CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein-beta regulates interferon-induced transcription through a novel element

GWAS meta-analysis of psoriasis identifies new susceptibility alleles impacting disease mechanisms and therapeutic targets

Psoriasis is a common, debilitating immune-mediated skin disease. Genetic studies have identified biological mechanisms of psoriasis risk, including those targeted by effective therapies. However, the genetic liability to psoriasis is not fully explained by variation at robustly identified risk loci. To move towards a saturation map of psoriasis susceptibility we meta-analysed 18 GWAS comprising 36,466 cases and 458,078 controls and identified 109 distinct psoriasis susceptibility loci, including 45 that have not been previously reported. These include susceptibility variants at loci in which the therapeutic targets IL17RA and AHR are encoded, and deleterious coding variants supporting potential new drug targets (including in STAP2, CPVL and POU2F3). We conducted a transcriptome-wide association study to identify regulatory effects of psoriasis susceptibility variants and cross-referenced these against single cell expression profiles in psoriasis-affected skin, highlighting roles for the transcriptional regulation of haematopoietic cell development and epigenetic modulation of interferon signalling in psoriasis pathobiology.

C/EBPβ deficiency enhances the keratinocyte innate immune response to direct activators of cytosolic pattern recognition receptors

The skin is the first line of defense to cutaneous microbes and viruses, and epidermal keratinocytes play a critical role in preventing infection by viruses and pathogens through activation of the type I interferon (IFN) response. Using RNAseq analysis, here we report that the conditional deletion of C/EBPβ transcription factor in mouse epidermis (CKOβ mice) resulted in the upregulation of IFNβ and numerous keratinocyte interferon-stimulated genes (ISGs). The expression of cytosolic pattern recognition receptors (cPRRs), that recognize viral RNA and DNA, were significantly increased, and enriched in the RNAseq data set. cPRRs stimulate a type I IFN response that can trigger cell death to eliminate infected cells. To determine if the observed increases in cPRRs had functional consequences, we transfected CKOβ primary keratinocytes with the pathogen and viral mimics poly(I:C) (dsRNA) or poly(dA:dT) (synthetic B-DNA) that directly activate PRRs. Transfected CKOβ primary keratinocytes displayed an amplified type I IFN response which was accompanied by increased activation of IRF3, enhanced ISG expression, enhanced activation of caspase-8, caspase-3 and increased apoptosis. Our results identify C/EBPβ as a critical repressor of the keratinocyte type I IFN response, and demonstrates that the loss of C/EBPβ primes keratinocytes to the activation of cytosolic PRRs by pathogen RNA and DNA to induce cell death mediated by caspase-8 and caspase-3.

Med1 Controls Effector CD8+ T Cell Differentiation and Survival through C/EBPβ-Mediated Transcriptional Control of T-bet

Effector CD8+ T cells are crucial players in adaptive immunity for effective protection against invading pathogens. The regulatory mechanisms underlying CD8+ T cell effector differentiation are incompletely understood. In this study, we defined a critical role of mediator complex subunit 1 (Med1) in controlling effector CD8+ T cell differentiation and survival during acute bacterial infection. Mice with Med1-deficient CD8+ T cells exhibited significantly impaired expansion with evidently reduced killer cell lectin-like receptor G1+ terminally differentiated and Ly6c+ effector cell populations. Moreover, Med1 deficiency led to enhanced cell apoptosis and expression of multiple inhibitory receptors (programmed cell death 1, T cell Ig and mucin domain–containing-3, and T cell immunoreceptor with Ig and ITIM domains). RNA-sequencing analysis revealed that T-bet– and Zeb2-mediated transcriptional programs were impaired in Med1-deficient CD8+ T cells. Overexpression of T-bet could rescue the differentiation and survival of Med1-deficient CD8+ effector T cells. Mechanistically, the transcription factor C/EBPβ promoted T-bet expression through interacting with Med1 in effector T cells. Collectively, our findings revealed a novel role of Med1 in regulating effector CD8+ T cell differentiation and survival in response to bacterial infection.

Identification of genes modulated by interferon gamma in breast cancer cells

Interferon gamma (IFNγ) plays a context-dependent dual tumor-suppressor and pro-tumorigenic roles in cancer. IFNγ induces morphological changes in breast cancer (BC) cells with or without estrogen receptor alpha (ERα) expression. However, IFNγ-regulated genes in BC cells remain unexplored. Here, we performed a cDNA microarray analysis of MCF-7 (ERα+) and MDA-MB-231 (HER2-/PR-/ERα-) cells with and without IFNγ treatment. We identified specific IFNγ−modulated genes in each cell type, and a small group of genes regulated by IFNγ common in both cell types. IFNγ treatment for an extended time mainly repressed gene expression shared by both cell types. Nonetheless, some of these IFNγ-repressed genes were seemingly deregulated in human mammary tumor samples, along with decreased IFNGR1 (an IFNγ receptor) expression. Thus, IFNγ signaling-elicited anti-tumor activities may be mediated by the downregulation of main IFNγ target genes in BC; however, it may be deregulated by the tumor microenvironment in a tumor stage-dependent manner.

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Identification of new potential genes regulated by IFNγ in breast cancer cells.

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A small group of common genes is regulated by IFNγ in ERα- and ERα+ breast cancer cells.

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IFNγ treatment for a long time mainly represses gene expression in breast cancer cells.

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The tumor environment may lead to a decrease in IFNGR1 expression in mammary tumors.

Time-Resolved Effect of Interferon-Alpha 2a on Activities of Nuclear Factor Kappa B, Pregnane X Receptor and on Drug Disposition Genes

Interferon-alpha (IFN-α) is suggested to cause pharmacokinetic drug interactions by lowering expression of drug disposition genes through affecting the activities of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-ĸB) and pregnane X receptor (PXR). The time-resolved impact of IFN-α 2a (1000 U/mL; 5000 U/mL; 2 h to 30 h) on the activities of NF-ĸB and PXR and mRNA expression (5000 U/mL; 24 h, 48 h) of selected drug disposition genes and on cytochrome P450 (CYP3A4) activity in LS180 cells (5000 U/mL; 24 h, 48 h) was evaluated using luciferase-based reporter gene assays, reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction, and luminescence-based CYP3A4 activity assays. The cross-talk between NF-ĸB activation and PXR suppression was evaluated by NF-ĸB blockage (10 µM parthenolide). IFN-α 2a initially (2 h, 6 h) enhanced NF-ĸB activity 2-fold and suppressed PXR activity by 30%. mRNA of CYP3A4 was halved, whereas UGT1A1 was increased (1.35-fold) after 24 h. After 48 h, ABCB1 expression was increased (1.76-fold). CYP3A4 activity remained unchanged after 24 h, but was enhanced after 48 h (1.35-fold). IFN-α 2a demonstrated short-term suppressive effects on PXR activity and CYP3A4 mRNA expression, likely mediated by activated NF-ĸB. Longer exposure enhanced CYP3A4 activity. Clinical trials should evaluate the relevance by investigating the temporal effects of IFN-α on CYP3A4 using a sensitive marker substrate.

CD200:CD200R Interactions and Their Importance in Immunoregulation

The molecule CD200, described many years ago as a naturally occurring immunomodulatory agent, capable of regulating inflammation and transplant rejection, has attracted additional interest over the past years with the realization that it may also serve as an important marker for progressive malignancy. A large body of evidence also supports the hypothesis that this molecule can contribute to immunoregulation of, among other diseases, infection, autoimmune disease and allergy. New data have also come to light to characterize the receptors for CD200 (CD200R) and their potential mechanism(s) of action at the biochemical level, as well as the description of a novel natural antagonist of CD200, lacking the NH₂-terminal region of the full-length molecule. Significant controversies exist concerning the relative importance of CD200 as a ligand for all reported CD200Rs. Nevertheless, some progress has been made in the identification of the structural constraints determining the interaction between CD200 and CD200R, and this information has in turn proved of use in developing novel small molecule agonists/antagonists of the interaction. The review below highlights many of these newer findings, and attempts to place them in the broad context of our understanding of the role of CD200-CD200R interactions in a variety of human diseases.

