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Fu J, Zong X, Jin M, Min J, Wang F, Wang Y. Mechanisms and regulation of defensins in host defense. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2023; 8:300. [PMID: 37574471 PMCID: PMC10423725 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-023-01553-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Revised: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023] Open
Abstract
As a family of cationic host defense peptides, defensins are mainly synthesized by Paneth cells, neutrophils, and epithelial cells, contributing to host defense. Their biological functions in innate immunity, as well as their structure and activity relationships, along with their mechanisms of action and therapeutic potential, have been of great interest in recent years. To highlight the key research into the role of defensins in human and animal health, we first describe their research history, structural features, evolution, and antimicrobial mechanisms. Next, we cover the role of defensins in immune homeostasis, chemotaxis, mucosal barrier function, gut microbiota regulation, intestinal development and regulation of cell death. Further, we discuss their clinical relevance and therapeutic potential in various diseases, including infectious disease, inflammatory bowel disease, diabetes and obesity, chronic inflammatory lung disease, periodontitis and cancer. Finally, we summarize the current knowledge regarding the nutrient-dependent regulation of defensins, including fatty acids, amino acids, microelements, plant extracts, and probiotics, while considering the clinical application of such regulation. Together, the review summarizes the various biological functions, mechanism of actions and potential clinical significance of defensins, along with the challenges in developing defensins-based therapy, thus providing crucial insights into their biology and potential clinical utility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Fu
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Animal Nutrition, Ministry of Education, College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition and Feed Science in Eastern China, Ministry of Agriculture, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Xin Zong
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Animal Nutrition, Ministry of Education, College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition and Feed Science in Eastern China, Ministry of Agriculture, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Mingliang Jin
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Animal Nutrition, Ministry of Education, College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition and Feed Science in Eastern China, Ministry of Agriculture, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Junxia Min
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Fudi Wang
- The Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Public Health, State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Basic Medical Sciences, School of Public Health, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, China.
| | - Yizhen Wang
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Animal Nutrition, Ministry of Education, College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.
- Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition and Feed Science in Eastern China, Ministry of Agriculture, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China.
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He L, Kang Q, Chan KI, Zhang Y, Zhong Z, Tan W. The immunomodulatory role of matrix metalloproteinases in colitis-associated cancer. Front Immunol 2023; 13:1093990. [PMID: 36776395 PMCID: PMC9910179 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1093990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are an important class of enzymes in the body that function through the extracellular matrix (ECM). They are involved in diverse pathophysiological processes, such as tumor invasion and metastasis, cardiovascular diseases, arthritis, periodontal disease, osteogenesis imperfecta, and diseases of the central nervous system. MMPs participate in the occurrence and development of numerous cancers and are closely related to immunity. In the present study, we review the immunomodulatory role of MMPs in colitis-associated cancer (CAC) and discuss relevant clinical applications. We analyze more than 300 pharmacological studies retrieved from PubMed and the Web of Science, related to MMPs, cancer, colitis, CAC, and immunomodulation. Key MMPs that interfere with pathological processes in CAC such as MMP-2, MMP-3, MMP-7, MMP-9, MMP-10, MMP-12, and MMP-13, as well as their corresponding mechanisms are elaborated. MMPs are involved in cell proliferation, cell differentiation, angiogenesis, ECM remodeling, and the inflammatory response in CAC. They also affect the immune system by modulating differentiation and immune activity of immune cells, recruitment of macrophages, and recruitment of neutrophils. Herein we describe the immunomodulatory role of MMPs in CAC to facilitate treatment of this special type of colon cancer, which is preceded by detectable inflammatory bowel disease in clinical populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luying He
