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Gumkowska-Sroka O, Kotyla K, Kotyla P. Immunogenetics of Systemic Sclerosis. Genes (Basel) 2024; 15:586. [PMID: 38790215 PMCID: PMC11121022 DOI: 10.3390/genes15050586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2024] [Revised: 04/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a rare autoimmune connective tissue disorder characterized by massive fibrosis, vascular damage, and immune imbalance. Advances in rheumatology and immunology over the past two decades have led to a redefinition of systemic sclerosis, shifting from its initial perception as primarily a "hyperfibrotic" state towards a recognition of systemic sclerosis as an immune-mediated disease. Consequently, the search for genetic markers has transitioned from focusing on fibrotic mechanisms to exploring immune regulatory pathways. Immunogenetics, an emerging field at the intersection of immunology, molecular biology, and genetics has provided valuable insights into inherited factors that influence immunity. Data from genetic studies conducted thus far indicate that alterations in genetic messages can significantly impact disease risk and progression. While certain genetic variations may confer protective effects, others may exacerbate disease susceptibility. This paper presents a comprehensive review of the most relevant genetic changes that influence both the risk and course of systemic sclerosis. Special emphasis is placed on factors regulating the immune response, recognizing their pivotal role in the pathogenesis of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Przemysław Kotyla
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Medical University of Silesia, Voivodeship Hospital No. 5, 41-200 Sosnowiec, Poland; (O.G.-S.); (K.K.)
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2
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Ah Kioon MD, Laurent P, Chaudhary V, Du Y, Crow MK, Barrat FJ. Modulation of plasmacytoid dendritic cells response in inflammation and autoimmunity. Immunol Rev 2024; 323:241-256. [PMID: 38553621 DOI: 10.1111/imr.13331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
The discovery of toll-like receptors (TLRs) and the subsequent recognition that endogenous nucleic acids (NAs) could serve as TLR ligands have led to essential insights into mechanisms of healthy immune responses as well as pathogenic mechanisms relevant to systemic autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. In systemic lupus erythematosus, systemic sclerosis, and rheumatoid arthritis, NA-containing immune complexes serve as TLR ligands, with distinct implications depending on the additional immune stimuli available. Plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs), the robust producers of type I interferon (IFN-I), are providing critical insights relevant to TLR-mediated healthy immune responses and tissue repair, as well as generation of inflammation, autoimmunity and fibrosis, processes central to the pathogenesis of many autoimmune diseases. In this review, we describe recent data characterizing the role of platelets and NA-binding chemokines in modulation of TLR signaling in pDCs, as well as implications for how the IFN-I products of pDCs contribute to the generation of inflammation and wound healing responses by monocyte/macrophages. Chemokine modulators of TLR-mediated B cell tolerance mechanisms and interactions between TLR signaling and metabolic pathways are also considered. The modulators of TLR signaling and their contribution to the pathogenesis of systemic autoimmune diseases suggest new opportunities for identification of novel therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Paôline Laurent
- HSS Research Institute, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, New York, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Weill Cornell Medical College of Cornell University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Vidyanath Chaudhary
- HSS Research Institute, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, New York, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Weill Cornell Medical College of Cornell University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Yong Du
- HSS Research Institute, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, New York, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Weill Cornell Medical College of Cornell University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Mary K Crow
- HSS Research Institute, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, New York, USA
- Mary Kirkland Center for Lupus Research, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, New York, USA
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Franck J Barrat
- HSS Research Institute, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, New York, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Weill Cornell Medical College of Cornell University, New York, New York, USA
- David Z. Rosensweig Genomics Research Center, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, New York, USA
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3
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Kalliolias GD, Basdra EK, Papavassiliou AG. Targeting TLR Signaling Cascades in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus and Rheumatoid Arthritis: An Update. Biomedicines 2024; 12:138. [PMID: 38255243 PMCID: PMC10813148 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12010138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2023] [Revised: 01/06/2024] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Evidence from animal models and human genetics implicates Toll-like Receptors (TLRs) in the pathogenesis of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) and Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA). Endosomal TLRs sensing nucleic acids were proposed to induce lupus-promoting signaling in dendritic cells, B cells, monocytes, and macrophages. Ligation of TLR4 in synovial macrophages and fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLSs) by endogenous ligands was suggested to induce local production of mediators that amplify RA synovitis. Inhibition of TLRs using antagonists or monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) that selectively prevent extracellular or endosomal TLR ligation has emerged as an attractive treatment strategy for SLE and RA. Despite the consistent success of selective inhibition of TLR ligation in animal models, DV-1179 (dual TLR7/9 antagonist) failed to achieve pharmacodynamic effectiveness in SLE, and NI-0101 (mAb against TLR4) failed to improve arthritis in RA. Synergistic cooperation between TLRs and functional redundancy in human diseases may require pharmacologic targeting of intracellular molecules that integrate signaling downstream of multiple TLRs. Small molecules inhibiting shared kinases involved in TLR signaling and peptidomimetics disrupting the assembly of common signalosomes ("Myddosome") are under development. Targeted degraders (proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs)) of intracellular molecules involved in TLR signaling are a new class of TLR inhibitors with promising preliminary data awaiting further clinical validation.
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Affiliation(s)
- George D. Kalliolias
- Hospital for Special Surgery, Arthritis & Tissue Degeneration, New York, NY 10021, USA;
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY 10065, USA
- Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Tarrytown, NY 10591, USA
| | - Efthimia K. Basdra
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece;
| | - Athanasios G. Papavassiliou
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece;
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4
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Szabo I, Badii M, Gaál IO, Szabo R, Popp RA, Joosten LAB, Crişan TO, Rednic S. Enhanced Innate and Acquired Immune Responses in Systemic Sclerosis Primary Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells (PBMCs). Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:14438. [PMID: 37833885 PMCID: PMC10572600 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241914438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2023] [Revised: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic immune activation in systemic sclerosis is supported by the production of a plethora of cytokines with proven regulatory activities of the immune responses. This study aimed to explore PBMCs' cytokine profiles in SSc patients versus controls, as well as to investigate the balance between pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines in association with disease duration. PBMCs were isolated from 18 SSc patients and 17 controls and further subjected to in vitro stimulation with lipopolysaccharide and heat-killed Candida albicans. Cytokine production was measured after 24 h and 7 days, respectively, using ELISA kits for interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1Ra), IL-6, tumor necrosis factor (TNF), IL-10, IL-17, and interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma). IL-1 β, IL-6, and TNF levels were increased in SSc patients compared with healthy volunteers irrespective of the stimulus used. IL-1Ra and Il-17 concentrations were not statistically different between groups, even though a trend toward higher levels in patients compared with their matched controls was also observed. Most cytokines demonstrated a stable course with disease progression, except for IL-10 levels, which declined over time. In conclusion, the results of this pilot study reveal that in patients with SSc a persistently enhanced immune response is established and maintained regardless of stimulus or disease duration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iulia Szabo
- Department of Rheumatology, “Iuliu Hațieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (I.S.)