Interferon γ and Its Important Roles in Promoting and Inhibiting Spontaneous and Therapeutic Cancer Immunity

Originally identified in studies of cellular resistance to viral infection, interferon (IFN)-γ is now known to represent a distinct member of the IFN family and plays critical roles not only in orchestrating both innate and adaptive immune responses against viruses, bacteria, and tumors, but also in promoting pathologic inflammatory processes. IFN-γ production is largely restricted to T lymphocytes and natural killer (NK) cells and can ultimately lead to the generation of a polarized immune response composed of T helper (Th)1 CD4+ T cells and CD8+ cytolytic T cells. In contrast, the temporally distinct elaboration of IFN-γ in progressively growing tumors also promotes a state of adaptive resistance caused by the up-regulation of inhibitory molecules, such as programmed-death ligand 1 (PD-L1) on tumor cell targets, and additional host cells within the tumor microenvironment. This review focuses on the diverse positive and negative roles of IFN-γ in immune cell activation and differentiation leading to protective immune responses, as well as the paradoxical effects of IFN-γ within the tumor microenvironment that determine the ultimate fate of that tumor in a cancer-bearing individual.

Variable Baseline Papio cynocephalus Endogenous Retrovirus (PcEV) Expression Is Upregulated in Acutely SIV-Infected Macaques and Correlated to STAT1 Expression in the Spleen

Retroviral replication leaves a DNA copy in the host cell chromosome, which over millions of years of infection of germline cells has led to 5% of the human genome sequence being comprised of endogenous retroviruses (ERVs), distributed throughout an estimated 100,000 loci. Over time these loci have accrued mutations such as premature stop codons that prevent continued replication. However, many loci remain both transcriptionally and translationally active and ERVs have been implicated in interacting with the host immune system. Using archived plasma and tissue samples from past macaque studies, experimentally infected with simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV), the expression of one macaque ERV in response to acute viral infection was explored together with a measure of the innate immune response. Specifically, RNA levels were determined for (a) Papio cynocephalus Endogenous Retrovirus (PcEV), an ERV (b) STAT1, a key gene in the interferon signaling pathway, and (c) SIV, an exogenous pathogen. Bioinformatic analysis of DNA sequences of the PcEV loci within the macaque reference genome revealed the presence of open reading frames (ORFs) consistent with potential protein expression but not ERV replication. Quantitative RT-PCR analysis of DNase-treated RNA extracts from plasma derived from acute SIV-infection detected PcEV RNA at low levels in 7 of 22 macaques. PcEV RNA levels were significantly elevated in PBMC and spleen samples recovered during acute SIV infection, but not in the thymus and lymph nodes. A strong positive correlation was identified between PcEV and STAT1 RNA levels in spleen samples recovered from SIV-positive macaques. One possibility is that SIV infection induces PcEV expression in infected lymphoid tissue that contributes to induction of an antiviral response.

Transcription factors Tp73, Cebpd, Pax6, and Spi1 rather than DNA methylation regulate chronic transcriptomics changes after experimental traumatic brain injury

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) induces a wide variety of cellular and molecular changes that can continue for days to weeks to months, leading to functional impairments. Currently, there are no pharmacotherapies in clinical use that favorably modify the post-TBI outcome, due in part to limited understanding of the mechanisms of TBI-induced pathologies. Our system biology analysis tested the hypothesis that chronic transcriptomics changes induced by TBI are controlled by altered DNA-methylation in gene promoter areas or by transcription factors. We performed genome-wide methyl binding domain (MBD)-sequencing (seq) and RNA-seq in perilesional, thalamic, and hippocampal tissue sampled at 3 months after TBI induced by lateral fluid percussion in adult male Sprague-Dawley rats. We investigated the regulated molecular networks and mechanisms underlying the chronic regulation, particularly DNA methylation and transcription factors. Finally, we identified compounds that modulate the transcriptomics changes and could be repurposed to improve recovery. Unexpectedly, DNA methylation was not a major regulator of chronic post-TBI transcriptomics changes. On the other hand, the transcription factors Cebpd, Pax6, Spi1, and Tp73 were upregulated at 3 months after TBI (False discovery rate < 0.05), which was validated using digital droplet polymerase chain reaction. Transcription regulatory network analysis revealed that these transcription factors regulate apoptosis, inflammation, and microglia, which are well-known contributors to secondary damage after TBI. Library of Integrated Network-based Cellular Signatures (LINCS) analysis identified 118 pharmacotherapies that regulate the expression of Cebpd, Pax6, Spi1, and Tp73. Of these, the antidepressant and/or antipsychotic compounds trimipramine, rolipramine, fluspirilene, and chlorpromazine, as well as the anti-cancer therapies pimasertib, tamoxifen, and vorinostat were strong regulators of the identified transcription factors, suggesting their potential to modulate the regulated transcriptomics networks to improve post-TBI recovery.

miR-155 promotes FLT3-ITD-induced myeloproliferative disease through inhibition of the interferon response

FLT3-ITD⁺ acute myeloid leukemia (AML) accounts for ∼25% of all AML cases and is a subtype that carries a poor prognosis. microRNA-155 (miR-155) is specifically overexpressed in FLT3-ITD⁺ AML compared with FLT3 wild-type (FLT3-WT) AML and is critical for the growth of FLT3-ITD⁺ AML cells in vitro. However, miR-155's role in regulating FLT3-ITD-mediated disease in vivo remains unclear. In this study, we used a genetic mouse model to determine whether miR-155 influences the development of FLT3-ITD-induced myeloproliferative disease. Results indicate that miR-155 promotes FLT3-ITD-induced myeloid expansion in the bone marrow, spleen, and peripheral blood. Mechanistically, miR-155 increases proliferation of the hematopoietic stem and progenitor cell compartments by reducing the growth-inhibitory effects of the interferon (IFN) response, and this involves targeting of Cebpb. Consistent with our observations in mice, primary FLT3-ITD⁺ AML clinical samples have significantly higher miR-155 levels and a lower IFN response compared with FLT3-WT AML samples. Further, inhibition of miR-155 in FLT3-ITD⁺ AML cell lines using CRISPR/Cas9, or primary FLT3-ITD⁺ AML samples using locked nucleic acid antisense inhibitors, results in an elevated IFN response and reduces colony formation. Altogether, our data reveal that miR-155 collaborates with FLT3-ITD to promote myeloid cell expansion in vivo and that this involves a multitarget mechanism that includes repression of IFN signaling.

JunD/AP-1 Antagonizes the Induction of DAPK1 To Promote the Survival of v-Src-Transformed Cells

The increase in AP-1 activity is a hallmark of cell transformation by tyrosine kinases. Previously, we reported that blocking AP-1 using the c-Jun dominant negative mutant TAM67 induced senescence, adipogenesis, or apoptosis in v-Src-transformed chicken embryo fibroblasts (CEFs) whereas inhibition of JunD by short hairpin RNA (shRNA) specifically induced apoptosis. To investigate the role of AP-1 in Src-mediated transformation, we undertook a gene profiling study to characterize the transcriptomes of v-Src-transformed CEFs expressing either TAM67 or the JunD shRNA. Our study revealed a cluster of 18 probe sets upregulated exclusively in response to AP-1/JunD impairment and v-Src transformation. Four of these probe sets correspond to genes involved in the interferon pathway. One gene in particular, death-associated protein kinase 1 (DAPK1), is a C/EBPβ-regulated mediator of apoptosis in gamma interferon (IFN-γ)-induced cell death. Here, we show that inhibition of DAPK1 abrogates cell death in v-Src-transformed cells expressing the JunD shRNA. Chromatin immunoprecipitation data indicated that C/EBPβ was recruited to the DAPK1 promoter while the expression of a dominant negative mutant of C/EBPβ abrogated the induction of DAPK1 in response to the inhibition of AP-1. In contrast, as determined by chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assays, JunD was not detected on the DAPK1 promoter under any conditions, suggesting that JunD promotes survival by indirectly antagonizing the expression of DAPK1 in v-Src transformed cells.

IMPORTANCE

Transformation by the v-Src oncoprotein causes extensive changes in gene expression in primary cells such as chicken embryo fibroblasts. These changes, determining the properties of transformed cells, are controlled in part at the transcriptional level. Much attention has been devoted to transcription factors such as AP-1 and NF-κB and the control of genes associated with a more aggressive phenotype. In this report, we describe a novel mechanism of action determined by the JunD component of AP-1, a factor enhancing cell survival in v-Src-transformed cells. We show that the loss of JunD results in the aberrant activation of a genetic program leading to cell death. This program requires the activation of the tumor suppressor death-associated protein kinase 1 (DAPK1). Since DAPK1 is phosphorylated and inhibited by v-Src, these results highlight the importance of this kinase and the multiple mechanisms controlled by v-Src to antagonize the tumor suppressor function of DAPK1.

