Poly-guanosine motifs costimulate antigen-reactive CD8 T cells while bacterial CpG-DNA affect T-cell activation via antigen-presenting cell-derived cytokines

Exploring the impact of oral bacteria remnants on stem cells from the Apical papilla: mineralization potential and inflammatory response

Introduction

Bacterial persistence is considered one of the main causal factors for regenerative endodontic treatment (RET) failure in immature permanent teeth. This interference is claimed to be caused by the interaction of bacteria that reside in the root canal with the stem cells that are one of the essentials for RET. The aim of the study was to investigate whether prolonged exposure of stem cells from the apical papilla (SCAP) to bacterial remnants of Fusobacterium nucleatum, Actinomyces gerensceriae, Slackia exigua, Enterococcus faecalis, Peptostreptococcaceae yurii, commonly found in infected traumatized root canals, and the probiotic bacteria Lactobacillus gasseri and Limosilactobacillus reuteri, can alter SCAP's inflammatory response and mineralization potential.

Methods

To assess the effect of bacterial remnants on SCAP, we used UV-C-inactivated bacteria (as cell wall-associated virulence factors) and bacterial DNA. Histochemical staining using Osteoimage Mineralization Assay and Alizarin Red analysis was performed to study SCAP mineralization, while inflammatory and osteo/odontogenic-related responses of SCAPs were assessed with Multiplex ELISA.

Results

We showed that mineralization promotion was greater with UV C-inactivated bacteria compared to bacterial DNA. Immunofluorescence analysis detected that the early mineralization marker alkaline phosphatase (ALP) was increased by the level of E. coli lipopolysaccharide (LPS) positive control in the case of UV-C-inactivated bacteria; meanwhile, DNA treatment decreased the level of ALP compared to the positive control. SCAP's secretome assessed with Multiplex ELISA showed the upregulation of pro-inflammatory factors IL-6, IL-8, GM-CSF, IL-1b, neurotrophic factor BDNF, and angiogenic factor VEGF, induced by UV-C-killed bacteria.

Discussion

The results suggest that long term stimulation (for 21 days) of SCAP with UV-C-inactivated bacteria stimulate their mineralization and inflammatory response, while DNA influence has no such effect, which opens up new ideas about the nature of RET failure.

Bacteria-mediated cancer therapy: A versatile bio-sapper with translational potential

Bacteria are important symbionts for humans, which sustain substantial influences on our health. Interestingly, some bastrains have been identified to have therapeutic applications, notably for antitumor activity. Thereby, oncologists have developed various therapeutic models and investigated the potential antitumor mechanisms for bacteria-mediated cancer therapy (BCT). Even though BCT has a long history and exhibits remarkable therapeutic efficacy in pre-clinical animal models, its clinical translation still lags and requires further breakthroughs. This review aims to focus on the established strains of therapeutic bacteria and their antitumor mechanisms, including the stimulation of host immune responses, direct cytotoxicity, the interference on cellular signal transduction, extracellular matrix remodeling, neoangiogenesis, and metabolism, as well as vehicles for drug delivery and gene therapy. Moreover, a brief discussion is proposed regarding the important future directions for this fantastic research field of BCT at the end of this review.

TLR9-based immunotherapy for the treatment of allergic diseases

Toll-like receptors (TLRs), a family of pattern recognition receptors expressed on many cell types of innate immunity, recognize the pathogen-associated molecular patterns of microbes. The hygiene hypothesis suggests that a reduced microbial exposure in early childhood increases the susceptibility to allergic diseases due to deviation in development of the immune system. TLRs are key roles in the right and healthy direction of adaptive immunity with the induction of T-helper 2 toward Th1 immune responses and regulatory T cells. TLR ligand CpG-ODN-based immunomodulation is independent of allergen and it mainly affects innate immune system. While, CpG-oligodeoxynucleotide-based vaccination is allergen specific and induces adaptive immune system. The use of agonists of TLR9 in two distinct strategies of immunotherapy, immunomodulation and vaccination, could be presented as the curative method for the treatment of allergic diseases.

Oligodeoxynucleotides expressing polyguanosine motifs promote antitumor activity through the upregulation of IL-2

The primary goal of cancer immunotherapy is to elicit an immune response capable of eliminating the tumor. One approach toward accomplishing that goal uses general (rather than tumor-specific) immunomodulatory agents to boost the number and activity of pre-existing CTLs. We find that the intratumoral injection of polyguanosine (poly-G) oligonucleotides (ODN) has such an effect, boosting antitumor immunity and promoting tumor regression. The antitumor activity of poly-G ODN was mediated through CD8 T cells in a TLR9-independent manner. Mechanistically, poly-G ODN directly induced the phosphorylation of Lck (an essential element of the T cell-signaling pathway), thereby enhancing the production of IL-2 and CD8 T cell proliferation. These findings establish poly-G ODN as a novel type of cancer immunotherapy.

CpG and non-CpG oligodeoxynucleotides directly costimulate mouse and human CD4+ T cells through a TLR9- and MyD88-independent mechanism

TLR ligands are known to activate APCs, but direct T cell responsiveness to TLR ligands is controversial. Because of their clinical relevance, we performed in-depth studies of the effects of the TLR9-associated ligands, oligodeoxynucleotides (ODNs), on highly purified T lymphocytes. Both CpG and non-CpG ODNs directly costimulate mouse and human CD4(+) T cells, resulting in activation marker upregulation, cytokine secretion, elevated TCR phosphorylation, and proliferation. Surprisingly, ODN costimulation occurred independently of TLR9 and MyD88, as well as ICOS, CD28, and TRIF. TLR9-antagonist ODNs likewise promoted T cell activation, which has important implications for the study of these "inhibitory" ODNs in inflammatory diseases. Cytokine profiling revealed that ODNs promote polarization of distinct Th subsets, and that ODNs differentially affect human naive and memory T cells. Our studies reveal a striking and unexpected ability of ODNs to directly activate and polarize T cells, presenting an opportunity to enhance the paradigm for selection of therapeutic ODNs in humans.

CpG-ODN 2006 and human parvovirus B19 genome consensus sequences selectively inhibit growth and development of erythroid progenitor cells

Recent studies have shown that anemia is commonly observed after exposure to pathogens or pathogen-derived products, which are recognized via Toll-like receptor 9 (TLR9). In the current study, we demonstrate that CpG oligodeoxynucleotide-2006, a TLR9 ligand with phosphodiester (PO; 2006-PO) but not with the phosphorothioate backbone, selectively inhibits the erythroid growth derived from human CD34(+) cells. The 2006-PO was internalized by the erythroid progenitors within 30 minutes; however, expression of TLR9 mRNA was not detected in these cells. The 2006-PO directly inhibited burst-forming unit-erythroid growth, resulted in the accumulation of cells in S and G(2)/M phases, and increased cell size and frequency of apoptotic cells. These features were similar to those observed in erythroid progenitors infected with human parvovirus B19 that causes pure red cell aplasia. The consensus sequence of 2006-PO was defined as 5'-GTTTTGT-3', which was located in the P6-promoter region of B19 and inhibited erythroid growth in a sequence-specific manner and down-regulated expression of erythropoietin receptor (EPOR) mRNA and EPOR. B19 genome extracted from serum also inhibited erythroid growth and down-regulated expression of EPOR on glycophorin A(+) cells. These results provide a possible insight into our understanding of the mechanisms of human parvovirus B19-mediated inhibition of erythropoiesis.

