γ-JAK1/2-STAT1 signaling. In vitro, activated HDAC1cKO-HDAC2HET CD4+ T cells acquired cytolytic activity and displayed enrichment of gene signatures characteristic of effector CD8+ T cells and human CD4+ CTLs. In vivo, murine cytomegalovirus-infected HDAC1cKO-HDAC2HET mice displayed a stronger induction of CD4+ CTL features compared with infected WT mice. Finally, murine and human CD4+ T cells treated with short-chain fatty acids, which are commensal-produced metabolites acting as HDAC inhibitors, upregulated CTL genes. Our data demonstrate that HDAC1-HDAC2 restrain CD4+ CTL differentiation. Thus, HDAC1-HDAC2 might be targets for the therapeutic induction of CD4+ CTLs.

CD4CD8αα IELs: They Have Something to Say

The intraepithelial lymphocytes (IELs) that reside within the epithelium of the intestine play a critical role in maintaining the immune balance of the gut. CD4CD8αα IELs are one of the most important types of IELs, and they play an irreplaceable role in maintaining the balance of the intestinal immune system. CD4CD8αα IELs are often regarded as a special subtype of CD4⁺ IELs that can express CD8αα on their cytomembrane. Hence, CD4CD8αα IELs not only have the ability to modulate the functions of immune cells but also are regarded as cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs). Transcription factors, microbes, and dietary factors have a substantial effect on the development of CD4CD8αα IELs, which make them exert immunosuppression and cytotoxicity activities. In addition, there is an intimate relationship between CD4CD8αα IELs and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), whereas it is still unclear how CD4CD8αα IELs influence IBD. As such, this review will focus on the unparalleled differentiation of CD4CD8αα IELs and discuss how these cells might be devoted to tolerance and immunopathological responses in the intestinal tract. In addition, the role of CD4CD8αα IELs in IBD would also be discussed.