1
|
Fernbach S, Mair NK, Abela IA, Groen K, Kuratli R, Lork M, Thorball CW, Bernasconi E, Filippidis P, Leuzinger K, Notter J, Rauch A, Hirsch HH, Huber M, Günthard HF, Fellay J, Kouyos RD, Hale BG. Loss of tolerance precedes triggering and lifelong persistence of pathogenic type I interferon autoantibodies. J Exp Med 2024; 221:e20240365. [PMID: 39017930 PMCID: PMC11253716 DOI: 10.1084/jem.20240365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2024] [Revised: 05/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Autoantibodies neutralizing type I interferons (IFN-Is) can underlie infection severity. Here, we trace the development of these autoantibodies at high-resolution using longitudinal samples from 1,876 well-treated individuals living with HIV over a 35-year period. Similar to general populations, ∼1.9% of individuals acquired anti-IFN-I autoantibodies as they aged (median onset ∼63 years). Once detected, anti-IFN-I autoantibodies persisted lifelong, and titers increased over decades. Individuals developed distinct neutralizing and non-neutralizing autoantibody repertoires at discrete times that selectively targeted combinations of IFNα, IFNβ, and IFNω. Emergence of neutralizing anti-IFNα autoantibodies correlated with reduced baseline IFN-stimulated gene levels and was associated with subsequent susceptibility to severe COVID-19 several years later. Retrospective measurements revealed enrichment of pre-existing autoreactivity against other autoantigens in individuals who later developed anti-IFN-I autoantibodies, and there was evidence for prior viral infections or increased IFN at the time of anti-IFN-I autoantibody triggering. These analyses suggest that age-related loss of self-tolerance prior to IFN-I immune-triggering poses a risk of developing lifelong functional IFN-I deficiency.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sonja Fernbach
- Institute of Medical Virology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Nina K. Mair
- Institute of Medical Virology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Irene A. Abela
- Institute of Medical Virology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Hospital Epidemiology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Kevin Groen
- Institute of Medical Virology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Roger Kuratli
- Institute of Medical Virology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Marie Lork
- Institute of Medical Virology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Christian W. Thorball
- Precision Medicine Unit, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Enos Bernasconi
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Ente Ospedaliero Cantonale Lugano, University of Geneva and University of Southern Switzerland, Lugano, Switzerland
| | - Paraskevas Filippidis
- Department of Medicine, Infectious Diseases Service, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | | | - Julia Notter
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Infection Prevention and Travel Medicine, Cantonal Hospital St. Gallen, St. Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Andri Rauch
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Hans H. Hirsch
- Department of Biomedicine, Transplantation and Clinical Virology, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Michael Huber
- Institute of Medical Virology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Huldrych F. Günthard
- Institute of Medical Virology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Hospital Epidemiology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Jacques Fellay
- Precision Medicine Unit, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
- School of Life Sciences, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Roger D. Kouyos
- Institute of Medical Virology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Hospital Epidemiology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Benjamin G. Hale
- Institute of Medical Virology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Xu Y, Shan W, Luo Q, Zhang M, Huo D, Chen Y, Li H, Ye Y, Yu X, Luo Y, Huang H. Establishment of a humanized mouse model using steady-state peripheral blood-derived hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells facilitates screening of cancer-targeted T-cell repertoires. CANCER INNOVATION 2024; 3:e118. [PMID: 38947755 PMCID: PMC11212321 DOI: 10.1002/cai2.118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Revised: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024]
Abstract
Background Cancer-targeted T-cell receptor T (TCR-T) cells hold promise in treating cancers such as hematological malignancies and breast cancers. However, approaches to obtain cancer-reactive TCR-T cells have been unsuccessful. Methods Here, we developed a novel strategy to screen for cancer-targeted TCR-T cells using a special humanized mouse model with person-specific immune fingerprints. Rare steady-state circulating hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells were expanded via three-dimensional culture of steady-state peripheral blood mononuclear cells, and then the expanded cells were applied to establish humanized mice. The human immune system was evaluated according to the kinetics of dendritic cells, monocytes, T-cell subsets, and cytokines. To fully stimulate the immune response and to obtain B-cell precursor NAML-6- and triple-negative breast cancer MDA-MB-231-targeted TCR-T cells, we used the inactivated cells above to treat humanized mice twice a day every 7 days. Then, human T cells were processed for TCR β-chain (TRB) sequencing analysis. After the repertoires had been constructed, features such as the fraction, diversity, and immune signature were investigated. Results The results demonstrated an increase in diversity and clonality of T cells after treatment. The preferential usage and features of TRBV, TRBJ, and the V-J combination were also changed. The stress also induced highly clonal expansion. Tumor burden and survival analysis demonstrated that stress induction could significantly inhibit the growth of subsequently transfused live tumor cells and prolong the survival of the humanized mice. Conclusions We constructed a personalized humanized mouse model to screen cancer-targeted TCR-T pools. Our platform provides an effective source of cancer-targeted TCR-T cells and allows for the design of patient-specific engineered T cells. It therefore has the potential to greatly benefit cancer treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yulin Xu
- Bone Marrow Transplantation Center, The First Affiliated HospitalZhejiang University School of MedicineHangzhouChina
- Liangzhu LaboratoryZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
- Institute of HematologyZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
- Zhejiang Province Engineering Research Center for Stem Cell and Immunity TherapyHangzhouChina
- School of MedicineZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
| | - Wei Shan
- Bone Marrow Transplantation Center, The First Affiliated HospitalZhejiang University School of MedicineHangzhouChina
- Liangzhu LaboratoryZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
- Institute of HematologyZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
- Zhejiang Province Engineering Research Center for Stem Cell and Immunity TherapyHangzhouChina
- School of MedicineZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
| | - Qian Luo
- Bone Marrow Transplantation Center, The First Affiliated HospitalZhejiang University School of MedicineHangzhouChina
- Liangzhu LaboratoryZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
- Institute of HematologyZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
- Zhejiang Province Engineering Research Center for Stem Cell and Immunity TherapyHangzhouChina
- School of MedicineZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
| | - Meng Zhang
- Bone Marrow Transplantation Center, The First Affiliated HospitalZhejiang University School of MedicineHangzhouChina
- Liangzhu LaboratoryZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
- Institute of HematologyZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
- Zhejiang Province Engineering Research Center for Stem Cell and Immunity TherapyHangzhouChina
- School of MedicineZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
| | - Dawei Huo
- Bone Marrow Transplantation Center, The First Affiliated HospitalZhejiang University School of MedicineHangzhouChina
- Liangzhu LaboratoryZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
- Institute of HematologyZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
- Zhejiang Province Engineering Research Center for Stem Cell and Immunity TherapyHangzhouChina
- School of MedicineZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
| | - Yijin Chen
- Bone Marrow Transplantation Center, The First Affiliated HospitalZhejiang University School of MedicineHangzhouChina
- Liangzhu LaboratoryZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
- Institute of HematologyZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
- Zhejiang Province Engineering Research Center for Stem Cell and Immunity TherapyHangzhouChina
- School of MedicineZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
| | - Honghu Li
- Bone Marrow Transplantation Center, The First Affiliated HospitalZhejiang University School of MedicineHangzhouChina
- Liangzhu LaboratoryZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
- Institute of HematologyZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
- Zhejiang Province Engineering Research Center for Stem Cell and Immunity TherapyHangzhouChina
- School of MedicineZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
| | - Yishan Ye
- Bone Marrow Transplantation Center, The First Affiliated HospitalZhejiang University School of MedicineHangzhouChina
- Liangzhu LaboratoryZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
- Institute of HematologyZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
- Zhejiang Province Engineering Research Center for Stem Cell and Immunity TherapyHangzhouChina
- School of MedicineZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
| | - Xiaohong Yu
- Liangzhu LaboratoryZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
- Institute of HematologyZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
- Zhejiang Province Engineering Research Center for Stem Cell and Immunity TherapyHangzhouChina
- School of MedicineZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
| | - Yi Luo
- Bone Marrow Transplantation Center, The First Affiliated HospitalZhejiang University School of MedicineHangzhouChina
- Liangzhu LaboratoryZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
- Institute of HematologyZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
- Zhejiang Province Engineering Research Center for Stem Cell and Immunity TherapyHangzhouChina
- School of MedicineZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
| | - He Huang
- Bone Marrow Transplantation Center, The First Affiliated HospitalZhejiang University School of MedicineHangzhouChina
- Liangzhu LaboratoryZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
- Institute of HematologyZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
- Zhejiang Province Engineering Research Center for Stem Cell and Immunity TherapyHangzhouChina
- School of MedicineZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Müller L, Di Benedetto S. Aging brain: exploring the interplay between bone marrow aging, immunosenescence, and neuroinflammation. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1393324. [PMID: 38638424 PMCID: PMC11024322 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1393324] [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: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Aging is a complex process characterized by a myriad of physiological changes, including alterations in the immune system termed immunosenescence. It exerts profound effects on both the bone marrow and the central nervous system, with significant implications for immunosenescence in neurological contexts. Our mini-review explores the complex relationship between bone marrow aging and its impact on immunosenescence, specifically within the context of neurological diseases. The bone marrow serves as a crucial hub for hematopoiesis and immune cell production, yet with age, it undergoes significant alterations, including alterations in hematopoietic stem cell function, niche composition, and inflammatory signaling. These age-related shifts in the bone marrow microenvironment contribute to dysregulation of immune cell homeostasis and function, impacting neuroinflammatory processes and neuronal health. In our review, we aim to explore the complex cellular and molecular mechanisms that link bone marrow aging to immunosenescence, inflammaging, and neuroinflammation, with a specific focus on their relevance to the pathophysiology of age-related neurological disorders. By exploring this interplay, we strive to provide a comprehensive understanding of how bone marrow aging impacts immune function and contributes to the progression of neurological diseases in aging individuals. Ultimately, this knowledge can hold substantial promise for the development of innovative therapeutic interventions aimed at preserving immune function and mitigating the progression of neurological disorders in the elderly population.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ludmila Müller
- Max Planck Institute for Human Development, Center for Lifespan Psychology, Berlin, Germany
| | | |
Collapse
|
4
|
Jallah BP, Kuypers DRJ. Impact of Immunosenescence in Older Kidney Transplant Recipients: Associated Clinical Outcomes and Possible Risk Stratification for Immunosuppression Reduction. Drugs Aging 2024; 41:219-238. [PMID: 38386164 DOI: 10.1007/s40266-024-01100-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/13/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
The number of older individuals receiving a kidney transplant as replacement therapy has significantly increased in the past decades and this increase is expected to continue. Older patients have a lower rate of acute rejection but an increased incidence of death with a functioning graft. Several factors, including an increased incidence of infections, post-transplant malignancy and cardiovascular comorbidity and mortality, contribute to this increased risk. Notwithstanding, kidney transplantation is still the best form of kidney replacement therapy in all patients with chronic kidney disease, including in older individuals. The best form of immunosuppression and the optimal dose of these medications in older recipients remains a topic of discussion. Pharmacological studies have usually excluded older patients and when included, patients were highly selected and their numbers insignificant to draw a reasonable conclusion. The reduced incidence of acute rejection in older recipients has largely been attributed to immunosenescence. Immunosenescence refers to the aging of the innate and adaptive immunity, accumulating in phenotypic and functional changes. These changes influences the response of the immune system to new challenges. In older individuals, immunosenescence is associated with increased susceptibility to infectious pathogens, a decreased response after vaccinations, increased risk of malignancies and cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Chronic kidney disease is associated with premature immunosenescent changes, and these are independent of aging. The immunosenescent state is associated with low-grade sterile inflammation termed inflammaging. This chronic low-grade inflammation triggers a compensatory immunosuppressive state to avoid further tissue damage, leaving older individuals with chronic kidney disease in an immune-impaired state before kidney transplantation. Immunosuppression after transplantation may further enhance progression of this immunosenescent state. This review covers the role of immunosenescence in older kidney transplant recipients and it details present knowledge of the changes in chronic kidney disease and after transplantation. The impact of immunosuppression on the progression and complications of an immunosenescent state are discussed, and the future direction of a possible clinical implementation of immunosenescence to individualize/reduce immunosuppression in older recipients is laid out.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Borefore P Jallah
- Department of Nephrology and Renal Transplantation, University Hospital Leuven, Herestraat 49, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Dirk R J Kuypers
- Department of Nephrology and Renal Transplantation, University Hospital Leuven, Herestraat 49, 3000, Leuven, Belgium.