- Department of Rheumatology, County Emergency Hospital, 400347 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Medeea Badii
- Department of Medical Genetics, “Iuliu Hațieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
- Department of Internal Medicine, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences (RIMLS), Radboud University Medical Center, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Ildikó O. Gaál
- Department of Medical Genetics, “Iuliu Hațieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
- Department of Internal Medicine, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences (RIMLS), Radboud University Medical Center, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Robert Szabo
- 2nd Anesthesia Department, “Iuliu Hatieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
- Department of Anesthesia and Intensive Care, County Emergency Hospital, 400347 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Radu A. Popp
- Department of Medical Genetics, “Iuliu Hațieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Leo A. B. Joosten
- Department of Medical Genetics, “Iuliu Hațieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
- Department of Internal Medicine, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences (RIMLS), Radboud University Medical Center, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Tania O. Crişan
- Department of Medical Genetics, “Iuliu Hațieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
- Department of Internal Medicine, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences (RIMLS), Radboud University Medical Center, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Simona Rednic
- Department of Rheumatology, “Iuliu Hațieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (I.S.)
- Department of Rheumatology, County Emergency Hospital, 400347 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
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Al-Adwi Y, Atzeni IM, Doornbos-van der Meer B, Abdulle AE, van Roon AM, Stel A, van Goor H, Smit AJ, Westra J, Mulder DJ. Release of High-Mobility Group Box-1 after a Raynaud's Attack Leads to Fibroblast Activation and Interferon-γ Induced Protein-10 Production: Role in Systemic Sclerosis Pathogenesis. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:antiox12040794. [PMID: 37107169 PMCID: PMC10134976 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12040794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Revised: 03/18/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Raynaud's Phenomenon (RP) leading to repetitive ischemia and reperfusion (IR) stress, is the first recognizable sign of systemic sclerosis (SSc) leading to increased oxidative stress. High-mobility group box-1 (HMGB1) is a nuclear factor released by apoptotic and necrotic cells after oxidative stress. Since HMGB1 can signal through the receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE), we investigated whether an RP attack promotes the release of HMGB1, leading to fibroblast activation and the upregulation of interferon (IFN)-inducible genes. A cold challenge was performed to simulate an RP attack in patients with SSc, primary RP (PRP), and healthy controls. We measured levels of HMGB1 and IFN gamma-induced Protein 10 (IP-10) at different time points in the serum. Digital perfusion was assessed by photoplethysmography. In vitro, HMGB1 or transforming growth factor (TGF-β1) (as control) was used to stimulate healthy human dermal fibroblasts. Inflammatory, profibrotic, and IFN-inducible genes, were measured by RT-qPCR. In an independent cohort, sera were obtained from 20 patients with SSc and 20 age- and sex-matched healthy controls to determine HMGB1 and IP-10 levels. We found that HMGB1 levels increased significantly 30 min after the cold challenge in SSc compared to healthy controls. In vitro stimulation with HMGB1 resulted in increased mRNA expression of IP-10, and interleukin-6 (IL-6) while TGF-β1 stimulation promoted IL-6 and Connective Tissue Growth Factor (CTGF). In serum, both HMGB1 and IP-10 levels were significantly higher in patients with SSc compared to healthy controls. We show that cold challenge leads to the release of HMGB1 in SSc patients. HMGB1 induces IP-10 expression in dermal fibroblasts partly through the soluble RAGE (sRAGE) axis suggesting a link between RP attacks, the release of HMGB1 and IFN-induced proteins as a putative early pathogenetic mechanism in SSc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yehya Al-Adwi
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Vascular Medicine, University Medical Centre Groningen, University of Groningen, 9700 RB Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Isabella M Atzeni
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Vascular Medicine, University Medical Centre Groningen, University of Groningen, 9700 RB Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Berber Doornbos-van der Meer
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Centre Groningen, University of Groningen, 9700 RB Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Amaal Eman Abdulle
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Vascular Medicine, University Medical Centre Groningen, University of Groningen, 9700 RB Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Anniek M van Roon
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Vascular Medicine, University Medical Centre Groningen, University of Groningen, 9700 RB Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Alja Stel
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Centre Groningen, University of Groningen, 9700 RB Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Harry van Goor
- Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, Section Pathology, University Medical Centre Groningen, University of Groningen, 9700 RB Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Andries J Smit
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Vascular Medicine, University Medical Centre Groningen, University of Groningen, 9700 RB Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Johanna Westra
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Centre Groningen, University of Groningen, 9700 RB Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Douwe J Mulder
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Vascular Medicine, University Medical Centre Groningen, University of Groningen, 9700 RB Groningen, The Netherlands
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6
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Molecular Mechanisms Behind the Role of Plasmacytoid Dendritic Cells in Systemic Sclerosis. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:biology12020285. [PMID: 36829561 PMCID: PMC9953616 DOI: 10.3390/biology12020285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2022] [Revised: 02/04/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2023]
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a debilitating autoimmune disease that affects multiple systems. It is characterized by immunological deregulation, functional and structural abnormalities of small blood vessels, and fibrosis of the skin, and, in some cases, internal organs. Fibrosis has a devastating impact on a patient's life and lung fibrosis is associated with high morbimortality. Several immune populations contribute to the progression of SSc, and plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs) have been identified as crucial mediators of fibrosis. Research on murine models of lung and skin fibrosis has shown that pDCs are essential in the development of fibrosis, and that removing pDCs improves fibrosis. pDCs are a subset of dendritic cells (DCs) that are specialized in anti-viral responses and are also involved in autoimmune diseases, such as SSc, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and psoriasis, mostly due to their capacity to produce type I interferon (IFN). A type I IFN signature and high levels of CXCL4, both derived from pDCs, have been associated with poor prognosis in patients with SSc and are correlated with fibrosis. This review will examine the recent research on the molecular mechanisms through which pDCs impact SSc.
