The nature of topogenic sequences determines the transport competence of topological mutants of neutral endopeptidase-24.11

Immune Checkpoints Are New Therapeutic Targets in Regulating Cardio-, and Cerebro-Vascular Diseases and CD4+Foxp3+ Regulatory T Cell Immunosuppression

Although previous reviews explored the roles of selected immune checkpoints (ICPs) in cardiovascular diseases (CVD) and cerebrovascular diseases from various perspectives, many related aspects have yet to be thoroughly reviewed and analyzed. Our comprehensive review addresses this gap by discussing the cellular functions of ICPs, focusing on the tissue-specific and microenvironment-localized transcriptomic and posttranslational regulation of ICP expressions, as well as their functional interactions with metabolic reprogramming. We also analyze how 14 pairs of ICPs, including CTLA-4/CD86-CD80, PD1-PDL-1, and TIGIT-CD155, regulate CVD pathogenesis. Additionally, the review covers the roles of ICPs in modulating CD4+Foxp3+ regulatory T cells (Tregs), T cells, and innate immune cells in various CVDs and cerebrovascular diseases. Furthermore, we outline seven immunological principles to guide the development of new ICP-based therapies for CVDs. This timely and thorough analysis of recent advancements and challenges provide new insights into the role of ICPs in CVDs, cerebrovascular diseases and Tregs, and will support the development of novel therapeutics strategies for these diseases.

A novel Bcl-x isoform connected to the T cell receptor regulates apoptosis in T cells

We define a novel Bcl-x isoform, Bcl-x gamma, that is generated by alternative splicing and characterized by a unique 47 amino acid C-terminus. Bcl-x gamma is expressed primarily in thymocytes, where it may depend on an interaction between the TCR and host MHC products, and in mature T cells, where its expression is associated with ligation of the T cell receptor. Overexpression of Bcl-x gamma in T cells inhibits activation-induced apoptosis; inhibition of Bcl-x gamma, after stable expression of Bcl-x gamma antisense cDNA, enhances activation-induced apoptosis. In contrast to other Bcl-x isoforms, cells that fail to express Bcl-x gamma after CD3 ligation undergo programmed cell death, while activated T cells that express Bcl-x gamma are spared. Identification of Bcl-x gamma helps provide a molecular explanation of T cell activation and death after antigen engagement.