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Yount KS, Darville T. Immunity to Sexually Transmitted Bacterial Infections of the Female Genital Tract: Toward Effective Vaccines. Vaccines (Basel) 2024; 12:863. [PMID: 39203989 PMCID: PMC11359697 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines12080863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2024] [Revised: 07/19/2024] [Accepted: 07/27/2024] [Indexed: 09/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) caused by bacterial pathogens Chlamydia trachomatis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, and Treponema pallidum present significant public health challenges. These infections profoundly impact reproductive health, leading to pelvic inflammatory disease, infertility, and increased susceptibility to other infections. Prevention measures, including antibiotic treatments, are limited by the often-asymptomatic nature of these infections, the need for repetitive and continual screening of sexually active persons, antibiotic resistance for gonorrhea, and shortages of penicillin for syphilis. While vaccines exist for viral STIs like human papillomavirus (HPV) and hepatitis B virus (HBV), there are no vaccines available for bacterial STIs. This review examines the immune responses in the female genital tract to these bacterial pathogens and the implications for developing effective vaccines against bacterial STIs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Toni Darville
- Department of Pediatrics, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA;
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2
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Lawrence LA, Vidal P, Varughese RS, Tiger Li ZR, Chen TD, Tuske SC, Jimenez AR, Lowen AC, Shafer WM, Swaims-Kohlmeier A. Murine modeling of menstruation identifies immune correlates of protection during Chlamydia muridarum challenge. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.05.21.595090. [PMID: 38826233 PMCID: PMC11142139 DOI: 10.1101/2024.05.21.595090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2024]
Abstract
The menstrual cycle influences the risk of acquiring sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including Chlamydia trachomatis (C. trachomatis), although the underlying immune contributions are poorly defined. A mouse model simulating the immune-mediated process of menstruation could provide valuable insights into tissue-specific determinants of protection against chlamydial infection within the cervicovaginal and uterine mucosae comprising the female reproductive tract (FRT). Here, we used the pseudopregnancy approach in naïve C57Bl/6 mice and performed vaginal challenge with Chlamydia muridarum (C. muridarum) at decidualization, endometrial tissue remodeling, or uterine repair. This strategy identified that the time frame comprising uterine repair correlated with robust infection and greater bacterial burden as compared with mice on hormonal contraception, while challenges during endometrial remodeling were least likely to result in a productive infection. By comparing the infection site at early time points following chlamydial challenge, we found that a greater abundance of innate effector populations and proinflammatory signaling, including IFNγ correlated with protection. FRT immune profiling in uninfected mice over pseudopregnancy or in pig-tailed macaques over the menstrual cycle identified NK cell infiltration into the cervicovaginal tissues and lumen over the course of endometrial remodeling. Notably, NK cell depletion over this time frame reversed protection, with mice now productively infected with C. muridarum following challenge. This study shows that the pseudopregnancy murine menstruation model recapitulates immune changes in the FRT as a result of endometrial remodeling and identifies NK cell localization at the FRT as essential for immune protection against primary C. muridarum infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurel A Lawrence
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Paola Vidal
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Richa S Varughese
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Zheng-Rong Tiger Li
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Thien Duy Chen
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Steven C Tuske
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Ariana R Jimenez
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Anice C Lowen
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - William M Shafer
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
- Laboratories of Bacterial Pathogenesis, Atlanta Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Decatur, Georgia
| | - Alison Swaims-Kohlmeier
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
- Department of GYNOB, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
- Division of HIV Prevention Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia (previous affiliation)
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3
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Mayall JR, Horvat JC, Mangan NE, Chevalier A, McCarthy H, Hampsey D, Donovan C, Brown AC, Matthews AY, de Weerd NA, de Geus ED, Starkey MR, Kim RY, Daly K, Goggins BJ, Keely S, Maltby S, Baldwin R, Foster PS, Boyle MJ, Tanwar PS, Huntington ND, Hertzog PJ, Hansbro PM. Interferon-epsilon is a novel regulator of NK cell responses in the uterus. EMBO Mol Med 2024; 16:267-293. [PMID: 38263527 PMCID: PMC10897320 DOI: 10.1038/s44321-023-00018-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2021] [Revised: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2024] Open
Abstract
The uterus is a unique mucosal site where immune responses are balanced to be permissive of a fetus, yet protective against infections. Regulation of natural killer (NK) cell responses in the uterus during infection is critical, yet no studies have identified uterine-specific factors that control NK cell responses in this immune-privileged site. We show that the constitutive expression of IFNε in the uterus plays a crucial role in promoting the accumulation, activation, and IFNγ production of NK cells in uterine tissue during Chlamydia infection. Uterine epithelial IFNε primes NK cell responses indirectly by increasing IL-15 production by local immune cells and directly by promoting the accumulation of a pre-pro-like NK cell progenitor population and activation of NK cells in the uterus. These findings demonstrate the unique features of this uterine-specific type I IFN and the mechanisms that underpin its major role in orchestrating innate immune cell protection against uterine infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jemma R Mayall
- Immune Health Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute and the University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, 2308, Australia
| | - Jay C Horvat
- Immune Health Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute and the University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, 2308, Australia