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Azlan UK, Khairul Annuar NA, Mediani A, Aizat WM, Damanhuri HA, Tong X, Yanagisawa D, Tooyama I, Wan Ngah WZ, Jantan I, Hamezah HS. An insight into the neuroprotective and anti-neuroinflammatory effects and mechanisms of Moringa oleifera. Front Pharmacol 2023; 13:1035220. [PMID: 36686668 PMCID: PMC9849397 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.1035220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) are sporadic maladies that affect patients' lives with progressive neurological disabilities and reduced quality of life. Neuroinflammation and oxidative reaction are among the pivotal factors for neurodegenerative conditions, contributing to the progression of NDs, such as Parkinson's disease (PD), Alzheimer's disease (AD), multiple sclerosis (MS) and Huntington's disease (HD). Management of NDs is still less than optimum due to its wide range of causative factors and influences, such as lifestyle, genetic variants, and environmental aspects. The neuroprotective and anti-neuroinflammatory activities of Moringa oleifera have been documented in numerous studies due to its richness of phytochemicals with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. This review highlights up-to-date research findings on the anti-neuroinflammatory and neuroprotective effects of M. oleifera, including mechanisms against NDs. The information was gathered from databases, which include Scopus, Science Direct, Ovid-MEDLINE, Springer, and Elsevier. Neuroprotective effects of M. oleifera were mainly assessed by using the crude extracts in vitro and in vivo experiments. Isolated compounds from M. oleifera such as moringin, astragalin, and isoquercitrin, and identified compounds of M. oleifera such as phenolic acids and flavonoids (chlorogenic acid, gallic acid, ferulic acid, caffeic acid, kaempferol, quercetin, myricetin, (-)-epicatechin, and isoquercitrin) have been reported to have neuropharmacological activities. Therefore, these compounds may potentially contribute to the neuroprotective and anti-neuroinflammatory effects. More in-depth studies using in vivo animal models of neurological-related disorders and extensive preclinical investigations, such as pharmacokinetics, toxicity, and bioavailability studies are necessary before clinical trials can be carried out to develop M. oleifera constituents into neuroprotective agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ummi Kalthum Azlan
- 1Institute of Systems Biology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia
| | | | - Ahmed Mediani
- 1Institute of Systems Biology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Wan Mohd Aizat
- 1Institute of Systems Biology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Hanafi Ahmad Damanhuri
- 2Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Center, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Xiaohui Tong
- 3School of Life Sciences, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Daijiro Yanagisawa
- 4Molecular Neuroscience Research Center, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu, Japan
| | - Ikuo Tooyama
- 5Medical Innovation Research Center, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu, Japan
| | - Wan Zurinah Wan Ngah
- 5Medical Innovation Research Center, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu, Japan
| | - Ibrahim Jantan
- 1Institute of Systems Biology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Hamizah Shahirah Hamezah
- 1Institute of Systems Biology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia,*Correspondence: Hamizah Shahirah Hamezah,
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Pietraforte I, Butera A, Gaddini L, Mennella A, Palazzo R, Campanile D, Stefanantoni K, Riccieri V, Lande R, Frasca L. CXCL4-RNA Complexes Circulate in Systemic Sclerosis and Amplify Inflammatory/Pro-Fibrotic Responses by Myeloid Dendritic Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 24:ijms24010653. [PMID: 36614095 PMCID: PMC9820649 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24010653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2022] [Revised: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 12/17/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
CXCL4 is an important biomarker of systemic sclerosis (SSc), an incurable autoimmune disease characterized by vasculopathy and skin/internal organs fibrosis. CXCL4 contributes to the type I interferon (IFN-I) signature, typical of at least half of SSc patients, and its presence is linked to an unfavorable prognosis. The mechanism implicated is CXCL4 binding to self-DNA, with the formation of complexes amplifying TLR9 stimulation in plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs). Here, we demonstrate that, upon binding to self-RNA, CXCL4 protects the RNA from enzymatic degradation. As a consequence, CXCL4-RNA complexes persist in vivo. Indeed, we show for the first time that CXCL4-RNA complexes circulate in SSc plasma and correlate with both IFN-I and TNF-α. By using monocyte-derived DCs (MDDCs) pretreated with IFN-α as a model system (to mimic the SSc milieu of the IFN-I signature), we demonstrate that CXCL4-RNA complexes induce MDDC maturation and increase, in particular, pro-inflammatory TNF-α as well as IL-12, IL-23, IL-8, and pro-collagen, mainly in a TLR7/8-dependent but CXCR3-independent manner. In contrast, MDDCs produced IL-6 and fibronectin independently in their CXCL4 RNA-binding ability. These findings support a role for CXCL4-RNA complexes, besides CXCL4-DNA complexes, in immune amplification via the modulation of myeloid DC effector functions in SSc and also during normal immune responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Immacolata Pietraforte
- Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Department of Oncology and Molecular Medicine, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Alessia Butera
- Istituto Superiore di Sanità, National Center for Drug Research and Evaluation, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Lucia Gaddini
- Istituto Superiore di Sanità, National Center for Drug Research and Evaluation, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Anna Mennella
- Istituto Superiore di Sanità, National Center for Drug Research and Evaluation, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Raffaella Palazzo
- Istituto Superiore di Sanità, National Center for Drug Research and Evaluation, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Doriana Campanile
- Istituto Superiore di Sanità, National Center for Drug Research and Evaluation, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Katia Stefanantoni
- Department of Clinical, Internal, Anesthesiological and Cardiovascular Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Roma, Italy
| | - Valeria Riccieri
- Department of Clinical, Internal, Anesthesiological and Cardiovascular Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Roma, Italy
| | - Roberto Lande
- Istituto Superiore di Sanità, National Center for Drug Research and Evaluation, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Loredana Frasca
- Istituto Superiore di Sanità, National Center for Drug Research and Evaluation, 00161 Rome, Italy
- Correspondence:
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Palazzo R, Stefanantoni K, Cadar M, Butera A, Riccieri V, Lande R, Frasca L. Heparin-Independent and Heparin-Dependent Anti-CXCL4 Antibodies Have a Reciprocal Expression in a Systemic Sclerosis Patients' Cohort. Antibodies (Basel) 2022; 11:antib11040077. [PMID: 36546902 PMCID: PMC9774936 DOI: 10.3390/antib11040077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2022] [Revised: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a chronic disease characterized by skin/internal organ fibrosis, vasculopathy and autoimmunity. Chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand 4 (CXCL4) is an early SSc biomarker that predicts worse disease outcome. We previously reported that CXCL4 is an autoantigen in SSc, and anti-CXCL4 antibodies correlated with IFN-I and were more abundant in patients with lung fibrosis. However, it is unclear whether antibodies to CXCL4 in SSc are only directed to CXCL4 or recognize complexes formed by CXCL4 and heparin. Here, by analyzing an SSc cohort, we addressed the occurrence of circulating heparin-dependent VS heparin-independent anti-CXCL4 antibodies and their relationship with a few disease parameters. We found that heparin-dependent, like the heparin-independent antibodies, are higher in SSc as compared to healthy donors; they are detectable in 24% and 30% of the SSc patients, respectively, and appear inversely correlated and mutually exclusive. Like the heparin-independent antibodies, heparin-dependent antibodies correlated with digital ulcers. However, in contrast to heparin-independent antibodies, heparin-dependent antibodies did not correlate with IFN-I, but were largely expressed in patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension. This pilot study indicates that heparin-dependent antibodies are worth studying in larger SSc cohorts to address whether they discriminate SSc sub-groups with different pathological characteristics and outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raffaella Palazzo
- Istituto Superiore di Sanità, National Center for Drug Research and Evaluation, Viale Regina Elena, 299, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Katia Stefanantoni
- Department of Clinical, Internal, Anesthesiological and Cardiovascular Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico, 155, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Marius Cadar
- Department of Clinical, Internal, Anesthesiological and Cardiovascular Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico, 155, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Alessia Butera
- Istituto Superiore di Sanità, National Center for Drug Research and Evaluation, Viale Regina Elena, 299, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Valeria Riccieri
- Department of Clinical, Internal, Anesthesiological and Cardiovascular Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico, 155, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Roberto Lande
- Istituto Superiore di Sanità, National Center for Drug Research and Evaluation, Viale Regina Elena, 299, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Loredana Frasca
- Istituto Superiore di Sanità, National Center for Drug Research and Evaluation, Viale Regina Elena, 299, 00161 Rome, Italy
- Correspondence:
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10
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Aung WW, Hamaguchi Y, Matsushita T. Targeting cytokines and potentiality of
JAK–STAT
inhibition in systemic sclerosis. JOURNAL OF CUTANEOUS IMMUNOLOGY AND ALLERGY 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/cia2.12288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Wah Wah Aung
- Department of Dermatology, Institute of Medical, Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine Kanazawa University Kanazawa Ishikawa Japan
| | - Yasuhito Hamaguchi
- Department of Dermatology, Institute of Medical, Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine Kanazawa University Kanazawa Ishikawa Japan
| | - Takashi Matsushita
- Department of Dermatology, Institute of Medical, Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine Kanazawa University Kanazawa Ishikawa Japan
