IL-4 receptor α blockade prevents sensitization and alters acute and long-lasting effects of allergen-specific immunotherapy of murine allergic asthma

Structural elucidation and anti-asthmatic effects of semi-crystalline polysaccharides from Lignosus rhinocerotis (Cooke) Ryvarden

Asthma is a chronic respiratory disease characterized by airway inflammation. Lignosus rhinocerotis (LR), a medicinal mushroom rich in polysaccharide, has been traditionally used to treat various diseases, including asthma. This study aimed to fractionate, characterize and evaluate the anti-asthmatic effects of polysaccharides from LR (LRP). LRP was isolated and characterized using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), x-ray diffraction analysis (XRD), fourier transform infrared spectrometry (FTIR) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. In an OVA-induced asthma model, BALB/c mice were sensitized, challenged, and intranasally treated with LRP. Experimental findings demonstrated that LRP exhibits a semi-crystalline nature with predicted structure of → 4)-α-D-Glcp-(1 → and → 3)-β-D-Glcp-(1→. LRP significantly reduced eosinophilia, Th2 cytokines, and IgE levels. Histological analysis revealed LRP's ability to decrease epithelial damage and epithelial and smooth muscle thickness in lung. Reductions in inflammatory cell infiltration, mucus production, and transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 expression were observed, although not statistically significant. Gene expression analysis indicated that LRP significantly downregulated the inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) expression. This study highlights a detailed structural analysis of LRP and its potential as an alternative for the management of asthma. Further research is needed to elucidate the precise mechanisms of action and optimize its therapeutic application.

Rocaglamide Suppresses Allergic Reactions by Regulating IL-4 Receptor Signaling

Rocaglamide (Roc-A), a natural phytochemical isolated from Aglaia species, is known to exert anticancer effects. Allergic inflammation can enhance the tumorigenic potential of cancer cells. We hypothesized that Roc-A could regulate allergic inflammation. Roc-A prevented an antigen from increasing the hallmarks of allergic reactions in vitro. Roc-A suppressed passive cutaneous anaphylaxis (PCA) and passive systemic anaphylaxis (PSA). RNA sequencing analysis showed that Roc-A prevented the antigen from increasing the expression of IL-4 in RBL2H3 cells. Roc-A also prevented the antigen from increasing the expression of interleukin-4 receptor (IL-4R). Roc-A was found to form a hydrogen-bonding network with residues N92 and L64 of IL-4R in a molecular docking simulation. Roc-A prevented the antigen from inducing the binding of IL-4R to JAK1. Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assays showed that C-Jun could bind to promoter sequences of IL-4 and IL-4R. Mouse recombinant IL-4 protein increased β-hexosaminidase activity, IL-4R expression, and the hallmarks of allergic inflammation in the antigen-independent manner. Mouse recombinant IL-4 protein increased the expressions of CD163 and arghinase-1 and markers of M2 macrophages, but decreased the expression of iNOS, a marker of M1 macrophages in lung macrophages. Roc-A regulated the effects of a culture medium of antigen-stimulated RBL2H3 cells on the expressions of iNOS and arginase-1 in RAW264.7 macrophages. The blocking of IL-4 or downregulation of IL-4R exerted negative effects on the hallmarks of allergic reactions in vitro. The blocking of IL-4 or downregulation of IL-4R also exerted negative effects on PCA, and the downregulation of IL-4R exerted negative effects on PSA. An miR-34a mimic exerted negative effects on allergic reactions in vitro. The downregulation of IL-4R prevented the antigen from decreasing the expression of miR-34a in RBL2H3 cells. We identified chemicals that could bind to IL-4R via molecular docking analysis. The IL-4R docking chemical 1536801 prevented the antigen from increasing β-hexosaminidase activity and the hallmarks of allergic reactions. The IL-4R docking chemical 1536801 also exerted a negative effect on PCA. TargetScan analysis predicted miR-34a as a negative regulator of IL-4R. We found that the anti-allergic effect of Roc-A and its mechanisms were associated with miR-34a. Taken together, our results show that understanding IL-4R-mediated allergic reactions can provide clues for the development of anti-allergy therapeutics.

IL-4R and CXCR2 Contribute to Downregulating Neutrophil-Mediated Response in the Early Stage of Fungal Extract-Induced Allergic Airway Inflammation

Background/Objectives: Airborne exogenous antigen inhalation can induce neutrophil infiltration of the airways, while eosinophils migrate to the airways in allergic airway inflammation. During a bacterial infection, Th2-associated cytokine IL-4, by binding to the IL-4 receptor (IL-4R), can suppress neutrophil recruitment to the site of inflammation. In the present study, we estimated whether the IL-4-dependent suppression of neutrophil recruitment contributed to the development of an immune response in asthma. Methods: Using a mouse model of Aspergillus fumigatus extract-induced allergic airway inflammation, we investigated the proportions of eosinophils and neutrophils in blood, lungs, and bone marrow over time. Bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid cytokine (including IL-4) levels and the proportions of bone marrow IL-4Rα (CD124)-expressing neutrophils were estimated. Results: We identified skewing from the neutrophil- to eosinophil-mediated immune response in the blood after five extract applications. At this point, the BAL fluid IL-4 level was not elevated, while IL-12p40 and CXCL1 levels were considerably increased. At the early stage of allergic airway inflammation, the proportions of neutrophils expressing CD124 and circulating neutrophils expressing CXCR2 (CD182) were significantly increased. Upon inflammation progression, the former remained elevated, but the latter significantly decreased. Conclusions: Thus, in allergic airway inflammation, bone marrow neutrophils become insensible to the attractive chemokine CXCL1 signals and susceptible to IL-4 effects.