Death-associated Protein Kinase-1 Expression and Autophagy in Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia Are Dependent on Activating Transcription Factor-6 and CCAAT/Enhancer-binding Protein-β

Expression of DAPK1, a critical regulator of autophagy and apoptosis, is lost in a wide variety of tumors, although the mechanisms are unclear. A transcription factor complex consisting of ATF6 (an endoplasmic reticulum-resident factor) and C/EBP-β is required for the IFN-γ-induced expression of DAPK1 IFN-γ-induced proteolytic processing of ATF6 and phosphorylation of C/EBP-β are obligatory for the formation of this transcriptional complex. We report that defects in this pathway fail to control growth of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). Consistent with these observations, IFN-γ and chemotherapeutics failed to activate autophagy in CLL patient samples lacking ATF6 and/or C/EBP-β. Together, these results identify a molecular basis for the loss of DAPK1 expression in CLL.

Interferons, signal transduction pathways, and the central nervous system

The interferon (IFN) family of cytokines participates in the development of innate and acquired immune defenses against various pathogens and pathogenic stimuli. Discovered originally as a proteinaceous substance secreted from virus-infected cells that afforded immunity to neighboring cells from virus infection, these cytokines are now implicated in various human pathologies, including control of tumor development, cell differentiation, and autoimmunity. It is now believed that the IFN system (IFN genes and the genes induced by them, and the factors that regulate these processes) is a generalized alarm of cellular stress, including DNA damage. IFNs exert both beneficial and deleterious effects on the central nervous system (CNS). Our knowledge of the IFN-regulated processes in the CNS is far from being clear. In this article, we reviewed the current understanding of IFN signal transduction pathways and gene products that might have potential relevance to diseases of the CNS.

Regulation of the death-associated protein kinase 1 expression and autophagy via ATF6 requires apoptosis signal-regulating kinase 1

The death-associated protein kinase 1 (DAPK1) is an important regulator of cell death and autophagy. Recently, we have identified that ATF6, an endoplasmic reticulum-resident transcription factor, in association with the transcription factor CEBP-β, regulates the gamma interferon (IFN-γ)-induced expression of Dapk1 (P. Gade et al., Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U. S. A. 109:10316-10321, 2012, doi.org/10.1073/pnas.1119273109). IFN-γ-induced proteolytic processing of ATF6 and phosphorylation of C/EBP-β were essential for the formation of a novel transcriptional complex that regulates DAPK1. Here, we report that IFN-γ activates the ASK1-MKK3/MKK6-p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway for controlling the activity of ATF6. The terminal enzyme in this pathway, p38 MAPK, phosphorylates a critical threonine residue in ATF6 upstream of its DNA binding domain. ATF6 mutants defective for p38 MAPK phosphorylation fail to undergo proteolytic processing in the Golgi apparatus and drive IFN-γ-induced gene expression and autophagy. We also show that mice lacking Ask1 are highly susceptible to lethal bacterial infection owing to defective autophagy. Together, these results identify a novel host defense pathway controlled by IFN-γ signaling.

Expression regulation of zebrafish interferon regulatory factor 9 by promoter analysis

We previously showed that a fish interferon (IFN) regulatory factor 9 (IRF9) homologue, crucian carp Carassius auratus IRF9, displays constitutively nuclear localization and involvement in fish IFN-dependent JAK-STAT signaling; however, little is known about the expression regulation of fish IRF9. Here, we characterized the expression of zebrafish IRF9 by promoter analysis. Zebrafish IRF9 gene promoter contained several putative transcription factor binding sites, including one ISRE (IFN-stimulated response element), one GAS (IFN gamma activation sequence) and three GATEs (IFNγ activated transcriptional element, GATE1/2/3). Further sequence analyses revealed that GAS and GATE motifs existed in all promoters of IRF9 from mammals and fishes. Luciferase assays confirmed that zebrafish IRF9 promoter could be activated by zebrafish IFNφs and zebrafish IFNγ2, as well as transcription factors IRF3, IRF7, and combination of IRF9 and STAT2. Treatment of recombinant crucian carp IFN protein or overexpression of zebrafish IFNγ2 both led to significant increase in crucian carp IRF9 mRNA and protein in cultured fish cells. Comparison of IFN-stimulated promoter activity revealed much more significant induction of zebrafish IRF9 by zebrafish IFNγ2 than by zebrafish IFNφs. Mutation analyses showed that the putative GAS and GATE3 contributed to zebrafish IFNγ2-triggered IRF9 expression, whereas the putative ISRE and the other two GATEs were not functional for induction of zebrafish IRF9. These results together indicated that the expression property of IRF9 might be conserved from fish to mammals and that some not yet identified mechanisms could exist in IRF9 gene transcription regulation in response to IFNs.

Differential effects of type I and II interferons on myeloid cells and resistance to intracellular bacterial infections

The type I and II interferons (IFNs) play important roles in regulating immune responses during viral and bacterial infections and in the context of autoimmune and neoplastic diseases. These two IFN types bind to distinct cell surface receptors that are expressed by nearly all cells to trigger signal transduction events and elicit diverse cellular responses. In some cases, type I and II IFNs trigger similar cellular responses, while in other cases, the IFNs have unique or antagonistic effects on host cells. Negative regulators of IFN signaling also modulate cellular responses to the IFNs and play important roles in maintaining immunological homeostasis. In this review, we provide an overview of how IFNs stimulate cellular responses. We discuss the disparate effects of type I and II IFNs on host resistance to certain intracellular bacterial infections and provide an overview of models that have been proposed to account for these disparate effects. Mechanisms of antagonistic cross talk between type I and II IFNs are also introduced.

Suppression of extracellular signal-regulated kinase activity in herpes simplex virus 1-infected cells by the Us3 protein kinase

Host mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) are deregulated by herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1). Unlike p38 MAPK and Jun N-terminal protein kinase (JNK), which require ICP27 for their activation early in infection, extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) activity is suppressed by an unknown mechanism. Here, we establish that HSV-1-induced suppression of ERK activity requires viral gene expression, occurs with delayed-early kinetics, and requires the functional virus-encoded Us3 Ser/Thr protein kinase. Finally, Us3 expression in uninfected cells was necessary and sufficient to suppress ERK activity in the absence of any other virus-encoded gene products. This demonstrates that inhibition of ERK activity in HSV-1-infected cells is an intrinsic Us3 function and defines a new role for this alphaherpesvirus Us3 kinase in regulating MAPK activation in infected cells.

Profiling the human protein-DNA interactome reveals ERK2 as a transcriptional repressor of interferon signaling

Protein-DNA interactions (PDIs) mediate a broad range of functions essential for cellular differentiation, function, and survival. However, it is still a daunting task to comprehensively identify and profile sequence-specific PDIs in complex genomes. Here, we have used a combined bioinformatics and protein microarray-based strategy to systematically characterize the human protein-DNA interactome. We identified 17,718 PDIs between 460 DNA motifs predicted to regulate transcription and 4,191 human proteins of various functional classes. Among them, we recovered many known PDIs for transcription factors (TFs). We identified a large number of unanticipated PDIs for known TFs, as well as for previously uncharacterized TFs. We also found that over three hundred unconventional DNA-binding proteins (uDBPs)--which include RNA-binding proteins, mitochondrial proteins, and protein kinases--showed sequence-specific PDIs. One such uDBP, ERK2, acts as a transcriptional repressor for interferon gamma-induced genes, suggesting important biological roles for such proteins.

A central role for transcription factor C/EBP-beta in regulating CD1d gene expression in human keratinocytes

CD1d is a nonclassical Ag-presenting molecule that presents glycolipid Ags to NKT cells that are involved in immune defense and tumor rejection. It also plays a role in immunoregulatory functions in the epidermis. The mechanisms controlling the expression of CD1d are not well understood. Therefore, we cloned the CD1d gene promoter and characterized its activities in primary human keratinocytes and other cell lines of epithelial origin. We found that a CCAAT box in the CD1d promoter is required for its expression in keratinocytes. We show here that transcription factor C/EBP-beta binds to the CCAAT box in the CD1d promoter in vitro and in vivo. Consistent with these observations, deletion of the gene encoding for C/EBP-beta caused a loss of CD1d expression. The in vivo regulation of CD1d has significant implications for the pathologic mechanisms of certain immunologic skin diseases in which NKT cells play a role, such as allergic contact dermatitis and psoriasis. Together, these data show a central role for C/EBP-beta in regulating CD1d transcription.