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Fang D, Chen B, Lescoat A, Khanna D, Mu R. Immune cell dysregulation as a mediator of fibrosis in systemic sclerosis. Nat Rev Rheumatol 2022; 18:683-693. [DOI: 10.1038/s41584-022-00864-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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12
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Kakkar V, Assassi S, Allanore Y, Kuwana M, Denton CP, Khanna D, Del Galdo F. Type 1 interferon activation in systemic sclerosis: a biomarker, a target or the culprit. Curr Opin Rheumatol 2022; 34:357-364. [PMID: 36125916 PMCID: PMC9594133 DOI: 10.1097/bor.0000000000000907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Activation of the type 1 interferon (T1 IFN) pathway has been implicated in the pathogenesis of systemic sclerosis (SSc) by an increasing number of studies, most of which share key findings with similar studies in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Here we will focus on the evidence for T1 IFN activation and dysregulation in SSc, and the rationale behind targeting the pathway going forward. RECENT FINDINGS An increased expression and activation of T1 IFN-regulated genes has been shown to be present in a significant proportion of SSc patients. TI IFN activation markers have been found to predict and correlate with response to immunosuppressive treatment as well as severity of organ involvement. As inhibition of the IFN-α receptor has been proven to be effective in active SLE, benefit may be seen in targeting the IFN pathway in SSc. SUMMARY The role played by T1 IFN and its regulatory genes in SSc is becoming increasingly evident and strikingly similar to the role observed in SLE. This observation, together with the benefit of type 1 IFN targeting in SLE, supports the notion of a potential therapeutic benefit in targeting T1 IFN in SSc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vishal Kakkar
- Department of Rheumatology, Leeds Institute of Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Shervin Assassi
- Division of Rheumatology, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Yannick Allanore
- INSERM U1016 UMR 8104, Université Paris Cité, Hôpital Cochin, Paris, France
| | - Masataka Kuwana
- Department of Allergy and Rheumatology, Nippon Medical School, Tokyo, Japan
| | | | - Dinesh Khanna
- University of Michigan Scleroderma Program, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Francesco Del Galdo
- Department of Rheumatology, Leeds Institute of Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
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The Role of T Cells in Systemic Sclerosis: An Update. IMMUNO 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/immuno2030034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a chronic disease characterized by microvasculopathy, autoantibodies (autoAbs), and fibrosis. The pathogenesis of the disease is incompletely understood. Microvasculopathy and autoAbs appear very early in the disease process. AutoAbs, such as those directed against DNA topoisomerase I (Topo I), are disease specific and associated with disease manifestations, and indicate activation of the adaptive immune system. B cells are involved in fibrosis in SSc. T cells are also involved in disease pathogenesis. T cells show signs of antigen-induced activation; T cells of TH2 type are increased and produce profibrotic cytokines interleukin (IL)-4, IL-13, and IL-31; CD4+ cytotoxic T lymphocytes are increased in skin lesions, and cause fibrosis and endothelial cell apoptosis; circulating T follicular helper (TFH) cells are increased in SSc produce IL-21 and promote plasmablast antibody production. On the other hand, regulatory T cells are impaired in SSc. These findings provide strong circumstantial evidence for T cell implication in SSc pathogenesis and encourage new T cell-directed therapeutic strategies for the disease.
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14
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Graßhoff H, Fourlakis K, Comdühr S, Riemekasten G. Autoantibodies as Biomarker and Therapeutic Target in Systemic Sclerosis. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10092150. [PMID: 36140251 PMCID: PMC9496142 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10092150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2022] [Revised: 08/21/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a rare connective tissue disorder characterized by immune dysregulation evoking the pathophysiological triad of inflammation, fibrosis and vasculopathy. In SSc, several alterations in the B-cell compartment have been described, leading to polyclonal B-cell hyperreactivity, hypergammaglobulinemia and autoantibody production. Autoreactive B cells and autoantibodies promote and maintain pathologic mechanisms. In addition, autoantibodies in SSc are important biomarkers for predicting clinical phenotype and disease progression. Autoreactive B cells and autoantibodies represent potentially promising targets for therapeutic approaches including B-cell-targeting therapies, as well as strategies for unselective and selective removal of autoantibodies. In this review, we present mechanisms of the innate immune system leading to the generation of autoantibodies, alterations of the B-cell compartment in SSc, autoantibodies as biomarkers and autoantibody-mediated pathologies in SSc as well as potential therapeutic approaches to target these.
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15
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The Immunogenetics of Systemic Sclerosis. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2022; 1367:259-298. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-92616-8_10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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16
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Chen J, Yang C, Pan J, Zhao C, Chen Z, Wen J, Dong F, Liao X, Lei L. Clinical features and prognostic factors of systemic sclerosis in Guangxi, China: Retrospective, single-center study of long-term survival in 470 patients. Int J Rheum Dis 2021; 25:182-191. [PMID: 34889515 DOI: 10.1111/1756-185x.14261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2021] [Revised: 11/16/2021] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an autoimmune disease the prevalence of which varies among populations. We analyzed SSc patients from Guangxi to improve the clinical understanding of this disease. METHODS Data of 470 SSc patients admitted to our institution from October 1,2012 to January 1,2019 were examined. The characteristics of these patients were analyzed using Kaplan-Meier survival analysis. Cox proportional-hazard regression was used to identify prognostic factors. RESULTS The average age was 50.44 ± 12.31 years, 285 patients (60.6%) were women, 2.1% had pneumoconiosis, 58.2% had pulmonary interstitial disease (ILD), 18.7% had pulmonary hypertension (PH), and 3.6% had renal crisis. These patients had diffuse cutaneous systemic sclerosis (dcSSc, 70.2%) or limited cutaneous systemic sclerosis (29.7%), and PH and renal crisis were more common in the dcSSc group. Patients 50 years old or more had greater prevalences of ILD, PH, and musculoskeletal damage, greater positivity of laboratory biomarkers, and increased mortality (all P < .05). Seventy-four patients (15.7%) died. The non-survivors were older, had longer disease duration, had higher prevalences of ILD, restrictive ventilation dysfunction, PH, and renal crisis, and had higher levels of creatine kinase myocardial band (CK-MB), C-reactive protein, and immunoglobin A (all P < .05). Renal crisis, PH, and high CK-MB were independent risk factors for death. CONCLUSIONS Pneumoconiosis was more common in SSc patients than the general population from this region. Our patients had a 10-year cumulative survival rate of 74.9%, higher than reported for patients from the US. Renal crisis, PH, and high CK-MB level were independent risk factors for death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Chen
- The Department of Rheumatology, Minzu Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Nanning, China
| | - Chenxi Yang
- The Department of Rheumatology, First Affiliated Hospital, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Jie Pan
- The Department of Rheumatology, First Affiliated Hospital, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Cheng Zhao
- The Department of Rheumatology, First Affiliated Hospital, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Zhanrui Chen
- The Department of Rheumatology, First Affiliated Hospital, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Jing Wen
- The Department of Rheumatology, First Affiliated Hospital, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Fei Dong
- The Department of Rheumatology, First Affiliated Hospital, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Xiaoling Liao
- The Department of Rheumatology, First Affiliated Hospital, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Ling Lei
- The Department of Rheumatology, First Affiliated Hospital, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
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17
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Shen CY, Lu CH, Wu CH, Li KJ, Kuo YM, Hsieh SC, Yu CL. Molecular Basis of Accelerated Aging with Immune Dysfunction-Mediated Inflammation (Inflamm-Aging) in Patients with Systemic Sclerosis. Cells 2021; 10:cells10123402. [PMID: 34943909 PMCID: PMC8699891 DOI: 10.3390/cells10123402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2021] [Revised: 11/17/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a chronic connective tissue disorder characterized by immune dysregulation, chronic inflammation, vascular endothelial cell dysfunction, and progressive tissue fibrosis of the skin and internal organs. Moreover, increased cancer incidence and accelerated aging are also found. The increased cancer incidence is believed to be a result of chromosome instability. Accelerated cellular senescence has been confirmed by the shortening of telomere length due to increased DNA breakage, abnormal DNA repair response, and telomerase deficiency mediated by enhanced oxidative/nitrative stresses. The immune dysfunctions of SSc patients are manifested by excessive production of proinflammatory cytokines IL-1, IL-6, IL-17, IFN-α, and TNF-α, which can elicit potent tissue inflammation followed by tissue fibrosis. Furthermore, a number of autoantibodies including anti-topoisomerase 1 (anti-TOPO-1), anti-centromere (ACA or anti-CENP-B), anti-RNA polymerase enzyme (anti-RNAP III), anti-ribonuclear proteins (anti-U1, U2, and U11/U12 RNP), anti-nucleolar antigens (anti-Th/T0, anti-NOR90, anti-Ku, anti-RuvBL1/2, and anti-PM/Scl), and anti-telomere-associated proteins were also found. Based on these data, inflamm-aging caused by immune dysfunction-mediated inflammation exists in patients with SSc. Hence, increased cellular senescence is elicited by the interactions among excessive oxidative stress, pro-inflammatory cytokines, and autoantibodies. In the present review, we will discuss in detail the molecular basis of chromosome instability, increased oxidative stress, and functional adaptation by deranged immunome, which are related to inflamm-aging in patients with SSc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chieh-Yu Shen
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei 10002, Taiwan; (C.-Y.S.); (C.-H.L.); (C.-H.W.); (K.-J.L.); (Y.-M.K.)