- School of Pharmacy, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Qianming Kang
- School of Pharmacy, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Ka Iong Chan
- Macao Centre for Research and Development in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, Macao SAR, China
| | - Yang Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Zhangfeng Zhong
- Macao Centre for Research and Development in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, Macao SAR, China,*Correspondence: Zhangfeng Zhong, ; Wen Tan,
| | - Wen Tan
- School of Pharmacy, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China,*Correspondence: Zhangfeng Zhong, ; Wen Tan,
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3
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Xu JZ, Kumar R, Gong H, Liu L, Ramos-Solis N, Li Y, Derbigny WA. Toll-Like Receptor 3 Deficiency Leads to Altered Immune Responses to Chlamydia trachomatis Infection in Human Oviduct Epithelial Cells. Infect Immun 2019; 87:e00483-19. [PMID: 31383744 PMCID: PMC6759307 DOI: 10.1128/iai.00483-19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2019] [Accepted: 07/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Reproductive tract pathology caused by Chlamydia trachomatis infection is an important global cause of human infertility. To better understand the mechanisms associated with Chlamydia-induced genital tract pathogenesis in humans, we used CRISPR genome editing to disrupt Toll-like receptor 3 (TLR3) function in the human oviduct epithelial (hOE) cell line OE-E6/E7 in order to investigate the possible role(s) of TLR3 signaling in the immune response to Chlamydia Disruption of TLR3 function in these cells significantly diminished the Chlamydia-induced synthesis of several inflammation biomarkers, including interferon beta (IFN-β), interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-6 receptor alpha (IL-6Rα), soluble interleukin-6 receptor beta (sIL-6Rβ, or gp130), IL-8, IL-20, IL-26, IL-34, soluble tumor necrosis factor receptor 1 (sTNF-R1), tumor necrosis factor ligand superfamily member 13B (TNFSF13B), matrix metalloproteinase 1 (MMP-1), MMP-2, and MMP-3. In contrast, the Chlamydia-induced synthesis of CCL5, IL-29 (IFN-λ1), and IL-28A (IFN-λ2) was significantly increased in TLR3-deficient hOE cells compared to their wild-type counterparts. Our results indicate a role for TLR3 signaling in limiting the genital tract fibrosis, scarring, and chronic inflammation often associated with human chlamydial disease. Interestingly, we saw that Chlamydia infection induced the production of biomarkers associated with persistence, tumor metastasis, and autoimmunity, such as soluble CD163 (sCD163), chitinase-3-like protein 1, osteopontin, and pentraxin-3, in hOE cells; however, their expression levels were significantly dysregulated in TLR3-deficient hOE cells. Finally, we demonstrate using hOE cells that TLR3 deficiency resulted in an increased amount of chlamydial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) within Chlamydia inclusions, which is suggestive that TLR3 deficiency leads to enhanced chlamydial replication and possibly increased genital tract pathogenesis during human infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jerry Z Xu
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Ramesh Kumar
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Haoli Gong
- Xiangya Second Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Luyao Liu
- Xiangya Second Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Nicole Ramos-Solis
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Yujing Li
- Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Wilbert A Derbigny
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
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4
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Ambite I, Puthia M, Nagy K, Cafaro C, Nadeem A, Butler DSC, Rydström G, Filenko NA, Wullt B, Miethke T, Svanborg C. Molecular Basis of Acute Cystitis Reveals Susceptibility Genes and Immunotherapeutic Targets. PLoS Pathog 2016; 12:e1005848. [PMID: 27732661 PMCID: PMC5061333 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1005848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2016] [Accepted: 08/06/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Tissue damage is usually regarded as a necessary price to pay for successful elimination of pathogens by the innate immune defense. Yet, it is possible to distinguish protective from destructive effects of innate immune activation and selectively attenuate molecular nodes that create pathology. Here, we identify acute cystitis as an Interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β)-driven, hyper-inflammatory condition of the infected urinary bladder and IL-1 receptor blockade as a novel therapeutic strategy. Disease severity was controlled by the mechanism of IL-1β processing and mice with intact inflammasome function