Bioinformatics analysis of G protein subunit gamma transduction protein 2-autophagy axis in CD11b+ dendritic cells as a potential regulator to skew airway neutrophilic inflammation in asthma endotypes

BACKGROUND

Asthma is a heterogeneous inflammatory disease with two main clinical endotypes: type 2 (T2) high and low asthma. The plasticity and autophagy in dendritic cells (DCs) influence T helper (Th)2 or Th17 differentiation to regulate asthma endotypes. Enhanced autophagy in DCs fosters Th2 differentiation in allergic environments, while reduced autophagy favors Th17 cell differentiation in sensitized and infected environments. Autophagy regulation in DCs involves interaction with various pathways like G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR), mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), or phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) pathway. However, specific molecules within DCs influencing asthma endotypes remain unclear.

METHODS

Gene expression data series (GSE) 64896, 6858, 2276, and 55247 were obtained from gene expression omnibus (GEO) database. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between CD103+ and CD11b+ DCs after induction by ovalbumin (OVA) and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) were analyzed using GEO2R. DEGs were examined through Gene Ontology (GO), Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG), and protein-protein interaction (PPI) analyses. The hub gene network was construct with STRING database and Cytoscape. Autophagy differences in DCs and the selected hub gene in GSE6858, GSE2276, and GSE55247 were evaluated using student t tests.

RESULTS

Our analysis identified 635 upregulated and 360 downregulated genes in CD11b+ DCs, compared to CD103+ DCs. These DEGs were associated with "PI3K-AKT signaling pathway," "Ras signaling pathway," and so forth. Thirty-five hub genes were identified, in which G protein subunit gamma transduction protein 2 (Gngt2) in CD11b+ DCs exhibited a relatively specific increase in expression associated with autophagy defects under the induction environment similar to T2 low asthma model. No significant difference was found in lung Gngt2 expression between T2 high asthma model and control group.

CONCLUSION

Our analysis suggested Gngt2 acted as an adapter molecule that inhibited autophagy, promoting Th17-mediated airway inflammation via the GPCR pathway in a T2 low asthma mice model. Targeting this pathway provides new asthma treatment strategies in preclinical research.

Activation of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor improves allergen-specific immunotherapy of murine allergic airway inflammation: a novel adjuvant option?

Background

Allergen-specific immunotherapy (AIT) is able to restore immune tolerance to allergens in allergic patients. However, some patients do not or only poorly respond to current treatment protocols. Therefore, there is a need for deeper mechanistic insights and further improvement of treatment strategies. The relevance of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR), a ligand-dependent transcription factor, has been investigated in several inflammatory diseases, including allergic asthma. However, its potential role in AIT still needs to be addressed.

Methods

A murine model of AIT in ovalbumin-induced allergic airway inflammation was performed in AhR-deficient (AhR-/-) and wild-type mice. Furthermore, AIT was combined with the application of the high-affinity AhR agonist 10-chloro-7H-benzimidazo[2,1-a]benzo[de]iso-quinolin-7-one (10-Cl-BBQ) as an adjuvant to investigate the effects of AhR activation on therapeutic outcome.

Results

Although AhR-/- mice suffer stronger allergic responses than wild-type mice, experimental AIT is comparably effective in both. Nevertheless, combining AIT with the administration of 10-Cl-BBQ improved therapeutic effects by an AhR-dependent mechanism, resulting in decreased cell counts in the bronchoalveolar fluid, decreased pulmonary Th2 and Th17 cell levels, and lower sIgE levels.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates that the success of AIT is not dependent on the AhR. However, targeting the AhR during AIT can help to dampen inflammation and improve tolerogenic vaccination. Therefore, AhR ligands might represent promising candidates as immunomodulators to enhance the efficacy of AIT.

Exploring the immunopathology of type 2 inflammatory airway diseases

Significant advancements have been achieved in understanding the roles of different immune cells, as well as cytokines and chemokines, in the pathogenesis of eosinophilic airway conditions. This review examines the pathogenesis of Chronic Rhinosinusitis with Nasal Polyps (CRSwNP), marked by complex immune dysregulation, with major contributions from type 2 inflammation and dysfunctional airway epithelium. The presence of eosinophils and the role of T-cell subsets, particularly an imbalance between Treg and Th17 cells, are crucial to the disease's pathogenesis. The review also investigates the pathogenesis of eosinophilic asthma, a unique asthma subtype. It is characterized by inflammation and high eosinophil levels, with eosinophils playing a pivotal role in triggering type 2 inflammation. The immune response involves Th2 cells, eosinophils, and IgE, among others, all activated by genetic and environmental factors. The intricate interplay among these elements, chemokines, and innate lymphoid cells results in airway inflammation and hyper-responsiveness, contributing to the pathogenesis of eosinophilic asthma. Another scope of this review is the pathogenesis of Eosinophilic Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis (EGPA); a complex inflammatory disease that commonly affects the respiratory tract and small to medium-sized blood vessels. It is characterized by elevated eosinophil levels in blood and tissues. The pathogenesis involves the activation of adaptive immune responses by antigens leading to T and B cell activation and eosinophil stimulation, which causes tissue and vessel damage. On the other hand, Allergic Bronchopulmonary Aspergillosis (ABPA) is a hypersensitive response that occurs when the airways become colonized by aspergillus fungus, with the pathogenesis involving activation of Th2 immune responses, production of IgE antibodies, and eosinophilic action leading to bronchial inflammation and subsequent lung damage. This analysis scrutinizes how an imbalanced immune system contributes to these eosinophilic diseases. The understanding derived from this assessment can steer researchers toward designing new potential therapeutic targets for efficient control of these disorders.