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei 10002, Taiwan
| | - Cheng-Hsun Lu
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei 10002, Taiwan; (C.-Y.S.); (C.-H.L.); (C.-H.W.); (K.-J.L.); (Y.-M.K.)
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei 10002, Taiwan
| | - Cheng-Han Wu
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei 10002, Taiwan; (C.-Y.S.); (C.-H.L.); (C.-H.W.); (K.-J.L.); (Y.-M.K.)
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei 10002, Taiwan
| | - Ko-Jen Li
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei 10002, Taiwan; (C.-Y.S.); (C.-H.L.); (C.-H.W.); (K.-J.L.); (Y.-M.K.)
| | - Yu-Min Kuo
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei 10002, Taiwan; (C.-Y.S.); (C.-H.L.); (C.-H.W.); (K.-J.L.); (Y.-M.K.)
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei 10002, Taiwan
| | - Song-Chou Hsieh
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei 10002, Taiwan; (C.-Y.S.); (C.-H.L.); (C.-H.W.); (K.-J.L.); (Y.-M.K.)
- Correspondence: (S.-C.H.); (C.-L.Y.); Tel.: +886-2-23123456 (S.-C.H. & C.-L.Y.)
| | - Chia-Li Yu
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei 10002, Taiwan; (C.-Y.S.); (C.-H.L.); (C.-H.W.); (K.-J.L.); (Y.-M.K.)
- Correspondence: (S.-C.H.); (C.-L.Y.); Tel.: +886-2-23123456 (S.-C.H. & C.-L.Y.)
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18
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Dias ML, O'Connor KM, Dempsey EM, O'Halloran KD, McDonald FB. Targeting the Toll-like receptor pathway as a therapeutic strategy for neonatal infection. Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol 2021; 321:R879-R902. [PMID: 34612068 DOI: 10.1152/ajpregu.00307.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are crucial transmembrane receptors that form part of the innate immune response. They play a role in the recognition of various microorganisms and their elimination from the host. TLRs have been proposed as vital immunomodulators in the regulation of multiple neonatal stressors that extend beyond infection such as oxidative stress and pain. The immune system is immature at birth and takes some time to become fully established. As such, babies are especially vulnerable to sepsis at this early stage of life. Findings suggest a gestational age-dependent increase in TLR expression. TLRs engage with accessory and adaptor proteins to facilitate recognition of pathogens and their activation of the receptor. TLRs are generally upregulated during infection and promote the transcription and release of proinflammatory cytokines. Several studies report that TLRs are epigenetically modulated by chromatin changes and promoter methylation upon bacterial infection that have long-term influences on immune responses. TLR activation is reported to modulate cardiorespiratory responses during infection and may play a key role in driving homeostatic instability observed during sepsis. Although complex, TLR signaling and downstream pathways are potential therapeutic targets in the treatment of neonatal diseases. By reviewing the expression and function of key Toll-like receptors, we aim to provide an important framework to understand the functional role of these receptors in response to stress and infection in premature infants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria L Dias
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine and Health, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Karen M O'Connor
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine and Health, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Eugene M Dempsey
- Irish Centre for Maternal and Child Health Research, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland.,Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, School of Medicine, College of Medicine and Health, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Ken D O'Halloran
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine and Health, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland.,Irish Centre for Maternal and Child Health Research, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Fiona B McDonald
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine and Health, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland.,Irish Centre for Maternal and Child Health Research, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
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19
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Taams LS, Taylor RS. Clinical & Experimental Immunology: Highlights of 2020. Clin Exp Immunol 2021; 203:1-2. [PMID: 33330972 DOI: 10.1111/cei.13557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | - R S Taylor
- British Society for Immunology, Red Lion Square, London, UK
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20
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Hashimoto K, Yamada Y, Sekiguchi K, Mori S, Matsumoto T. NLRP3 inflammasome activation contributes to development of alopecia areata in C3H/HeJ mice. Exp Dermatol 2021; 31:133-142. [PMID: 34270818 PMCID: PMC9291919 DOI: 10.1111/exd.14432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2021] [Revised: 06/29/2021] [Accepted: 07/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Alopecia areata (AA) is an autoimmune non‐scarring hair loss disease. Recently, several reports have suggested that innate immune systems such as interferon‐α (IFN‐α)‐producing plasmacytoid dendritic cells and NOD‐like receptor family pyrin domain‐containing protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasomes play a role in the pathogenesis of AA. However, critical studies about their involvement in the initiation of AA have not yet been reported. Therefore, we investigated the expression of innate immune cytokines in serum and skin, and examined the effect of a selective NLRP3 inhibitor, MCC950, on AA in C3H/HeJ mice, induced by transferring cultured skin‐draining lymph node cells. IFN‐α production was upregulated in lesions of AA‐affected mice, and interleukin‐1β in serum and skin was highly expressed before onset as well as postonset. Furthermore, MCC950 treatment prevented AA development and promoted hair growth in AA mouse models by reducing NLRP3 signalling and Th1/Tc1 chemokines and cytokines in the skin. These results suggest that NLRP3 inflammasome contributes to AA onset and chronicity, and NLRP3 inhibitor may be a potential therapeutic agent for AA.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Sachi Mori
- Kyoto R&D Center, Maruho Co., Ltd., Kyoto, Japan
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21
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Servaas NH, Mariotti B, van der Kroef M, Wichers CGK, Pandit A, Bazzoni F, Radstake TRDJ, Rossato M. Characterization of Long Non-Coding RNAs in Systemic Sclerosis Monocytes: A Potential Role for PSMB8-AS1 in Altered Cytokine Secretion. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:4365. [PMID: 33922041 PMCID: PMC8122435 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22094365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2021] [Revised: 04/16/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a chronic autoimmune disease mainly affecting the connective tissue. In SSc patients, monocytes are increased in circulation, infiltrate affected tissues, and show a pro-inflammatory activation status, including the so-called interferon (IFN) signature. We previously demonstrated that the dysregulation of the IFN response in SSc monocytes is sustained by altered epigenetic factors as well as by upregulation of the long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) NRIR. Considering the enormously diverse molecular functions of lncRNAs in immune regulation, the present study investigated the genome-wide profile of lncRNAs in SSc monocytes, with the aim to further unravel their possible role in monocyte dysregulation and disease pathogenesis. Transcriptomic data from two independent cohorts of SSc patients identified 886 lncRNAs with an altered expression in SSc monocytes. Differentially expressed lncRNAs were correlated with neighboring protein coding genes implicated in the regulation of IFN responses and apoptotic signaling in SSc monocytes. In parallel, gene co-expression network analysis identified the lncRNA PSMB8-AS1 as a top-ranking hub gene in co-expression modules implicated in cell activation and response to viral and external stimuli. Functional characterization of PSMB8-AS1 in monocytes demonstrated that this lncRNA is involved in the secretion of IL-6 and TNFα, two pivotal pro-inflammatory cytokines altered in the circulation of SSc patients and associated with fibrosis and disease severity. Collectively, our data showed that lncRNAs are linked to monocyte dysregulation in SSc, and highlight their potential contribution to disease pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nila H. Servaas
- Center for Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, 3584 CX Utrecht, The Netherlands; (N.H.S.); (M.v.d.K.); (C.G.K.W.); (A.P.); (T.R.D.J.R.)