C/EBPbeta mediates synergistic upregulation of gene expression by interferon-gamma and tumor necrosis factor-alpha in bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are potent immunoregulators and have shown clinical utility in suppressing immunity. MSC function is modulated by cytokines, since inflammatory cytokines, such as interferon-gamma (IFNgamma) concomitant with tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNFalpha), induce their immunoregulatory capability. Here, we show that IFNgamma and TNFalpha act synergistically to induce high levels of expression of interleukin-6 (IL-6) and several other immune-related molecules in MSCs in vitro. We further found that, while either IFNgamma or TNFalpha alone induced minor expression of C/EBPbeta in MSCs, this transcription factor was dramatically upregulated when these cytokines were added together. A causal relationship between C/EBPbeta upregulation and IL-6 expression was demonstrated by small interfering RNA knockdown of C/EBPbeta. C/EBPbeta knockdown also inhibited the synergistic expression of CXCL1, inducible nitric oxide synthase, and CCL5 in response to concomitant IFNgamma and TNFalpha. We conclude that C/EBPbeta is a key transcription factor in synergistic gene upregulation by IFNgamma and TNFalpha. Importantly, C/EBPbeta similarly mediated synergistic gene induction in response to IFNgamma accompanied by IL-1beta or lipopolysaccharide, suggesting that synergy between IFNgamma and other stimuli share C/EBPbeta as common mechanism. Furthermore, while STAT1 is critical in IFNgamma signaling, we found that STAT1 knockdown in MSCs did not affect C/EBPbeta expression or the synergistic induction of IL-6 and CXCL1 by IFNgamma and TNFalpha. Thus, C/EBPbeta is not regulated by STAT1. These results demonstrate the importance of cytokine interactions in MSC immunobiology, a better understanding of which will allow improved clinical application of these cells.

IFNgamma signaling-does it mean JAK-STAT?

The molecular pathways involved in the cellular response to interferon (IFN)gamma have been the focus of much research effort due to their importance in host defense against infection and disease, as well as its potential as a therapeutic agent. The discovery of the JAK-STAT signaling pathway greatly enhanced our understanding of the mechanism of IFNgamma-mediated gene transcription. However, in recent years it has become apparent that other pathways, including MAP kinase, PI3-K, CaMKII and NF-kappaB, either co-operate with or act in parallel to JAK-STAT signaling to regulate the many facets of IFNgamma biology in a gene- and cell type-specific manner. The complex interactions between JAK/STAT and alternate pathways and the impact of these signaling networks on the biological responses to IFNgamma are beginning to be understood. This review summarizes and appraises current advances in our understanding of these complex interactions, their specificity and proposed biological outcomes.

The Med1 subunit of transcriptional mediator plays a central role in regulating CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein-beta-driven transcription in response to interferon-gamma

Transcription factor CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein (C/EBP)-beta is crucial for regulating transcription of genes involved in a number of diverse cellular processes, including those involved in some cytokine-induced responses. However, the mechanisms that contribute to its diverse transcriptional activity are not yet fully understood. To gain an understanding into its mechanisms of action, we took a proteomic approach and identified cellular proteins that associate with C/EBP-beta in an interferon (IFN)-gamma-dependent manner. Transcriptional mediator (Mediator) is a multisubunit protein complex that regulates signal-induced cellular gene transcription from enhancer-bound transcription factor(s). Here, we report that the Med1 subunit of the Mediator as a C/EBP-beta-interacting protein. Using gene knock-out cells and mutational and RNA interference approaches, we show that Med1 is critical for IFN-induced expression of certain genes. Med1 associates with C/EBP-beta through a domain located between amino acids 125 and 155 of its N terminus. We also show that the MAPK, ERK1/2, and an ERK phosphorylation site within regulatory domain 2, more specifically the Thr(189) residue, of C/EBP-beta are essential for it to bind to Med1. Last, an ERK-regulated site in Med1 protein is also essential for up-regulating IFN-induced transcription although not critical for binding to C/EBP-beta.

Critical role for transcription factor C/EBP-beta in regulating the expression of death-associated protein kinase 1

Transcription factor C/EBP-beta regulates a number of physiological responses. During an investigation of the growth-suppressive effects of interferons (IFNs), we noticed that cebpb(-/-) cells fail to undergo apoptosis upon gamma IFN (IFN-gamma) treatment, compared to wild-type controls. To examine the basis for this response, we have performed gene expression profiling of isogenic wild-type and cebpb(-/-) bone marrow macrophages and identified a number of IFN-gamma-regulated genes that are dependent on C/EBP-beta for their expression. These genes are distinct from those regulated by the JAK-STAT pathways. Genes identified in this screen appear to participate in various cellular pathways. Thus, we identify a new pathway through which the IFNs exert their effects on cellular genes through C/EBP-beta. One of these genes is death-associated protein kinase 1 (dapk1). DAPK1 is critical for regulating the cell cycle, apoptosis, and metastasis. Using site-directed mutagenesis, RNA interference, and chromatin immunoprecipitation assays, we show that C/EBP-beta binds to the promoter of dapk1 and is required for the regulation of dapk1. Both mouse dapk1 and human dapk1 exhibited similar dependences on C/EBP-beta for their expression. The expression of the other members of the DAPK family occurred independently of C/EBP-beta. Members of the C/EBP family of transcription factors other than C/EBP-beta did not significantly affect dapk1 expression. We identified two elements in this promoter that respond to C/EBP-beta. One of these is a consensus C/EBP-beta-binding site that constitutively binds to C/EBP-beta. The other element exhibits homology to the cyclic AMP response element/activating transcription factor binding sites. C/EBP-beta binds to this site in an IFN-gamma-dependent manner. Inhibition of ERK1/2 or mutation of an ERK1/2 site in the C/EBP-beta protein suppressed the IFN-gamma-induced response of this promoter. Together, our data show a critical role for C/EBP-beta in a novel IFN-induced cell growth-suppressive pathway via DAPK1.

CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein beta and delta binding to CIITA promoters is associated with the inhibition of CIITA expression in response to Mycobacterium tuberculosis 19-kDa lipoprotein

TLR2 signaling by Mycobacterium tuberculosis 19-kDa lipoprotein (LpqH) inhibits IFN-gamma-induced expression of CIITA by macrophages. Microarray analysis, quantitative RT-PCR, and Western blots showed that LpqH induced C/EBPbeta and C/EBPdelta in kinetic correlation with inhibition of CIITA expression. Of the C/EBPbeta isoforms, liver inhibitory protein (LIP) was notably induced and liver-activating protein was increased by LpqH. Putative C/EBP binding sites were identified in CIITA promoters I and IV (pI and pIV). LpqH induced binding of C/EBPbeta (LIP and liver-activating protein) to biotinylated oligodeoxynucleotide containing the pI or pIV binding sites, and chromatin immunoprecipitation showed that LpqH induced binding of C/EBPbeta and C/EBPdelta to endogenous CIITA pI and pIV. Constitutive expression of C/EBPbeta LIP inhibited IFN-gamma-induced CIITA expression in transfected cells. In summary, LpqH induced expression of C/EBPbeta and C/EBPdelta, and their binding to CIITA pI and pIV, in correlation with inhibition of IFN-gamma-induced expression of CIITA in macrophages, suggesting a role for C/EBP as a novel regulator of CIITA expression.