Future Directions of Allergen Immunotherapy for Allergic Rhinitis: Experts' Perspective

Allergen immunotherapy (AIT) is broadly used all over the world as the only available disease-modifying treatment option. The aim of this experts' perspective is to address 7 important unmet needs for the further direction of AIT and to provide the readership with the authors' positions on these topics. An international group of experts in the field of AIT have formulated 7 important aspects for the future position of AIT, performed a current literature review, and proposed a consented position on these topics. The aspects discussed and consented by the authors include: (1) alternative routes of allergen application in AIT, (2) potential of recombinant vaccines, (3) the role of allergy diagnosis based on component-resolved diagnosis for AIT composition, (4) the impact of COVID-19 vaccination for further innovations in AIT, (5) potential of combining biologics to AIT, (6) future innovations in high-risk children/adolescents, and (7) the future regulatory position on AIT. Important unmet needs and topics for AIT have been addressed in this expert review. The authors' views and personal position on these 7 aspects have also been elaborated.

IL-17A facilitates type 2 inflammation in a modified eosinophilic chronic rhinosinusitis mouse model

BACKGROUND

Eosinophilic chronic rhinosinusitis (ECRS) is predominantly characterized by nasal type 2 inflammation. The pathogenesis of this condition is complex. High levels of IL-17A are associated with eosinophil infiltration in some inflammatory diseases and contribute to the severity and insensitivity of corticosteroid therapy for chronic rhinosinusitis.

METHODS

In the first experiment, we constructed a modified ECRS mouse model using four groups of mice: phosphate-buffered saline (PBS)-sensitized and nasal instillation (control); PBS-sensitized and Staphylococcus aureus enterotoxin B (SEB) nasal instillation after nasal tamponade (SEB group); ovalbumin (OVA)-sensitized and nasal instillation (OVA group); and OVA-sensitized combined with OVA and SEB nasal instillation after nasal tamponade (OVA + SEB group). In the second experiment, we examined the role of IL-17A by dividing the mice into four groups: control group; ECRS group; ECRS + anti-IL-17A group; and ECRS + IL-17A group. The latter two groups received intraperitoneal injections of anti-IL-17A antibody or IL-17A, respectively.

RESULTS

We constructed a modified ECRS mouse model (OVA + SEB group), where the IL-17A levels were upregulated in the nasal sinus of ECRS mice and the IL-17A levels were significantly correlated with eosinophil infiltration. We further demonstrated that IL-17A induced type 2 inflammation and eosinophil infiltration in the ECRS group of mice. In contrast, IL-17A neutralization attenuated type 2 inflammatory cytokine secretion and eosinophil infiltration.

CONCLUSION

OVA sensitization and unilateral nasal tamponade, combined with SEB and OVA alternate nasal instillation (OVA + SEB group), could be used to construct a more typical ECRS mouse model in which IL-17A enhanced the expression of type 2 cytokines and eosinophil infiltration.

New Mechanistic Advances in FcεRI-Mast Cell-Mediated Allergic Signaling

Mast cells originate from the CD34⁺/CD117⁺ hematopoietic progenitors in the bone marrow, migrate into circulation, and ultimately mature and reside in peripheral tissues. Microbiota/metabolites and certain immune cells (e.g., Treg cells) play a key role in maintaining immune tolerance. Cross-linking of allergen-specific IgE on mast cells activates the high-affinity membrane-bound receptor FcεRI, thereby initiating an intracellular signal cascade, leading to degranulation and release of pro-inflammatory mediators. The intracellular signal transduction is intricately regulated by various kinases, transcription factors, and cytokines. Importantly, multiple signal components in the FcεRI-mast cell–mediated allergic cascade can be targeted for therapeutic purposes. Pharmacological interventions that include therapeutic antibodies against IgE, FcεRI, and cytokines as well as inhibitors/activators of several key intracellular signaling molecues have been used to inhibit allergic reactions. Other factors that are not part of the signal pathway but can enhance an individual’s susceptibility to allergen stimulation are referred to as cofactors. Herein, we provide a mechanistic overview of the FcεRI-mast cell–mediated allergic signaling. This will broaden our scope and visions on specific preventive and therapeutic strategies for the clinical management of mast cell–associated hypersensitivity reactions.

Thermosensitive PLGA–PEG–PLGA Hydrogel as Depot Matrix for Allergen-Specific Immunotherapy

Allergen-specific immunotherapy (AIT) is the only currently available curative treatment option for allergic diseases. AIT often includes depot-forming and immunostimulatory adjuvants, to prolong allergen presentation and to improve therapeutic efficacy. The use of aluminium salts in AIT, which are commonly used as depot-forming adjuvants, is controversially discussed, due to health concerns and Th2-promoting activity. Therefore, there is the need for novel delivery systems in AIT with similar therapeutic efficacy compared to classical AIT strategies. In this study, a triblock copolymer (hydrogel) was assessed as a delivery system for AIT in a murine model of allergic asthma. We show that the hydrogel combines the advantages of both depot function and biodegradability at the same time. We further demonstrate the suitability of hydrogel to release different bioactive compounds in vitro and in vivo. AIT delivered with hydrogel reduces key parameters of allergic inflammation, such as inflammatory cell infiltration, mucus hypersecretion, and allergen-specific IgE, in a comparable manner to standard AIT treatment. Additionally, hydrogel-based AIT is superior in inducing allergen-specific IgG antibodies with potentially protective functions. Taken together, hydrogel represents a promising delivery system for AIT that is able to combine therapeutic allergen administration with the prolonged release of immunomodulators at the same time.