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Kapse B, Budev MM, Singer JP, Greenland JR. Immune aging: biological mechanisms, clinical symptoms, and management in lung transplant recipients. FRONTIERS IN TRANSPLANTATION 2024; 3:1356948. [PMID: 38993782 PMCID: PMC11235310 DOI: 10.3389/frtra.2024.1356948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024]
Abstract
While chronologic age can be precisely defined, clinical manifestations of advanced age occur in different ways and at different rates across individuals. The observed phenotype of advanced age likely reflects a superposition of several biological aging mechanisms which have gained increasing attention as the world contends with an aging population. Even within the immune system, there are multiple age-associated biological mechanisms at play, including telomere dysfunction, epigenetic dysregulation, immune senescence programs, and mitochondrial dysfunction. These biological mechanisms have associated clinical syndromes, such as telomere dysfunction leading to short telomere syndrome (STS), and optimal patient management may require recognition of biologically based aging syndromes. Within the clinical context of lung transplantation, select immune aging mechanisms are particularly pronounced. Indeed, STS is increasingly recognized as an indication for lung transplantation. At the same time, common aging phenotypes may be evoked by the stress of transplantation because lung allografts face a potent immune response, necessitating higher levels of immune suppression and associated toxicities, relative to other solid organs. Age-associated conditions exacerbated by lung transplant include bone marrow suppression, herpes viral infections, liver cirrhosis, hypogammaglobulinemia, frailty, and cancer risk. This review aims to dissect the molecular mechanisms of immune aging and describe their clinical manifestations in the context of lung transplantation. While these mechanisms are more likely to manifest in the context of lung transplantation, this mechanism-based approach to clinical syndromes of immune aging has broad relevance to geriatric medicine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bhavya Kapse
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Marie M. Budev
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Respiratory Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Jonathan P. Singer
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - John R. Greenland
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
- San Francisco VA Health Care System, Medicine, San Francisco, CA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Lord JM, Veenith T, Sullivan J, Sharma-Oates A, Richter AG, Greening NJ, McAuley HJC, Evans RA, Moss P, Moore SC, Turtle L, Gautam N, Gilani A, Bajaj M, Wain LV, Brightling C, Raman B, Marks M, Singapuri A, Elneima O, Openshaw PJM, Duggal NA. Accelarated immune ageing is associated with COVID-19 disease severity. Immun Ageing 2024; 21:6. [PMID: 38212801 PMCID: PMC10782727 DOI: 10.1186/s12979-023-00406-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The striking increase in COVID-19 severity in older adults provides a clear example of immunesenescence, the age-related remodelling of the immune system. To better characterise the association between convalescent immunesenescence and acute disease severity, we determined the immune phenotype of COVID-19 survivors and non-infected controls. RESULTS We performed detailed immune phenotyping of peripheral blood mononuclear cells isolated from 103 COVID-19 survivors 3-5 months post recovery who were classified as having had severe (n = 56; age 53.12 ± 11.30 years), moderate (n = 32; age 52.28 ± 11.43 years) or mild (n = 15; age 49.67 ± 7.30 years) disease and compared with age and sex-matched healthy adults (n = 59; age 50.49 ± 10.68 years). We assessed a broad range of immune cell phenotypes to generate a composite score, IMM-AGE, to determine the degree of immune senescence. We found increased immunesenescence features in severe COVID-19 survivors compared to controls including: a reduced frequency and number of naïve CD4 and CD8 T cells (p < 0.0001); increased frequency of EMRA CD4 (p < 0.003) and CD8 T cells (p < 0.001); a higher frequency (p < 0.0001) and absolute numbers (p < 0.001) of CD28-ve CD57+ve senescent CD4 and CD8 T cells; higher frequency (p < 0.003) and absolute numbers (p < 0.02) of PD-1 expressing exhausted CD8 T cells; a two-fold increase in Th17 polarisation (p < 0.0001); higher frequency of memory B cells (p < 0.001) and increased frequency (p < 0.0001) and numbers (p < 0.001) of CD57+ve senescent NK cells. As a result, the IMM-AGE score was significantly higher in severe COVID-19 survivors than in controls (p < 0.001). Few differences were seen for those with moderate disease and none for mild disease. Regression analysis revealed the only pre-existing variable influencing the IMM-AGE score was South Asian ethnicity ([Formula: see text] = 0.174, p = 0.043), with a major influence being disease severity ([Formula: see text] = 0.188, p = 0.01). CONCLUSIONS Our analyses reveal a state of enhanced immune ageing in survivors of severe COVID-19 and suggest this could be related to SARS-Cov-2 infection. Our data support the rationale for trials of anti-immune ageing interventions for improving clinical outcomes in these patients with severe disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Janet M Lord
- MRC-Versus Arthritis Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research, Office 6, University of Birmingham Research Labs, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham, UK
- NIHR Birmingham Biomedical Research Centre, University Hospital Birmingham and University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- NIHR Surgical Reconstruction and Microbiology Research Centre, University Hospital Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Tonny Veenith
- NIHR Surgical Reconstruction and Microbiology Research Centre, University Hospital Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Jack Sullivan
- MRC-Versus Arthritis Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research, Office 6, University of Birmingham Research Labs, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham, UK
| | | | - Alex G Richter
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Neil J Greening
- Institute for Lung Health, NIHR Leicester Biomedical Research Centre, Glenfield Hospital, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
| | - Hamish J C McAuley
- Institute for Lung Health, NIHR Leicester Biomedical Research Centre, Glenfield Hospital, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
| | - Rachael A Evans
- Institute for Lung Health, NIHR Leicester Biomedical Research Centre, Glenfield Hospital, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
| | - Paul Moss
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Shona C Moore
- NIHR Health Protection Research Unit in Emerging and Zoonotic Infections, Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Lance Turtle
- NIHR Health Protection Research Unit in Emerging and Zoonotic Infections, Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Nandan Gautam
- Queen Elizabeth Hospital, University Hospital Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Ahmed Gilani
- Queen Elizabeth Hospital, University Hospital Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Manan Bajaj
- Queen Elizabeth Hospital, University Hospital Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Louise V Wain
- Institute for Lung Health, NIHR Leicester Biomedical Research Centre, Glenfield Hospital, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
- Department of Population Health Sciences, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
| | - Christopher Brightling
- Institute for Lung Health, NIHR Leicester Biomedical Research Centre, Glenfield Hospital, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
| | - Betty Raman
- Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Michael Marks
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, University of London, London, UK
| | - Amisha Singapuri
- Institute for Lung Health, NIHR Leicester Biomedical Research Centre, Glenfield Hospital, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
| | - Omer Elneima
- Institute for Lung Health, NIHR Leicester Biomedical Research Centre, Glenfield Hospital, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
| | | | - Niharika A Duggal
- MRC-Versus Arthritis Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research, Office 6, University of Birmingham Research Labs, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Müller L, Di Benedetto S. Immunosenescence and Cytomegalovirus: Exploring Their Connection in the Context of Aging, Health, and Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:753. [PMID: 38255826 PMCID: PMC10815036 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25020753] [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: 11/18/2023] [Revised: 12/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Aging induces numerous physiological alterations, with immunosenescence emerging as a pivotal factor. This phenomenon has attracted both researchers and clinicians, prompting profound questions about its implications for health and disease. Among the contributing factors, one intriguing actor in this complex interplay is human cytomegalovirus (CMV), a member of the herpesvirus family. Latent CMV infection exerts a profound influence on the aging immune system, potentially contributing to age-related diseases. This review delves into the intricate relationship between immunosenescence and CMV, revealing how chronic viral infection impacts the aging immune landscape. We explore the mechanisms through which CMV can impact both the composition and functionality of immune cell populations and induce shifts in inflammatory profiles with aging. Moreover, we examine the potential role of CMV in pathologies such as cardiovascular diseases, cancer, neurodegenerative disorders, COVID-19, and Long COVID. This review underlines the importance of understanding the complex interplay between immunosenescence and CMV. It offers insights into the pathophysiology of aging and age-associated diseases, as well as COVID-19 outcomes among the elderly. By unraveling the connections between immunosenescence and CMV, we gain a deeper understanding of aging's remarkable journey and the profound role that viral infections play in transforming the human immune system.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ludmila Müller
- Max Planck Institute for Human Development, Lentzeallee 94, 14195 Berlin, Germany
| | | |
Collapse
|
8
|
Harro CM, Sprenger KB, Chaurio RA, Powers JJ, Innamarato P, Anadon CM, Zhang Y, Biswas S, Mandal G, Mine JA, Cortina C, Nagy MZ, Martin AL, Handley KF, Borjas GJ, Chen PL, Pinilla-Ibarz J, Sokol L, Yu X, Conejo-Garcia JR. Sézary syndrome originates from heavily mutated hematopoietic progenitors. Blood Adv 2023; 7:5586-5602. [PMID: 37531660 PMCID: PMC10514084 DOI: 10.1182/bloodadvances.2022008562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2022] [Revised: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The pathogenesis of cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL) remains unclear. Using single-cell RNA or T-cell receptor (TCR) sequencing of 32 619 CD3+CD4+ and CD26+/CD7+ and 29 932 CD3+CD4+ and CD26-/CD7- lymphocytes from the peripheral blood of 7 patients with CTCL, coupled to single-cell ATAC-sequencing of 26,411 CD3+CD4+ and CD26+/CD7+ and 33 841 CD3+CD4+ and CD26-/CD7- lymphocytes, we show that tumor cells in Sézary syndrome and mycosis fungoides (MF) exhibit different phenotypes and trajectories of differentiation. When compared to MF, Sézary cells exhibit narrower repertoires of TCRs and exhibit clonal enrichment. Surprisingly, we identified ≥200 mutations in hematopoietic stem cells from multiple patients with Sézary syndrome. Mutations in key oncogenes were also present in peripheral Sézary cells, which also showed the hallmarks of recent thymic egression. Together our data suggest that CTCL arises from mutated lymphocyte progenitors that acquire TCRs in the thymus, which complete their malignant transformation in the periphery.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carly M. Harro
- Department of Immunology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute, Tampa, FL
- Department of Cell Biology, Microbiology, and Molecular Biology, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL
- Cancer Biology PhD Program, College of Arts and Sciences, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL
| | - Kimberly B. Sprenger
- Department of Immunology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute, Tampa, FL
| | - Ricardo A. Chaurio
- Department of Immunology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute, Tampa, FL
- Department of Immunology, Duke School of Medicine, Durham, NC
| | - John J. Powers
- Department of Immunology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute, Tampa, FL
| | - Patrick Innamarato
- Department of Immunology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute, Tampa, FL
| | - Carmen M. Anadon
- Department of Immunology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute, Tampa, FL
- Department of Immunology, Duke School of Medicine, Durham, NC
| | - Yumeng Zhang
- Department of Malignant Hematology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute, Tampa, FL