Interferon gamma-induced gene expression of the novel secretory phospholipase A2 type IID in human monocyte-derived macrophages is inhibited by lipopolysaccharide

Phospholipase A(2) (PLA(2)) is a superfamily of enzymes that may play a major role in airways inflammation. We investigated the effect of interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) on the gene expression of 19 different PLA(2) types in human monocyte-derived macrophages and nasal epithelial cells (RPMI 2650). The cells were stimulated with IFN-gamma for different lengths of time (up to 48 h), and the mRNA levels of the different PLA(2) types were determined by reverse transcriptase-PCR (RT-PCR) and normalized to those of the house-keeping gene, GAPDH. It appeared that IFN-gamma clearly increased the expression of secretory PLA(2) IID (but not IIA) in macrophages, while both PLA(2) IID and IIA were upregulated in RPMI 2650 cells. Moreover, after 18 h, the mRNA levels of cytosolic PLA(2) IVA were 2-3 times higher in IFN-gamma-stimulated macrophages than controls, while there was no such effect of IFN-gamma in RPMI 2650 cells. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) augmented the increased gene expression of PLA(2) IVA but decreased both the basal and the IFN-gamma-induced PLA(2) IID mRNA expression in macrophages (but not in RPMI 2650 cells). The NF-kappaB inhibitor Pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate (PDTC) and the phoshatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) inhibitor wortmannin were employed to get an insight into the mechanism behind these observations. Incubation of macrophages with PDTC had no effect on the LPS impairment of PLA(2) IID gene expression, but inhibited the LPS mediated activation of PLA(2) IVA. No significant effect was noted of PDTC on IFN-gamma stimulation, while PI3K had no effect at all on any of the stimuli used. Furthermore, LPS (but not IFN-gamma) increased the mRNA levels of the nuclear factor (NF)-kappaB inhibitors alpha and xi in macrophages, but not in RPMI 2650 cells. These findings indicate that (a) the gene expression of secretory types PLA(2) IID and IIA in response to IFN-gamma is much dependent on cell type, and (b) the regulation of PLA(2) type IID in human macrophages is clearly different from that of PLA(2) type IVA. (c) PLA(2) IVA is probably under control of both NF-kappaB and IFN-gamma-responsive elements (GRE) or IFN-gamma-activating sites (GAS). The possibility that PLA(2) IID is involved in cytokine-mediated inflammation in the nasal mucosa is inferred, as is the potential role of PLA(2) IID in the host defense against LPS-containing bacteria.

A novel c-Jun-dependent signal transduction pathway necessary for the transcriptional activation of interferon gamma response genes

The biological effects of interferon gamma (IFNgamma) are mediated by interferon-stimulated genes (ISGs), many of which are activated downstream of Janus kinase (JAK)/signal transducer and activator of transcription 1 (STAT1) signaling. Herein we have shown that IFNgamma rapidly activated AP-1 DNA binding that required c-Jun but was independent of JAK1 and STAT1. IFNgamma-induced c-Jun phosphorylation and AP-1 DNA binding required the MEK1/2 and ERK1/2 signaling pathways, whereas the JNK1/2 and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase pathways were dispensable. The induction of several ISGs, including ifi-205 and iNOS, was impaired in IFNgamma-treated c-Jun-/- cells, but others, such as IP-10 and SOCS3, were unaffected, and chromatin immunoprecipitation demonstrated that c-Jun binds to the iNOS promoter following treatment with IFNgamma. Thus, IFNgamma induced JAK1- and STAT1-independent activation of the ERK mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway, phosphorylation of c-Jun, and activation of AP-1 DNA binding, which are important for the induction of a subset of ISGs. This represents a novel signal transduction pathway induced by IFNgamma that proceeds in parallel with conventional JAK/STAT signaling to activate ISGs.

Cytokine-Induced Hepatic Apoptosis Is Dependent on FGL2/Fibroleukin: The Role of Sp1/Sp3 and STAT1/PU.1 CompositecisElements

Previous studies from our laboratory have shown that fulminant hepatitis caused by the mouse hepatitis virus, MHV-3, is dependent on production of the novel immune coagulant fgl2/fibroleukin. In this study, we investigate the role of IFN-gamma and TNF-alpha in the induction of fgl2 expression and fgl2-dependent hepatic apoptosis. Infusion of IFN-gamma in combination with TNF-alpha through the portal vein of fgl2+/+ mice led to widespread hepatic apoptosis and fibrin deposition. Livers from fgl2-/- mice were normal, although strong expression of the fgl2 knockout reporter gene Lac Z was seen in both resident hepatic macrophages and endothelial cells. In vitro, IFN-gamma and TNF-alpha induced fgl2 expression in a macrophage and endothelial cell-specific manner. In macrophages (peritoneal and RAW 264.7 cells), IFN-gamma, but not IFN-alpha, LPS, TNF-alpha, or IL-1 induced fgl2 mRNA transcription and protein expression, while in endothelial cells TNF-alpha, but not IFN-gamma, induced fgl2 transcription. In addition, while TNF-alpha enhanced IFN-gamma-induced macrophage fgl2 transcription, IFN-gamma also enhanced TNF-alpha-induced endothelial cell fgl2 transcription. The induction of fgl2 by IFN-gamma in macrophages involved a STAT1-dependent pathway, involving the composite cis elements Sp1/Sp3 and GAS/PU.1. The latter interacted with IFN-gamma-dependent Sp1/Sp3, STAT1, and the ETS family of transcription factors member PU.1. The interaction of PU.1 with the IFN-gamma-activated sequence/ETS family of transcription factors site determined the macrophage-specific induction of fgl2 by IFN-gamma. Overall, this study demonstrates that IFN-gamma and TNF-alpha induce hepatocyte apoptosis in vivo, which is dependent on induction of fgl2, and defines the molecular basis of transcription of fgl2 in vitro.

IFNgamma regulates PDGF-receptor alpha expression in macrophages, THP-1 cells, and arterial smooth muscle cells

The recruitment of monocyte-derived macrophages (MDMs) and arterial smooth muscle cells (ASMCs) contributes to inflammation and development of intimal hyperplasia during atherosclerosis. Platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) is a potent mitogen for SMC, signalling through PDGF-receptor subunits alpha (Ralpha) and beta (Rbeta). We have previously found that interferon gamma (IFNgamma) upregulates PDGF-Ralpha mRNA expression in human MDM (hMDM) which causes an increased migration towards PDGF. In the present study, we found that IFNgamma mediated an upregulation of PDGF-Ralpha mRNA also in THP-1 cells. The induction of PDGF-Ralpha in both hMDM and THP-1 cells was caused by STAT1 binding to the PDGF-Ralpha promoter. In human ASMCs, IFNgamma again stimulated a transient STAT1-binding to the PDGF-Ralpha promoter. However, this was not followed by an upregulation of PDGF-Ralpha mRNA. IFNgamma-stimulation resulted in augmented expression of PDGF-Ralpha protein in differentiated hMDM. Early hMDM only expressed an immature and not fully glycosylated form of the PDGF-Ralpha protein. In contrast, THP-1 cells did not synthesize PDGF-Ralpha protein, implying further posttranscriptional inhibition. Our results contribute to a better understanding of the complex regulation of PDGF-Ralpha expression and how proinflammatory factors may contribute to PDGF-related hyperplasia in vascular diseases.

IFN-gamma-induced upregulation of Fcgamma-receptor-I during activation of monocytic cells requires the PKR and NFkappaB pathways

Interferon (IFN)-gamma is a potent activator of macrophages, increasing the cells capacity to perform specific functions during inflammation and immune response. In this report we use IFN-gamma-induced upregulation of the high affinity receptor for IgG (FcgammaRI/CD64) in the human monocytic cell line U-937 as a model for monocytic activation. We show that upregulation of FcgammaRI is dependent on signals mediated by the dsRNA-dependent kinase PKR, and the transcription factor NFkappaB. Silencing of PKR expression by siRNA or inhibition of PKR by 2-aminopurine (2-AP) potently blocks the IFN-gamma-induced transcriptional activation of the FcgammaRI promoter. We find that the serine 727 phosphorylation of Stat1, required for full IFN-gamma-induced FcgammaRI promoter activity, is dependent on PKR. We further show that IFN-gamma induction of FcgammaRI upregulation is dependent on the NFkappaB pathway, as evidenced by inhibition of NFkappaB using a phosphorylation defective IkappaBalpha (S32A/S36A) mutant, or inhibiting the IkappaB-kinase (IKK) by treatment with BMS345541. Our results suggest that IFN-gamma-induced increase of FcgammaRI expression requires the integration of two signalling events: PKR-dependent Stat1 serine 727 phosphorylation, and activation of NFkappaB.

CCAAT/enhancer binding proteins and interferon signaling pathways

Interferons (IFNs) regulate a number of host responses, including innate and adaptive immunity against viruses, microbes, and neoplastic cells. These responses are dependent on the expression of IFN-stimulated genes (ISGs). Given the diversities in these responses and their kinetics, it is conceivable that a number of different factors are required for controlling them. Here, we describe one such pathway wherein transcription factor CAAAT/enhancer binding protein-beta (C/EBP-beta) is controlled via IFN-gamma-induced MAPK signaling pathways. At least two IFN-gamma-induced MAPK signals converge on to C/EBP-beta for inducing transcription. One of these, driven by extracellular signal-regulated kinases (ERKs), phosphorylates the C/EBP-beta protein in its regulatory domain. The second, driven by the mixed-lineage kinases (MLKs), induces a dephosphorylation leading to the recruitment of transcriptional coactivators.