developed a moderate, self-limiting form of cystitis. The most severe form of acute cystitis was detected in mice lacking the inflammasome constituents ASC or NLRP-3. IL-1β processing was hyperactive in these mice, due to a new, non-canonical mechanism involving the matrix metalloproteinase 7- (MMP-7). ASC and NLRP-3 served as transcriptional repressors of MMP7 and as a result, Mmp7 was markedly overexpressed in the bladder epithelium of Asc-/- and Nlrp3-/- mice. The resulting IL-1β hyper-activation loop included a large number of IL-1β-dependent pro-inflammatory genes and the IL-1 receptor antagonist Anakinra inhibited their expression and rescued susceptible Asc-/- mice from bladder pathology. An MMP inhibitor had a similar therapeutic effect. Finally, elevated levels of IL-1β and MMP-7 were detected in patients with acute cystitis, suggesting a potential role as biomarkers and immunotherapeutic targets. The results reproduce important aspects of human acute cystitis in the murine model and provide a comprehensive molecular framework for the pathogenesis and immunotherapy of acute cystitis, one of the most common infections in man. Infections continue to threaten human health as pathogenic organisms outsmart available therapies with remarkable genetic versatility. Fortunately, microbial versatility is matched by the flexibility of the host immune system which provide a rich source of novel therapeutic concepts. Emerging therapeutic solutions include substances that strengthen the immune system rather than killing the bacteria directly. Selectivity is a concern, however, as boosting of the antibacterial immune response may cause collateral tissue damage. This study addresses how the host response to urinary bladder infection causes acute cystitis and how this response can be attenuated in patients who suffer from this very common condition. We identify the cytokine Interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β) as a key immune response determinant in acute cystitis and successfully treat mice with severe acute cystitis by inhibiting IL-1β or the enzyme MMP-7 that processes IL-1β to its active form. Finally, we detect elevated levels of these molecules in urine samples from patients with cystitis, suggesting clinical relevance and a potential role of IL-1β and MMP-7 both as therapeutic targets and as biomarkers of infection. These findings provide a much needed, molecular framework for the pathogenesis and treatment of acute cystitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ines Ambite
- Division of Microbiology, Immunology and Glycobiology, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Manoj Puthia
- Division of Microbiology, Immunology and Glycobiology, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Karoly Nagy
- Division of Microbiology, Immunology and Glycobiology, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Caterina Cafaro
- Division of Microbiology, Immunology and Glycobiology, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Aftab Nadeem
- Division of Microbiology, Immunology and Glycobiology, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Daniel S. C. Butler
- Division of Microbiology, Immunology and Glycobiology, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Gustav Rydström
- Division of Microbiology, Immunology and Glycobiology, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Nina A. Filenko
- Division of Microbiology, Immunology and Glycobiology, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Björn Wullt
- Division of Microbiology, Immunology and Glycobiology, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Thomas Miethke
- Institute of Medical Microbiology and Hygiene, Medical Faculty of Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Catharina Svanborg
- Division of Microbiology, Immunology and Glycobiology, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
- * E-mail:
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5
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Gounder AP, Myers ND, Treuting PM, Bromme BA, Wilson SS, Wiens ME, Lu W, Ouellette AJ, Spindler KR, Parks WC, Smith JG. Defensins Potentiate a Neutralizing Antibody Response to Enteric Viral Infection. PLoS Pathog 2016; 12:e1005474. [PMID: 26933888 PMCID: PMC4774934 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1005474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2015] [Accepted: 02/05/2016] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