Immune Mechanisms and Therapeutic Potential of CpG Oligodeoxynucleotides

Unmethylated CpG motifs in bacterial DNA and synthetic oligodeoxynucleotides activate immune cells that express Toll-like Receptor 9. Activation through this receptor triggers cellular signaling that leads to production of a proinflammatory and a Th1-type, antigen-specific immune response. The immunostimulatory effects of CpG oligodeoxynucleotides confer protection against infectious disease, allergy and cancer in animal models, and clinical trials have been initiated. However, CpG oligodeoxynucleotides may exacerbate disease in some situations. We will review current concepts in the mechanisms of activating Toll-like Receptor 9 with CpG oligodeoxynucleotides and highlight opportunities for using large animal models to better determine the mechanisms of action.

Therapeutic applications of synthetic CpG oligodeoxynucleotides as TLR9 agonists for immune modulation

Vertebrate toll-like receptors (TLRs) sense invading pathogens by recognizing bacterial and viral structures and, as a result, activate innate and adaptive immune responses. Ten human functional TLRs have been reported so far; three of these (TLR7, 8, and 9) are expressed in intracellular compartments and respond to single-stranded nucleic acids as natural ligands. The pathogen structure selectively recognized by TLR9 in bacterial or viral DNA was identified to be CpG dinucleotides in specific sequence contexts (CpG motifs). Short phosphorothioate-stabilized oligodeoxynucleotides (ODNs) containing such motifs are used as synthetic TLR9 agonists, and different classes of ODN TLR9 agonists have been identified with distinct immune modulatory profiles. The TLR9-mediated activation of the vertebrate immune system suggests using such TLR9 agonists as effective vaccine adjuvants for infectious disease, and for the treatment of cancer and asthma/allergy. Immune activation by CpG ODNs has been demonstrated to be beneficial in animal models as a vaccine adjuvant and for the treatment of a variety of viral, bacterial, and parasitic diseases. Antitumor activity of CpG ODNs has also been established in numerous mouse models. In clinical vaccine trials in healthy human volunteers or in immunocompromised HIV-infected patients, CpG ODNs strongly enhanced vaccination efficiency. Most encouraging results in the treatment of cancers have come from human phase I and II clinical trials using CpG ODNs as a tumor vaccine adjuvant, monotherapy, or in combination with chemotherapy. Therefore, CpG ODNs represent targeted immune modulatory drugs with a broad range of potential applications.

Structural requirements for uptake and recognition of CpG oligonucleotides

Recognition of infectious danger by innate immune cells is a fundamental requirement to directly combat infections and to activate the adaptive immune response of T and B cells. Pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) play a fundamental role in this process. PAMPs are sensed by pattern recognition receptors, among which the Toll-like receptors (TLRs) play an important role. Within the TLR ligands, bacterial CpG DNA is peculiar. CpG DNA is recognized by TLR9 and harbors the outstanding propensity to induce a milieu that favors activation of Th1-dominated immune responses. This is mainly due to activation of dendritic cells and subpopulations, thereby inducing an intense interferon and IL-12 response. Therefore, CpG DNA has become a promising candidate for constructing new vaccines as well as for induction of immune responses in cancer and allergy. CpG DNA can be synthesized with high purity, defined base composition and various chemical modifications. We aimed to understand the structural requirements for cellular uptake and activation of CpG DNA, which will improve our means to enhance the intrinsic activity of CpG for therapeutic use. We show that sequence modifications can be utilized to enhance cellular uptake, and that chemical substitutions can confer new qualities to synthetic CpG DNA. Additionally, we propose a model of CpG DNA recognition which occurs by sensing partial duplex forms instead of single-stranded DNA. Moreover, we provide evidence that the propensity of CpG DNA to induce high amounts of IL-12 is due to its unique ability to trigger epigenetic modifications of the IL-12p40 promoter, including acetylation and nucleosomal remodeling. Hence, CpG DNA represents a new and promising class of adjuvant for vaccination.

Encapsulation in liposomal nanoparticles enhances the immunostimulatory, adjuvant and anti-tumor activity of subcutaneously administered CpG ODN

Immunostimulatory oligodeoxynucleotides (ODN) containing cytosine-guanine (CpG) motifs are powerful stimulators of innate as well as adaptive immune responses, exerting their activity through triggering of the Toll-like receptor 9. We have previously shown that encapsulation in liposomal nanoparticles (LN) enhances the immunostimulatory activity of CpG ODN (LN-CpG ODN) (Mui et al. in J Pharmacol Exp Ther 298:1185, 2001). In this work we investigate the effect of encapsulation on the immunopotency of subcutaneously (s.c.) administered CpG ODN with regard to activation of innate immune cells as well as its ability to act as a vaccine adjuvant with tumor-associated antigens (TAAs) to induce antigen (Ag)-specific, adaptive responses and anti-tumor activity in murine models. It is shown that encapsulation specifically targets CpG ODN for uptake by immune cells. This may provide the basis, at least in part, for the significantly enhanced immunostimulatory activity of LN-CpG ODN, inducing potent innate (as judged by immune cell activation and plasma cytokine/chemokine levels) and adaptive, Ag-specific (as judged by MHC tetramer positive T lymphocytes, IFN-gamma secretion and cytotoxicity) immune responses. Finally, in efficacy studies, it is shown that liposomal encapsulation enhances the ability of CpG ODN to adjuvanate adaptive immune responses against co-administered TAAs after s.c. immunization, inducing effective anti-tumor activity against both model and syngeneic tumor Ags in murine tumor models of thymoma and melanoma.

The effect of CpG-ODN on antigen presenting cells of the foal

Background

Cytosine-phosphate-guanosine oligodeoxynucleotide (CpG-ODN) has been used successfully to induce immune responses against viral and intracellular organisms in mammals. The main objective of this study was to test the effect of CpG-ODN on antigen presenting cells of young foals.

Methods

Peripheral blood monocytes of foals (n = 7) were isolated in the first day of life and monthly thereafter up to 3 months of life. Adult horse (n = 7) monocytes were isolated and tested once for comparison. Isolated monocytes were stimulated with IL-4 and GM-CSF (to obtain dendritic cells, DC) or not stimulated (to obtain macrophages). Macrophages and DCs were stimulated for 14–16 hours with either CpG-ODN, LPS or not stimulated. The stimulated and non-stimulated cells were tested for cell surface markers (CD86 and MHC class II) using flow cytometry, mRNA expression of cytokines (IL-12, IFNα, IL-10) and TLR-9 using real time quantitative RT-PCR, and for the activation of the transcription factor NF-κB p65 using a chemiluminescence assay.