| | - Subir Biswas
- Department of Immunology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute, Tampa, FL
- Advanced Centre for Treatment, Research and Education in Cancer, Tata Memorial Centre, Kharghar, Navi Mumbai, India
| | - Gunjan Mandal
- Department of Immunology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute, Tampa, FL
- Department of Biotechnology, Institute of Life Sciences, Bhubaneswar, India
| | - Jessica A. Mine
- Department of Immunology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute, Tampa, FL
- Department of Immunology, Duke School of Medicine, Durham, NC
| | - Carla Cortina
- Department of Immunology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute, Tampa, FL
| | - Mate Z. Nagy
- Department of Immunology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute, Tampa, FL
| | - Alexandra L. Martin
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute, Tampa, FL
| | - Katelyn F. Handley
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute, Tampa, FL
| | - Gustavo J. Borjas
- Department of Immunology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute, Tampa, FL
| | - Pei-Ling Chen
- Department of Pathology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute, Tampa, FL
| | - Javier Pinilla-Ibarz
- Department of Malignant Hematology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute, Tampa, FL
| | - Lubomir Sokol
- Department of Malignant Hematology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute, Tampa, FL
| | - Xiaoqing Yu
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute, Tampa, FL
| | - Jose R. Conejo-Garcia
- Department of Immunology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute, Tampa, FL
- Department of Immunology, Duke School of Medicine, Durham, NC
- Department of Malignant Hematology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute, Tampa, FL
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute, Tampa, FL
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Paparazzo E, Geracitano S, Lagani V, Citrigno L, Bartolomeo D, Aceto MA, Bruno F, Maletta R, Passarino G, Montesanto A. Thymic function and survival at advance ages in nursing home residents from Southern Italy. Immun Ageing 2023; 20:16. [PMID: 37038200 PMCID: PMC10084596 DOI: 10.1186/s12979-023-00340-0] [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: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 04/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Immunosenescence is a complex process characterized by an age-related remodelling of immune system. The prominent effects of the immunosenescence process is the thymic involution and, consequently, the decreased numbers and functions of T cells. Since thymic involution results in a collapse of the T-cell receptor (TCR) repertoire, a reliable biomarker of its activity is represented by the quantification of signal joint T-cell receptor rearrangement excision circles (sjTRECs) levels. Although it is reasonable to think that thymic function could play a crucial role on elderly survival, only a few studies investigated the relationship between an accurate measurement of human thymic function and survival at old ages. METHODS AND FINDINGS By quantifying the amount sjTRECs by real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR), the decrease in thymic output in 241 nursing home residents from Calabria (Southern Italy) was evaluated to investigate the relationship between thymic function and survival at old ages. We found that low sjTREC levels were associated with a significant increased risk of mortality at older ages. Nursing home residents with lower sjTREC exhibit a near 2-fold increase in mortality risk compared to those with sjTREC levels in a normal range. CONCLUSION Thymic function failure is an independent predictor of mortality among elderly nursing home residents. sjTREC represents a biomarker of effective ageing as its blood levels could anticipate individuals at high risk of negative health outcomes. The identification of these subjects is crucial to manage older people's immune function and resilience, such as, for instance, to plan more efficient vaccinal campaigns in older populations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ersilia Paparazzo
- Department of Biology, Ecology and Earth Sciences, University of Calabria, Rende, 87036, Italy
| | - Silvana Geracitano
- Department of Biology, Ecology and Earth Sciences, University of Calabria, Rende, 87036, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Lagani
- Biological and Environmental Sciences and Engineering Division (BESE), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology KAUST, Thuwal, 23952, Saudi Arabia
- SDAIA-KAUST Center of Excellence in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology KAUST, Thuwal, 23952, Saudi Arabia
- Institute of Chemical Biology, Ilia State University, Tbilisi, 0162, Georgia
| | - Luigi Citrigno
- National Research Council (CNR) - Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation - (IRIB), 87050 Mangone, Cosenza, Italy
| | - Denise Bartolomeo
- Department of Biology, Ecology and Earth Sciences, University of Calabria, Rende, 87036, Italy
| | - Mirella Aurora Aceto
- Department of Biology, Ecology and Earth Sciences, University of Calabria, Rende, 87036, Italy
| | - Francesco Bruno
- Regional Neurogenetic Centre (CRN), Department of Primary Care, ASP Catanzaro, Lamezia Terme (CZ), 88046, Italy
- Association for Neurogenetic Research (ARN), Lamezia Terme (CZ), 88046, Italy
| | - Raffaele Maletta
- Regional Neurogenetic Centre (CRN), Department of Primary Care, ASP Catanzaro, Lamezia Terme (CZ), 88046, Italy
- Association for Neurogenetic Research (ARN), Lamezia Terme (CZ), 88046, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Passarino
- Department of Biology, Ecology and Earth Sciences, University of Calabria, Rende, 87036, Italy
| | - Alberto Montesanto
- Department of Biology, Ecology and Earth Sciences, University of Calabria, Rende, 87036, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Ruxton CHS, Kajita C, Rocca P, Pot B. Microbiota and probiotics: chances and challenges - a symposium report. GUT MICROBIOME (CAMBRIDGE, ENGLAND) 2023; 4:e6. [PMID: 39295904 PMCID: PMC11406417 DOI: 10.1017/gmb.2023.4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2023] [Revised: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 03/16/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2024]
Abstract
The 10th International Yakult Symposium was held in Milan, Italy, on 13-14 October 2022. Two keynote lectures covered the crewed journey to space and its implications for the human microbiome, and how current regulatory systems can be adapted and updated to ensure the safety of microorganisms used as probiotics or food processing ingredients. The remaining lectures were split into sections entitled "Chances" and "Challenges." The "Chances" section explored opportunities for the science of probiotics and fermented foods to contribute to diverse areas of health such as irritable bowel syndrome, major depression, Parkinson's disease, immune dysfunction, infant colic, intensive care, respiratory infections, and promoting healthy longevity. The "Challenges" section included selecting appropriate clinical trial participants and methodologies to minimise heterogeneity in responses, how to view probiotics in the context of One Health, adapting regulatory frameworks, and understanding how substances of bacterial origin can cross the blood-brain barrier. The symposium provided evidence from cutting-edge research that gut eubiosis is vital for human health and, like space, the microbiota deserves further exploration of its vast potential.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Bruno Pot
- Yakult Europe BV, Almere, Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
AKDENİZ FATMATUBA, AKBULUT ZEYNEP, VAYVADA MUSTAFA, KALAMANOĞLU BALCI MERİH, YEGİNSU ALİ, YANIKKAYA DEMİREL GULDEREN, KUTLU CEMALASIM. Monitoring T-Cell Kinetics in the Early Recovery Period of Lung Transplantation Cases by Copy Number Levels of T-Cell Receptor Excision Circle. In Vivo 2023; 37:310-319. [PMID: 36593057 PMCID: PMC9843769 DOI: 10.21873/invivo.13081] [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: 09/15/2022] [Revised: 10/21/2022] [Accepted: 11/10/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIM Lung transplantation is a life-saving procedure for patients with end-stage lung diseases. T-Cell receptor excision circle (TREC) is circular DNA produced during T-cell receptor gene rearrangement in the thymus and indicates naive T-cell migration from the thymus. Therefore, its levels represent thymic T-cell output. Post-transplant lymphocyte kinetics correlate with graft tolerance. The aim of this study was to investigate T-lymphocyte kinetics in the early recovery period after lung transplantation. For this purpose, copy numbers of TREC were determined in patients with a lung transplant. In addition, TREC copy numbers were evaluated according to age, diagnosis and the forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) of lung transplant patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS Peripheral blood samples were taken from patients aged 23 to 59 years who underwent lung transplantation at the Thoracic Surgery Clinic, Kartal-Koşuyolu High Specialization Educational and Research Hospital. This study included peripheral blood samples from 11 lung transplant patients (comprising four with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, three with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, one with cystic fibrosis, one with silicosis and two with bronchiectasis; three females in total). Samples were taken at three different timepoints: Before transplant, and 24 hours and 7 days post transplant. TREC copy numbers were analyzed with real time reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction. RESULTS Post-transplant TREC numbers and density values were higher compared to pre-transplant values, although these differences were statistically insignificant. TREC copy numbers were found to be significantly higher in patients younger than 45 years compared to patients older than 45 years. At 24 hours after the transplant, the average TREC copy number/peripheral blood mononuclear cells of the cases with an FEV1 value of or below 50% was found to be statistically significantly higher than that of cases with an FEV1 value above 50% (p=0.046). There was no statistically significant difference in TREC copy numbers between male and female patients or by diagnostic group. CONCLUSION TREC copy numbers can be evaluated as a prognostic marker for lung transplantation. There is a need for multicenter studies with more patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- FATMA TUBA AKDENİZ
- Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Yeditepe University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - ZEYNEP AKBULUT
- Department of Medical Biology and Genetic, Faculty of Medicine, Maltepe University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - MUSTAFA VAYVADA
- Thoracic Surgery Clinic, Kartal-Koşuyolu High Specialization Educational and Research Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | | | - ALİ YEGİNSU
- Thoracic Surgery Clinic, Liv Hospital Vadi, Istanbul, Turkey
| | | | - CEMAL ASIM KUTLU
- Department of Chest Disease, Faculty of Medicine, Bahçeşehir University, Istanbul, Turkey
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Seymour F, Carmichael J, Taylor C, Parrish C, Cook G. Immune senescence in multiple myeloma-a role for mitochondrial dysfunction? Leukemia 2022; 36:2368-2373. [PMID: 35879358 DOI: 10.1038/s41375-022-01653-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2022] [Revised: 07/02/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Age-related immune dysfunction is primarily mediated by immunosenescence which results in ineffective clearance of infective pathogens, poor vaccine responses and increased susceptibility to multi-morbidities. Immunosenescence-related immunometabolic abnormalities are associated with accelerated aging, an inflammatory immune response (inflammaging) and ultimately frailty syndromes. In addition, several conditions can accelerate the development of immunosenescence, including cancer. This is a bi-directional interaction since inflammaging may create a permissive environment for tumour development. Multiple myeloma (MM) is a mature B-cell malignancy that presents in the older population. MM exemplifies the interaction of age- (Host Response Biology; HRB) and disease-related immunological dysfunction, contributing to the development of a frailty syndrome which impairs the therapeutic impact of recent advances in treatment strategies. Understanding the mechanisms by which accelerated immunological aging is induced and the ways in which a tumour such as MM influences this process is key to overcoming therapeutic barriers. A link between cellular mitochondrial dysfunction and the acquisition of an abnormal immune phenotype has recently been described and has widespread physiological consequence beyond the impact on the immune system. Here we outline our current understanding of normal immune aging, describe the mechanism of immunometabolic dysfunction in accelerating this process, and propose the role these processes are playing in the pathogenesis of MM.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Frances Seymour
- Department of Haematology, Leeds Cancer Centre, Leeds Teaching Hospitals Trust, Leeds, UK.