α-defensins are abundant antimicrobial peptides with broad, potent antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral activities in vitro. Although their contribution to host defense against bacteria in vivo has been demonstrated, comparable studies of their antiviral activity in vivo are lacking. Using a mouse model deficient in activated α-defensins in the small intestine, we show that Paneth cell α-defensins protect mice from oral infection by a pathogenic virus, mouse adenovirus 1 (MAdV-1). Survival differences between mouse genotypes are lost upon parenteral MAdV-1 infection, strongly implicating a role for intestinal defenses in attenuating pathogenesis. Although differences in α-defensin expression impact the composition of the ileal commensal bacterial population, depletion studies using broad-spectrum antibiotics revealed no effect of the microbiota on α-defensin-dependent viral pathogenesis. Moreover, despite the sensitivity of MAdV-1 infection to α-defensin neutralization in cell culture, we observed no barrier effect due to Paneth cell α-defensin activation on the kinetics and magnitude of MAdV-1 dissemination to the brain. Rather, a protective neutralizing antibody response was delayed in the absence of α-defensins. This effect was specific to oral viral infection, because antibody responses to parenteral or mucosal ovalbumin exposure were not affected by α-defensin deficiency. Thus, α-defensins play an important role as adjuvants in antiviral immunity in vivo that is distinct from their direct antiviral activity observed in cell culture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anshu P. Gounder
- Department of Microbiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Nicolle D. Myers
- Department of Microbiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Piper M. Treuting
- Department of Comparative Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Beth A. Bromme
- Department of Microbiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Sarah S. Wilson
- Department of Microbiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Mayim E. Wiens
- Department of Microbiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Wuyuan Lu
- Institute of Human Virology and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - André J. Ouellette
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California, USC Norris Cancer Center, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
| | - Katherine R. Spindler
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States of America
| | - William C. Parks
- Department of Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
| | - Jason G. Smith
- Department of Microbiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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6
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7
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Heimlich DR, Harrison A, Mason KM. Host Antimicrobial Peptides in Bacterial Homeostasis and Pathogenesis of Disease. Antibiotics (Basel) 2014; 3:645-76. [PMID: 26029470 PMCID: PMC4448142 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics3040645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2014] [Revised: 11/05/2014] [Accepted: 11/05/2014] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Innate immune responses function as a first line of host defense against the development of bacterial infection, and in some cases to preserve the sterility of privileged sites in the human host. Bacteria that enter these sites must counter host responses for colonization. From the host's perspective, the innate immune system works expeditiously to minimize the bacterial threat before colonization and subsequent dysbiosis. The multifactorial nature of disease further challenges predictions of how each independent variable influences bacterial pathogenesis. From bacterial colonization to infection and through disease, the microenvironments of the host are in constant flux as bacterial and host factors contribute to changes at the host-pathogen interface, with the host attempting to eradicate bacteria and the bacteria fighting to maintain residency. A key component of this innate host response towards bacterial infection is the production of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs). As an early component of the host response, AMPs modulate bacterial load and prevent establishment of infection. Under quiescent conditions, some AMPs are constitutively expressed by the epithelium. Bacterial infection can subsequently induce production of other AMPs in an effort to maintain sterility, or to restrict colonization. As demonstrated in various studies, the absence of a single AMP can influence pathogenesis, highlighting the importance of AMP concentration in maintaining homeostasis. Yet, AMPs can increase bacterial virulence through the co-opting of the peptides or alteration of bacterial virulence gene expression. Further, bacterial factors used to subvert AMPs can modify host microenvironments and alter colonization of the residential flora that principally maintain homeostasis. Thus, the dynamic interplay between host defense peptides and bacterial factors produced to quell peptide activity play a critical role in the progression and outcome of disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Derek R. Heimlich
- The Research Institute at Nationwide Children’s Center for Microbial Pathogenesis, Columbus, OH 43205, USA; E-Mails: (D.R.H.); (A.H.)
| | - Alistair Harrison
- The Research Institute at Nationwide Children’s Center for Microbial Pathogenesis, Columbus, OH 43205, USA; E-Mails: (D.R.H.); (A.H.)
| | - Kevin M. Mason
- The Research Institute at Nationwide Children’s Center for Microbial Pathogenesis, Columbus, OH 43205, USA; E-Mails: (D.R.H.); (A.H.)