Results

The median fluorescence of the MHC class II molecule in non-stimulated foal macrophages and DCs at birth were 12.5 times and 11.2 times inferior, respectively, than adult horse cells (p = 0.009). That difference subsided at 3 months of life (p = 0.3). The expression of the CD86 co-stimulatory molecule was comparable in adult horse and foal macrophages and DCs, independent of treatment. CpG-ODN stimulation induced IL-12p40 (53 times) and IFNα (23 times) mRNA expression in CpG-ODN-treated adult horse DCs (p = 0.078), but not macrophages, in comparison to non-stimulated cells. In contrast, foal APCs did not respond to CpG-ODN stimulation with increased cytokine mRNA expression up to 3 months of age. TLR-9 mRNA expression and NF-kB activation (NF-kB p65) in foal DCs and macrophages were comparable (p > 0.05) to adult horse cells.

Conclusion

CpG-ODN treatment did not induce specific maturation and cytokine expression in foal macrophages and DCs. Nevertheless, adult horse DCs, but not macrophages, increased their expression of IL-12 and IFNα cytokines upon CpG-ODN stimulation. Importantly, foals presented an age-dependent limitation in the expression of MHC class II in macrophages and DCs, independent of treatment.

Potent antiscrapie activities of degenerate phosphorothioate oligonucleotides

Although transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSEs) are incurable, a key therapeutic approach is prevention of conversion of the normal, protease-sensitive form of prion protein (PrP-sen) to the disease-specific protease-resistant form of prion protein (PrP-res). Here degenerate phosphorothioate oligonucleotides (PS-ONs) are introduced as low-nM PrP-res conversion inhibitors with strong antiscrapie activities in vivo. Comparisons of various PS-ON analogs indicated that hydrophobicity and size were important, while base composition was only minimally influential. PS-ONs bound avidly to PrP-sen but could be displaced by sulfated glycan PrP-res inhibitors, indicating the presence of overlapping binding sites. Labeled PS-ONs also bound to PrP-sen on live cells and were internalized. This binding likely accounts for the antiscrapie activity. Prophylactic PS-ON treatments more than tripled scrapie survival periods in mice. Survival times also increased when PS-ONs were mixed with scrapie brain inoculum. With these antiscrapie activities and their much lower anticoagulant activities than that of pentosan polysulfate, degenerate PS-ONs are attractive new compounds for the treatment of TSEs.

Bovine toll-like receptor 9: a comparative analysis of molecular structure, function and expression

Non-methylated CpG motifs, present in viral and bacterial DNA, are one of many pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMP) recognized by the mammalian innate immune system. Recognition of this PAMP occurs through a specific interaction with toll-like receptor 9 (TLR9) and this interaction can induce cytokine responses that influence both innate and adaptive immune responses. Previous investigations determined that both the flanking sequences in synthetic CpG oligodeoxynucleotides (CpG ODN) and the cellular pattern of TLR9 expression can influence species-specific responses to CpG ODN. Therefore, the structure, function and cellular distribution of bovine TLR9 were compared with what is known for mice and human. Analysis of the bovine TLR9 gene revealed greater sequence homology between cattle and humans than cattle and mice Similar CpG motifs induced optimal activation of both human and bovine leukocytes and these motifs were distinct from those which activated mouse leukocytes. Functional analyses with CpG ODN stimulated bovine blood leukocytes revealed that class A CpG ODN were more potent inducers of interferon-alpha (IFN-alpha) than class B CpG ODN. Furthermore, magnetic activated cell sorting of bovine blood leukocyte subpopulations implicated dendritic cells but not monocytes in the regulation of CpG ODN-induced IFN secretion. Thus, the cellular pattern of CpG ODN-induced responses in cattle shared many similarities with human leukocytes. Collectively, these analyses revealed substantial conservation of TLR9 structure and TLR9 function in blood leukocytes of humans, cattle and other domestic species.

NKT cell-dependent leukemia eradication following stem cell mobilization with potent G-CSF analogs

NKT cells have pivotal roles in immune regulation and tumor immunosurveillance. We report that the G-CSF and FMS-like tyrosine kinase 3 ligand (Flt-3L) chimeric cytokine, progenipoietin-1, markedly expands the splenic and hepatic NKT cell population and enhances functional responses to alpha-galactosylceramide. In a murine model of allogeneic stem cell transplantation, donor NKT cells promoted host DC activation and enhanced perforin-restricted CD8+ T cell cytotoxicity against host-type antigens. Following leukemic challenge, donor treatment with progenipoietin-1 significantly improved overall survival when compared with G-CSF or control, attributable to reduced graft-versus-host disease mortality and paradoxical augmentation of graft-versus-leukemia (GVL) effects. Enhanced cellular cytotoxicity was dependent on donor NKT cells, and leukemia clearance was profoundly impaired in recipients of NKT cell-deficient grafts. Enhanced cytotoxicity and GVL effects were not associated with Flt-3L signaling or effects on DCs but were reproduced by prolonged G-CSF receptor engagement with pegylated G-CSF. Thus, modified G-CSF signaling during stem cell mobilization augments NKT cell-dependent CD8+ cytotoxicity, effectively separating graft-versus-host disease and GVL and greatly expanding the potential applicability of allogeneic stem cell transplantation for the therapy of malignant disease.

Bovine and ovine blood mononuclear leukocytes differ markedly in innate immune responses induced by Class A and Class B CpG-oligodeoxynucleotide

Cytosine-phosphate-guanosine (CpG)-DNA can induce an impressive array of innate immune responses that may directly or indirectly contribute to the clearance of infectious agents. Assays, such as lymphocyte proliferative responses, have been used to demonstrate that the immunostimulatory activity of CpG-DNA is conserved among a broad range of vertebrate species, but no studies have been completed to determine if qualitative differences exist among species for CpG-oligodeoxynucleotide (ODN)-induced innate immune responses. In this study, we assessed the capacity of a Class A (ODN 2216) and a Class B (ODN 2007) CpG-ODN to induce innate immune responses in two closely related species, ovine (n = 28) and bovine (n = 29). The secretion of interferon (IFN)-alpha and IFN-gamma and non-major histocompatability complex (MHC)-restricted cytotoxic activity were assayed with CpG-ODN-stimulated peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC). These investigations revealed significant interspecies and intraspecies variation in the responses. As expected, ODN 2216 was a potent inducer of IFN-alpha secretion by both bovine and ovine PBMC, but ODN 2007 also induced dose-dependent, CpG-specific IFN-alpha secretion by ovine PBMC. In contrast, a significant dose-dependent, CpG-specific IFN-gamma secretion response was only observed following ODN 2216 stimulation of bovine PBMC. Furthermore, both ODN 2216 and ODN 2007 induced CpG-specific non-MHC-restricted cytotoxicity with ovine but not bovine PBMC. Finally, there was not a single assay in which PBMC from all sheep or cattle responded at a detectable level. A striking aspect of these results is that such marked differences in CpG-ODN induced innate responses existed both between and within two closely related species.