| | - Niamh E Mangan
- Centre for Innate Immunity and Infectious Diseases, Hudson Institute of Medical Research and Departments of Molecular and Translational Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3168, Australia
| | - Anne Chevalier
- Immune Health Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute and the University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, 2308, Australia
| | - Huw McCarthy
- Immune Health Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute and the University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, 2308, Australia
| | - Daniel Hampsey
- Immune Health Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute and the University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, 2308, Australia
| | - Chantal Donovan
- Centre for Inflammation, Centenary Institute and University of Technology Sydney, Faculty of Science, School of Life Sciences, Sydney, NSW, 2000, Australia
| | - Alexandra C Brown
- Immune Health Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute and the University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, 2308, Australia
| | - Antony Y Matthews
- Centre for Innate Immunity and Infectious Diseases, Hudson Institute of Medical Research and Departments of Molecular and Translational Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3168, Australia
| | - Nicole A de Weerd
- Centre for Innate Immunity and Infectious Diseases, Hudson Institute of Medical Research and Departments of Molecular and Translational Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3168, Australia
| | - Eveline D de Geus
- Centre for Innate Immunity and Infectious Diseases, Hudson Institute of Medical Research and Departments of Molecular and Translational Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3168, Australia
| | - Malcolm R Starkey
- Immune Health Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute and the University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, 2308, Australia
- Immunology and Pathology, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3168, Australia
| | - Richard Y Kim
- Immune Health Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute and the University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, 2308, Australia
- Centre for Inflammation, Centenary Institute and University of Technology Sydney, Faculty of Science, School of Life Sciences, Sydney, NSW, 2000, Australia
| | - Katie Daly
- Immune Health Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute and the University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, 2308, Australia
| | - Bridie J Goggins
- Immune Health Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute and the University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, 2308, Australia
| | - Simon Keely
- Immune Health Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute and the University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, 2308, Australia
| | - Steven Maltby
- Immune Health Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute and the University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, 2308, Australia
| | - Rennay Baldwin
- Immune Health Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute and the University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, 2308, Australia
| | - Paul S Foster
- Immune Health Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute and the University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, 2308, Australia
| | - Michael J Boyle
- Immune Health Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute and the University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, 2308, Australia
- Immunology and Infectious Diseases Unit, John Hunter Hospital, Newcastle, NSW, 2305, Australia
| | - Pradeep S Tanwar
- Gynecology Oncology Research Group, School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, 2308, Australia
| | - Nicholas D Huntington
- Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3168, Australia
| | - Paul J Hertzog
- Centre for Innate Immunity and Infectious Diseases, Hudson Institute of Medical Research and Departments of Molecular and Translational Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3168, Australia
| | - Philip M Hansbro
- Immune Health Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute and the University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, 2308, Australia.
- Centre for Inflammation, Centenary Institute and University of Technology Sydney, Faculty of Science, School of Life Sciences, Sydney, NSW, 2000, Australia.
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4
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Wang X, Wu H, Fang C, Li Z. Insights into innate immune cell evasion by Chlamydia trachomatis. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1289644. [PMID: 38333214 PMCID: PMC10850350 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1289644] [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: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Chlamydia trachomatis, is a kind of obligate intracellular pathogen. The removal of C. trachomatis relies primarily on specific cellular immunity. It is currently considered that CD4+ Th1 cytokine responses are the major protective immunity against C. trachomatis infection and reinfection rather than CD8+ T cells. The non-specific immunity (innate immunity) also plays an important role in the infection process. To survive inside the cells, the first process that C. trachomatis faces is the innate immune response. As the "sentry" of the body, mast cells attempt to engulf and remove C. trachomatis. Dendritic cells present antigen of C. trachomatis to the "commanders" (T cells) through MHC-I and MHC-II. IFN-γ produced by activated T cells and natural killer cells (NK) further activates macrophages. They form the body's "combat troops" and produce immunity against C. trachomatis in the tissues and blood. In addition, the role of eosinophils, basophils, innate lymphoid cells (ILCs), natural killer T (NKT) cells, γδT cells and B-1 cells should not be underestimated in the infection of C. trachomatis. The protective role of innate immunity is insufficient, and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) caused by C. trachomatis infections tend to be insidious and recalcitrant. As a consequence, C. trachomatis has developed a unique evasion mechanism that triggers inflammatory immunopathology and acts as a bridge to protective to pathological adaptive immunity. This review focuses on the recent advances in how C. trachomatis evades various innate immune cells, which contributes to vaccine development and our understanding of the pathophysiologic consequences of C. trachomatis infection.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Zhongyu Li
- Institute of Pathogenic Biology, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Special Pathogens Prevention and Control, School of Nursing, Hengyang Medical College, University of South China, Hengyang, China