- University Medical Center Utrecht, Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Utrecht University, 3584 CX Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Barbara Mariotti
- Division of General Pathology, Department of Medicine, University of Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy; (B.M.); (F.B.)
| | - Maarten van der Kroef
- Center for Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, 3584 CX Utrecht, The Netherlands; (N.H.S.); (M.v.d.K.); (C.G.K.W.); (A.P.); (T.R.D.J.R.)
- University Medical Center Utrecht, Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Utrecht University, 3584 CX Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Catharina G. K. Wichers
- Center for Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, 3584 CX Utrecht, The Netherlands; (N.H.S.); (M.v.d.K.); (C.G.K.W.); (A.P.); (T.R.D.J.R.)
- University Medical Center Utrecht, Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Utrecht University, 3584 CX Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Aridaman Pandit
- Center for Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, 3584 CX Utrecht, The Netherlands; (N.H.S.); (M.v.d.K.); (C.G.K.W.); (A.P.); (T.R.D.J.R.)
- University Medical Center Utrecht, Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Utrecht University, 3584 CX Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Flavia Bazzoni
- Division of General Pathology, Department of Medicine, University of Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy; (B.M.); (F.B.)
| | - Timothy R. D. J. Radstake
- Center for Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, 3584 CX Utrecht, The Netherlands; (N.H.S.); (M.v.d.K.); (C.G.K.W.); (A.P.); (T.R.D.J.R.)
- University Medical Center Utrecht, Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Utrecht University, 3584 CX Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Marzia Rossato
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy
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22
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New Autoantibody Specificities in Systemic Sclerosis and Very Early Systemic Sclerosis. Antibodies (Basel) 2021; 10:antib10020012. [PMID: 33800661 PMCID: PMC8103273 DOI: 10.3390/antib10020012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2021] [Revised: 02/16/2021] [Accepted: 03/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand 4 (CXCL4) is a biomarker of unfavorable prognosis in Systemic Sclerosis (SSc), a potentially severe autoimmune condition, characterized by vasculitis, fibrosis and interferon (IFN)-I-signature. We recently reported that autoantibodies to CXCL4 circulate in SSc patients and correlate with IFN-α. Here, we used shorter versions of CXCL4 and CXCL4-L1, the CXCL4 non-allelic variant, to search for autoantibodies exclusively reacting to one or the other CXCL4 form. Moreover, to address whether anti-CXCL4/CXCL4-L1 antibodies were present before SSc onset and predicted SSc-progression, we longitudinally studied two VEDOSS (Very Early Diagnosis of Systemic Sclerosis) patient cohorts, separating SSc-progressors from SSc-non-progressors. We found that anti-CXCL4-specific autoantibodies were present in both SSc and VEDOSS patients (both SSc-progressors and SSc-non-progressors). Anti-CXCL4-L1-specific autoantibodies were especially detected in long-standing SSc (lsSSc). Anti-CXCL4/CXCL4-L1 antibodies correlated with IFN-α and with specific SSc-skin features but only in lsSSc and not in early SSc (eaSSc) or VEDOSS. Thus, a broader antibody response, with reactivity spreading to CXCL4-L1, is characteristic of lsSSc. The early anti-CXCL4 autoantibody response seems qualitatively different from, and likely less pathogenic than, that observed in advanced SSc. Lastly, we confirm that anti-CXCL4 autoantibodies are SSc-biomarkers and uncover that also CXCL4-L1 becomes an autoantigen in lsSSc.
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23
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Luchner M, Reinke S, Milicic A. TLR Agonists as Vaccine Adjuvants Targeting Cancer and Infectious Diseases. Pharmaceutics 2021; 13:142. [PMID: 33499143 PMCID: PMC7911620 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13020142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 114] [Impact Index Per Article: 38.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2020] [Revised: 01/16/2021] [Accepted: 01/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Modern vaccines have largely shifted from using whole, killed or attenuated pathogens to being based on subunit components. Since this diminishes immunogenicity, vaccine adjuvants that enhance the immune response to purified antigens are critically needed. Further advantages of adjuvants include dose sparing, increased vaccine efficacy in immunocompromised individuals and the potential to protect against highly variable pathogens by broadening the immune response. Due to their ability to link the innate with the adaptive immune response, Toll-like receptor (TLR) agonists are highly promising as adjuvants in vaccines against life-threatening and complex diseases such as cancer, AIDS and malaria. TLRs are transmembrane receptors, which are predominantly expressed by innate immune cells. They can be classified into cell surface (TLR1, TLR2, TLR4, TLR5, TLR6) and intracellular TLRs (TLR3, TLR7, TLR8, TLR9), expressed on endosomal membranes. Besides a transmembrane domain, each TLR possesses a leucine-rich repeat (LRR) segment that mediates PAMP/DAMP recognition and a TIR domain that delivers the downstream signal transduction and initiates an inflammatory response. Thus, TLRs are excellent targets for adjuvants to provide a "danger" signal to induce an effective immune response that leads to long-lasting protection. The present review will elaborate on applications of TLR ligands as vaccine adjuvants and immunotherapeutic agents, with a focus on clinically relevant adjuvants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Luchner
- Department of Biochemistry, Magdalen College Oxford, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 4AU, UK;
| | - Sören Reinke
- The Jenner Institute, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7DQ, UK;
| | - Anita Milicic
- The Jenner Institute, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7DQ, UK;
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24
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Paradowska-Gorycka A, Wajda A, Stypinska B, Walczuk E, Rzeszotarska E, Walczyk M, Haladyj E, Romanowska-Prochnicka K, Felis-Giemza A, Lewandowska A, Olesińska M. Variety of endosomal TLRs and Interferons (IFN-α, IFN-β, IFN-γ) expression profiles in patients with SLE, SSc and MCTD. Clin Exp Immunol 2021; 204:49-63. [PMID: 33336388 DOI: 10.1111/cei.13566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2020] [Revised: 10/21/2020] [Accepted: 11/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
We investigated Toll-like receptor (TLR)-3/-7/-8/-9 and interferon (IFN)-α/β/γ mRNA expression in whole blood and serum IFN-α/β/γ levels in patients with mixed connective tissue disease (MCTD), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and systemic sclerosis (SSc) and in healthy subjects to assess the association between the TLR-IFN expression and severity of and susceptibility to diseases, and identify potential biomarkers. Expression of the IFN-γ, TLR-3 and TLR-8 was detected only in SLE patients. TLR-7, IFN-α and IFN-β expression was highest in SLE, while TLR-9 expression was highest in SSc patients. In SLE and MCTD patients a strong correlation was observed between TLR-7 and IFN-α expression and IFN-β and IFN-α expression. In MCTD patients, negative correlation between IFN-α and TLR-9 and TLR-7 and TLR-9 was revealed. TLR-9 expression in anti-U1-70k-negative, anti-C negative and anti-SmB-negative MCTD patients was higher than in MCTD-positive patients. We observed negative correlations between serum IFN-α levels and TLR-7 expression and C3 and C4 levels in SLE patients. In SLE patients we observed that with increased IFN-γ, TLR-3 and TLR-8 expression increased the value of C3 and C4. Our results confirmed that the endosomal TLR-IFN pathway seems to be more important in SLE than in MCTD or SSc, and that IFN-α and IFN-β may be possible biomarkers for SLE.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Paradowska-Gorycka