| | - Jonathan Carmichael
- Department of Haematology, Leeds Cancer Centre, Leeds Teaching Hospitals Trust, Leeds, UK
- NIHR (Leeds) Medtech & In vitro Diagnostic Cooperative, Leeds, UK
| | - Claire Taylor
- Experimental Haematology, Leeds Institute of Medical Research, University of Leeds UK, Leeds, UK
| | - Christopher Parrish
- Department of Haematology, Leeds Cancer Centre, Leeds Teaching Hospitals Trust, Leeds, UK
- Cancer Research UK Clinical Trials Unit, Leeds Institute of Clinical Trial Research, University of Leeds UK, Leeds, UK
| | - Gordon Cook
- Department of Haematology, Leeds Cancer Centre, Leeds Teaching Hospitals Trust, Leeds, UK
- NIHR (Leeds) Medtech & In vitro Diagnostic Cooperative, Leeds, UK
- Cancer Research UK Clinical Trials Unit, Leeds Institute of Clinical Trial Research, University of Leeds UK, Leeds, UK
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Wu Q, Luo S, Xie X. Lack of Efficacy of Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors in Cancer Patients Older Than 75? J Immunother 2022; 45:307-320. [PMID: 35674663 DOI: 10.1097/cji.0000000000000426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2022] [Accepted: 05/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
This research was designed to compare the efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) in cancer patients among different age groups. Electronic databases were searched to identify relevant trials. Randomized-controlled trials (RCTs) with ICIs and RCTs that conducted subgroup analysis of overall survival (OS) and/or progression-free survival (PFS) based on age were included. Summary hazard ratio (HR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were available. Totally, 35,777 individuals from 59 RCTs were recruited. ICIs can ameliorate OS and PFS of cancer patients in groups of below 65 year and 65-75 years. Conversely, patients in group of 75 years or above failed to acquire benefit from ICIs for both OS (HR=0.99, 95% CI: 0.91-1.09, P =0.8767) and PFS (HR=0.96, 95% CI: 0.82-1.11, P =0.5694). Subgroup analysis was performed based on class of ICIs, type of ICIs, type of cancer, line of treatment, blind method, and type of nonsmall-cell lung cancer. In all subgroups, OS and PFS were not significantly improved in patients 75 years or above. Cancer patients older than 75 years failed to acquire remarkable benefit from ICIs for both OS and PFS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qing Wu
- Department of Oncology, Molecular Oncology Research Institute
| | - Shuimei Luo
- Department of Oncology, Molecular Oncology Research Institute
| | - Xianhe Xie
- Department of Oncology, Molecular Oncology Research Institute
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine for Cancer, the First Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Lewis ED, Wu D, Meydani SN. Age-associated alterations in immune function and inflammation. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2022; 118:110576. [PMID: 35588939 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2022.110576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Immunosenescence is a term used to describe the age-related changes in the immune system. Immunosenescence is associated with complex alterations and dysregulation of immune function and inflammatory processes. Age-related changes in innate immune responses including alterations in chemotactic, phagocytic, and natural killing functions, impaired antigen presenting capacity, and dysregulated inflammatory response have been described. The most striking and best characterized feature of immunosenescence is the decline in both number and function of T cells. With age there is decreased proliferation, decreased number of antigen-naïve T cells, and increased number of antigen-experienced memory T cells. This decline in naïve T cell population is associated with impaired immunity and reduced response to new or mutated pathogens. While the absolute number of peripheral B cells appears constant with age, changes in B cell functions including reduced antibody production and response and cell memory have been described. However, the main alteration in cell-mediated function that has been reported across all species with aging is those observed in in T cell. These T cell mediated changes have been shown to contribute to increased susceptibility to infection and cancer in older adults. In addition to functional and phenotype alterations in immune cells, studies demonstrate that circulating concentrations of inflammatory mediators in older adults are higher than those of young. This low grade, chronic inflammatory state that occurs in the context of aging has been termed "inflammaging". This review will focus on age-related changes in the immune system including immunosenescence and inflammation as well as the functional consequences of these age-related alterations for the aged.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Erin Diane Lewis
- Nutritional Immunology Laboratory, Jean Mayer USDA Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging at Tufts University, Boston, MA 02111, United States of America
| | - Dayong Wu
- Nutritional Immunology Laboratory, Jean Mayer USDA Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging at Tufts University, Boston, MA 02111, United States of America
| | - Simin Nikbin Meydani
- Nutritional Immunology Laboratory, Jean Mayer USDA Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging at Tufts University, Boston, MA 02111, United States of America.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Lancaster JN, Keatinge‐Clay DE, Srinivasan J, Li Y, Selden HJ, Nam S, Richie ER, Ehrlich LIR. Central tolerance is impaired in the middle-aged thymic environment. Aging Cell 2022; 21:e13624. [PMID: 35561351 PMCID: PMC9197411 DOI: 10.1111/acel.13624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2022] [Revised: 04/03/2022] [Accepted: 04/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
One of the earliest hallmarks of immune aging is thymus involution, which not only reduces the number of newly generated and exported T cells, but also alters the composition and organization of the thymus microenvironment. Thymic T‐cell export continues into adulthood, yet the impact of thymus involution on the quality of newly generated T‐cell clones is not well established. Notably, the number and proportion of medullary thymic epithelial cells (mTECs) and expression of tissue‐restricted antigens (TRAs) decline with age, suggesting the involuting thymus may not promote efficient central tolerance. Here, we demonstrate that the middle‐aged thymic environment does not support rapid motility of medullary thymocytes, potentially diminishing their ability to scan antigen presenting cells (APCs) that display the diverse self‐antigens that induce central tolerance. Consistent with this possibility, thymic slice assays reveal that the middle‐aged thymic environment does not support efficient negative selection or regulatory T‐cell (Treg) induction of thymocytes responsive to either TRAs or ubiquitous self‐antigens. This decline in central tolerance is not universal, but instead impacts lower‐avidity self‐antigens that are either less abundant or bind to TCRs with moderate affinities. Additionally, the decline in thymic tolerance by middle age is accompanied by both a reduction in mTECs and hematopoietic APC subsets that cooperate to drive central tolerance. Thus, age‐associated changes in the thymic environment result in impaired central tolerance against moderate‐avidity self‐antigens, potentially resulting in export of increasingly autoreactive naive T cells, with a deficit of Treg counterparts by middle age.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jessica N. Lancaster
- Department of Molecular Biosciences The University of Texas at Austin Austin Texas USA
| | | | - Jayashree Srinivasan
- Department of Molecular Biosciences The University of Texas at Austin Austin Texas USA
| | - Yu Li
- Department of Molecular Biosciences The University of Texas at Austin Austin Texas USA
| | - Hilary J. Selden
- Department of Molecular Biosciences The University of Texas at Austin Austin Texas USA
| | - Seohee Nam
- Department of Molecular Biosciences The University of Texas at Austin Austin Texas USA
| | - Ellen R. Richie
- Department of Epigenetics and Molecular Carcinogenesis The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Houston Texas USA
| | - Lauren I. R. Ehrlich
- Department of Molecular Biosciences The University of Texas at Austin Austin Texas USA
- Department of Oncology Dell Medical School at The University of Texas at Austin Austin Texas USA
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Salih Z, Banyard A, Tweedy J, Galvani E, Middlehurst P, Mills S, Weightman J, Gupta A, Lorigan PC, Zhou C, Dhomen N, Valpione S, Marais R. T cell immune awakening in response to immunotherapy is age-dependent. Eur J Cancer 2022; 162:11-21. [PMID: 34952479 PMCID: PMC8829752 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejca.2021.11.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2021] [Revised: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Precision immuno-oncology approaches are needed to improve cancer care. We recently demonstrated that in patients with metastatic melanoma, an increase of clonality or diversity of the T cell receptor (TCR) repertoire of peripheral T cells following one cycle of immunotherapy is coincident with response to immune-checkpoint blockade (ICB). We also identified a subset of peripheral CD8+ immune-effector memory T cells (TIE cells) whose expansion was associated with response to ICB and increased overall survival. To improve our understanding of peripheral T cell dynamics, we examined the clinical correlates associated with these immune signatures. METHODS Fifty patients with metastatic melanoma treated with first-line anti-PD-1 ICB were included. We analysed TCR repertoire and peripheral TIE cell dynamics by age before treatment (T0) and after the first cycle of treatment at week 3 (W3). RESULTS We observed a correlation between TIE abundance and age at T0 (r = 0.40), which reduced following treatment at W3 (r = 0.07). However, at W3, we observed two significantly opposing patterns (p = 0.03) of TCR repertoire rearrangement in patients who responded to treatment, with patients ≥70 years of age showing an increase in TCR clonality and patients <70 years of age showing an increase in TCR diversity. CONCLUSIONS We demonstrate that immunotherapy-induced immune-awakening patterns in patients with melanoma are age-related and may impact patient response to ICB, and thus have implications for biomarker development and planning of personalised therapeutic strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zena Salih
- Molecular Oncology Group, Cancer Research UK Manchester Institute, The University of Manchester, Alderley Park, Macclesfield, Cheshire SK10 4TG, United Kingdom; The Christie NHS Foundation Trust, 550 Wilmslow Road, Manchester M20 4BX, United Kingdom
| | - Antonia Banyard
- Flow Cytometry, Cancer Research UK Manchester Institute, the University of Manchester, Alderley Park, Macclesfield, Cheshire SK10 4TG, United Kingdom
| | - Joshua Tweedy
- Molecular Oncology Group, Cancer Research UK Manchester Institute, The University of Manchester, Alderley Park, Macclesfield, Cheshire SK10 4TG, United Kingdom
| | - Elena Galvani
- Molecular Oncology Group, Cancer Research UK Manchester Institute, The University of Manchester, Alderley Park, Macclesfield, Cheshire SK10 4TG, United Kingdom
| | - Philippa Middlehurst
- Manchester Cancer Research Centre Biobank, The Christie NHS Foundation Trust, 550 Wilmslow Road, Manchester M20 4BX, United Kingdom
| | - Sarah Mills
- Manchester Cancer Research Centre Biobank, The Christie NHS Foundation Trust, 550 Wilmslow Road, Manchester M20 4BX, United Kingdom
| | - John Weightman
- Molecular Biology Core Facility, Cancer Research UK Manchester Institute, the University of Manchester, Alderley Park, Macclesfield, Cheshire SK10 4TG, United Kingdom
| | - Avinash Gupta
- The Christie NHS Foundation Trust, 550 Wilmslow Road, Manchester M20 4BX, United Kingdom
| | - Paul C Lorigan
- The Christie NHS Foundation Trust, 550 Wilmslow Road, Manchester M20 4BX, United Kingdom; Division of Cancer Sciences, The University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PL, United Kingdom
| | - Cong Zhou
- Cancer Biomarker Centre, Cancer Research UK Manchester Institute, The University of Manchester, Alderley Park, Macclesfield, Cheshire SK10 4TG, United Kingdom
| | - Nathalie Dhomen
- Molecular Oncology Group, Cancer Research UK Manchester Institute, The University of Manchester, Alderley Park, Macclesfield, Cheshire SK10 4TG, United Kingdom
| | - Sara Valpione
- Molecular Oncology Group, Cancer Research UK Manchester Institute, The University of Manchester, Alderley Park, Macclesfield, Cheshire SK10 4TG, United Kingdom; The Christie NHS Foundation Trust, 550 Wilmslow Road, Manchester M20 4BX, United Kingdom
| | - Richard Marais
- Molecular Oncology Group, Cancer Research UK Manchester Institute, The University of Manchester, Alderley Park, Macclesfield, Cheshire SK10 4TG, United Kingdom.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
How Immunosenescence and Inflammaging May Contribute to Hyperinflammatory Syndrome in COVID-19. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222212539. [PMID: 34830421 PMCID: PMC8618618 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222212539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2021] [Revised: 11/17/2021] [Accepted: 11/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Aging is characterized by the dynamic remodeling of the immune system designated “immunosenescence,” and is associated with altered hematopoiesis, thymic involution, and lifelong immune stimulation by multitudinous chronic stressors, including the cytomegalovirus (CMV). Such alterations may contribute to a lowered proportion of naïve T-cells and to reduced diversity of the T-cell repertoire. In the peripheral circulation, a shift occurs towards accumulations of T and B-cell populations with memory phenotypes, and to accumulation of putatively senescent and exhausted immune cells. The aging-related accumulations of functionally exhausted memory T lymphocytes, commonly secreting pro-inflammatory cytokines, together with mediators and factors of the innate immune system, are considered to contribute to the low-grade inflammation (inflammaging) often observed in elderly people. These senescent immune cells not only secrete inflammatory mediators, but are also able to negatively modulate their environments. In this review, we give a short summary of the ways that immunosenescence, inflammaging, and CMV infection may cause insufficient immune responses, contribute to the establishment of the hyperinflammatory syndrome and impact the severity of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in elderly people.
Collapse
|
18
|
Stojić-Vukanić Z, Pilipović I, Arsenović-Ranin N, Dimitrijević M, Leposavić G. Sex-specific remodeling of T-cell compartment with aging: Implications for rat susceptibility to central nervous system autoimmune diseases. Immunol Lett 2021; 239:42-59. [PMID: 34418487 DOI: 10.1016/j.imlet.2021.08.003] [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: 02/08/2021] [Revised: 06/12/2021] [Accepted: 08/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
The incidence of multiple sclerosis (MS) and susceptibility of animals to experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), the most commonly used experimental model of MS, decrease with aging. Generally, autoimmune diseases develop as the ultimate outcome of an imbalance between damaging immune responses against self and regulatory immune responses (keeping the former under control). Thus, in this review the age-related changes possibly underlying this balance were discussed. Specifically, considering the central role of T cells in MS/EAE, the impact of aging on overall functional capacity (reflecting both overall count and individual functional cell properties) of self-reactive conventional T cells (Tcons) and FoxP3+ regulatory T cells (Tregs), as the most potent immunoregulatory/suppressive cells, was analyzed, as well. The analysis encompasses three distinct compartments: thymus (the primary lymphoid organ responsible for the elimination of self-reactive T cells - negative selection and the generation of Tregs, compensating for imperfections of the negative selection), peripheral blood/lymphoid tissues ("afferent" compartment), and brain/spinal cord tissues ("target" compartment). Given that the incidence of MS and susceptibility of animals to EAE are greater in women/females than in age-matched men/males, sex as independent variable was also considered. In conclusion, with aging, sex-specific alterations in the balance of self-reactive Tcons/Tregs are likely to occur not only in the thymus/"afferent" compartment, but also in the "target" compartment, reflecting multifaceted changes in both T-cell types. Their in depth understanding is important not only for envisaging effects of aging, but also for designing interventions to slow-down aging without any adverse effect on incidence of autoimmune diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zorica Stojić-Vukanić
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Belgrade - Faculty of Pharmacy, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Ivan Pilipović
- Immunology Research Centre "Branislav Janković", Institute of Virology, Vaccines and Sera "Torlak", Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Nevena Arsenović-Ranin
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Belgrade - Faculty of Pharmacy, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Mirjana Dimitrijević
- Department of Immunology, University of Belgrade - Institute for Biological Research "Siniša Stanković" - National Institute of Republic of Serbia, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Gordana Leposavić
- Department of Pathobiology, University of Belgrade - Faculty of Pharmacy, Belgrade, Serbia.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Acute Myeloid Leukemia: Is It T Time? Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13102385. [PMID: 34069204 PMCID: PMC8156992 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13102385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2021] [Revised: 04/30/2021] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a heterogeneous disease driven by impaired differentiation of hematopoietic primitive cells toward myeloid lineages (monocytes, granulocytes, red blood cells, platelets), leading to expansion and accumulation of "stem" and/or "progenitor"-like or differentiated leukemic cells in the bone marrow and blood. AML progression alters the bone marrow microenvironment and inhibits hematopoiesis' proper functioning, causing sustained cytopenia and immunodeficiency. This review describes how the AML microenvironment influences lymphoid lineages, particularly T lymphocytes that originate from the thymus and orchestrate adaptive immune response. We focus on the elderly population, which is mainly affected by this pathology. We discuss how a permissive AML microenvironment can alter and even worsen the thymic function, T cells' peripheral homeostasis, phenotype, and functions. Based on the recent findings on the mechanisms supporting that AML induces quantitative and qualitative changes in T cells, we suggest and summarize current immunotherapeutic strategies and challenges to overcome these anomalies to improve the anti-leukemic immune response and the clinical outcome of patients.