The immunostimulatory activity of CpG oligonucleotides on microglial N9 cells is affected by a polyguanosine motif

Oligonucleotides (ODN) with hexameric motifs containing central unmethylated CpG dinucleotides are immunostimulatory. Also ODN with continuous guanosines (polyG motif) show a wide range of immunological activity. Depending on the position, the chemical property of the ODN backbone and the cell type, polyG motifs have either an enhancing or a suppressing effect on the immunostimulatory activity of the CpG-ODN. Microglial cells are central components of the innate immune system of the brain and are activated by CpG-ODN in vitro and in vivo. Here we present the analysis of the immunomodulatory effects of CpG-ODN carrying a polyG motif on the microglial cell line N9. Our data show that N9 cells express Toll-like receptor 9 (TLR9) and are activated by CpG-ODN, which leads to expression of interleukin-12p40 (IL12p40), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS). A 3'-end polyG motif inhibits phosphothioate (PS) CpG-ODN immunostimulatory activity but enhances the immunostimulatory activity of phosphodiester (PE) CpG-ODN. Correspondingly, a 3'-end polyG motif improves the cellular uptake of PE CpG-ODN but does not change their cellular distribution pattern. Furthermore, PE CpG-ODN with a 3'-end polyG motif interact with a much higher number of cellular proteins than PE CpG-ODN. These data indicate that the 3'-end polyG motif could enhance the immunostimulatory activity of PE CpG-ODN in microglial N9 cells through increasing interaction with cellular proteins. Therefore PE CpG-ODN containing a 3'-end polyG motif resulting in increased immunostimulatory activity might be promising alternate analogues for studies in the central nervous system.

Porcine-specific CpG-oligodeoxynucleotide activates B-cells and increases the expression of MHC-II molecules on lymphocytes

Two CpG-oligodeoxynucleotide motifs, a mouse-specific one (CpG(mouse)) 5'-GCTAGACGTTAGCGT-3' and a porcine-specific one (CpG(pig)), 5'-TGCATCGATGCAG-3' were synthesized by two different companies and tested in vitro for their capacity to stimulate porcine peripheral blood monomorphonuclear cells (PBMC). The porcine-specific motif, consisting of a nuclease-resistant phosphorothioate guanosines at the 5' and at the 3'-end (CpG(pig)-S), enhanced significantly the proliferation of porcine PBMC in comparison with CpG(mouse). The latter motif did not induce any proliferation. Methylation of CpG(pig) diminished the proliferation. Four days of culture with CpG(pig)-S increased the percentage of B-cells as well as B-cell blasting. Moreover, CpG(pig)-S also enhanced the expression of class II MHC in most cultures while there were no changes in percentage of macrophages or in the degree of expression of the macrophage marker (monoclonal 74-22-15). In conclusion, in this study, it was confirmed that 5'-ggTGCATCGATGCAGggggg-3' is a swine-specific CpG-ODN, that activates porcine B-cells and deserves further evaluation in vivo as a potential immunostimulating adjuvant.

Stimulation of peripheral blood and intestinal mucosa cells by synthetic CpG oligodeoxynucleotides

The breakdown of tolerance to autologous bacterial flora has been implicated as a major factor contributing to the initiation and perpetuation of chronic inflammation in inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD). To test whether bacterial DNA is at the origin of inflammation in IBD, we have examined the response of lamina propria (LPMC) or peripheral mononuclear cells (PBMC) and purified T cells from IBD patients and control patients to stimulations with a set of oligodeoxynucleotides (ODNs) characterized by the presence or absence of cytosine-guanosine dinucleotides (CpG) and/or 3' poly-guanosine (poly-G) extension. Furthermore we have evaluated the costimulatory activities of these ODNs on T cells activated via CD2 or CD3 pathway. We demonstrated that CpG ODNs induce higher proliferation of LPMC from inflammatory intestinal mucosa compared to healthy mucosa. We confirmed that CpG ODNs do not directly costimulate peripheral blood T cells activated by CD3 pathway. Finally, we revealed that CpG or non-CpG ODNs with 3' poly-G extension inhibit completely CD2 activation of purified PB or LP T-cells whereas only CpG ODNs without poly-G extension enhance proliferation and IFN-gamma production of PB T cells stimulated by CD2 pathway only in presence of NK and NK T cells. Our data suggest that NK T cells may be the primary target of ODNs and play a crucial role in indirect T-cell activation by ODN.

CpG DNA and cancer immunotherapy: orchestrating the antitumor immune response

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Cancer treatment is entering an era of targeted approaches. One such approach is use of the immune system to recognize and eliminate malignant cells. Synthetic CpG oligonucleotides (CpG DNA) are a relatively new class of agents that have the ability to stimulate a potent, orchestrated tumor-specific immune response. This review provides an overview of the immunologic effects of CpG DNA and summarizes the results of preclinical investigations that have led to ongoing development of CpG DNA as a component of clinical cancer immunotherapy.

RECENT FINDINGS

New studies demonstrate that at least three classes of CpG DNA sequences exist, each with different physical characteristics and biologic effects. Preliminary studies in several animal models of cancer suggest that CpG DNA have the ability to induce tumor regression by activating innate immunity, enhancing antibody dependent cellular cytotoxicity, and serving as potent vaccine adjuvants that elicit a specific, protective immune response.

SUMMARY

Animal models suggest that CpG DNA may have many uses in cancer immunotherapy. Early clinical trials suggest that CpG DNA can be administered safely to humans, and studies are ongoing to understand how these agents may play a role in cancer immunotherapy.

Single-base oligodeoxyguanosine-binding proteins on nonspecific cytotoxic cells: identification of a new class of pattern-recognition receptors

The present study was designed to identify a possible new class of pathogen-recognition proteins that bind single-base oligodeoxynucleotide (ODN) ligands. Binding by the teleost natural killer cell equivalent [referred to as nonspecific cytotoxic cells (NCC)] was compared with mammalian cells (mouse RAW264.7 cells and human THP-1 cells). The ODN analysed were composed of 20-mers of guanosine (dG20), adenosine (dA20), thymidine (dT20) or cytosine (dC20). Binding studies first determined the 50% saturation levels for NCC (1.25 microg/ml), RAW264.7 (0.2 microg/ml) and THP-1 (0.8 microg/ml). Binding by dG20 to all the three cell types was saturable. Ligand blots of NCC membrane lysates with biotinylated dG20 revealed two different major molecular weight species (16-18 and 29 kDa) of binding proteins. The 29-kDa protein was identified with the help of Western blot analysis using a polyclonal antibody specific to an NCC antimicrobial protein (ncamp-1). The membrane expression of the 29-kDa ncamp-1 was determined by the binding of surface-biotinylated NCC membrane proteins with digoxigenin dG20 followed by immunoprecipitation using anti-digoxigenin agarose beads. The 29 and 14-18 kDa NCC membrane proteins were cross-reactive using Western blot examination with a polyclonal anti-histone 1 antibody. Function studies revealed that dG20 activated a twofold upregulation of membrane binding by homologous dG20-biotin. dG20 also stimulated NCC-increased membrane expression of NCC receptor protein 1. Additional experiments were performed to determine the DNase sensitivity of the different ODN. dG20 appeared to be more resistant to DNase treatment, compared to dC20, dA20 and dT20. The single-base ODN-binding proteins may represent a new class of pattern-recognition receptors that are involved in innate anti-bacterial resistance mediated by NCC.