Immune regulation of 25-hydroxyvitamin-D3-1alpha-hydroxylase in human monocytes

Monocytes express 1alpha-hydroxylase, the enzyme responsible for final hydroxylation of vitamin D3, in response to IFNgamma and CD14/TLR4 activation. Cross-talk between the JAK-STAT, the NF-kappaB, and the p38 MAPK pathways is necessary, and direct binding of C/EBPbeta to its recognition sites in the promoter of the 1alpha-hydroxylase gene is a prerequisite.

INTRODUCTION

The activated form of vitamin D3, 1,25(OH)2D3, known for its action in bone and mineral homeostasis, has important immunomodulatory effects. 1,25(OH)2D3 modulates the immune system through specific nuclear receptors, whereas macrophages produce 1,25(OH)2D3. In monocytes, the expression of 1alpha-hydroxylase, the enzyme responsible for final hydroxylation of vitamin D3, is regulated by immune stimuli. The aim of this study was to elucidate the intracellular pathways through which interferon (IFN)gamma and Toll-like receptor (TLR) modulation regulate expression of 1alpha-hydroxylase in monocytes/macrophages.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Monocytes were isolated from peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and stimulated with IFNgamma (12.5 U/ml) and/or lipopolysaccharide (LPS; 100 ng/ml) for 48 h. The following inhibitors were used: janus kinase (JAK) inhibitor AG490 (50 microM), NF-kappaB inhibitor sulfasalazine (0.25 mM), p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) inhibitor SB203580 (5 microM). 1alpha-hydroxylase mRNA expression was monitored by qRT-PCR. Phosphorylation of transcription factors was studied by Western blotting. Transfection of mutated or deletion promoter constructs, cloned in the pGL3-luciferase reporter plasmid, were performed in the RAW264.7 cell line. Cells were stimulated with IFNgamma (100 U/ml) and LPS (100 microg/ml), and promoter activity was studied. Binding of signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT)1alpha, NF-kappaB, and C/EBPbeta to their respective binding sites in the promoter was analyzed by gel shift assays.

RESULTS

1alpha-hydroxylase mRNA expression in monocytes is synergistically induced by IFNgamma and CD14/TLR4 ligation and paralleled by 1,25(OH)2D3 production. This induction requires the JAK-STAT, NF-kappaB, and p38 MAPK pathways. Each of them is essential, because blocking individual pathways is sufficient to block 1alpha-hydroxylase expression (JAK inhibitor, 60% inhibition, p < 0.01; NF-kappaB inhibitor, 70% inhibition, p < 0.05; p38 MAPK inhibitor, 95% inhibition, p < 0.005). In addition, we show the involvement of the p38 MAPK pathway in phosphorylation of C/EBPbeta. Direct binding of C/EBPbeta to its recognition sites in the 1alpha-hydroxylase promoter is necessary to enable its immune-stimulated upregulation.

CONCLUSION

IFNgamma and CD14/TLR4 binding regulate expression of 1alpha-hydroxylase in monocytes in a synergistic way. Combined activation of the JAK-STAT, p38 MAPK, and NF-kappaB pathways is necessary, with C/EBPbeta most probably being the essential transcription factor controlling immune-mediated transcription.

Development of monoclonal antibodies against GBF1 and their use in studying its functions

Interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) regulates a number of cellular genes using a variety of cellular signaling pathways. Previously, we identified a novel IFN-regulated element, IFN-gamma-activated transcriptional element (GATE), in the promoter of the murine IFN regulatory factor-9 (IRF-9) gene. This element binds to novel factors. We have recently characterized a novel regulatory factor, GATE binding factor 1 (GBF1), which promoted IFN-gamma-induced transcription. Although GBF1 was a potent inducer of transcription, it did not bind to DNA well in vitro. To understand its role in IFN-gamma-induced actions, we raised monoclonal antibodies (mAb) against GBF1. These antibodies are highly useful in Western, immunoprecipitation, and immunocytochemical analyses. Employing these antibodies, we show that GBF1 is recruited to the endogenous IRF-9 promoter. We also show GBF1 interacts with CAAAT/enhancer binding protein-beta (C/EBP-beta), the other GATE binding factor. Furthermore, other cytokines, such as interleukin-1 (IL-1) and IL-6, induced the expression of GBF1. These antibodies may be useful tools for investigating the role of GBF1 in cytokine-induced responses.

CD46-utilizing adenoviruses inhibit C/EBPbeta-dependent expression of proinflammatory cytokines

The majority of adenovirus serotypes utilize the coxsackievirus-adenovirus receptor (CAR) for virus-host cell attachment, but subgroup B and subgroup D (adenovirus type 37 [Ad37]) viruses recognize CD46. CD46 is a ubiquitously expressed receptor that serves as a cofactor for the inactivation of the complement components C3b and C4b, and it also serves as a receptor for diverse microbial pathogens. A reported consequence of CD46 engagement is a reduced capability of human immune cells to express interleukin-12 (IL-12), a cytokine involved in both the innate and adaptive immune responses. Studies were thus undertaken to determine whether CD46-utilizing Ads alter the expression of proinflammatory cytokines. Subgroup B (Ad16 and -35) and Ad37, but not Ad2 or -5, significantly reduced IL-12 production by human peripheral blood mononuclear cells stimulated with gamma interferon (IFN-gamma) and lipopolysaccharide. IL-12 mRNA (p35 and p40 subunits) levels as well as other cytokine mRNA levels (IL-1alpha and -beta, IL-1Ra, and IL-6) were decreased upon interaction with CD46-utilizing Ads. Analysis of transcription factor activity required for cytokine expression indicated that CD46-utilizing Ads preferentially inhibited IFN-gamma-induced C/EBPbeta protein expression, consequently reducing its ability to form DNA complexes. Interference with IFN-gamma signaling events by CD46-utilizing Ads, but not CAR-utilizing Ads, reveals a potentially critical difference in the host immune response against distinct Ad vectors, a situation that has implications for gene delivery and vaccine development.

IFN-gamma-stimulated transcriptional activation by IFN-gamma-activated transcriptional element-binding factor 1 occurs via an inducible interaction with CAAAT/enhancer-binding protein-beta

IFN-gamma-activated transcriptional element (GATE)-binding factor 1 (GBF1) was identified as a transactivator that induces gene expression through GATE, a novel IFN-inducible element. Although it can induce gene expression, it is an extremely weak DNA-binding protein on its own. GATE also binds another transcription factor, C/EBP-beta. Therefore, we explored whether GBF1 physically interacts with C/EBP-beta to induce IFN-gamma-regulated transcription. In response to IFN-gamma, C/EBP-beta undergoes phosphorylation at a critical ERK1/2 phosphorylation motif. Mutational inactivation of this motif and/or interference with the ERK1/2 activation prevented the IFN-gamma-induced interactions between GBF1 and C/EBP-beta. A 37-aa long peptide derived from the GBF1 protein can associate with C/EBP-beta in an IFN-inducible manner. These results identify a converging point for two transactivators that exert their effects through a single response element. Together, our studies identify a novel regulatory mechanism that controls IFN-induced transcription.

A role for mixed lineage kinases in regulating transcription factor CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein-{beta}-dependent gene expression in response to interferon-{gamma}

Transcription factor CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein-beta (C/EBP-beta) regulates a variety of cellular functions in response to exogenous stimuli. We have reported earlier that C/EBP-beta induces gene transcription through a novel interferon (IFN)-response element called gamma-IFN-activated transcriptional element. We show here that IFN-gamma-induced, C/EBP-beta/gamma-IFN-activated transcriptional element-dependent gene expression is regulated by mixed lineage kinases (MLKs), members of the mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase kinase family. MLK3 appears to activate C/EBP-beta in response to IFN-gamma by a mechanism involving decreased phosphorylation of a specific phosphoacceptor residue, Ser(64), within the transactivation domain. Decreased phosphorylation of Ser(64) was independent of IFN-gamma-stimulated ERK1/2 activation and did not require the ERK phosphorylation site Thr(189) located in regulatory domain 2 of C/EBP-beta. Together these studies provide the first evidence that MLK3 is involved in IFN-gamma signaling and identify a novel mechanism of transcriptional activation by IFN-gamma.