Collapse
|
20
|
Huang X, Tian T, Zhang Y, Zhou S, Hu P, Zhang J. Age-Associated Changes in Adverse Events Arising From Anti-PD-(L)1 Therapy. Front Oncol 2021; 11:619385. [PMID: 34055598 PMCID: PMC8155669 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.619385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2020] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Immune-related adverse events (irAEs) may complicate the immune checkpoint inhibition (ICI) therapy. The effect of age on these irAEs is not elucidated. The aim of the study was to compare the occurrence of irAEs in different age groups. Methods Patients with lung cancer receiving anti-programmed death- (ligand)1 (PD-(L)1) were selected from the US Food and Drug Administration Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) database. Immune cell infiltration data set was obtained from TIMER 2.0 web server. The patients were stratified for age as follows: <65 year-old (young patients, YP), 65 to 75 year-old (middle aged patients, MP), ≥75 year-old (old patients, OP). The severity of irAEs was compared using logistic binary regression model. The distribution differences of immune cell infiltration were estimated using non-parametric tests. Results Of all the 17,006 patients treated by anti-PD-(L)1, 7,355 were <65 (YP), 6,706 were 65–75 (MP), and 2,945 were ≥75 (OP). In general, we analyzed a total of 16 irAEs in this article and found that pulmonary toxicity was more frequent in OP (OP vs. YP: OR = 1.45, 95% CI: 1.28–1.64) and MP (MP vs. YP: OR = 1.38, 95% CI: 1.24–1.52), but hepatitis was less frequent in OP (OP vs. YP: OR = 0.56, 95% CI: 0.32–0.97) and MP (MP vs. YP: OR = 0.57, 95%CI: 0.38–0.85). Further analysis demonstrated that older patients showed less B cell, CD8+ T cell and myeloid dendritic cell infiltration than younger patients. Conclusions Elderly patients exhibited higher incidences of pulmonary toxicity, while hepatitis was found at low incidence. Therefore, clinicians should carefully monitor comorbidities in elderly patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xinyi Huang
- Department of Oncology, Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China.,Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Jinan, China.,Shandong Lung Cancer Institute, Jinan, China
| | - Tiantian Tian
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Jinan, China.,Shandong Lung Cancer Institute, Jinan, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Jinan, China.,Shandong Lung Cancer Institute, Jinan, China
| | - Shengjian Zhou
- Department of Oncology, Liangshan County People's Hospital, Jining, China
| | - Pingping Hu
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Jinan, China.,Shandong Lung Cancer Institute, Jinan, China
| | - Jiandong Zhang
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Jinan, China.,Shandong Lung Cancer Institute, Jinan, China
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Thymic Aging May Be Associated with COVID-19 Pathophysiology in the Elderly. Cells 2021; 10:cells10030628. [PMID: 33808998 PMCID: PMC8001029 DOI: 10.3390/cells10030628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2021] [Revised: 03/01/2021] [Accepted: 03/10/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) caused the global pandemic of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and particularly exhibits severe symptoms and mortality in elderly individuals. Mounting evidence shows that the characteristics of the age-related clinical severity of COVID-19 are attributed to insufficient antiviral immune function and excessive self-damaging immune reaction, involving T cell immunity and associated with pre-existing basal inflammation in the elderly. Age-related changes to T cell immunosenescence is characterized by not only restricted T cell receptor (TCR) repertoire diversity, accumulation of exhausted and/or senescent memory T cells, but also by increased self-reactive T cell- and innate immune cell-induced chronic inflammation, and accumulated and functionally enhanced polyclonal regulatory T (Treg) cells. Many of these changes can be traced back to age-related thymic involution/degeneration. How these changes contribute to differences in COVID-19 disease severity between young and aged patients is an urgent area of investigation. Therefore, we attempt to connect various clues in this field by reviewing and discussing recent research on the role of the thymus and T cells in COVID-19 immunity during aging (a synergistic effect of diminished responses to pathogens and enhanced responses to self) impacting age-related clinical severity of COVID-19. We also address potential combinational strategies to rejuvenate multiple aging-impacted immune system checkpoints by revival of aged thymic function, boosting peripheral T cell responses, and alleviating chronic, basal inflammation to improve the efficiency of anti-SARS-CoV-2 immunity and vaccination in the elderly.
Collapse
|
22
|
James KD, Jenkinson WE, Anderson G. Non-Epithelial Stromal Cells in Thymus Development and Function. Front Immunol 2021; 12:634367. [PMID: 33717173 PMCID: PMC7946857 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.634367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2020] [Accepted: 01/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The thymus supports T-cell development via specialized microenvironments that ensure a diverse, functional and self-tolerant T-cell population. These microenvironments are classically defined as distinct cortex and medulla regions that each contain specialized subsets of stromal cells. Extensive research on thymic epithelial cells (TEC) within the cortex and medulla has defined their essential roles during T-cell development. Significantly, there are additional non-epithelial stromal cells (NES) that exist alongside TEC within thymic microenvironments, including multiple subsets of mesenchymal and endothelial cells. In contrast to our current understanding of TEC biology, the developmental origins, lineage relationships, and functional properties, of NES remain poorly understood. However, experimental evidence suggests these cells are important for thymus function by either directly influencing T-cell development, or by indirectly regulating TEC development and/or function. Here, we focus attention on the contribution of NES to thymic microenvironments, including their phenotypic identification and functional classification, and explore their impact on thymus function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kieran D James
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - William E Jenkinson
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Graham Anderson
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Stieglitz S, Frohnhofen H. [Aging of the lungs and immune system as hellmark in the pathogenesis of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and COVID-19]. DER PNEUMOLOGE 2021; 18:162-173. [PMID: 33519332 PMCID: PMC7829037 DOI: 10.1007/s10405-020-00374-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/17/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) does not occur in younger persons. Therefore, it is not surprising that the nine hallmarks of biological aging can all be found in the pathomechanism of IPF. In this respect the homeostasis of cellular protein synthesis, degradation and recycling becomes unbalanced, which causes a dysregulation of repair mechanisms in the case of lung damage. Severve acute respiratory syndrome coronarvius type 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infections may also predominantyl seen in aged persons. In this situation cellular aging of the lungs also plays a role but additionally, the aging of the immune system is also of great importance. Immunosenescence is associated with a loss of naïve T‑cells. Moreover, there are gender-specific differences with a loss of B‑cells only in men but not in women, which partly explains the more severe course of COVID-19 pneumonia in older men.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sven Stieglitz
- Klinik für Pneumologie, Allergologie, Schlaf- und Intensivmedizin, Petrus Krankenhaus Wuppertal, Carnaper Str. 48, 42283 Wuppertal, Deutschland
- Fakultät für Gesundheit, Department Humanmedizin, Lehrstuhl für Geriatrie, Universität Witten-Herdecke, Witten, Deutschland
| | - Helmut Frohnhofen
- Fakultät für Gesundheit, Department Humanmedizin, Lehrstuhl für Geriatrie, Universität Witten-Herdecke, Witten, Deutschland
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Dynamic clonal hematopoiesis and functional T-cell immunity in a supercentenarian. Leukemia 2020; 35:2125-2129. [PMID: 33184493 PMCID: PMC8257492 DOI: 10.1038/s41375-020-01086-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2020] [Revised: 09/03/2020] [Accepted: 10/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
|
25
|
Singh J, Mohtashami M, Anderson G, Zúñiga-Pflücker JC. Thymic Engraftment by in vitro-Derived Progenitor T Cells in Young and Aged Mice. Front Immunol 2020; 11:1850. [PMID: 32973763 PMCID: PMC7462002 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.01850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2020] [Accepted: 07/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
T cells play a critical role in mediating antigen-specific and long-term immunity against viral and bacterial pathogens, and their development relies on the highly specialized thymic microenvironment. T cell immunodeficiency can be acquired in the form of inborn errors, or can result from perturbations to the thymus due to aging or irradiation/chemotherapy required for cancer treatment. Hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) from compatible donors is a cornerstone for the treatment of hematological malignancies and immunodeficiency. Although it can restore a functional immune system, profound impairments exist in recovery of the T cell compartment. T cells remain absent or low in number for many months after HSCT, depending on a variety of factors including the age of the recipient. While younger patients have a shorter refractory period, the prolonged T cell recovery observed in older patients can lead to a higher risk of opportunistic infections and increased predisposition to relapse. Thus, strategies for enhancing T cell recovery in aged individuals are needed to counter thymic damage induced by radiation and chemotherapy toxicities, in addition to naturally occurring age-related thymic involution. Preclinical results have shown that robust and rapid long-term thymic reconstitution can be achieved when progenitor T cells, generated in vitro from HSCs, are co-administered during HSCT. Progenitor T cells appear to rely on lymphostromal crosstalk via receptor activator of NF-κB (RANK) and RANK-ligand (RANKL) interactions, creating chemokine-rich niches within the cortex and medulla that likely favor the recruitment of bone marrow-derived thymus seeding progenitors. Here, we employed preclinical mouse models to demonstrate that in vitro-generated progenitor T cells can effectively engraft involuted aged thymuses, which could potentially improve T cell recovery. The utility of progenitor T cells for aged recipients positions them as a promising cellular therapy for immune recovery and intrathymic repair following irradiation and chemotherapy, even in a post-involution thymus.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Graham Anderson
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Juan Carlos Zúñiga-Pflücker
- Department of Immunology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Sunnybrook Research Institute, Toronto, ON, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Goggins JA, Kurtz JR, McLachlan JB. Control of Persistent Salmonella Infection Relies on Constant Thymic Output Despite Increased Peripheral Antigen-Specific T Cell Immunity. Pathogens 2020; 9:pathogens9080605. [PMID: 32722409 PMCID: PMC7459538 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens9080605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2020] [Revised: 07/22/2020] [Accepted: 07/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent thymic emigrants are the youngest subset of peripheral T cells and their involvement in combating persistent bacterial infections has not been explored. Here, we hypothesized that CD4+ recent thymic emigrants are essential immune mediators during persistent Salmonella infection. To test this, we thymectomized adult mice either prior to, or during, persistent Salmonella infection. We found that thymic output is crucial in the formation of protective immune responses during the early formation of a Salmonella infection but is dispensable once persistent Salmonella infection is established. Further, we show that thymectomized mice demonstrate increased infection-associated mortality and bacterial burdens. Unexpectedly, numbers of Salmonella-specific CD4+ T cells were significantly increased in thymectomized mice compared to sham control mice. Lastly, we found that T cells from thymectomized mice may be impaired in producing the effector cytokine IL-17 at early time points of infection, compared to thymically intact mice. Together, these results imply a unique role for thymic output in the formation of immune responses against a persistent, enteric pathogen.