The Mechanisms of Effector Th Cell Responses Contribute to Treg Cell Function: New Insights into Pathogenesis and Therapy of Asthma

CD4 ⁺ helper T (Th) cell subsets are critically involved in the pathogenesis of asthma. Naive Th cells differentiate into different subsets under the stimulation of different sets of cytokines, and the differentiation process is dominantly driven by lineage specific transcription factors, such as T-bet (Th1), GATA3 (Th2), RORγt (Th17) and Foxp3 (Treg). The differentiation mechanisms driven by these transcription factors are mutually exclusive, resulting in functional inhibition of these Th subsets to each other, particularly prominent between effector Th cells and Treg cells, such as Th2 versus Treg cells and Th17 versus Treg cells. Being of significance in maintaining immune homeostasis, the balance between effector Th cell response and Treg cell immunosuppression provides an immunological theoretical basis for us to understand the immunopathological mechanism and develop the therapy strategies of asthma. However, recent studies have found that certain factors involved in effector Th cells response, such as cytokines and master transcription factors (IL-12 and T-bet of Th1, IL-4 and GATA3 of Th2, IL-6 and RORγt of Th17), not only contribute to immune response of effector Th cells, but also promote the development and function of Treg cells, therefore bridging the interplay between effector Th cell immune responses and Treg cell immunosuppression. Although we have an abundant knowledge concerning the role of these cytokines and transcription factors in effector Th cell responses, our understanding on their role in Treg cell development and function is scattered thus need to be summarized. This review summarized the role of these cytokines and transcription factors involved in effector Th cell responses in the development and function of Treg cells, in the hope of providing new insights of understanding the immunopathological mechanism and seeking potential therapy strategies of asthma.

IL-4/IL-13 axis as therapeutic targets in allergic rhinitis and asthma

Allergic rhinitis (AR) is a common disorder of the upper airway, while asthma is a disease affecting the lower airway and both diseases are usually comorbid. Interleukin (IL)-4 and IL-13 are critical cytokines in the induction of the pathogenic Th2 responses in AR and asthma. Targeting the IL-4/IL-13 axis at various levels of its signaling pathway has emerged as promising targeted therapy in both AR and asthma patient populations. In this review, we discuss the biological characteristics of IL-4 and IL-13, their signaling pathways, and therapeutic antibodies against each cytokine as well as their receptors. In particular, the pleiotropic roles of IL-4 and IL-13 in orchestrating Th2 responses in AR and asthma patients indicate that dual IL-4/IL-13 blockade is a promising therapeutic strategy for both diseases.

Role of Basophils in a Broad Spectrum of Disorders

Basophils are the rarest granulocytes and have long been overlooked in immunological research due to their rarity and similarities with tissue-resident mast cells. In the last two decades, non-redundant functions of basophils have been clarified or implicated in a broad spectrum of immune responses, particularly by virtue of the development of novel analytical tools for basophils. Basophils infiltrate inflamed tissues of patients with various disorders, even though they circulate in the bloodstream under homeostatic conditions. Depletion of basophils results in the amelioration or exaggeration of inflammation, depending on models of disease, indicating basophils can play either beneficial or deleterious roles in a context-dependent manner. In this review, we summarize the recent findings of basophil pathophysiology under various conditions in mice and humans, including allergy, autoimmunity, tumors, tissue repair, fibrosis, and COVID-19. Further mechanistic studies on basophil biology could lead to the identification of novel biomarkers or therapeutic targets in a broad range of diseases.

Immunological effects of adjuvanted low-dose allergoid allergen-specific immunotherapy in experimental murine house dust mite allergy

BACKGROUND

Native allergen extracts or chemically modified allergoids are routinely used to induce allergen tolerance in allergen-specific immunotherapy (AIT), although mechanistic side-by-side studies are rare. It is paramount to balance optimal dose and allergenicity to achieve efficacy warranting safety. AIT safety and efficacy could be addressed by allergen dose reduction and/or use of allergoids and immunostimulatory adjuvants, respectively. In this study, immunological effects of experimental house dust mite (HDM) AIT were investigated applying high-dose HDM extract and low-dose HDM allergoids with and without the adjuvants microcrystalline tyrosine (MCT) and monophosphoryl lipid A (MPL) in a murine model of HDM allergy.

METHODS

Cellular, humoral, and clinical effects of the different AIT strategies were assessed applying a new experimental AIT model of murine allergic asthma based on physiological, adjuvant-free intranasal sensitization followed by subcutaneous AIT.

RESULTS

While low-dose allergoid and high-dose extract AIT demonstrated comparable potency to suppress allergic airway inflammation and Th2-type cytokine secretion of lung-resident lymphocytes and draining lymph node cells, low-dose allergoid AIT was less effective in inducing a potentially protective IgG1 response. Combining low-dose allergoid AIT with MCT or MCT and dose-adjusted MPL promoted Th1-inducing mechanisms and robust B-cell activation counterbalancing the allergic Th2 immune response.