CpG-Oligodeoxynucleotides activate tyrosinase-related protein 2-specific T lymphocytes but do not lead to a protective tumor-specific memory response

PURPOSE

Peritumoral CpG-oligodeoxynucleotide (ODN) treatment has been successful in tumor mouse models expressing strong antigens to induce activation of tumor-specific CD8+ T lymphocytes which contribute to the control of tumor growth. To get near to clinical reality, the tumor-specific CD8+ response was investigated in mice bearing the weakly immunogenic B16 melanoma tumor and using the melanocyte differentiation tyrosinase-related protein 2 (TRP-2) as a tracking antigen.

METHODS

The expansion and activation of TRP-2-specific T lymphocytes by CpG-ODNs was analyzed by tetramer staining and IFN-gamma production assays, while the activity of these cells in both memory and primary response was evaluated in vivo.

RESULTS

After CpG-ODN treatment, the number of TRP-2 tetramer-stained CD8+ T lymphocytes was not significantly modified, but these cells produced higher levels of interferon gamma (IFN-gamma) in response to the antigen than those from untreated mice. Mice possessing these activated T lymphocytes, when evaluated for their antitumor memory response, showed marginal protection against intravenous (i.v.) and subcutaneous (s.c.) tumor rechallenge. These cells were not crucial for the control of primary tumor growth since strong reduction of subcutaneous tumor was observed after CpG-ODN treatment in both CD8+ T cell depleted or nondepleted mice. On the contrary, NK cell depletion markedly reduced CpG-ODN-induced tumor growth inhibition.

CONCLUSIONS

Altogether, these data indicate the CpG treatment activates tumor-reactive effector CD8+ T lymphocytes, but, paralleling recent clinical observations, our model indicates that the mere activation of antitumor T cells is insufficient to result in a clinical response.

CpG oligodeoxynucleotides activate HIV replication in latently infected human T cells

CpG oligodeoxynucleotides (CpG ODNs) stimulate immune cells via the Toll-like receptor 9 (TLR9). In this study, we have investigated the effects of CpG ODNs on latent human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection in human T cells. Treatment of the latently infected T cell line ACH-2 with CpG ODNs 2006 or 2040 stimulated HIV replication, whereas no effects were evident when ODNs without the CpG motif were used. CpG-induced virus reactivation was blocked by chloroquine, indicating the involvement of TLR9. In contrast to the responsiveness of ACH-2 cells, CpG ODNs failed to activate HIV provirus in the latently infected Jurkat clone J1.1. We also studied the effects of CpG ODNs on productive HIV infection and found enhancement of viral replication in A3.01 T cells, whereas again no stimulating effects were observed in Jurkat T cells. CpG ODN treatment activated NF-kappaB in ACH-2 cells, which was similarly triggered in uninfected A3.01 T cells following exposure to CpG ODNs, indicating that TLR9-induced signal transduction was not dependent on proviral infection. Our study demonstrates that CpG ODNs directly trigger the activation of NF-kappaB and reactivation of latent HIV in human T cells. Our results point to a novel role for CpG ODNs as stimulators of HIV replication and open new avenues to eradicate the latent viral reservoirs in HIV-infected patients treated with antiretroviral therapy.

CpG oligodeoxynucleotide induction of antiviral effector molecules in sheep

Immunostimulatory CpG oligodeoxynucleotide (ODN) can protect mice against infection by many pathogens but the mechanisms mediating disease protection are not well defined. Furthermore, the mechanisms of CpG ODN induced disease protection in vivo have not been investigated in other species. We investigated the induction of antiviral effector molecules in sheep treated with a class B CpG ODN (2007). Subcutaneous injection of ODN 2007 induced a dose-dependent increase in serum levels of the antiviral effector molecule, 2'5'-A synthetase. Peak levels of enzyme were observed 4 days following ODN injection and enzyme levels remained elevated for the following 3-5 days. Repeated ODN injections induced a more sustained elevation of serum 2'5'-A synthetase activity. Finally, formulation of ODN 2007 in emulsigen increased the level of serum 2'5'-A synthetase activity and this response was CpG-specific. Elevated serum 2'5'-A synthetase activity suggested that CpG ODN acted through the induction of either interferon (IFN)-alpha or IFN-gamma. ODN 2007 did not induce detectable levels of IFN-alpha or IFN-gamma when incubated with peripheral blood mononuclear cells, but both IFN-alpha and IFN-gamma were detected following stimulation of lymph node cells with ODN 2007. CpG ODN induction of 2'5'-A synthetase in vitro correlated with the secretion of both IFN-alpha and IFN-gamma. Furthermore, immunohistochemical staining of skin revealed a marked cellular infiltration at the site of ODN 2007 injection. This cellular infiltration was CpG-specific and consisted of primarily CD172(+) myeloid cells. Many of the cells recruited to the site of ODN 2007 injection expressed IFN-alpha and some IFN-gamma. These observations support the conclusion that localized cell recruitment and activation contribute to CpG ODN induction of antiviral effector molecules, such as interferon and 2'5'-A synthetase.

Activation of Dendritic Cells and Induction of T Cell Responses by Hpv 16 L1/E7 Chimeric Virus-Like Particles are Enhanced by Cpg ODN or Sorbitol

Chimeric human papillomavirus-like particles, consisting of human papillomavirus (HPV) 16 L1-E7 fusion proteins [HPV 16 L1/E7 chimeric virus-like particles (CVLP)], are a vaccine candidate for treatment and prevention of cervical cancer. Although in preclinical studies CVLPs were shown to induce neutralizing antibodies and L1-and E7-specific T cell responses, the results of a recent clinical trial emphasized the need of improved immunogenicity of CVLPs. Here we studied the interaction of HPV 16 L1/E7 CVLPs with mouse bone marrow-derived dendritic cells (BMDCs) activated with different immune adjuvants. We found that lipopolysaccharides (LPS), unmethylated CpG motifs (CpG ODN) and sorbitol enhanced CVLP-induced stimulation of C57BL/6 mouse BMDCs as revealed by increased levels of CD40, CD80, MHC II and CD54 at the cell surface. CpG ODN and sorbitol also enhanced the presentation of Db-restricted cytotoxic T lymphocyte epitopes to HPV 16 L1- or E7-specific T lymphocytes after loading of CVLPs onto BMDCs. Treatment of BMDCs with CpG ODN in combination with CVLPs improved in vitro priming of naive T lymphocytes by CVLP-loaded BMDCs. In vivo, CVLP-loaded BMDCs were more immunogenic as compared with injection of CVLPs alone. CpG ODN and sorbitol further enhanced priming of antigen-specific T cell responses. Our data demonstrate that CpG ODN- or sorbitol-activated BMDCs substantially increase the immunogenicity of CVLPs. Implementing our results in clinical trial protocols may lead to improved activity of therapeutic HPV vaccines for the treatment of HPV-induced cancer.