Collapse
|
27
|
Cowan JE, Takahama Y, Bhandoola A, Ohigashi I. Postnatal Involution and Counter-Involution of the Thymus. Front Immunol 2020; 11:897. [PMID: 32477366 PMCID: PMC7235445 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.00897] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2020] [Accepted: 04/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Thymus involution occurs in all vertebrates. It is thought to impact on immune responses in the aged, and in other clinical circumstances such as bone marrow transplantation. Determinants of thymus growth and size are beginning to be identified. Ectopic expression of factors like cyclin D1 and Myc in thymic epithelial cells (TEC)s results in considerable increase in thymus size. These models provide useful experimental tools that allow thymus function to be understood. In future, understanding TEC-specific controllers of growth will provide new approaches to thymus regeneration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer E Cowan
- Laboratory of Genome Integrity, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Yousuke Takahama
- Experimental Immunology Branch, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Avinash Bhandoola
- Laboratory of Genome Integrity, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Izumi Ohigashi
- Division of Experimental Immunology, Institute of Advanced Medical Sciences, University of Tokushima, Tokushima, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Merrheim J, Villegas J, Van Wassenhove J, Khansa R, Berrih-Aknin S, le Panse R, Dragin N. Estrogen, estrogen-like molecules and autoimmune diseases. Autoimmun Rev 2020; 19:102468. [PMID: 31927086 DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2020.102468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2019] [Accepted: 09/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
In western countries, the slope of autoimmune disease (AD) incidence is increasing and affects 5-8% of the population. Mainly prevalent in women, these pathologies are due to thymic tolerance processes breakdown. The female sex hormone, estrogen, is involved in this AD female susceptibility. However, predisposition factors have to act in concert with unknown triggering environmental factors (virus, microbiota, pollution) to initiate AD. Individuals are exposed to various environmental compounds that display endocrine disruption abilities. The cellular effects of some of these molecules may be mediated through the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR). Here, we review the effects of these molecules on the homeostasis of the thymic cells, the immune tolerance intrinsic factors (transcription factors, epigenetic marks) and on the immune tolerance extrinsic factors (microbiota, virus sensibility). This review highlights the contribution of estrogen and endocrine disruptors on the dysregulation of mechanisms sustaining AD development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Judith Merrheim
- Sorbonne Université, Paris, France; Inserm UMRS 974, Paris, France; AIM, Institute of Myology, Paris, France; Centre de Recherche en Myologie, Sorbonne Université, Inserm UMRS 974, Hôpital La Pitié- Salpêtrière, 105 Bd de l'hôpital, 75013 Paris, France
| | - José Villegas
- Sorbonne Université, Paris, France; Inserm UMRS 974, Paris, France; AIM, Institute of Myology, Paris, France; Centre de Recherche en Myologie, Sorbonne Université, Inserm UMRS 974, Hôpital La Pitié- Salpêtrière, 105 Bd de l'hôpital, 75013 Paris, France
| | - Jérôme Van Wassenhove
- Sorbonne Université, Paris, France; Inserm UMRS 974, Paris, France; AIM, Institute of Myology, Paris, France; Centre de Recherche en Myologie, Sorbonne Université, Inserm UMRS 974, Hôpital La Pitié- Salpêtrière, 105 Bd de l'hôpital, 75013 Paris, France
| | - Rémi Khansa
- Sorbonne Université, Paris, France; Inserm UMRS 974, Paris, France; AIM, Institute of Myology, Paris, France; Centre de Recherche en Myologie, Sorbonne Université, Inserm UMRS 974, Hôpital La Pitié- Salpêtrière, 105 Bd de l'hôpital, 75013 Paris, France
| | - Sonia Berrih-Aknin
- Sorbonne Université, Paris, France; Inserm UMRS 974, Paris, France; AIM, Institute of Myology, Paris, France; Centre de Recherche en Myologie, Sorbonne Université, Inserm UMRS 974, Hôpital La Pitié- Salpêtrière, 105 Bd de l'hôpital, 75013 Paris, France
| | - Rozen le Panse
- Sorbonne Université, Paris, France; Inserm UMRS 974, Paris, France; AIM, Institute of Myology, Paris, France; Centre de Recherche en Myologie, Sorbonne Université, Inserm UMRS 974, Hôpital La Pitié- Salpêtrière, 105 Bd de l'hôpital, 75013 Paris, France
| | - Nadine Dragin
- Sorbonne Université, Paris, France; Inserm UMRS 974, Paris, France; Inovarion, Paris, France; Centre de Recherche en Myologie, Sorbonne Université, Inserm UMRS 974, Hôpital La Pitié- Salpêtrière, 105 Bd de l'hôpital, 75013 Paris, France.
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Simnica D, Akyüz N, Schliffke S, Mohme M, V Wenserski L, Mährle T, Fanchi LF, Lamszus K, Binder M. T cell receptor next-generation sequencing reveals cancer-associated repertoire metrics and reconstitution after chemotherapy in patients with hematological and solid tumors. Oncoimmunology 2019; 8:e1644110. [PMID: 31646093 DOI: 10.1080/2162402x.2019.1644110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2019] [Revised: 07/08/2019] [Accepted: 07/08/2019] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The dynamics of immunoaging and the onset of immunoparesis in healthy individuals and cancer patients has been controversially discussed. Moreover, the role of chemotherapy on T cell regeneration needs further elucidation in light of novel immunotherapies that have become standard of care for many elderly cancer patients. We used next-generation immunosequencing to study T cell receptor (TCR) repertoire metrics on 346 blood samples from healthy individuals and cancer patients producing a dataset with around 8.8 million TCR reads. This analysis showed that decline of T cell diversity and increase in T cell clonality is a continuous process beginning in healthy individuals over 40 years of age. Untreated patients with both hematological and solid tumors showed blood TCR repertoires with significantly lower diversity and higher clonality as compared to healthy individuals across all decades. Loss in T cell diversity was essentially driven by a loss in richness in aging healthy individuals, while in cancer patients a loss in repertoire evenness was an additional contributing factor. Interestingly, chemotherapy did not impair the regeneration of blood TCR repertoire diversity to pre-treatment age-specific levels. Surprisingly, even patients over the age of 70 years receiving highly T cell toxic therapies reestablished their pre-treatment T cell diversity suggesting rebound thymic activity rather than recovery of T cell counts by peripheral expansion only. Taken together, these data suggest that human TCR repertoire metrics gradually deteriorate in the aging individual, but age-specific TCR metrics are restored after T cell depleting therapy even in elderly cancer patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Donjete Simnica
- Department of Internal Medicine IV, Oncology/Hematology, Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Nuray Akyüz
- Department of Oncology and Hematology, BMT with section Pneumology, University Cancer Center Hamburg, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Hamburg, Germany
| | - Simon Schliffke
- Department of Oncology and Hematology, BMT with section Pneumology, University Cancer Center Hamburg, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Hamburg, Germany
| | - Malte Mohme
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Hamburg, Germany
| | - Lisa V Wenserski
- Department of Internal Medicine IV, Oncology/Hematology, Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Thorben Mährle
- Department of Oncology and Hematology, BMT with section Pneumology, University Cancer Center Hamburg, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Hamburg, Germany
| | | | - Katrin Lamszus
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Hamburg, Germany
| | - Mascha Binder
- Department of Internal Medicine IV, Oncology/Hematology, Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle (Saale), Germany
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Abstract
The thymus is a primary lymphoid organ essential for the development of T lymphocytes, which orchestrate adaptive immune responses. T-cell development in the thymus is spatially regulated; key checkpoints in T-cell maturation and selection occur in cortical and medullary regions to eliminate self-reactive T cells, establish central tolerance, and export naïve T cells to the periphery with the potential to recognize diverse pathogens. Thymic output is also temporally regulated due to age-related involution of the thymus accompanied by loss of epithelial cells. This review discusses the structural and age-related control of thymus function in humans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Puspa Thapa
- Columbia Center for Translational Immunology, Columbia University Medical Center, 650 West 168th Street, BB1501, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Donna L Farber
- Department of Surgery, Columbia Center for Translational Immunology, Columbia University Medical Center, 650 West 168th Street, BB1501, New York, NY 10032, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Moura J, Madureira P, Leal EC, Fonseca AC, Carvalho E. Immune aging in diabetes and its implications in wound healing. Clin Immunol 2019; 200:43-54. [PMID: 30735729 PMCID: PMC7322932 DOI: 10.1016/j.clim.2019.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2019] [Revised: 02/04/2019] [Accepted: 02/04/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Immune systems have evolved to recognize and eliminate pathogens and damaged cells. In humans, it is estimated to recognize 109 epitopes and natural selection ensures that clonally expanded cells replace unstimulated cells and overall immune cell numbers remain stationary. But, with age, it faces continuous repertoire restriction and concomitant accumulation of primed cells. Changes shaping the aging immune system have bitter consequences because, as inflammatory responses gain intensity and duration, tissue-damaging immunity and inflammatory disease arise. During inflammation, the glycolytic flux cannot cope with increasing ATP demands, limiting the immune response's extent. In diabetes, higher glucose availability stretches the glycolytic limit, dysregulating proteostasis and increasing T-cell expansion. Long-term hyperglycemia exerts an accumulating effect, leading to higher inflammatory cytokine levels and increased cytotoxic mediator secretion upon infection, a phenomenon known as diabetic chronic inflammation. Here we review the etiology of diabetic chronic inflammation and its consequences on wound healing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J Moura
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal; INEB - Instituto Nacional de Engenharia Biomédica, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal; i3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal.
| | - P Madureira
- i3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal; IBMC - Instituto de Biologia Celular e Molecular, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal; Immunethep, Biocant Park, Cantanhede, Portugal
| | - E C Leal
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - A C Fonseca
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - E Carvalho
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal; Instituto de Investigação Interdisciplinar, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal; Department of Geriatrics, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences and Arkansas Children's Research Institute, Little Rock, AR, United States
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Duggal NA. Reversing the immune ageing clock: lifestyle modifications and pharmacological interventions. Biogerontology 2018; 19:481-496. [PMID: 30269199 PMCID: PMC6223743 DOI: 10.1007/s10522-018-9771-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2018] [Accepted: 09/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
It is widely accepted that ageing is accompanied by remodelling of the immune system, including reduced numbers of naïve T cells, increased senescent or exhausted T cells, compromise to monocyte, neutrophil and natural killer cell function and an increase in systemic inflammation. In combination these changes result in increased risk of infection, reduced immune memory, reduced immune tolerance and immune surveillance, with significant impacts upon health in old age. More recently it has become clear that the rate of decline in the immune system is malleable and can be influenced by environmental factors such as physical activity as well as pharmacological interventions. This review discusses briefly our current understanding of immunesenescence and then focuses on lifestyle interventions and therapeutic strategies that have been shown to restore immune functioning in aged individuals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Niharika A Duggal
- MRC-Arthritis Research UK Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, Birmingham University, Birmingham, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Clave E, Araujo IL, Alanio C, Patin E, Bergstedt J, Urrutia A, Lopez-Lastra S, Li Y, Charbit B, MacPherson CR, Hasan M, Melo-Lima BL, Douay C, Saut N, Germain M, Trégouët DA, Morange PE, Fontes M, Duffy D, Di Santo JP, Quintana-Murci L, Albert ML, Toubert A. Human thymopoiesis is influenced by a common genetic variant within the TCRA-TCRD locus. Sci Transl Med 2018; 10:10/457/eaao2966. [DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.aao2966] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2017] [Revised: 04/11/2018] [Accepted: 07/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The thymus is the primary lymphoid organ where naïve T cells are generated; however, with the exception of age, the parameters that govern its function in healthy humans remain unknown. We characterized the variability of thymic function among 1000 age- and sex-stratified healthy adults of the Milieu Intérieur cohort, using quantification of T cell receptor excision circles (TRECs) in peripheral blood T cells as a surrogate marker of thymopoiesis. Age and sex were the only nonheritable factors identified that affect thymic function. TREC amounts decreased with age and were higher in women compared to men. In addition, a genome-wide association study revealed a common variant (rs2204985) within the T cell receptor TCRA-TCRD locus, between the DD2 and DD3 gene segments, which associated with TREC amounts. Strikingly, transplantation of human hematopoietic stem cells with the rs2204985 GG genotype into immunodeficient mice led to thymopoiesis with higher TRECs, increased thymocyte counts, and a higher TCR repertoire diversity. Our population immunology approach revealed a genetic locus that influences thymopoiesis in healthy adults, with potentially broad implications in precision medicine.