CONCLUSION

Low allergen doses induce cellular and humoral mechanisms counteracting Th2-driven inflammation by using allergoids and dose-adjusted adjuvants. In light of safety and efficacy improvement, future therapeutic approaches may use low-dose allergoid strategies to drive cellular tolerance and adjuvants to modulate humoral responses.

Bioinformatic Analysis and Cellular Assays Identify Substance P Influencing Th17/Treg Differentiation via the MyD88 Pathway as a Potential Contributor to the Progression of Asthma and Allergic Rhinitis

Objective

This study is aimed at investigating the role of substance P (SP) in the development of asthma.

Methods

The Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database was used to characterize SP expression in allergic rhinitis (AR) and asthma. Peripheral blood was collected from patients with asthma or AR. The expression of relevant cytokines and neuropeptides was measured. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was also performed. The mast cell line LAD2 and the lung bronchial epithelial cell line BEAS-2B were treated with different concentrations of SP concentration. Then, the qRT-PCR method was used to determine the mRNA expression. Furthermore, p38 and p65 and their associated phosphorylated proteins (p-p38 and p-p65) were further validated by western blotting.

Result

Clinical and GSE75011 data analysis suggested that MyD88 expression was upregulated in AR and asthma. Through the gene set variation analysis (GSVA), MyD88-related pathways were noticed and further investigated. ELISA results suggested that the SP expression was significantly increased in AR and asthma and IL-10 expression was decreased, whereas the expression of IL-6, IL-17A, IL-23, and TGF-β expressions increased. The mast cell line LAD2 was treated with different SP concentrations, and ELISA results showed that the expression of IL-6, IL-17A, IL-23, and TGF-β in the cell supernatant gradually increased with increasing SP concentrations, whereas that of IL-10 decreased. The lung bronchial epithelial cell line BEAS-2B was treated with different SP concentrations, and the expression of myeloid differentiation factor 88 (MyD88) and its related proteins was elevated. The expression of p38 and p-p38 proteins was elevated after SP treatment, and their expression levels elevated as SP concentrations increased. Finally, MyD88 expression at the single-cell level was also demonstrated.

Conclusion

SP may affect the cytokine expression through the MyD88 pathway, thereby influencing Th17/Treg differentiation and eventually participating in the pathological process of asthma and AR. There are many pathological similarities between allergic rhinitis (AR) and bronchial asthma. In the present study, SP was found to possibly activate downstream inflammatory signaling pathways via MyD88, thereby affecting Th17/Treg differentiation and ultimately participating in the pathological process of asthma and AR.

An exhausted phenotype of TH 2 cells is primed by allergen exposure, but not reinforced by allergen-specific immunotherapy

BACKGROUND

Studies show that proallergic T_H 2 cells decrease after successful allergen-specific immunotherapy (AIT). It is likely that iatrogenic administration of allergens drives these cells to exhaustion due to chronic T-cell receptor stimulation. This study aimed to investigate the exhaustion of T cells in connection with allergen exposure during AIT in mice and two independent patient cohorts.

METHODS

OVA-sensitized C57BL/6J mice were challenged and treated with OVA, and the development of exhaustion in local and systemic T_H 2 cells was analyzed. In patients, the expression of exhaustion-associated surface markers on T_H 2 cells was evaluated using flow cytometry in a cross-sectional grass pollen allergy cohort with and without AIT. The treatment effect was further studied in PBMC collected from a prospective long-term AIT cohort.

RESULTS

The exhaustion-associated surface markers CTLA-4 and PD-1 were significantly upregulated on T_H 2 cells upon OVA aerosol exposure in OVA-allergic compared to non-allergic mice. CTLA-4 and PD-1 decreased after AIT, in particular on the surface of local lung T_H 2 cells. Similarly, CTLA-4 and PD-1 expression was enhanced on T_H 2 cells from patients with allergic rhinitis with an even stronger effect in those with concomitant asthma. Using an unbiased Louvain clustering analysis, we discovered a late-differentiated T_H 2 population expressing both markers that decreased during up-dosing but persisted long term during the maintenance phase.

CONCLUSIONS

This study shows that allergen exposure promotes CTLA-4 and PD-1 expression on T_H 2 cells and that the dynamic change in frequencies of exhausted T_H 2 cells exhibits a differential pattern during the up-dosing versus the maintenance phases of AIT.

Novel Approaches in the Inhibition of IgE-Induced Mast Cell Reactivity in Food Allergy

Allergy is an IgE-dependent type-I hypersensitivity reaction that can lead to life-threatening systemic symptoms such as anaphylaxis. In the pathogenesis of the allergic response, the common upstream event is the binding of allergens to specific IgE, inducing cross-linking of the high-affinity FcεRI on mast cells, triggering cellular degranulation and the release of histamine, proteases, lipids mediators, cytokines and chemokines with inflammatory activity. A number of novel therapeutic options to curb mast cell activation are in the pipeline for the treatment of severe allergies. In addition to anti-IgE therapy and allergen-specific immunotherapy, monoclonal antibodies targeted against several key Th2/alarmin cytokines (i.e. IL-4Rα, IL-33, TSLP), active modification of allergen-specific IgE (i.e. inhibitory compounds, monoclonal antibodies, de-sialylation), engagement of inhibitory receptors on mast cells and allergen-specific adjuvant vaccines, are new promising options to inhibit the uncontrolled release of mast cell mediators upon allergen exposure. In this review, we critically discuss the novel approaches targeting mast cells limiting allergic responses and the immunological mechanisms involved, with special interest on food allergy treatment.