- The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Columbus, OH 43205, USA
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8
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Vandenbroucke RE, Vanlaere I, Van Hauwermeiren F, Van Wonterghem E, Wilson C, Libert C. Pro-inflammatory effects of matrix metalloproteinase 7 in acute inflammation. Mucosal Immunol 2014; 7:579-88. [PMID: 24129163 DOI: 10.1038/mi.2013.76] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2012] [Revised: 08/07/2013] [Accepted: 08/25/2013] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Matrix metalloproteinase 7 (MMP7) is a member of the MMP family. In the small intestine, MMP7 is responsible for activating α-defensins, which are broad-spectrum anti-microbial peptides produced by the Paneth cells. We report that MMP7(-/-) mice are resistant to LPS-induced lethality and that this resistance is correlated with reduced levels of systemic cytokines. LPS induced the upregulation and activation of MMP7 in the small intestine, degranulation of the Paneth cells, and induction of intestinal permeability in MMP7(+/+) mice. In MMP7(-/-) mice, both LPS-induced intestinal permeability and consequent bacterial translocation to the mesenteric lymph nodes were reduced. Based on gene expression analysis and evaluation of intestinal damage, we attribute the protected state of MMP7(-/-) mice to reduced intestinal inflammation. Interestingly, we found that different α-defensins, namely Crp1 (DEFA1) and Crp4 (DEFA4), can stimulate IL-6 release in macrophages and ileum explants in a TLR4 independent way. We conclude that absence of MMP7 protects mice from LPS-induced intestinal permeability and lethality, and suggest that MMP7-activated α-defensins, in addition to their previously recognized bactericidal and anti-inflammatory roles, may exhibit pro-inflammatory activities in the intestine by activating macrophages and amplifying the local inflammatory response in the gut, leading to intestinal leakage and subsequent increase in systemic inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- R E Vandenbroucke
- 1] VIB Inflammation Research Center, Ghent, Belgium [2] Department of Biomedical Molecular Biology, University Ghent, Ghent, Belgium
| | - I Vanlaere
- 1] VIB Inflammation Research Center, Ghent, Belgium [2] Department of Biomedical Molecular Biology, University Ghent, Ghent, Belgium
| | - F Van Hauwermeiren
- 1] VIB Inflammation Research Center, Ghent, Belgium [2] Department of Biomedical Molecular Biology, University Ghent, Ghent, Belgium
| | - E Van Wonterghem
- 1] VIB Inflammation Research Center, Ghent, Belgium [2] Department of Biomedical Molecular Biology, University Ghent, Ghent, Belgium
| | - C Wilson
- Department of Pathology, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
| | - C Libert
- 1] VIB Inflammation Research Center, Ghent, Belgium [2] Department of Biomedical Molecular Biology, University Ghent, Ghent, Belgium
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9
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Matheus ER, Zonta MA, Discacciati MG, Paruci P, Velame F, Cardeal LB, Barros SB, Pignatari AC, Maria-Engler SS. MMP-9 expression increases according to the grade of squamous intraepithelial lesion in cervical smears. Diagn Cytopathol 2014; 42:827-33. [DOI: 10.1002/dc.23124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2013] [Revised: 01/15/2014] [Accepted: 01/16/2014] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Erika R. Matheus
- Laboratory of Clinical Pathology and Cytology, Department of Clinical Chemistry and Toxicology; School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of São Paulo; São Paulo Brazil
| | - Marco A. Zonta
- In Cito Laboratory-Diagnostic Cytology; São Paulo Brazil
| | - Michelle G. Discacciati
- Laboratory of Clinical Pathology and Cytology, Department of Clinical Chemistry and Toxicology; School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of São Paulo; São Paulo Brazil
| | | | | | - Laura B.S. Cardeal
- Laboratory of Clinical Pathology and Cytology, Department of Clinical Chemistry and Toxicology; School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of São Paulo; São Paulo Brazil
| | - Silvia B.M. Barros
- Laboratory of Clinical Pathology and Cytology, Department of Clinical Chemistry and Toxicology; School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of São Paulo; São Paulo Brazil
| | - Antonio C. Pignatari
- Special Laboratory of Clinical Microbiology; Department of Medicine, Federal University of São Paulo; São Paulo Brazil
| | - Silvya S. Maria-Engler
- Laboratory of Clinical Pathology and Cytology, Department of Clinical Chemistry and Toxicology; School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of São Paulo; São Paulo Brazil
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10
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Hafner LM, Cunningham K, Beagley KW. Ovarian steroid hormones: effects on immune responses and Chlamydia trachomatis infections of the female genital tract. Mucosal Immunol 2013; 6:859-75. [PMID: 23860476 DOI: 10.1038/mi.2013.46] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2011] [Accepted: 06/04/2013] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Female sex hormones are known to regulate the adaptive and innate immune functions of the female reproductive tract. This review aims to update our current knowledge of the effects of the sex hormones estradiol and progesterone in the female reproductive tract on innate immunity, antigen presentation, specific immune responses, antibody secretion, genital tract infections caused by Chlamydia trachomatis, and vaccine-induced immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- L M Hafner
- Infectious Diseases Program, Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation (IHBI), Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Kelvin Grove, Queensland, Australia.