On the role of APC-activation for in vitro versus in vivo T cell priming

Professional antigen-presenting cells take up antigens for processing and presentation in association with MHC class I and II molecules. When APCs receive the right stimuli, they undergo a maturation process and migrate to secondary lymphoid organs to trigger T cell activation. In this study, we compared side-by-side in vivo and in vitro activation of T cells. Transgenic CD8(+) T cells specific for the p33 epitope, derived from the lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus glycoprotein, were labeled with CFSE and injected into syngeneic mice or alternatively, co-cultured in vitro with APCs. The p33 epitope was delivered as free peptide or genetically fused to virus-like particles. Whereas proliferation of specific T cells was comparable in both systems, the production of IFN-gamma and the expression of CD25 showed important differences. Induction of effector function and expression of activation markers were strongly enhanced in vitro by both the free peptide and VLPs. Surprisingly, addition of CpG-containing immune-stimulating DNA for activation of APCs dramatically increased effector T cell differentiation in vitro, whereas no enhancement could be observed in vitro. Thus, activation of professional APCs was mandatory for induction of effector CD8(+) T cell responses in vivo, while this step was largely dispensable in vitro.

Intratumor CpG-oligodeoxynucleotide injection induces protective antitumor T cell immunity

Tumor cells are typically poorly immunogenic. The same mechanisms that evolved to avoid the induction of immune responses against self tissues, and, hence, autoimmune disease, also have to be overcome for immune therapy of cancer. Toll-like receptor-activating microbial products such as CpG motif containing DNA are among the primary stimuli that the immune system uses to distinguish between infectious nonself (that is to be attacked) and noninfectious self (that must not be attacked). We tested in a murine RMA lymphoma/C57BL/6 model whether providing the infectious nonself context in a tumor-by injecting CpG-oligodeoxynucleotides directly into the tumor-would elicit a protective antitumor response. Complete remission of established solid tumors was achieved in immune competent mice, but not in T cell/B cell-deficient RAG-1 knockout mice. Intratumor injection of CpG-oligodeoxynucleotides was shown to induce a tumor-specific CD4(+) and CD8(+) T cell response of the type 1 effector class, and T cells adoptively transferred the protection to RAG-1 knockout mice. The data show that intratumor injection of CpG-oligodeoxynucleotides is a promising strategy for rendering tumors immunogenic.

Innate immune responses induced by CpG oligodeoxyribonucleotide stimulation of ovine blood mononuclear cells

Examples exist in the literature that demonstrate that treatment with immunostimulatory cytosine-phosphate-guanosine (CpG)-DNA can protect mice against infection by intracellular pathogens. There are, however, few studies reporting that CpG-DNA offers similar disease protection in other species. In this study, we assessed the potential of a class A and class B CpG oligodeoxynucleotide (ODN) to induce innate immune responses in sheep, an outbred species. Using peripheral blood mononuclear cells, we have for the first time demonstrated CpG-ODN-induced innate immune responses, including natural-killer-like activity [non-major histocompatibility complex (MHC)-restricted cytotoxicity], interferon-alpha secretion and 2'-5'A oligoadenylate synthetase activity, that could contribute to immune protection in sheep. The type and magnitude of these responses were dependent on ODN class and non-MHC-restricted killing was not associated with interferon-gamma production. The latter observation is in contrast with observations reported for mice and humans. These observations support the conclusion that differences in CpG-ODN-induced responses exist among species and that specific ODN sequences can significantly influence innate immune responses.

The intratumoral application of poly-G-oligodeoxynucleotides does not augment the naturally induced antitumoral CD8-T-cell response in P815 mastocytomas

DNA sequences containing CpG have been described to induce a strong immune reaction by acting on a variety of immune cells including a strong and pronounced antitumoral response. Poly-G-oligodeoxynucleotides (ODNs) on the other hand have been attributed the preferential induction of CD8-T-cell proliferation when used in vitro. This activity led us to the investigation of the possible antitumoral properties of poly-G-ODNs in an established CD8-dependent tumor eradication model. We used the well described poly-G-ODN 1628 in its capacity to enhance antitumoral CD8 response in the cutaneous mastocytoma P815. When injecting 30 microg of the purified phosphothioate-modified oligo into the tumor bearing area of P815 challenged mice for up to 12 consecutive days we did not observe increased tumor rejection as compared to the group of mice injected with a control oligo. The 1628-injected mice did not produce higher numbers of P815-specific CD8 cells as measured by P1A-, and P1E-tetramer staining and Immunoscope analysis. Furthermore, tumor-specific CD8 cells in 1628 did not show enhanced antitumoral cytotoxicity when analyzing lymphocyte-tumor cell co-cultures or transcription of the cytotoxic CD8-cell associated molecules interferon gamma, FAS ligand, perforin, or granzyme B by quantitative real-time RT-PCR. These experiments show that there is no enhanced induction of an antitumoral CD8 response after in situ administration of poly-G-ODNs in the P815 mastocytoma model.

Identification of a scavenger receptor homologue on nonspecific cytotoxic cells and evidence for binding to oligodeoxyguanosine

In mammals scavenger receptors (SR) are expressed by monocytic-macrophage lineage cells and B-cells. Studies of various teleost species have indirectly demonstrated the presence of SR receptors on phagocytic or endothelial cells by showing the uptake of SR ligands (i.e. derivatised (acetylated) lipoproteins) by these cells. In the present study, nonspecific cytotoxic cells (NCC) were examined for membrane expression of an SR-like protein. Approximately 15-25% of purified NCC expressed scavenger receptor class A (SR-A) demonstrated by binding by a monoclonal (2F8) specific for mouse SR-A (types I, II). Flow cytometric analysis determined that SR binding cells had the same size and 'side scatter' characteristics as NCC. Two colour flow analysis of NCC demonstrated that only a subset of NCC expressed the SR-A-like protein and non-NCC were SR-A negative. Membrane expression of SR on NCC was confirmed by fluorescence microscopy. Analysis of the tissue distribution of SR bearing cells demonstrated that in both catfish and tilapia, SR-A was expressed by NCC in the peripheral blood, spleen and anterior kidney. Experiments were also done to determine if the ligands known to bind mammalian SR-A had a similar specificity for the teleost receptor. Cold competition binding experiments determined that anti-SR-A antibody competed with and reduced biotinylated polyguanosine 20-mer binding to NCC by approximately 40%. Two other types of ligands known to bind (mammalian) SR-A (i.e. polyvinyl sulphate and dextran sulphate) likewise decreased anti-SR-A antibody binding to NCC by 40%. These studies for the first time demonstrated that NCC express the teleost orthologue of mammalian SR-A, suggesting that NCC may participate in physiologic regulation of lipid metabolism in addition to functions of innate immunity.

Development of short non-CpG phosphodiester oligonucleotides as immune stimulatory agents

We have previously reported that DNA isolated from Mycobacterium phlei (M. phlei) stimulates the synthesis of cytokines by monocytes and macrophages independently of the presence of unmethylated CpG motifs. Oligonucleotides as small as five to six bases isolated from M. phlei DNA have been found to induce cytokine synthesis. In the present study, we have investigated the potential for such CpG-lacking DNA to act as an immune stimulant. A series of six base length phosphodiester oligonucleotides derived from the genome of M. phlei were synthesised and tested for their ability to induce the synthesis of cytokines by murine, non-human primate (rhesus macaques and chimpanzee) and human peripheral blood mononuclear cells. The results show that phosphodiester oligonucleotides with a 5'GGGxGG3' sequence where x is A, C, G or T have the ability to induce the synthesis of IL-1beta, IL-6, IL10 or IL-12 by non-human primate and human PBMC, murine cells being unresponsive. The phosphodiester 5'GGGxGG3' oligonucleotides were shown to be stable in human serum, with a half-life of approximately 72 h. The addition of aluminium hydroxide to these 5'GGGxGG3' oligonucleotides potentiated, in a concentration-dependent manner, the synthesis of IL-12 by human peripheral blood mononuclear cells. These phosphodiester six base length non-CpG motif oligonucleotides may have potential as immunopotentiators for vaccines.