Diversity of T Helper and Regulatory T Cells and Their Contribution to the Pathogenesis of Allergic Diseases

T helper (Th) and regulatory T (Treg) cells represent important effectors of adaptive immunity. They mediate communication between the immune system and tissue sites and thereby coordinate effective defense against environmental threats or maintain tolerance, respectively. Since the discovery of two prototypic T helper cells, Th1 and Th2, additional phenotypic and functional distinct subsets have been described ranging from Th17, Th22, Th9, and T follicular helper cells. The same holds true for regulatory T cells that represent a family with functionally distinct subsets characterized by co-expression of the transcription factors T-bet, Gata3, or RORγt. Here, we summarize the current knowledge on differentiation and function of T helper and regulatory T cell subsets and discuss their lineage stability versus plasticity towards other subsets. In addition, we highlight the direct and indirect contribution of each subset to the pathology of allergies and indicate novel therapies for specific targeting the effector functions of T helper and regulatory T cells.

The Role of CD40 in Allergic Rhinitis and Airway Remodelling

Background

Allergic rhinitis (AR) affects millions of people and is lack of effective treatment. CD40 is an important costimulatory molecule in immunity. However, few studies have focused on the role of CD40 in AR.

Methods

In this study, we built mouse model of chronic AR. The mice were divided into the AR, control, intravenous CD40 siRNA, and nasal CD40 siRNA groups (n = 6 each). We detected OVA-sIgE, IL-4, IL-5, IL-13, IL-10, IFN-γ, and TGF-β levels in serum and supernatant by ELISA, CD40⁺ splenic DCs, and Foxp3⁺ Tregs by flow cytometry and CD40 mRNA by RT²-PCR. We also used PAS and MT stains to assess tissue remodelling.

Results

(1) The OVA-sIgE, IL-4, IL-5, and IL-13 levels in the serum or supernatant of nasal septal membrane of AR mice were significantly higher than control. After treated with CD40 siRNA, those indicators were significantly decreased. The IFN-γ, IL-10, and TGF-β levels in AR mice were significantly lower than that in control and were increased by administration of CD40 siRNA. (2) AR mice had significantly fewer Foxp3⁺ Tregs in the spleen than control mice. After treated with CD40 siRNA, AR mice had significantly more Foxp3⁺ Tregs. (3) AR mice exhibited a significantly higher CD40 mRNA levels than control. Administration of CD40 siRNA significantly reduced the CD40 mRNA level. (4) The AR mice showed significantly greater collagen deposition than the control in MT staining. Applications of CD40 siRNA significantly reduced the collagen deposition in AR mice.

Conclusion

CD40 siRNA therapy shows promise for chronic AR as it significantly attenuated allergic symptoms and Th2-related inflammation and upregulated Foxp3⁺ Tregs. CD40 plays a role in tissue remodelling in AR, which can be inhibited by CD40 siRNA application.

Highlights and recent developments in allergic diseases in EAACI journals (2019)

The European Academy of Allergy and Clinical Immunology (EAACI) owns three journals: Allergy, Pediatric Allergy and Immunology and Clinical and Translational Allergy. One of the major goals of EAACI is to support health promotion in which prevention of allergy and asthma plays a critical role and to disseminate the knowledge of allergy to all stakeholders including the EAACI junior members. There was substantial progress in 2019 in the identification of basic mechanisms of allergic and respiratory disease and the translation of these mechanisms into clinics. Better understanding of molecular and cellular mechanisms, efforts for the development of biomarkers for disease prediction, novel prevention and intervention studies, elucidation of mechanisms of multimorbidities, entrance of new drugs in the clinics as well as recently completed phase three clinical studies and publication of a large number of allergen immunotherapy studies and meta-analyses have been the highlights of the last year.

Advances and recent developments in asthma in 2020

In this review, we discuss recent publications on asthma and review the studies that have reported on the different aspects of the prevalence, risk factors and prevention, mechanisms, diagnosis, and treatment of asthma. Many risk and protective factors and molecular mechanisms are involved in the development of asthma. Emerging concepts and challenges in implementing the exposome paradigm and its application in allergic diseases and asthma are reviewed, including genetic and epigenetic factors, microbial dysbiosis, and environmental exposure, particularly to indoor and outdoor substances. The most relevant experimental studies further advancing the understanding of molecular and immune mechanisms with potential new targets for the development of therapeutics are discussed. A reliable diagnosis of asthma, disease endotyping, and monitoring its severity are of great importance in the management of asthma. Correct evaluation and management of asthma comorbidity/multimorbidity, including interaction with asthma phenotypes and its value for the precision medicine approach and validation of predictive biomarkers, are further detailed. Novel approaches and strategies in asthma treatment linked to mechanisms and endotypes of asthma, particularly biologicals, are critically appraised. Finally, due to the recent pandemics and its impact on patient management, we discuss the challenges, relationships, and molecular mechanisms between asthma, allergies, SARS-CoV-2, and COVID-19.