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11
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Abdelsamed H, Peters J, Byrne GI. Genetic variation in Chlamydia trachomatis and their hosts: impact on disease severity and tissue tropism. Future Microbiol 2013; 8:1129-1146. [PMID: 24020741 PMCID: PMC4009991 DOI: 10.2217/fmb.13.80] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Chlamydia trachomatis infections are a global health problem. This obligate intracellular bacterial pathogen comprises lymphogranuloma venereum (L1-L3), ocular (A-C) and genital (D-K) serovars. Although genetically similar, each serovar group differs in disease severity and tissue tropism through mechanisms that are not well understood. It is clear that host genetic differences also play a role in chlamydial disease outcome and key host polymorphisms are beginning to emerge from both human and experimental animal studies. In this review, we will highlight pathogen and host genes that link genetic diversity, disease severity and tissue tropism. We will also use this information to provide new insights that may be helpful in developing improved management strategies for these important pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hossam Abdelsamed
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Biochemistry, University of Tennessee Health Sciences Center, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Jan Peters
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Biochemistry, University of Tennessee Health Sciences Center, Memphis, TN, USA
- Regional Biocontainment Laboratory, University of Tennessee Health Sciences Center, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Gerald I Byrne
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Biochemistry, University of Tennessee Health Sciences Center, Memphis, TN, USA
- Regional Biocontainment Laboratory, University of Tennessee Health Sciences Center, Memphis, TN, USA
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12
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Identification of immunodominant antigens by probing a whole Chlamydia trachomatis open reading frame proteome microarray using sera from immunized mice. Infect Immun 2010; 79:246-57. [PMID: 20956570 DOI: 10.1128/iai.00626-10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Chlamydia trachomatis infections can lead to severe chronic complications, including trachoma, ectopic pregnancy, and infertility. The only effective approach to disease control is vaccination. The goal of this work was to identify new potential vaccine candidates through a proteomics approach. We constructed a protein chip array (Antigen Discovery, Inc.) by expressing the open reading frames (ORFs) from C. trachomatis mouse pneumonitis (MoPn) genomic and plasmid DNA and tested it with serum samples from MoPn-immunized mice. Two groups of BALB/c female mice were immunized either intranasally or intravaginally with live elementary bodies (EB). Another two groups were immunized by a combination of the intramuscular and subcutaneous routes with UV-treated EB (UV-EB), using either CpG and Montanide as adjuvants to favor a Th1 response or alum to elicit a Th2 response. Serum samples collected at regular intervals postimmunization were tested in the proteome array. The microarray included the expression products of 909 proteins from a total of 921 ORFs of the Chlamydia MoPn genome and plasmid. A total of 185 immunodominant proteins elicited an early and sustained antibody response in the mice immunized with live EB, and of these, 71 were also recognized by the sera from mice immunized with UV-EB. The reactive antigens included some proteins that were previously described as immunogenic, such as the major outer membrane protein, OmpB, Hsp60, and IncA and proteins from the type III secretion system. In addition, we identified in mice several new immunogens, including 75 hypothetical proteins. In summary, we have identified a new group of immunodominant chlamydial proteins that can be tested for their ability to induce protection.