Mechanisms of type-I- and type-II-interferon-mediated signalling

Interferons are cytokines that have antiviral, antiproliferative and immunomodulatory effects. Because of these important properties, in the past two decades, major research efforts have been undertaken to understand the signalling mechanisms through which these cytokines induce their effects. Since the original discovery of the classical JAK (Janus activated kinase)-STAT (signal transducer and activator of transcription) pathway of signalling, it has become clear that the coordination and cooperation of multiple distinct signalling cascades - including the mitogen-activated protein kinase p38 cascade and the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase cascade - are required for the generation of responses to interferons. It is anticipated that an increased understanding of the contributions of these recently identified pathways will advance our current thinking about how interferons work.

The GRIMs: a new interface between cell death regulation and interferon/retinoid induced growth suppression

Cytokines and vitamins play a central role in controlling neoplastic cell growth. The interferon (IFN) family of cytokines regulates antiviral, anti-tumor, antimicrobial, differentiation, and immune responses in mammals. Significant advances have been made with respect to IFN-induced signal transduction pathways and antiviral responses. However, the IFN-induced anti-tumor actions are poorly defined. Although IFNs themselves inhibit tumor growth, combination of IFNs with retinoids (a class of Vitamin A related compounds) strongly potentiates the IFN-regulated anti-tumor action in a number of cell types. To define the molecular mechanisms involved in IFN/retinoid (RA)-induced apoptosis we have employed a genetic approach and identified several critical genes. In this review, I provide the current picture of IFN- RA- and IFN/RA-regulated growth suppressive pathways. In particular, I focus on a novel set of genes, the genes-associated with retinoid-interferon induced mortality (GRIM). GRIMs may be novel types of tumor suppressors, useful as biological response markers and potentially novel targets for drug development.

1alpha-Hydroxylase transactivation by gamma-interferon in murine macrophages requires enhanced C/EBPbeta expression and activation

gamma-Interferon [gamma-IFN] induction of macrophage 1alpha-hydroxylase mRNA and activity causes severe hypercalcemia in granulomatous disorders. These studies demonstrate transcriptional regulation. gamma-IFN induces the activity of the murine 1alpha-hydroxylase [-1651; +22] promoter in the murine macrophage cell line Raw 264.7 only after a 24h exposure. This slow kinetics is incompatible with classical gamma-IFN-mediated transactivation. In fact, gamma-IFN response mapped to the minimal [-85; +11] promoter, which lacks GAS or ISRE sites but contains a putative C/EBPbeta site. C/EBPbeta is a gamma-IFN inducible gene and a novel mediator of gamma-IFN-regulated transcription. As expected for a C/EBPbeta-driven transcription, ectopic C/EBPbeta expression was sufficient to increase 1alpha-hydroxylase activity, enhance minimal promoter activity and potentiate the induction of this promoter by gamma-IFN. Importantly, the dominant negative C/EBPbeta isoform antagonized C/EBPbeta-transcriptional activity. gamma-IFN induction of C/EBPbeta expression is not sufficient for gamma-IFN induction of minimal promoter activity. There is also a cell-specific induction of C/EBPbeta-transcriptional activity by gamma-IFN. In Raw cells, specific inhibition of gamma-IFN induction of endogenous-C/EBPbeta phosphorylation by MEKK1 markedly reduced basal promoter activity and the response to gamma-IFN. We conclude that gamma-IFN-induction of C/EBPbeta expression and activation by phosphorylation contributes to gamma-IFN-transcriptional control of 1alpha-hydroxylase expression in murine macrophages.

Interferon-gamma-induced inhibition of neuronal vesicular stomatitis virus infection is STAT1 dependent

In this report, the signaling pathways utilized by interferon (IFN)-gamma in neurons and their respective roles in the inhibition of vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV) replication were studied. The authors have previously shown that IFN-gamma treatment of NB41A3 neuroblastoma cells results in a 2-log inhibition of VSV production. This inhibition of VSV replication is dependent both in vitro and in vivo on nitric oxide (NO) production by NO synthase (NOS)-1. In NB41A3 neuroblastoma cells, IFN-gamma was found to induce the signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) STAT1 phosphorylation, interferon regulatory factor (IRF)-1 expression, and p42/p44 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) phosphorylation; MAPK, however, was not required for inhibition of viral replication. Using olfactory bulb-enriched primary neuronal cultures, the inhibition of VSV replication was found to be STAT1 dependent, but did not require IRF-1.

Alternate interferon signaling pathways

More than a half a century ago, interferons (IFN) were identified as antiviral cytokines. Since that discovery, IFN have been in the forefront of basic and clinical cytokine research. The pleiotropic nature of these cytokines continues to engage a large number of investigators to define their actions further. IFN paved the way for discovery of Janus tyrosine kinase (JAK)-signal transducing activators of transcription (STAT) pathways. A number of important tumor suppressive pathways are controlled by IFN. Several infectious pathogens counteract IFN-induced signaling pathways. Recent studies indicate that IFN activate several new protein kinases, including the MAP kinase family, and downstream transcription factors. This review not only details the established IFN signaling paradigms but also provides insights into emerging alternate signaling pathways and mechanisms of pathogen-induced signaling interference.

Interferon-gamma regulates nucleoside transport systems in macrophages through signal transduction and activator of transduction factor 1 (STAT1)-dependent and -independent signalling pathways

The expressions of CNT and ENT (concentrative and equilibrative nucleoside transporters) in macrophages are differentially regulated by IFN-gamma (interferon-gamma). This cytokine controls gene expression through STAT1-dependent and/or -independent pathways (where STAT1 stands for signal transduction and activator of transcription 1). In the present study, the role of STAT1 in the response of nucleoside transporters to IFN-gamma was studied using macrophages from STAT1 knockout mice. IFN-gamma triggered an inhibition of ENT1-related nucleoside transport activity through STAT1-dependent mechanisms. Such inhibition of macrophage growth and ENT1 activity by IFN-gamma is required for DNA synthesis. Interestingly, IFN-gamma led to an induction of the CNT1- and CNT2-related nucleoside transport activities independent of STAT1, thus ensuring the supply of extracellular nucleosides for the STAT1-independent RNA synthesis. IFN-gamma up-regulated CNT2 mRNA and CNT1 protein levels and down-regulated ENT1 mRNA in both wild-type and STAT1 knockout macrophages. This is consistent with a STAT1-independent, long-term-mediated, probably transcription-dependent, regulation of nucleoside transporter genes. Moreover, STAT1-dependent post-transcriptional mechanisms are implicated in the regulation of ENT1 activity. Although nitric oxide is involved in the regulation of ENT1 activity in B-cells at a post-transcriptional level, our results show that STAT1-dependent induction of nitric oxide by IFN-gamma is not implicated in the regulation of ENT1 activity in macrophages. Our results indicate that both STAT1-dependent and -independent pathways are involved in the regulation of nucleoside transporters by IFN-gamma in macrophages.

Interferon-gamma induces C/EBP beta expression and activity through MEK/ERK and p38 in T84 colon epithelial cells

We investigated the role of IFN-gamma and MAPKs on the expression and activity of the transcription factor CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein-beta (C/EBP beta) in the T84 colon epithelial cell line. IFN-gamma induced the expression and activity of C/EBP beta and subsequently increased the secretion of IL-6 from these cells. Treatment with the p38 inhibitor SB-203580, the MEK1 and MEK2 inhibitor U-0126, or the translational inhibitor cycloheximide inhibited the induction of C/EBP beta and IL-6 by IFN-gamma, whereas the MEK1 inhibitor PD-98059 or the tyrosine kinase inhibitor genistein had no effect. These results suggest a role for MEK2 and p38 in IFN-gamma-mediated signal transduction and induction of C/EBP beta expression and activity associated with interleukin-6 (IL-6) secretion in colon epithelial cells.