Advances and novel developments in mechanisms of allergic inflammation

In the past decade, research in the molecular and cellular underpinnings of basic and clinical immunology has significantly advanced our understanding of allergic disorders, allowing scientists and clinicians to diagnose and treat disorders such as asthma, allergic and nonallergic rhinitis, and food allergy. In this review, we discuss several significant recent developments in basic and clinical research as well as important future research directions in allergic inflammation. Certain key regulatory cytokines, genes and molecules have recently been shown to play key roles in allergic disorders. For example, interleukin-33 (IL-33) plays an important role in refractory disorders such as asthma, allergic rhinitis and food allergy, mainly by inducing T helper (Th) 2 immune responses and clinical trials with IL-33 inhibitors are underway in food allergy. We discuss interleukin 4 receptor pathways, which recently have been shown to play a critical role among the allergic inflammatory pathways that drive allergic disorders and pathogenesis. Further, the cytokine thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP) has recently been shown as a factor in maintaining immune homeostasis and regulating type 2 inflammatory responses at mucosal barriers in allergic inflammation and targeting TSLP-mediated signalling is considered an attractive therapeutic strategy. In addition, new findings establish an important T cell-intrinsic role of mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue lymphoma translocation protein 1 (MALT1) proteolytic activity in the suppression of autoimmune responses. We have seen how mutations in the filaggrin gene are a significant risk factor for allergic diseases such as atopic dermatitis, asthma, allergic rhinitis, food allergy, contact allergy, and hand eczema. We are only beginning to understand the mechanisms by which the human microbiota may be regulating the immune system, and how sudden changes in the composition of the microbiota may have profound effects, linked with an increased risk of developing chronic inflammatory disorders, including allergies. New research has shown the important but complex role monocytes play in disorders such as food allergies. Finally, we discuss some of the new directions of research in this area, particularly the important use of biologicals in oral immunotherapy, advances in gene therapy, multifood therapy, novel diagnostics in diagnosing allergic disorders and the central role that omics play in creating molecular signatures and biomarkers of allergic disorders such as food allergy. Such exciting new developments and advances have significantly moved forth our ability to understand the mechanisms underlying allergic diseases for improved patient care.

Role of IL-25, IL-33, and TSLP in triggering united airway diseases toward type 2 inflammation

Under the concept of "united airway diseases," the airway is a single organ wherein upper and lower airway diseases are commonly comorbid. The upper and lower airways are lined with respiratory epithelium that plays a vital role in immune surveillance and modulation as the first line of defense to various infective pathogens, allergens, and physical insults. Recently, there is a common hypothesis emphasizing epithelium-derived cytokines, namely IL-25, IL-33, and TSLP, as key regulatory factors that link in immune-pathogenic mechanisms of allergic rhinitis (AR), chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS), and asthma, mainly involving in type 2 inflammatory responses and linking innate and adaptive immunities. Herein, we review studies that elucidated the role of epithelium-derived triple cytokines in both upper and lower airways with the purpose of expediting better clinical treatments and managements of AR, CRS, asthma, and other associated allergic diseases via applications of the modulators of these cytokines.

Predicting Success of Allergen-Specific Immunotherapy

The immune response to antigens is a key aspect of immunology, as it provides opportunities for therapeutic intervention. However, the induction of immunological tolerance is an evolving area that is still not sufficiently understood. Allergen immunotherapy (AIT) is a disease-modulating therapy available for immunoglobulin E (IgE)-mediated airway diseases such as allergic rhinitis or allergic asthma. This disease-modifying effect is not only antigen driven but also antigen specific. The specificity and also the long-lasting, often life-long symptom reduction make the therapy attractive for patients. Additionally, the chance to prevent the onset of asthma by treating allergic rhinitis with AIT is important. The mechanism and, in consequence, therapy guiding biomarker are still in its infancy. Recent studies demonstrated that the interaction of T, B, dendritic, and epithelial cells and macrophages are individually contributing to clinical tolerance and therefore underline the need for a system to monitor the progress and success of AIT. As clinical improvement is often accompanied by decreases in numbers of effector cells in the tissue, analyses of cellular responses and cytokine pattern provide a good insight into the mechanisms of AIT. The suppression of type-2 immunity is accompanied by decreased levels of type-2 mediators such as epithelial CCL-26 and interleukin (IL)-4, IL-13 produced by T cells that are constituting the immune memory and are increasingly controlled by regulatory T and B cells following AIT. Immune tolerance is also associated with increased production of type-1 mediators like interferon-gamma, tissue-homeostating factors like indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) expressed by macrophages and dendritic cells. Although these individual genes were convincingly demonstrated to play a role immune tolerance, they do not predict therapy outcomes of AIT on an individual level. Therefore, combinations or ratios of gene expression levels are a promising way to achieve predictive value and definition of helpful biomarker.

Stability of regulatory T cells in T helper 2-biased allergic airway diseases

Regulatory T (Treg) cells potentially suppress the deleterious activities of effector T cells and maintain a state of tolerance against antigens in the airway mucosa. A decrease in the number and function of Treg cells is observed in T helper 2 (Th2)-biased allergic airway diseases. However, adoptive transfer of naturally occurring Treg (tTreg) cells or peripherally derived Treg (pTreg) cells in asthmatic mouse models did not yield satisfactory results in any previous studies. Here, we review the recent progress in the identification and plasticity of tTreg and pTreg cells in Th2-biased airway diseases and summarize the factors affecting the stability and function of Treg cells. This review may serve as foundation for understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying the stability of tTreg and pTreg cells and development of effective strategies for treating allergic airway diseases.