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13
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Holland MJ, Jeffries D, Pattison M, Korr G, Gall A, Joof H, Manjang A, Burton MJ, Mabey DCW, Bailey RL. Pathway-focused arrays reveal increased matrix metalloproteinase-7 (matrilysin) transcription in trachomatous trichiasis. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2010; 51:3893-902. [PMID: 20375326 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.09-5054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Several genes that are associated with protection from or susceptibility to trachomatous trichiasis (TT) have been identified through genetic association studies. Yet there have been few studies in which gene expression profiles were assessed in TT cases and disease-free controls. The purpose was to identify genes that are differentially expressed in the upper tarsal conjunctiva of subjects with TT. METHOD Pathway-focused gene arrays were used to screen conjunctival RNA expression of 226 gene transcripts of interest. The screening was followed by validation of differentially expressed genes by qRT-PCR on an independent set of samples. Three different techniques were then used to test for quantitative differences in the recovered conjunctival protein fraction. RESULTS Focused arrays identified a set of 13 differentially expressed genes. Validation by qRT-PCR confirmed differential expression in four of these genes (COL1A1, COL7A1, MMP7, and TLR6). Increased expression of MMP7 was the only consistent differentially regulated gene in the conjunctival samples of trichiasis subjects. MMP7 was present in isolated conjunctival proteins and in the tissue culture supernatants of peripheral blood lymphocytes after stimulation. CONCLUSIONS There is an imbalance in extracellular matrix turnover with minimal contribution of adaptive immune responses at this stage of trichiasis. There was little evidence of broad differential expression in genes characteristic of polar responses of adaptive T cells or macrophages. The control of the MMP7 response and its activity appears significant in the fibrotic changes observed in TT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin J Holland
- Department of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK.
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Matrix metalloproteinases as drug targets in infections caused by gram-negative bacteria and in septic shock. Clin Microbiol Rev 2009; 22:224-39, Table of Contents. [PMID: 19366913 DOI: 10.1128/cmr.00047-08] [Citation(s) in RCA: 104] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The mammalian immune system is optimized to cope effectively with the constant threat of pathogens. However, when the immune system overreacts, sepsis, severe sepsis, or septic shock can develop. Despite extensive research, these conditions remain the leading cause of death in intensive care units. The matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) constitute a family of proteases that are expressed in developmental, physiological, and pathological processes and also in response to infections. Studies using MMP inhibitors and MMP knockout mice indicate that MMPs play essential roles in infection and in the host defense against infection. This review provides a brief introduction to some basic concepts of infections caused by gram-negative bacteria and reviews reports describing MMP expression and inhibition, as well as studies with MMP-deficient mice in models of infection caused by gram-negative bacteria and of septic shock. We discuss whether MMPs should be considered novel drug targets in infection and septic shock.
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15
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Iijima N, Thompson JM, Iwasaki A. Dendritic cells and macrophages in the genitourinary tract. Mucosal Immunol 2008; 1:451-9. [PMID: 19079212 PMCID: PMC2684461 DOI: 10.1038/mi.2008.57] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Dendritic cells (DCs) and macrophages are antigen-presenting cells (APCs) that are important in innate immune defense as well as in the generation and regulation of adaptive immunity against a wide array of pathogens. The genitourinary (GU) tract, which serves an important reproductive function, is constantly exposed to numerous agents of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). To combat these STIs, several subsets of DCs and macrophages are strategically localized within the GU tract. In the female genital mucosa, recruitment and function of these APCs are uniquely governed by sex hormones. This review summarizes the latest advances in our understanding of DCs and macrophages in the GU tract with respect to their subsets, lineage, and function. In addition, we discuss the divergent roles of these cells in immune defense against STIs as well as in maternal tolerance to the fetus.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Iijima
- Department of Immunobiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - JM Thompson
- Department of Immunobiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - A Iwasaki
- Department of Immunobiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
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Caspase-1 contributes to Chlamydia trachomatis-induced upper urogenital tract inflammatory pathologies without affecting the course of infection. Infect Immun 2007; 76:515-22. [PMID: 18025098 DOI: 10.1128/iai.01064-07] [Citation(s) in RCA: 112] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Chlamydia trachomatis infection induces inflammatory pathologies in the upper genital tract, potentially leading to ectopic pregnancy and infertility in the affected women. Caspase-1 is required for processing and release of the inflammatory cytokines interleukin-1beta (IL-1beta), IL-18, and possibly IL-33. In the present study, we evaluated the role of caspase-1 in chlamydial infection and pathogenesis. Although chlamydial infection induced caspase-1 activation and processing of IL-1beta, mice competent and mice deficient in caspase-1 experienced similar courses of chlamydial infection in their urogenital tracts, suggesting that Chlamydia-activated caspase-1 did not play a significant role in resolution of chlamydial infection. However, when genital tract tissue pathologies were examined, the caspase-1-deficient mice displayed much reduced inflammatory damage. The reduction in inflammation was most obvious in the fallopian tube tissue. These observations demonstrated that although caspase-1 is not required for controlling chlamydial infection, caspase-1-mediated responses can exacerbate the Chlamydia-induced inflammatory pathologies in the upper genital tract, suggesting that the host caspase-1 may be targeted for selectively attenuating chlamydial pathogenicity without affecting the host defense against chlamydial infection.