Collapse
|
34
|
Kato A, Takaori-Kondo A, Minato N, Hamazaki Y. CXCR3 high CD8 + T cells with naïve phenotype and high capacity for IFN-γ production are generated during homeostatic T-cell proliferation. Eur J Immunol 2018; 48:1663-1678. [PMID: 30058200 DOI: 10.1002/eji.201747431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2017] [Revised: 07/17/2018] [Accepted: 07/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Naïve phenotype (NP) T cells spontaneously initiate homeostatic proliferation (HP) as T-cell output is reduced because of physiologic thymic involution with age. However, the effects of sustained HP on overall immune function are poorly understood. We demonstrated that the NP CD8+ T cell population in adult thymectomized mice showing accelerated HP has an increased capacity for TCR-mediated interferon-γ and tumor necrosis factor α production, which is attributed to an increase in CXCR3+ cells in the NP CD8+ T cell population. The CXCR3+ NP CD8+ T cells developed during persistent HP with a slow cell division rate, but rarely during robust antigen-driven proliferation with a fast cell division rate. In ontogeny, the proportions of CXCR3+ cells in the NP CD8+ T cell population showed a biphasic profile, which was high at the newborn and aged stages. Upon transfer, CXCR3+ NP CD8+ T cells, but not CXCR3- NP CD8+ T cells, potently enhanced Th17-mediated inflammatory tissue reactions in vivo. Furthermore, CXCR3high NP CD8+ T cells with similar features were also detected at variable levels in healthy human blood. These results suggest that CXCR3+ NP CD8+ T cells generated during physiological HP significantly impact overall immunity at the immunologically vulnerable neonatal and aged stages.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aiko Kato
- Department of Immunology and Cell Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, Japan.,Department of Hematology and Oncology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, Japan.,Center for iPS Cell Research and Application (CiRA), Laboratory of Immunobiology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Akifumi Takaori-Kondo
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Nagahiro Minato
- Department of Immunology and Cell Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Yoko Hamazaki
- Department of Immunology and Cell Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, Japan.,Center for iPS Cell Research and Application (CiRA), Laboratory of Immunobiology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Cepeda S, Griffith AV. Thymic stromal cells: Roles in atrophy and age-associated dysfunction of the thymus. Exp Gerontol 2018; 105:113-117. [PMID: 29278750 PMCID: PMC5869099 DOI: 10.1016/j.exger.2017.12.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2017] [Revised: 12/21/2017] [Accepted: 12/22/2017] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Atrophy of the thymus, the primary site of T lymphocyte generation, is a hallmark of the aging immune system. Age-associated thymic atrophy results in diminished output of new, naïve T cells, with immune sequelae that include diminished responses to novel pathogenic challenge and vaccines, as well as diminished tumor surveillance. Although a variety of stimuli are known to regulate transient thymic atrophy, mechanisms governing progressive age-associated atrophy have been difficult to resolve. This has been due in part to the fact that one of the primary targets of age-associated thymic atrophy is a relatively rare population, thymic stromal cells. This review focuses on changes in thymic stromal cells during aging and on the contributions of periodic, stochastic, and progressive causes of thymic atrophy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sergio Cepeda
- Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, School of Medicine, UT Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, United States
| | - Ann V Griffith
- Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, School of Medicine, UT Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Duggal NA, Pollock RD, Lazarus NR, Harridge S, Lord JM. Major features of immunesenescence, including reduced thymic output, are ameliorated by high levels of physical activity in adulthood. Aging Cell 2018. [PMID: 29517845 PMCID: PMC5847865 DOI: 10.1111/acel.12750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 141] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
It is widely accepted that aging is accompanied by remodelling of the immune system including thymic atrophy and increased frequency of senescent T cells, leading to immune compromise. However, physical activity, which influences immunity but declines dramatically with age, is not considered in this literature. We assessed immune profiles in 125 adults (55-79 years) who had maintained a high level of physical activity (cycling) for much of their adult lives, 75 age-matched older adults and 55 young adults not involved in regular exercise. The frequency of naïve T cells and recent thymic emigrants (RTE) were both higher in cyclists compared with inactive elders, and RTE frequency in cyclists was no different to young adults. Compared with their less active counterparts, the cyclists had significantly higher serum levels of the thymoprotective cytokine IL-7 and lower IL-6, which promotes thymic atrophy. Cyclists also showed additional evidence of reduced immunesenescence, namely lower Th17 polarization and higher B regulatory cell frequency than inactive elders. Physical activity did not protect against all aspects of immunesenescence: CD28-ve CD57+ve senescent CD8 T-cell frequency did not differ between cyclists and inactive elders. We conclude that many features of immunesenescence may be driven by reduced physical activity with age.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Niharika Arora Duggal
- MRC-Arthritis Research UK Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research; Institute of Inflammation and Ageing; University of Birmingham; Birmingham UK
| | - Ross D. Pollock
- Centre of Human and Aerospace Physiological Sciences; King's College London; London UK
| | - Norman R. Lazarus
- Centre of Human and Aerospace Physiological Sciences; King's College London; London UK
| | - Stephen Harridge
- Centre of Human and Aerospace Physiological Sciences; King's College London; London UK
| | - Janet M. Lord
- MRC-Arthritis Research UK Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research; Institute of Inflammation and Ageing; University of Birmingham; Birmingham UK
- NIHR Biomedical Research Centre in Inflammation; University Hospital Birmingham; Birmingham UK
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Holder A, Jones G, Soutter F, Palmer DB, Aspinall R, Catchpole B. Polymorphisms in the canine IL7R 3'UTR are associated with thymic output in Labrador retriever dogs and influence post-transcriptional regulation by microRNA 185. DEVELOPMENTAL AND COMPARATIVE IMMUNOLOGY 2018; 81:244-251. [PMID: 29247721 DOI: 10.1016/j.dci.2017.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2017] [Revised: 12/08/2017] [Accepted: 12/08/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Interleukin-7 (IL-7) and its receptor (IL-7R) are essential for T cell development in the thymus, and changes in the IL-7/IL-7R pathway have been implicated in age-associated thymic involution which results in a reduction of naïve T cell output. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between IL7 and IL7R genetic variation and thymic output in dogs. No single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were identified in the canine IL7 gene, but a number were present in the canine IL7R gene. Polymorphisms in the IL7R exon 8 and 3'UTR were found to be associated with signal joint T cell receptor excision circle (sj-TREC) values (a biomarker of thymic output) in young and geriatric Labrador retrievers. Additionally, one of the SNPs in the IL7R 3'UTR (SNP 14 c.1371 + 446 A > C) was found to cause a change in the seed-binding site for microRNA 185 which, a luciferase reporter assay demonstrated, caused changes in post-transcriptional regulation, and therefore might be capable of influencing IL-7R expression. The research findings suggest a genetic link between IL7R genotype and thymic output in dogs, which might impact on immune function as these animals age and provide further evidence of the involvement of IL-7/IL-7R pathway in age-associated thymic involution.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Angela Holder
- Department of Pathobiology and Population Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, North Mymms, Hertfordshire, UK
| | - Gareth Jones
- Department of Pathobiology and Population Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, North Mymms, Hertfordshire, UK
| | - Francesca Soutter
- Department of Pathobiology and Population Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, North Mymms, Hertfordshire, UK
| | - Donald B Palmer
- Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, London, UK
| | - Richard Aspinall
- Health and Wellbeing Academy, Postgraduate Medical Institute, Anglia Ruskin University, Chelmsford, Essex, UK
| | - Brian Catchpole
- Department of Pathobiology and Population Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, North Mymms, Hertfordshire, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Leposavić GM, Pilipović IM. Intrinsic and Extrinsic Thymic Adrenergic Networks: Sex Steroid-Dependent Plasticity. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2018; 9:13. [PMID: 29441042 PMCID: PMC5797573 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2018.00013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2017] [Accepted: 01/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The thymus is sexually differentiated organ providing microenvironment for T-cell precursor differentiation/maturation in the major histocompatibility complex-restricted self-tolerant T cells. With increasing age, the thymus undergoes involution leading to the decline in efficacy of thymopoiesis. Noradrenaline from thymic nerve fibers and "(nor)adrenergic" cells is involved in the regulation of thymopoiesis. In rodents, noradrenaline concentration in thymus and adrenoceptor (AR) expression on thymic cells depend on sex and age. These differences are suggested to be implicated in the development of sexual diergism and the age-related decline in thymopoiesis. The programming of both thymic sexual differentiation and its involution occurs during the critical early perinatal period and may be reprogrammed during peripubertal development. The thymic (re)programming is critically dependent on circulating levels of gonadal steroids. Although the underlying molecular mechanisms have not yet been elucidated fully, it is assumed that the gonadal steroid action during the critical perinatal/peripubertal developmental periods leads to long-lasting changes in the efficacy of thymopoiesis partly through (re)programming of "(nor)adrenergic" cell networks and AR expression on thymic cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gordana Momčilo Leposavić
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
- *Correspondence: Gordana Momčilo Leposavić,
| | - Ivan M. Pilipović
- Immunology Research Centre “Branislav Janković”, Institute of Virology, Vaccines and Sera “Torlak”, Belgrade, Serbia
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Aspinall R, Lang PO. Vaccination choices for older people, looking beyond age specific approaches. Expert Rev Vaccines 2017; 17:23-30. [DOI: 10.1080/14760584.2018.1411197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Pierre Olivier Lang
- Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge, UK
- Geriatric and Geriatric Rehabilitation Division, Department of Medicine, University Hospital of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Sato K, Kato A, Sekai M, Hamazaki Y, Minato N. Physiologic Thymic Involution Underlies Age-Dependent Accumulation of Senescence-Associated CD4 + T Cells. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2017; 199:138-148. [PMID: 28539430 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.1602005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2016] [Accepted: 04/24/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Immune aging may underlie various aging-related disorders, including diminished resistance to infection, chronic inflammatory disorders, and autoimmunity. PD-1+ and CD153+ CD44high CD4+ T cells with features of cellular senescence, termed senescence-associated T (SA-T) cells, increasingly accumulate with age and may play a role in the immune aging phenotype. In this article, we demonstrate that, compared with young mice, the aged mouse environment is highly permissive for spontaneous proliferation of transferred naive CD4+ T cells, and it drives their transition to PD-1+ and CD153+ CD44high CD4+ T cells after extensive cell divisions. CD4+ T cells with essentially the same features as SA-T cells in aged mice are also generated from naive CD4+ T cells after extensive cell divisions under severe T-lymphopenic conditions by gamma irradiation or in developmental T cell defect, often in association with spontaneous germinal centers, as seen in aged mice. The increase in SA-T cells is significantly enhanced after thymectomy at the young adult stage, along with accelerated T cell homeostatic proliferation, whereas embryonic thymus implantation in the late adult stage markedly restricts the homeostatic proliferation of naive CD4+ T cells in the host and delays the increase in SA-T cells. Our results suggest that reduced T cell output due to physiologic thymic involution underlies the age-dependent accumulation of SA-T cells as a result of increasing homeostatic proliferation of naive CD4+ T cells. SA-T cells may provide a suitable biomarker of immune aging, as well as a potential target for controlling aging-related disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kyosuke Sato
- Department of Immunology and Cell Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto 606-8501, Japan
| | - Aiko Kato
- Department of Immunology and Cell Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto 606-8501, Japan
| | - Miho Sekai
- Department of Immunology and Cell Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto 606-8501, Japan
| | - Yoko Hamazaki
- Department of Immunology and Cell Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto 606-8501, Japan
| | - Nagahiro Minato
- Department of Immunology and Cell Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto 606-8501, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Truffault F, de Montpreville V, Eymard B, Sharshar T, Le Panse R, Berrih-Aknin S. Thymic Germinal Centers and Corticosteroids in Myasthenia Gravis: an Immunopathological Study in 1035 Cases and a Critical Review. Clin Rev Allergy Immunol 2017; 52:108-124. [PMID: 27273086 DOI: 10.1007/s12016-016-8558-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
The most common form of Myasthenia gravis (MG) is due to anti-acetylcholine receptor (AChR) antibodies and is frequently associated with thymic pathology. In this review, we discuss the immunopathological characteristics and molecular mechanisms of thymic follicular hyperplasia, the effects of corticosteroids on this thymic pathology, and the role of thymic epithelial cells (TEC), a key player in the inflammatory thymic mechanisms. This review is based not only on the literature data but also on thymic transcriptome results and analyses of pathological and immunological correlations in a vast cohort of 1035 MG patients without thymoma. We show that among patients presenting a thymic hyperplasia with germinal centers (GC), 80 % are females, indicating that thymic follicular hyperplasia is mainly a disease of women. The presence of anti-AChR antibodies is correlated with the degree of follicular hyperplasia, suggesting that the thymus is a source of anti-AChR antibodies. The degree of hyperplasia is not dependent upon the time from the onset, implying that either the antigen is chronically expressed and/or that the mechanisms of the resolution of the GC are not efficiently controlled. Glucocorticoids, a conventional therapy in MG, induce a significant reduction in the GC number, together with changes in the expression of chemokines and angiogenesis. These changes are likely related to the acetylation molecular process, overrepresented in corticosteroid-treated patients, and essential for gene regulation. Altogether, based on the pathological and molecular thymic abnormalities found in MG patients, this review provides some explanations for the benefit of thymectomy in early-onset MG patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Frédérique Truffault
- INSERM U974, Paris, France.,CNRS FRE3617, Paris, France.,Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Univ Paris 06, Paris, France.,AIM, Institut de myologie, Paris, France
| | | | - Bruno Eymard
- Department of Neuromuscular Disorders, CHU Salpêtrière, Paris, France
| | - Tarek Sharshar
- General Intensive Care Medicine, Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris, Raymond Poincaré Hospital, University of Versailles Saint-Quentin en Yvelines, 92380, Garches, France
| | - Rozen Le Panse
- INSERM U974, Paris, France.,CNRS FRE3617, Paris, France.,Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Univ Paris 06, Paris, France.,AIM, Institut de myologie, Paris, France
| | - Sonia Berrih-Aknin
- INSERM U974, Paris, France. .,CNRS FRE3617, Paris, France. .,Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Univ Paris 06, Paris, France. .,AIM, Institut de myologie, Paris, France. .,UMRS 974 UPMC, INSERM, FRE 3617 CNRS, AIM, Center of Research in Myology, 105 Boulevard de l'Hôpital, Paris, 75013, France.