Th2 cells promote eosinophil-independent pathology in a murine model of allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis

Repeated inhalation of airborne conidia derived from the fungus Aspergillus fumigatus (Af) can lead to a severe eosinophil-dominated inflammatory condition of the lung termed allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA). ABPA affects about 5 million individuals worldwide and the mechanisms regulating lung pathology in ABPA are poorly understood. Here, we used a mouse model of ABPA to investigate the role of eosinophils and T cell-derived IL-4/IL-13 for induction of allergic lung inflammation. Selective deletion of IL-4/IL-13 in T cells blunted the Af-induced lung eosinophilia and further resulted in lower expression of STAT6-regulated chemokines and effector proteins such as Arginase 1, Relm-α, Relm-β, and Muc5a/c. Eosinophil-deficient ΔdblGata mice showed lower IL-4 expression in the lung and the number of Th2 cells in the lung parenchyma was reduced. However, expression of the goblet cell markers Clca1 and Muc5a/c, abundance of mucin-positive cells, as well as weight gain of lungs were comparable between Af-challenged ΔdblGata and WT mice. Based on these results, we conclude that T cell-derived IL-4/IL-13 is essential for Af-induced lung eosinophilia and inflammation while eosinophils may play a more subtle immunomodulatory role and should not simply be regarded as pro-inflammatory effector cells in ABPA.

Prenatal O3 exposure increases the severity of OVA-induced asthma in offspring

BACKGROUND

Accumulating epidemiological studies showed that prenatal and early life exposure to ambient air pollution was important contributor to the development of childhood asthma. However, the effects and mechanisms of prenatal exposure to ozone (O₃), a type of ambient air pollution, on the progression of asthma in offspring remain unclear.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to determine the effects and mechanism of asthma in offspring after prenatal O₃ exposure.

METHODS

Pregnant BALB/c mice were exposed to O₃ or air on gestational days (GDs) 13-18. Their offspring were sensitized and challenged to ovalbumin (OVA) to establish asthma model, and the asthma features were evaluated. The splenic natural killer (NK) cells in the offspring were measured to explore the mechanism on the effects of asthma in the offspring. The responses of the pregnant mice and dams after O₃ exposure were evaluated.

RESULTS

Airway inflammation, mucus secretion, OVA-specific immunoglobulin (Ig) E, T helper (Th) 2-skewed response, the frequency of CD3ε^-CD49b⁺ splenic NK cells, the expression of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, and IL (interleukin)-17 were significantly exacerbated in the OVA-induced asthma offspring after prenatal O₃ exposure. In addition, airway inflammation, a lower number of CD3ε^-CD49b⁺ splenic NK cells, and systemic oxidative stress were caused at the end of pregnancy after O₃ exposure, which did not recover at the end of lactation for the first two responses.

CONCLUSIONS

Prenatal O₃ exposure increased the severity of OVA-induced asthma in the offspring, which might be directly induced by CD3ε^-CD49b⁺ splenic NK cells in the offspring and indirectly related to the damaged maternal immune system.

Il-10 producing T and B cells in allergy

The molecular and cellular mechanisms of allergen tolerance in humans have been intensively studied in the past few decades. The demonstration of epitope-specific T cell tolerance, particularly mediated by the immune suppressor functions of IL-10 led to a major conceptual change in this area more than 20 years ago. Currently, the known essential components of allergen tolerance include the induction of allergen-specific regulatory of T and B cells, the immune suppressive function of secreted factors, such as IL-10, IL-35, IL-1 receptor antagonist and TGF-β, immune suppressive functions of surface molecules such as CTLA-4 and PD-1, the production IgG4 isotype allergen-specific blocking antibodies, and decreased allergic inflammatory responses by mast cells, basophils, and eosinophils in inflamed tissues. In this review, we explain the importance of the role of IL-10 in allergen tolerance.

Immunologic mechanisms in asthma

Asthma is a chronic airway disease, which affects more than 300 million people. The pathogenesis of asthma exhibits marked heterogeneity with many phenotypes defining visible characteristics and endotypes defining molecular mechanisms. With the evolution of novel biological therapies, patients, who do not-respond to conventional asthma therapy require novel biologic medications, such as anti-IgE, anti-IL-5 and anti-IL4/IL13 to control asthma symptoms. It is increasingly important for physicians to understand immunopathology of asthma and to characterize asthma phenotypes. Asthma is associated with immune system activation, airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR), epithelial cell activation, mucus overproduction and airway remodeling. Both innate and adaptive immunity play roles in immunologic mechanisms of asthma. Type 2 asthma with eosinophilia is a common phenotype in asthma. It occurs with and without visible allergy. The type 2 endotype comprises; T helper type 2 (Th2) cells, type 2 innate lymphoid cells (ILC2), IgE-secreting B cells and eosinophils. Eosinophilic nonallergic asthma is ILC2 predominated, which produces IL-5 to recruit eosinophil into the mucosal airway. The second major subgroup of asthma is non-type 2 asthma, which contains heterogeneous group of endoypes and phenotypes, such as exercise-induced asthma, obesity induced asthma, etc. Neutrophilic asthma is not induced by allergens but can be induced by infections, cigarette smoke and pollution. IL-17 which is produced by Th17 cells and type 3 ILCs, can stimulate neutrophilic airway inflammation. Macrophages, dendritic cells and NKT cells are all capable of producing cytokines that are known to contribute in allergic and nonallergic asthma. Bronchial epithelial cell activation and release of cytokines, such as IL-33, IL-25 and TSLP play a major role in asthma. Especially, allergens or environmental exposure to toxic agents, such as pollutants, diesel exhaust, detergents may affect the epithelial barrier leading to asthma development. In this review, we focus on the immunologic mechanism of heterogenous asthma phenotypes.