CpG-ODN-induced inflammation is sufficient to cause T-cell-mediated autoaggression against hepatocytes

Autoimmune diseases are often associated with microbial infections. Molecular mimicry between microbial antigens and self-epitopes has been suggested as a mechanism for breaking self-tolerance and induction of autoimmunity. Since infections also cause inflammatory responses we explored the role of local inflammation in organ-specific autoimmunity. For this purpose, transgenic mice were used expressing the MHC class I molecule Kb exclusively on hepatocytes. These mice exhibit Kb-specific tolerance as exemplified by the acceptance of Kb+ grafts. Inflammatory reactions were induced by injection of immunostimulatory cytosine-phosphorothioate-guanine (CpG)-rich oligodeoxynucleotides (ODN). Application of CpG-ODN is sufficient to break tolerance in vivo, and to cause activation of Kb-specific CD8+ T cells and subsequent autoaggression against hepatocytes. The CpG-ODN-induced inflammation appears to have two major effects. First, it causes infiltration of T cells into the liver parenchyma. Second, adhesion and costimulatory molecules are up-regulated on hepatocytes so that the infiltrating CD8+ T cells encounter Kb on hepatocytes, which display an APC-like phenotype, resulting in activation and tissue damage. Autoimmune hepatitis can be maintained for at least eight weeks by repeated application of CpG-ODN but subsides after termination of the inflammatory stimulus, suggesting the requirement of additional factors for a self-perpetuation of autoimmunity. These observations describe an additional pathway for the induction of autoimmunity, i.e. in the absence of microbial antigens inflammatory reactions alone can lead to infiltration of T cells into organs, resulting in breaking of tolerance and autoaggression. Moreover, the results provide evidence that T cell activation can take place not only in draining lymph nodes but also directly on parenchymal cells.

Potent CpG oligonucleotides containing phosphodiester linkages: in vitro and in vivo immunostimulatory properties

Bacterial and synthetic DNAs, containing CpG dinucleotides in specific sequence contexts, activate the vertebrate immune system. Unlike phosphorothioate (PS) CpG DNAs, phosphodiester (PO) CpG DNAs require either palindromic sequences and/or poly(dG) sequences at the 3(')-end for activity. Here, we report 'PO-immunomers' having two PO-CpG DNA molecules joined through their 3(')-ends. These PO-imunomers permitted us, for the first time, to assess immunostimulatory properties of PO-CpG DNAs in vitro and in vivo without the need for palindromic and/or poly(dG) sequences. In medium containing 10% fetal bovine serum, PO-immunomers were more resistant than PO-CpG DNAs to nucleases. Compared to PS-CpG DNA in BALB/c and C3H/HeJ mice spleen cell culture assays, PO-immunomers showed increased IL-12 secretion and minimal amounts of IL-6 secretion. PO-immunomers activated NF-kappa B and induced cytokine secretion in J774 cell cultures. In addition, PO-immunomers showed antitumor activity in nude mice bearing human breast (MCF-7) and prostate (DU145) cancer xenografts.

Stimulation of B lymphocytes, macrophages, and dendritic cells by protozoan DNA

This review summarizes recent work from our laboratory demonstrating the activation of B lymphocytes, macrophages and dendritic cells by DNA from three different protozoan parasites of cattle and humans that is qualitatively similar to the now well-described effects of CpG-containing bacterial DNA. This novel mechanism of protozoan parasite recognition by the innate immune system could facilitate recovery from acute infection or contribute to infection-related pathology.

CpG motifs in bacterial DNA and their immune effects

Unmethylated CpG motifs are prevalent in bacterial but not vertebrate genomic DNAs. Oligodeoxynucleotides (ODN) containing CpG motifs activate host defense mechanisms leading to innate and acquired immune responses. The recognition of CpG motifs requires Toll-like receptor (TLR) 9, which triggers alterations in cellular redox balance and the induction of cell signaling pathways including the mitogen activated protein kinases (MAPKs) and NF kappa B. Cells that express TLR-9, which include plasmacytoid dendritic cells (PDCs) and B cells, produce Th1-like proinflammatory cytokines, interferons, and chemokines. Certain CpG motifs (CpG-A) are especially potent at activating NK cells and inducing IFN-alpha production by PDCs, while other motifs (CpG-B) are especially potent B cell activators. CpG-induced activation of innate immunity protects against lethal challenge with a wide variety of pathogens, and has therapeutic activity in murine models of cancer and allergy. CpG ODN also enhance the development of acquired immune responses for prophylactic and therapeutic vaccination.

Phosphodiester CpG oligonucleotides as adjuvants: polyguanosine runs enhance cellular uptake and improve immunostimulative activity of phosphodiester CpG oligonucleotides in vitro and in vivo

Bacterial DNA and oligonucleotides (ODN) containing CpG-motifs strongly activate cells of the immune system. Accordingly CpG-DNA is a powerful adjuvant in vaccination protocols for B-cell as well as for cytotoxic T-cell responses. A decisive propensity of CpG-DNA is its capacity to induce preferentially T helper type 1 (Th1)-dominated immune responses. To exert its function CpG-DNA has to be taken up by responsive cells, e.g. antigen-presenting cells (APC). The rate of uptake is influenced by the DNA's backbone modification and critically determines activity of CpG-DNA. CpG ODN with a phosphothioate backbone (PTO) are currently used for most in vivo and in vitro studies, since PTO modification protects ODN from the attack of nucleases. However, after administration of PTO-modified CpG-ODN long-lasting effects including lymphadenopathy as well as sustained local interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) and interleukin-12 (IL-12) production have been reported. To circumvent these restrictions we investigated the effects of DNA sequence as well as DNA backbone modification on cellular uptake and resulting immunostimulation. We show here that uptake of phosphodiester (PO)-CpG-ODN can be strongly enhanced by poly guanosine runs added at the 3' end of the ODN. In addition these ODN showed an improved immunostimulatory activity in vivo and in vitro. This included protection of mice against lethal Th2-dependent leishmaniasis as well as priming of antigen specific Th1 responses. More importantly, guanosine-rich PO-CpG-ODN neither induced lymphadenopathy nor prolonged cytokine production after local administration. Since these improved PO ODN are efficient in vitro and in vivo and lack long lasting undesired effects they could be used preferably as adjuvants in vaccination protocols.