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17
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Menendez A, Brett Finlay B. Defensins in the immunology of bacterial infections. Curr Opin Immunol 2007; 19:385-91. [PMID: 17702560 DOI: 10.1016/j.coi.2007.06.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2007] [Revised: 06/15/2007] [Accepted: 06/29/2007] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Defensins are a component of the host response against bacterial infections. Multiple studies suggest a linked upregulation of beta-defensins and pro-inflammatory cytokines expression in various tissues, as well as the possibility of mutual induction. Recent data demonstrate the importance of nucleotide-binding oligomerization proteins for the expression of defensins, and associate low levels of alpha-defensins expression by intestinal Paneth cells with susceptibility to Crohn's disease of the ileum. A novel anti-toxin activity has been identified for several alpha- and theta-defensins, expanding the repertoire of the antimicrobial functions of defensins. It has been shown that bacterial proteins can inactivate the action of defensins, and that pathogen type III secretion systems (T3SS) manipulate defensins expression via T3SS-mediated inhibition of the NF-kappaB pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alfredo Menendez
- Michael Smith Laboratories, The University of British Columbia, 301-2185 East Mall, Vancouver, BC, Canada V6T 1Z4
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Imtiaz MT, Schripsema JH, Sigar IM, Kasimos JN, Ramsey KH. Inhibition of matrix metalloproteinases protects mice from ascending infection and chronic disease manifestations resulting from urogenital Chlamydia muridarum infection. Infect Immun 2006; 74:5513-21. [PMID: 16988226 PMCID: PMC1594914 DOI: 10.1128/iai.00730-06] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2006] [Revised: 06/27/2006] [Accepted: 07/20/2006] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) are a family of host-derived enzymes involved in the turnover of extracellular matrix molecules. We have previously reported enhanced expression of matrix metalloproteinases in Chlamydia muridarum urogenital tract infection of female mice. Kinetics and patterns of MMP expression as well as enhanced expression in susceptible strains of mice in the prior study implied a role for MMP in pathogenesis. To explore this further, we infected a susceptible strain of mice (C3H/HeN) with C. muridarum and treated two groups of mice with either one of two chemical inhibitors of MMP (MMPi; captopril and a chemically modified tetracycline) and reserved infected sham-treated mice as controls. Neither of the treatments affected shedding of viable chlamydiae from the lower urogenital tract, but the administration of either MMPi protected mice from the formation of hydrosalpinx-a surrogate marker of oviduct occlusion and infertility. Interestingly, the mechanism of protection for mice treated with chemically modified tetracycline 3, appeared to be related to prevention of ascending upper genital tract infection. These results imply that MMP are involved in pathogenesis of chlamydial infection in this model by mediating ascension of the infection into the upper genital tract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad T Imtiaz
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine, Midwestern University, 555 31st St., Downers Grove, IL 60516, USA.
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