- Department of Molecular Biology, National Institute of Geriatrics, Rheumatology and Rehabilitation, Warsaw, Poland
| | - A Wajda
- Department of Molecular Biology, National Institute of Geriatrics, Rheumatology and Rehabilitation, Warsaw, Poland
| | - B Stypinska
- Department of Molecular Biology, National Institute of Geriatrics, Rheumatology and Rehabilitation, Warsaw, Poland
| | - E Walczuk
- Department of Molecular Biology, National Institute of Geriatrics, Rheumatology and Rehabilitation, Warsaw, Poland
| | - E Rzeszotarska
- Department of Molecular Biology, National Institute of Geriatrics, Rheumatology and Rehabilitation, Warsaw, Poland
| | - M Walczyk
- Department of Connective Tissue Diseases, National Institute of Geriatrics, Rheumatology and Rehabilitation, Warsaw, Poland
| | - E Haladyj
- Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - K Romanowska-Prochnicka
- Department of Connective Tissue Diseases, National Institute of Geriatrics, Rheumatology and Rehabilitation, Warsaw, Poland.,Department of General and Experimental Pathology with Centre for Preclinical Research and Technology (CEPT), Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - A Felis-Giemza
- Department of Connective Tissue Diseases, National Institute of Geriatrics, Rheumatology and Rehabilitation, Warsaw, Poland
| | - A Lewandowska
- Department of Connective Tissue Diseases, National Institute of Geriatrics, Rheumatology and Rehabilitation, Warsaw, Poland
| | - M Olesińska
- Department of Connective Tissue Diseases, National Institute of Geriatrics, Rheumatology and Rehabilitation, Warsaw, Poland
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25
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Karaderi T, Bareke H, Kunter I, Seytanoglu A, Cagnan I, Balci D, Barin B, Hocaoglu MB, Rahmioglu N, Asilmaz E, Taneri B. Host Genetics at the Intersection of Autoimmunity and COVID-19: A Potential Key for Heterogeneous COVID-19 Severity. Front Immunol 2020; 11:586111. [PMID: 33414783 PMCID: PMC7783411 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.586111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2020] [Accepted: 11/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
COVID-19 presentation is very heterogeneous across cases, and host factors are at the forefront for the variables affecting the disease manifestation. The immune system has emerged as a key determinant in shaping the outcome of SARS-CoV-2 infection. It is mainly the deleterious unconstrained immune response, rather than the virus itself, which leads to severe cases of COVID-19 and the associated mortality. Genetic susceptibility to dysregulated immune response is highly likely to be among the host factors for adverse disease outcome. Given that such genetic susceptibility has also been observed in autoimmune diseases (ADs), a number of critical questions remain unanswered; whether individuals with ADs have a significantly different risk for COVID-19-related complications compared to the general population, and whether studies on the genetics of ADs can shed some light on the host factors in COVID-19. In this perspective, we discuss the host genetic factors, which have been under investigation in association with COVID-19 severity. We touch upon the intricate link between autoimmunity and COVID-19 pathophysiology. We put forth a number of autoimmune susceptibility genes, which have the potential to be additional host genetic factors for modifying the severity of COVID-19 presentation. In summary, host genetics at the intersection of ADs and COVID-19 may serve as a source for understanding the heterogeneity of COVID-19 severity, and hence, potentially holds a key in achieving effective strategies in risk group identification, as well as effective treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tugce Karaderi
- Center for Health Data Science, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Disease Systems Biology Program, Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Halin Bareke
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Eastern Mediterranean University, Famagusta, Cyprus
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Institute of Health Sciences, Marmara University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Imge Kunter
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Eastern Mediterranean University, Famagusta, Cyprus
| | - Adil Seytanoglu
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Eastern Mediterranean University, Famagusta, Cyprus
| | - Ilgin Cagnan
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Eastern Mediterranean University, Famagusta, Cyprus
| | - Deniz Balci
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Eastern Mediterranean University, Famagusta, Cyprus
| | - Burc Barin
- Vaccines and Infectious Diseases Therapeutic Research Area, The Emmes Company, Rockville, MD, United States
| | - Mevhibe B. Hocaoglu
- Cicely Saunders Institute of Palliative Care, Policy & Rehabilitation, Florence Nightingale Faculty of Nursing, Midwifery & Palliative Care, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
- Dr Fazil Kucuk Faculty of Medicine, Eastern Mediterranean University, Famagusta, Cyprus
| | - Nilufer Rahmioglu
- Wellcome Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Nuffield Department of Women’s and Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Esra Asilmaz
- Department of Gastroenterology, Homerton University Hospital, Clapton, United Kingdom
| | - Bahar Taneri
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Eastern Mediterranean University, Famagusta, Cyprus
- Department of Genetics and Cell Biology, Faculty of Health, Medicine & Life Sciences, Institute for Public Health Genomics, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
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26
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Jung JY, Kim JW, Suh CH, Kim HA. Roles of Interactions Between Toll-Like Receptors and Their Endogenous Ligands in the Pathogenesis of Systemic Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis and Adult-Onset Still's Disease. Front Immunol 2020; 11:583513. [PMID: 33224145 PMCID: PMC7674197 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.583513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2020] [Accepted: 10/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) and adult-onset Still’s disease (AOSD) are systemic inflammatory disorders that manifest as high-spiking fever, joint pain, evanescent skin rash, and organomegaly. Their pathogenesis is unclear, but inflammation is triggered by activation of the innate immune system with aberrant production of proinflammatory cytokines. Along with extrinsic factors, intrinsic pathways can trigger an unexpected immune response. Damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) induce the activation of innate immune cells, leading to sterile inflammation in systemic JIA and AOSD. These endogenous proteins interact with Toll-like receptors (TLRs), which are pattern recognition receptors, and mediate immune signaling following stimulation by pathogen-associated molecular patterns and DAMPs. Several DAMPs, such as S100 proteins, play a role in the development or severity of systemic JIA and AOSD, in which their interactions with TLRs are altered. Also, the expression levels of genes encoding DAMPs contribute to the susceptibility to systemic JIA and AOSD. Herein, we review reports that TLR and DAMP signaling initiates and/or maintains the inflammatory response in systemic JIA and AOSD, and their correlations with the clinical characteristics of those diseases. In addition, we assess their utility as biomarkers or therapeutics for systemic JIA and AOSD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ju-Yang Jung
- Department of Rheumatology, Ajou University of Medical School, Suwon, South Korea
| | - Ji-Won Kim
- Department of Rheumatology, Ajou University of Medical School, Suwon, South Korea
| | - Chang-Hee Suh
- Department of Rheumatology, Ajou University of Medical School, Suwon, South Korea
| | - Hyoun-Ah Kim
- Department of Rheumatology, Ajou University of Medical School, Suwon, South Korea
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27
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Martinez GP, Zabaleta ME, Di Giulio C, Charris JE, Mijares MR. The Role of Chloroquine and Hydroxychloroquine in Immune Regulation and Diseases. Curr Pharm Des 2020; 26:4467-4485. [DOI: 10.2174/1381612826666200707132920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2020] [Accepted: 05/27/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Chloroquine (CQ) and hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) are derivatives of the heterocyclic aromatic compound