Activation of nonspecific cytotoxic cells (NCC) with synthetic oligodeoxynucleotides and bacterial genomic DNA: binding, specificity and identification of unique immunostimulatory motifs

We have analyzed the effects of synthetic oligodeoxynucleotides (sODNs) and bacterial DNA (bDNA) on the in vitro activation of NCC. Teleost NCC recognition of DNA appeared to differ from that which occurs in higher vertebrates. NCC contain at least two different receptor specificities for DNA. Both oligodeoxyguanosine 20-mers (dG20) and 5'-TGCTGCTTGTGCTTGTGCTT-3' (4GC-2T) bound specifically to NCC. The existence of different receptor specificities was indicated by reciprocal cold target inhibition experiments. dG20 competed with 4GC-2T binding but sODNs composed of GpC or CpG nests did not compete with recognition by NCC of the dG20. ODN binding by NCC primarily depended on the presence of GpC or CpG nests with a preference for -G- serving as the anchor nucleotide. Secondarily, and similar to models of ODN activation in mammals, palindrome sequences of pu-pu-CpG-py-py activated NCC cytotoxicity. Additional analysis of the requirements for ODN activation indicated that guanosine could not substitute for adenosine as a purine spacer and that CpG motifs containing flanking thymidine (i.e.-GTCpGTT-) augmented the activity of the sODN containing this flanking base. Other evidence for the participation of both G and C in the recognition of specific nucleotides by NCC was that poly-dC20, dA20 or dT20 had no activating properties. Methylation of all cytosine nucleotides within an ODN abrogated activation. A canonical ODN motif of 5'-C/AT/AGCTT-3' can now be suggested for teleosts. Additional studies were done to examine the effects of in vitro treatment of NCC with bDNA. bDNA from three different disease isolates of Streptococcus iniae activated NCC cytotoxicity. Treatment of the bDNA with DNase abrogated the enhancement of cytotoxicity. Also, treatment of NCC with eukaryotic DNA had no effects on cytotoxicity. These studies suggested that NCC recognize bacterial nonmethylated DNA. The consequences of these interactions may be increased innate and acquired anti-bacterial immunity.

Activation of the immune system by bacterial CpG-DNA

The past decade has seen a remarkable process of refocusing in immunology. Cells of the innate immune system, especially macrophages and dendritic cells, have been at the centre of this process. These cells had been regarded by some scientists as non-specific, sometimes perhaps even confined to the menial job of serving T cells by scavenging antigen and presenting it to the sophisticated adaptive immune system. Only over the last few years has it become unequivocally clear that cells of the innate immunity hold, by variation of context and mode of antigen presentation, the power of shaping an adaptive immune response. The innate immune response, in turn, is to a significant degree the result of stimulation by so-called pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs). One compound with high stimulatory potential for the innate immune system is bacterial DNA. Here we will review recent evidence that bacterial DNA should be ranked with other PAMPs such as lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and lipoteichoic acid. We will further review our present knowledge of DNA recognition and DNA-dependent signal transduction in cells of the immune system.

Distinct CpG oligonucleotide sequences activate human gamma delta T cells via interferon-alpha/-beta

Oligodeoxynucleotides with CpG motifs (CpG ODN) mimic microbial DNA and activate effectors of innate immunity including NK cells. Human gamma delta T cells (Vgamma9/Vdelta2) are antigen specific "natural memory" T cells in a preactivated stage, which respond to common non-protein phosphoantigens. Among several CpG ODN tested, distinct CpG ODN sequences characterized by inducing high amounts of IFN-alpha/-beta in PBMC elicited strong gamma delta T cell and NK cell responses, as determined by CD69 expression, IFN-gamma production, perforin content and lytic activity. These CpG ODN activated gamma delta T cells and NK cells in the absence of an additional stimulus and synergistically increased responsiveness to cell-type-specific antigens like isopentenylpyrophosphate for gamma delta T cells and NK-sensitive tumor cells for NK cells. NK cells and gamma delta T cells were activated via IFN-alpha/-beta released by CpG ODN-stimulated PBMC. Purified gamma delta T cells and NK cells did not respond to CpG ODN but to recombinant IFN-alpha/-beta. In conclusion, CpG ODN sequences were identified which, based on their ability to induce high amounts of IFN-alpha/-beta, represent strong adjuvants for "natural memory" cells including responses of gamma delta T cells to non-protein antigens. Early IFN-alpha/-beta dependent stimulation of IFN-gamma synthesis in NK cells and gamma delta T cells may contribute to the CpG ODN-induced Th1 bias of an evolving immune response.

The enhanced effect of a hexameric deoxyriboguanosine run conjugation to CpG oligodeoxynucleotides on protection against allergic asthma

BACKGROUND

Oligodeoxynucleotides containing a CpG motif (CpG ODNs), as potent inducers of T(H)1 immunity, are considered promising candidates for immune modulation in asthma. We have previously demonstrated that conjugation of a hexameric deoxyriboguanosine run to the 3' terminus (3' dG(6)-run) of phosphodiester (PE) CpG ODNs enhanced their immuno-stimulatory activities in vitro.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of a 3' dG(6)-run conjugation to PE or phosphorothioate (PS) CpG ODNs on protection against murine allergic asthma in vivo.

METHODS

Balb/c mice were sensitized to ovalbumin by intraperitoneal injection with or without CpG ODNs (PS CpG ODNs, PE CpG ODNs, and those with 3' dG(6)-run) and subsequently challenged with ovalbumin. We evaluated airway hyperresponsiveness, eosinophil proportion in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, airway inflammation, and ovalbumin-specific antibody responses.

RESULTS

The conjugation of a 3' dG(6)-run to PE CpG ODNs enhanced the production of IFN-gamma from ovalbumin-specific T(H) cells and prevented the development of asthma in terms of airway hyperresponsiveness, airway eosinophilia, and ovalbumin-specific IgE responses; these effects were comparable to those of PS CpG ODNs. Enhanced effects of the 3' dG(6)-run were also observed in PS CpG ODNs, though they were lower than those in PE CpG ODNs.

CONCLUSION

This study suggests that conjugation of a 3' dG(6)-run to CpG ODNs might provide an effective method for immune modulation of allergic asthma.

Type I interferon is the primary regulator of inducible Ly-6C expression on T cells

Ly-6C has been proposed as a marker of memory CD8+ T cells. Reports have indicated that Ly-6C is upregulated after T cell receptor (TCR) stimulation or exposure to proinflammatory cytokines. This study examined the relative roles of proinflammatory cytokines and TCR engagement in Ly-6C induction. In vitro experiments tested the effects of cytokines on Ly-6C expression and confirmed interferon-alpha (IFN-alpha) as a primary cytokine that induces Ly-6C expression on CD4+ and CD8+ T cells. The amount and duration of Ly-6C expression were examined on T cells after in vivo induction of proinflammatory cytokines (CpG oligodeoxynucleotides [ODN]) or TCR activation (staphylococcal enterotoxin B [SEB]). In vivo, proinflammatory cytokines transiently upregulated Ly-6C on T cells in the absence of TCR stimulation. TCR stimulation by SEB transiently upregulated Ly-6C expression on antigen-specific and antigen-nonspecific T cells but did not cause long-term upregulation of Ly-6C expression in either population. IFN-alpha was confirmed as a primary inducer of Ly-6C in vivo, as CpG ODN were unable to induce Ly-6C expression in IFN-alphaRI(-/-) mice. Thus, inducible Ly-6C expression on CD4+ and CD8+ T cells is largely due to IFN-alpha in the environment and appears not to be directly correlated with the development of T cell memory.