Recombinant gamma interferon stimulates signal transduction and gene expression in alveolar macrophages in vitro and in tuberculosis patients

Tuberculosis is the seventh leading cause of morbidity and mortality in the world, with eight million cases per year. Animal and human studies demonstrate an enrichment of CD4 cells at sites of disease, with a more favorable clinical course when there is a Th1 response with the presence of gamma interferon (IFN-gamma). We previously treated patients who had multidrug-resistant tuberculosis with recombinant IFN-gamma (rIFN-gamma) in aerosol form and were able to convert smear-positive cases to smear negative with 12 treatments over 1 month. We hypothesized that rIFN-gamma would induce signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) and interferon regulatory factor (IRF) binding activity in alveolar macrophages (AM). AM treated in vitro showed clear upregulation of STAT-1 and IRF-1 by rIFN-gamma. STAT-1 was not activated and IRF-1 was only weakly induced after 1 day of infection by Mycobacterium tuberculosis TN913. In bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) cells obtained from 10 of 10 tuberculosis patients 10 +/- 2 days post-antituberculosis treatment, there was no detectable STAT-1 or IRF-1 DNA-binding activity. After 4 weeks of treatment with rIFN-gamma aerosol in addition to the antituberculosis drugs, 10 of 10 patients had increased STAT-1, IRF-1, and/or IRF-9 DNA-binding activity in BAL cells from lung segments shown radiographically to be involved and in those shown to be uninvolved. Symptoms and chest radiographs improved, and amounts of macrophage inflammatory cytokines and human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) viral loads (in five of five HIV-1-coinfected patients) declined in the second BAL specimens. rIFN-gamma aerosol induces signal transduction and gene expression in BAL cells and should be evaluated for efficacy in a randomized, controlled clinical trial.

The role of IFN-gamma in immune responses to viral infections of the central nervous system

Interferon (IFN)-gamma, is not only a marker of T(H)1 CD4, CD8 and natural killer (NK) cells, it is also a critical antiviral mediator which is central to the elimination of viruses from the CNS. In this review, we describe IFN-gamma, its receptor, signal transduction from receptor engagement, and antiviral downstream mediators. We demonstrate that although neurons are post-mitotic and non-renewing, they respond to IFN-gamma in a fashion similar to peripheral fibroblasts or lymphocytes. We have illustrated this review with details about studies on the role(s) of IFN-gamma in the pathogenesis of measles virus (MV), herpes simplex virus (HSV) type 1, and vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV) infections of the CNS. For VSV infection, IFN-gamma signals through Jaks 1 and 2 and STAT1 to activate (interferon regulatory factor) IRF-1; although viral protein synthesis is inhibited, PKR is not a critical mediator in the antiviral response to VSV in murine neurons. In contrast, induction of nitric oxide synthase (NOS) type 1 and its production of nitric oxide is essential in the elimination of viruses from neurons.

Regulation of the expression of mouse TAP-associated glycoprotein (tapasin) by cytokines

The expression of antigen presenting MHC class I molecules can be enhanced through cytokines, e.g. upon infection with bacteria or viruses, either directly by enhancing class I gene transcription or by increasing the amounts of accessory proteins of the loading complex. Tapasin plays a significant role in the peptide loading of class I molecules. Here, we describe recognition motifs of cytokine inducible transcription factors in the promoter region of the mouse tapasin gene, most of them clustered within the 140 base pairs upstream of the start codon. Tapasin mRNA was strongly induced in vivo after infection with the facultatively intracellular bacterium Listeria monocytogenes in an IFN-gamma-dependent fashion. Accordingly, both tapasin mRNA and protein were strongly induced in a time and dose dependent manner in embryonic fibroblasts treated with the cytokines IFN-gamma and IFN-beta, and weakly induced after treatment with TNF-alpha. Co-stimulation of tapasin by TNF-alpha and IFN-gamma resulted in a weak synergistic effect. Using fibroblasts either lacking IRF-1 or inhibited in protein synthesis we show that secondary transcription factors are necessary for a maximal stimulation of tapasin expression upon IFN-gamma stimulation. The sequential induction of TAP1, LMP2, and tapasin before the stimulated expression of class I heavy chain is discussed.

Organization of the promoter region of the human NF-IL6 gene

In monocyte/macrophages, the human NF-IL6 gene was activated by LPS or PMA. However, a robust response required stimulation of cells with both LPS and PMA. To examine the molecular basis of this response, we isolated human genomic DNA and determined the nucleotide sequence of a segment (6.4 kb) that included the transcription initiation site of the gene. The unique sequences in the 6.4-kb DNA include several potential transcription factor-binding elements that may explain the molecular basis of the activation of the human NF-IL6 gene by signaling molecules that control the immune and inflammatory responses. Deletion analysis localized an LPS+PMA responsive region downstream position -287, with respect to the transcription initiation site of the NF-IL6 gene. The responsive region includes a potential site for interactions with CREB and a region (-287 to -247) that interacts with SP1 and SP3. In functional assays, the potential CREB site responded to cellular stimulation. The region that interacted with SP1 and SP3 augmented the overall level of activity produced in response to LPS+PMA.

A novel transactivating factor that regulates interferon-gamma-dependent gene expression

We have previously identified a novel interferon (IFN)-stimulated cis-acting enhancer element, gamma-IFN-activated transcriptional element (GATE). GATE differs from the known IFN-stimulated elements in its primary sequence. Preliminary analysis has indicated that the GATE-dependent transcriptional response requires the binding of novel transacting factors. A cDNA expression library derived from an IFN-gamma-stimulated murine macrophage cell line was screened with a (32)P-labeled GATE probe to identify the potential GATE-binding factors. A cDNA coding for a novel transcription-activating factor was identified. Based on its discovery, we named it as GATE-binding factor-1 (GBF-1). GBF-1 homologs are present in mouse, human, monkey, and Drosophila. It activates transcription from reporter genes carrying GATE. It possesses a strong transactivating activity but has a weak DNA binding property. GBF-1 is expressed in most tissues with relatively higher steady-state levels in heart, liver, kidney, and brain. Its expression is induced by IFN-gamma treatment. GBF-1 is present in both cytosolic and nuclear compartments. These studies thus identify a novel transactivating factor in IFN signaling pathways.

MEKK1 plays a critical role in activating the transcription factor C/EBP-beta-dependent gene expression in response to IFN-gamma

IFN-gamma induces a number of genes to up-regulate cellular responses by using specific transcription factors and the cognate elements. We recently discovered that CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein-beta (C/EBP-beta) induces gene transcription through an IFN-response element called gamma-IFN-activated transcriptional element (GATE). Using mutant cells, chemical inhibitors, and specific dominant negative inhibitors, we show that induction of GATE-driven gene expression depends on MEK1 (mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase/extracellular signal-regulated protein kinase kinase) and ERKs (extracellular signal-regulated protein kinases) but is independent of Raf-1. Interestingly in cells lacking the MEKK1 gene or expressing the dominant negative MEKK1, ERK activation, and GATE dependent gene expression is inhibited. A dominant negative MEKK1 blocks C/EBP-beta-driven gene expression stimulated by IFN-gamma. These studies describe an IFN-gamma-stimulated pathway that involves MEKK1-MEK1-ERK1/2 kinases to regulate C/EBP-beta-dependent gene expression.

IFN regulatory factor-1 regulates IFN-gamma-dependent cathepsin S expression

Cathepsin S is a cysteine protease with potent endoproteolytic activity and a broad pH profile. Cathepsin S activity is essential for complete processing of the MHC class II-associated invariant chain within B cells and dendritic cells, and may also be important in extracellular matrix degradation in atherosclerosis and emphysema. Unique among cysteine proteases, cathepsin S activity is up-regulated by IFN-gamma. Given its importance, we sought to elucidate the pathway by which IFN-gamma increases cathepsin S expression. Our data demonstrate that the cathepsin S promoter contains an IFN-stimulated response element (ISRE) that is critical for IFN-gamma-induced gene transcription in a cell line derived from type II alveolar epithelial (A549) cells. IFN response factor (IRF)-2 derived from A549 nuclear extracts associates with the ISRE oligonucleotide in gel shift assays, but is quickly replaced by IRF-1 following stimulation with IFN-gamma. The time course of IRF-1/ISRE complex formation correlates with increased levels of IRF-1 protein and cathepsin S mRNA. Overexpression of IRF-1, but not IRF-2, markedly augments cathepsin S promoter activity in A549 cells. Furthermore, overexpression of IRF-1 increases endogenous cathepsin S mRNA levels in 293T epithelial cells. Finally, freshly isolated bone marrow cells from IRF-1(-/-) mice fail to up-regulate cathepsin S activity in response to IFN-gamma. Thus, IRF-1 is the critical transcriptional mediator of IFN-gamma-dependent cathepsin S activation. These data elucidate a new pathway by which IRF-1 may affect MHC class II processing and presentation.