quinoline. These economical compounds have been used as antimalarial agents for many years. Currently,
they are used as monotherapy or in conjunction with other therapies for the treatment of autoimmune diseases
such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), Sjögren's syndrome (SS) and antiphospholipid
antibody syndrome (APS). Based on its effects on the modulation of the autophagy process, various
clinical studies suggest that CQ and HCQ could be used in combination with other chemotherapeutics for the
treatment of various types of cancer. Furthermore, the antiviral effects showed against Zika, Chikungunya, and
HIV are due to the annulation of endosomal/lysosomal acidification. Recently, CQ and HCQ were approved for
the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of infected patients with the coronavirus SARSCoV-
2, causing the disease originated in December 2019, namely COVID-2019. Several mechanisms have been
proposed to explain the pharmacological effects of these drugs: 1) disruption of lysosomal and endosomal pH, 2)
inhibition of protein secretion/expression, 3) inhibition of antigen presentation, 4) decrease of proinflammatory
cytokines, 5) inhibition of autophagy, 6) induction of apoptosis and 7) inhibition of ion channels activation. Thus,
evidence has shown that these structures are leading molecules that can be modified or combined with other
therapeutic agents. In this review, we will discuss the most recent findings in the mechanisms of action of CQ and
HCQ in the immune system, and the use of these antimalarial drugs on diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gricelis P. Martinez
- Institute of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Central University of Venezuela, 50109, Los Chaguaramos 1050-A, Caracas, Venezuela
| | - Mercedes E. Zabaleta
- Institute of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Central University of Venezuela, 50109, Los Chaguaramos 1050-A, Caracas, Venezuela
| | - Camilo Di Giulio
- Institute of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Central University of Venezuela, 50109, Los Chaguaramos 1050-A, Caracas, Venezuela
| | - Jaime E. Charris
- Organic Synthesis Laboratory, Faculty of Pharmacy, Central University of Venezuela, 47206, Los Chaguaramos 1041-A, Caracas, Venezuela
| | - Michael R. Mijares
- Institute of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Central University of Venezuela, 50109, Los Chaguaramos 1050-A, Caracas, Venezuela
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28
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O'Reilly S, van Laar J. B(effector)reaking bad in systemic sclerosis: role of a novel B cell subset. Clin Exp Immunol 2020; 201:231-232. [PMID: 32783250 DOI: 10.1111/cei.13501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- S O'Reilly
- Department of Biosciences, Durham University, Durham, UK
| | - J van Laar
- Clinical Rheumatology Department, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
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29
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Anti-CXCL4 Antibody Reactivity Is Present in Systemic Sclerosis (SSc) and Correlates with the SSc Type I Interferon Signature. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21145102. [PMID: 32707718 PMCID: PMC7404208 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21145102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2020] [Revised: 07/07/2020] [Accepted: 07/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is characterized by skin/internal organ fibrosis, vasculopathy and autoimmunity. Chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand 4 (CXCL4) is an SSc biomarker, predicting unfavorable prognosis and lung fibrosis. CXCL4 binds DNA/RNA and favors interferon (IFN)-α production by plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs), contributing to the type I IFN (IFN-I) signature in SSc patients. However, whether CXCL4 is an autoantigen in SSc is unknown. Here, we show that at least half of SSc patients show consistent antibody reactivity to CXCL4. T-cell proliferation to CXCL4, tested in a limited number of patients, correlates with anti-CXCL4 antibody reactivity. Antibodies to CXCL4 mostly correlate with circulating IFN-α levels and are significantly higher in patients with lung fibrosis in two independent SSc cohorts. Antibodies to CXCL4 implement the CXCL4-DNA complex's effect on IFN-α production by pDCs; CXCL4-DNA/RNA complexes stimulate purified human B-cells to become antibody-secreting plasma cells in vitro. These data indicate that CXCL4 is indeed an autoantigen in SSc and suggest that CXCL4, and CXCL4-specific autoantibodies, can fuel a harmful loop: CXCL4-DNA/RNA complexes induce IFN-α in pDCs and direct B-cell stimulation, including the secretion of anti-CXCL4 antibodies. Anti-CXCL4 antibodies may further increase pDC stimulation and IFN-α release in vivo, creating a vicious cycle which sustains the SSc IFN-I signature and general inflammation.
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30
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Jiang J, Wang F, Luo A, Lin S, Feng X, Yan W, Shi Y, Zhang Q, Gu X, Cui G, Wang J, Wang L, Zhang Q, Tan W. Polyporus Polysaccharide Ameliorates Bleomycin-Induced Pulmonary Fibrosis by Suppressing Myofibroblast Differentiation via TGF-β/Smad2/3 Pathway. Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:767. [PMID: 32528292 PMCID: PMC7264095 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.00767] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2020] [Accepted: 05/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Pulmonary fibrosis is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in systemic sclerosis (SSc) with no effective medication. Polyporus polysaccharide (PPS), extracted from Chinese herbs, has immune regulation, anticancer, antioxidant and antiinflammatory activities. This study aims to investigate antifibrotic effects of PPS. We show that PPS markedly ameliorates bleomycin-induced lung fibrosis in mice. Myofibroblasts are the effector cells responsible for excessive deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins in fibrotic diseases. In vitro evidence reveals that PPS exerts potent antifibrotic effects by inhibiting fibroblast-to-myofibroblast transition, suppressing ECM deposition, and repressing lung fibroblast proliferation and migration. We also find that PPS inhibits TGF-β1-induced Smad2/3 activating. This study is the first to demonstrate an antifibrotic role of PPS in lungs, thus warranting further therapeutic evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jintao Jiang
- Institute of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.,Division of Rheumatology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Fang Wang
- Division of Cardiology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Aishu Luo
- Division of Rheumatology, Yancheng First People's Hospital, Yancheng, China
| | - Shiyu Lin
- Division of Rheumatology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiaoke Feng
- Institute of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Wei Yan
- Division of Rheumatology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yumeng Shi
- Division of Rheumatology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Qian Zhang
- Division of Rheumatology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xin Gu
- Division of Cardiology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Guoliang Cui
- Institute of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jianan Wang
- Division of Rheumatology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Lei Wang
- Division of Rheumatology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Qiande Zhang
- Institute of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Wenfeng Tan
- Division of Rheumatology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
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31
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Affiliation(s)
- S O'Reilly
- Department of Biosciences, Durham University, Durham, UK
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