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
From Immunologically Archaic to Neoteric Glycovaccines. Vaccines (Basel) 2017; 5:vaccines5010004. [PMID: 28134792 PMCID: PMC5371740 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines5010004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2016] [Revised: 11/14/2016] [Accepted: 01/22/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Polysaccharides (PS) are present in the outermost surface of bacteria and readily come in contact with immune cells. They interact with specific antibodies, which in turn confer protection from infections. Vaccines with PS from pneumococci, meningococci, Haemophilus influenzae type b, and Salmonella typhi may be protective, although with the important constraint of failing to generate permanent immunological memory. This limitation has in part been circumvented by conjugating glycovaccines to proteins that stimulate T helper cells and facilitate the establishment of immunological memory. Currently, protection evoked by conjugated PS vaccines lasts for a few years. The same approach failed with PS from staphylococci, Streptococcus agalactiae, and Klebsiella. All those germs cause severe infections in humans and often develop resistance to antibiotic therapy. Thereby, prevention is of increasing importance to better control outbreaks. As only 23 of more than 90 pneumococcal serotypes and 4 of 13 clinically relevant Neisseria meningitidis serogroups are covered by available vaccines there is still tremendous clinical need for PS vaccines. This review focuses on glycovaccines and the immunological mechanisms for their success or failure. We discuss recent advances that may facilitate generation of high affinity anti-PS antibodies and confer specific immunity and long-lasting protection.
Collapse
|
43
|
Holder A, Mella S, Palmer DB, Aspinall R, Catchpole B. An Age-Associated Decline in Thymic Output Differs in Dog Breeds According to Their Longevity. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0165968. [PMID: 27824893 PMCID: PMC5100965 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0165968] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2016] [Accepted: 10/20/2016] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The age associated decline in immune function is preceded in mammals by a reduction in thymic output. Furthermore, there is increasing evidence of a link between immune competence and lifespan. One approach to determining thymic output is to quantify signal joint T cell receptor excision circles (sj-TRECs), a method which has been developed and used in several mammalian species. Life expectancy and the rate of aging vary in dogs depending upon their breed. In this study, we quantified sj-TRECs in blood samples from dogs of selected breeds to determine whether there was a relationship between longevity and thymic output. In Labrador retrievers, a breed with a median expected lifespan of 11 years, there was an age-associated decline in sj-TREC values, with the greatest decline occurring before 5 years of age, but with sj-TREC still detectable in some geriatric animals, over 13 years of age. In large short-lived breeds (Burnese mountain dogs, Great Danes and Dogue de Bordeaux), the decline in sj-TREC values began earlier in life, compared with small long-lived breeds (Jack Russell terriers and Yorkshire terriers), and the presence of animals with undetectable sj-TRECs occurred at a younger age in the short-lived breeds. The study findings suggest that age-associated changes in canine sj-TRECs are related to breed differences in longevity, and this research highlights the use of dogs as a potential model of immunosenescence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Angela Holder
- Department of Pathology and Pathogen Biology, Royal Veterinary College, North Mymms, Hertfordshire, United Kingdom
| | - Stephanie Mella
- Department of Pathology and Pathogen Biology, Royal Veterinary College, North Mymms, Hertfordshire, United Kingdom
| | - Donald B. Palmer
- Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, London, United Kingdom
| | - Richard Aspinall
- Health and Wellbeing Academy, Postgraduate Medical Institute, Anglia Ruskin University, Chelmsford, Essex, United Kingdom
| | - Brian Catchpole
- Department of Pathology and Pathogen Biology, Royal Veterinary College, North Mymms, Hertfordshire, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Zhang Q, Yang K, Yangyang P, He J, Yu S, Cui Y. Age-related changes in the morphology and protein expression of the thymus of healthy yaks (Bos grunniens). Am J Vet Res 2016; 77:567-74. [DOI: 10.2460/ajvr.77.6.567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
|
45
|
van der Heiden M, van Zelm MC, Bartol SJW, de Rond LGH, Berbers GAM, Boots AMH, Buisman AM. Differential effects of Cytomegalovirus carriage on the immune phenotype of middle-aged males and females. Sci Rep 2016; 6:26892. [PMID: 27243552 PMCID: PMC4886678 DOI: 10.1038/srep26892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2016] [Accepted: 05/10/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The elderly population is more susceptible to infections as a result of an altered immune response, commonly referred to as immunosenescence. Cytomegalovirus (CMV)-infection associated changes in blood lymphocytes are known to impact this process, but the interaction with gender remains unclear. Therefore, we analysed the effects and interaction of gender and CMV on the absolute numbers of a comprehensive set of naive and memory T- and B-cell subsets in people between 50 and 65 years of age. Enumeration and characterisation of lymphocyte subsets by flow cytometry was performed on fresh whole blood samples from 255 middle-aged persons. CMV-IgG serostatus was determined by ELISA. Gender was a major factor affecting immune cell numbers. CMV infection was mainly associated with an expansion of late-differentiated T-cell subsets. CMV+ males carried lower numbers of total CD4+, CD4+ central memory (CM) and follicular helper T-cells than females and CMV- males. Moreover, CMV+ males had significantly lower numbers of regulatory T (Treg)-cells and memory B-cells than CMV+ females. We here demonstrate an interaction between the effects of CMV infection and gender on T- and B-cells in middle-aged individuals. These differential effects on adaptive immunity between males and females may have implications for vaccination strategies at middle-age.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marieke van der Heiden
- Centre for Infectious Disease Control (Cib), National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Bilthoven 3720 BA, The Netherlands
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University of Groningen, University Medical Centre Groningen, Groningen 9700 RB, The Netherlands
| | - Menno C. van Zelm
- Department of Immunology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam 3000 CA, The Netherlands
- Department of Immunology and Pathology, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria 3004, Australia
| | | | - Lia G. H. de Rond
- Centre for Infectious Disease Control (Cib), National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Bilthoven 3720 BA, The Netherlands
| | - Guy A. M. Berbers
- Centre for Infectious Disease Control (Cib), National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Bilthoven 3720 BA, The Netherlands
| | - Annemieke M. H. Boots
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University of Groningen, University Medical Centre Groningen, Groningen 9700 RB, The Netherlands
| | - Anne-Marie Buisman
- Centre for Infectious Disease Control (Cib), National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Bilthoven 3720 BA, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Ndifon W, Dushoff J. The Hayflick Limit May Determine the Effective Clonal Diversity of Naive T Cells. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2016; 196:4999-5004. [PMID: 27183600 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.1502343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2015] [Accepted: 04/18/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Having a large number of sufficiently abundant T cell clones is important for adequate protection against diseases. However, as shown in this paper and elsewhere, between young adulthood and >70 y of age the effective clonal diversity of naive CD4/CD8 T cells found in human blood declines by a factor of >10. (Effective clonal diversity accounts for both the number and the abundance of T cell clones.) The causes of this observation are incompletely understood. A previous study proposed that it might result from the emergence of certain rare, replication-enhancing mutations in T cells. In this paper, we propose an even simpler explanation: that it results from the loss of T cells that have attained replicative senescence (i.e., the Hayflick limit). Stochastic numerical simulations of naive T cell population dynamics, based on experimental parameters, show that the rate of homeostatic T cell proliferation increases after the age of ∼60 y because naive T cells collectively approach replicative senescence. This leads to a sharp decline of effective clonal diversity after ∼70 y, in agreement with empirical data. A mathematical analysis predicts that, without an increase in the naive T cell proliferation rate, this decline will occur >50 yr later than empirically observed. These results are consistent with a model in which exhaustion of the proliferative capacity of naive T cells causes a sharp decline of their effective clonal diversity and imply that therapeutic potentiation of thymopoiesis might either prevent or reverse this outcome.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wilfred Ndifon
- African Institute for Mathematical Sciences, Muizenberg 7945, Cape Town, South Africa; African Institute for Mathematical Sciences, Legon, Accra, Ghana; Stellenbosch University, Matieland 7602, Stellenbosch, South Africa; and
| | - Jonathan Dushoff
- Department of Biology, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario L8S 4K1, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Nishijima TF, Muss HB, Shachar SS, Moschos SJ. Comparison of efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) between younger and older patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Cancer Treat Rev 2016; 45:30-7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ctrv.2016.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 161] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2015] [Revised: 02/17/2016] [Accepted: 02/21/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
|
48
|
Feinstein L, Ferrando-Martínez S, Leal M, Zhou X, Sempowski GD, Wildman DE, Uddin M, Aiello AE. Population Distributions of Thymic Function in Adults: Variation by Sociodemographic Characteristics and Health Status. BIODEMOGRAPHY AND SOCIAL BIOLOGY 2016; 62:208-221. [PMID: 27337555 PMCID: PMC4995111 DOI: 10.1080/19485565.2016.1172199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
The thymus is critical for mounting an effective immune response and maintaining health. However, epidemiologic studies characterizing thymic function in the population setting are lacking. Using data from 263 adults in the Detroit Neighborhood Health Study, we examined thymic function as measured by the number of signal joint T-cell receptor excision circles (sjTREC) and assessed associations with established indicators of physiological health. Overall, increasing age and male gender were significantly associated with reduced thymic function. Adjusting for covariates, individuals with elevated levels of the pro-inflammatory biomarkers C-reactive protein (β: -0.50 [95% CI: -0.82, -0.18] for moderate elevation, β: -0.29 [95% CI: -0.59, 0.00] for high elevation) and interleukin-6 (β: -0.60 [95% CI: -0.92, -0.28] for moderate elevation, β: -0.43 [95% CI: -0.77, -0.08] for severe elevation) also had lower thymic function. Compared to individuals with a BMI < 25, individuals who were overweight (β: 0.36 [95% CI: 0.07, 0.64]) or obese (β: 0.27 [95% CI: -0.03, 0.56]) had higher thymic function. Differences by self-rated health were not statistically significant. Our findings underscore demographic- and health-related gradients in thymic function among adult residents of Detroit, suggesting thymic function may be an important biomarker of health status in adults at the population level.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lydia Feinstein
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health and Carolina Population Center; University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA;
| | - Sara Ferrando-Martínez
- Laboratory of Immunovirology, Clinic Unit of Infectious Diseases, Microbiology and Preventive Medicine, Institute of Biomedicine of Seville, IBiS, Virgen del Rocío University Hospital, Sevilla, Spain;
| | - Manuel Leal
- Laboratory of Immunovirology, Clinic Unit of Infectious Diseases, Microbiology and Preventive Medicine, Institute of Biomedicine of Seville, IBiS, Virgen del Rocío University Hospital, Sevilla, Spain;
| | - Xuan Zhou
- Department of Biostatistics, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA;
| | - Gregory D Sempowski
- Duke University Human Vaccine Institute, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA;
| | - Derek E Wildman
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL USA;
| | - Monica Uddin
- Department of Psychology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, IL, USA;
| | - Allison E Aiello
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health and Carolina Population Center; University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA;
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Dumont-Lagacé M, St-Pierre C, Perreault C. Sex hormones have pervasive effects on thymic epithelial cells. Sci Rep 2015; 5:12895. [PMID: 26250469 PMCID: PMC4528223 DOI: 10.1038/srep12895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2015] [Accepted: 07/15/2015] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The goal of our study was to evaluate at the systems-level, the effect of sex hormones on thymic epithelial cells (TECs). To this end, we sequenced the transcriptome of cortical and medullary TECs (cTECs and mTECs) from three groups of 6 month-old mice: males, females and males castrated at four weeks of age. In parallel, we analyzed variations in the size of TEC subsets in those three groups between 1 and 12 months of age. We report that sex hormones have pervasive effects on the transcriptome of TECs. These effects were exquisitely TEC-subset specific. Sexual dimorphism was particularly conspicuous in cTECs. Male cTECs displayed low proliferation rates that correlated with low expression of Foxn1 and its main targets. Furthermore, male cTECs expressed relatively low levels of genes instrumental in thymocyte expansion (e.g., Dll4) and positive selection (Psmb11 and Ctsl). Nevertheless, cTECs were more abundant in males than females. Accumulation of cTECs in males correlated with differential expression of genes regulating cell survival in cTECs and cell differentiation in mTECs. The sexual dimorphism of TECs highlighted here may be mechanistically linked to the well-recognized sex differences in susceptibility to infections and autoimmune diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maude Dumont-Lagacé
- 1] Institute for Research in Immunology and Cancer, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada H3C 3J7 [2] Department of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada H3C 3J7
| | - Charles St-Pierre
- 1] Institute for Research in Immunology and Cancer, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada H3C 3J7 [2] Department of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada H3C 3J7
| | - Claude Perreault
- 1] Institute for Research in Immunology and Cancer, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada H3C 3J7 [2] Department of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada H3C 3J7
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Trade off situation between thymus and growth hormone: age-related decline of growth hormone is a cause of thymic involution but favorable for elongation of lifespan. Biogerontology 2015; 17:55-9. [DOI: 10.1007/s10522-015-9590-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2015] [Accepted: 06/26/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
|