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5
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Korchagina AA, Koroleva E, Tumanov AV. Innate Lymphoid Cells in Response to Intracellular Pathogens: Protection Versus Immunopathology. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2021; 11:775554. [PMID: 34938670 PMCID: PMC8685334 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2021.775554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2021] [Accepted: 11/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) are a heterogeneous group of cytokine-producing lymphocytes which are predominantly located at mucosal barrier surfaces, such as skin, lungs, and gastrointestinal tract. ILCs contribute to tissue homeostasis, regulate microbiota-derived signals, and protect against mucosal pathogens. ILCs are classified into five major groups by their developmental origin and distinct cytokine production. A recently emerged intriguing feature of ILCs is their ability to alter their phenotype and function in response to changing local environmental cues such as pathogen invasion. Once the pathogen crosses host barriers, ILCs quickly activate cytokine production to limit the spread of the pathogen. However, the dysregulated ILC responses can lead to tissue inflammation and damage. Furthermore, the interplay between ILCs and other immune cell types shapes the outcome of the immune response. Recent studies highlighted the important role of ILCs for host defense against intracellular pathogens. Here, we review recent advances in understanding the mechanisms controlling protective and pathogenic ILC responses to intracellular pathogens. This knowledge can help develop new ILC-targeted strategies to control infectious diseases and immunopathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna A Korchagina
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, United States
| | - Ekaterina Koroleva
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, United States
| | - Alexei V Tumanov
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, United States
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6
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Virok DP, Tömösi F, Keller-Pintér A, Szabó K, Bogdanov A, Poliska S, Rázga Z, Bruszel B, Cseh Z, Kókai D, Paróczai D, Endrész V, Janáky T, Burián K. Indoleamine 2,3-Dioxygenase Cannot Inhibit Chlamydia trachomatis Growth in HL-60 Human Neutrophil Granulocytes. Front Immunol 2021; 12:717311. [PMID: 34819931 PMCID: PMC8606673 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.717311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2021] [Accepted: 10/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Aims Neutrophil granulocytes are the major cells involved in Chlamydia trachomatis (C. trachomatis)-mediated inflammation and histopathology. A key protein in human intracellular antichlamydial defense is the tryptophan-degrading enzyme indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) which limits the growth of the tryptophan auxotroph Chlamydia. Despite its importance, the role of IDO in the intracellular defense against Chlamydia in neutrophils is not well characterized. Methods Global gene expression screen was used to evaluate the effect of C. trachomatis serovar D infection on the transcriptome of human neutrophil granulocytes. Tryptophan metabolite concentrations in the Chlamydia-infected and/or interferon-gamma (IFNG)-treated neutrophils were measured by ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC–MS/MS). Results Our results indicate that the C. trachomatis infection had a major impact on neutrophil gene expression, inducing 1,295 genes and repressing 1,510 genes. A bioinformatics analysis revealed that important factors involved in the induction of neutrophil gene expression were the interferon-related transcription factors such as IRF1-5, IRF7-9, STAT2, ICSB, and ISGF3. One of the upregulated genes was ido1, a known infection- and interferon-induced host gene. The tryptophan-degrading activity of IDO1 was not induced significantly by Chlamydia infection alone, but the addition of IFNG greatly increased its activity. Despite the significant IDO activity in IFNG-treated cells, C. trachomatis growth was not affected by IFNG. This result was in contrast to what we observed in HeLa human cervical epithelial cells, where the IFNG-mediated inhibition of C. trachomatis growth was significant and the IFNG-induced IDO activity correlated with growth inhibition. Conclusions IDO activity was not able to inhibit chlamydial growth in human neutrophils. Whether the IDO activity was not high enough for inhibition or other chlamydial growth-promoting host mechanisms were induced in the infected and interferon-treated neutrophils needs to be further investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dezső P Virok
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Albert Szent-Györgyi Health Center and Faculty of Medicine, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Ferenc Tömösi
- Department of Medical Chemistry, Interdisciplinary Centre of Excellence, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | | | - Kitti Szabó
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Anita Bogdanov
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Albert Szent-Györgyi Health Center and Faculty of Medicine, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Szilárd Poliska
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Zsolt Rázga
- Department of Pathology, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Bella Bruszel
- Department of Medical Chemistry, Interdisciplinary Centre of Excellence, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Zsuzsanna Cseh
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Albert Szent-Györgyi Health Center and Faculty of Medicine, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Dávid Kókai
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Albert Szent-Györgyi Health Center and Faculty of Medicine, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Dóra Paróczai
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Albert Szent-Györgyi Health Center and Faculty of Medicine, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Valéria Endrész
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Albert Szent-Györgyi Health Center and Faculty of Medicine, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Tamás Janáky
- Department of Medical Chemistry, Interdisciplinary Centre of Excellence, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Katalin Burián
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Albert Szent-Györgyi Health Center and Faculty of Medicine, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
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7
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The Reaction of Innate Lymphoid Cells in the Mouse Female Genital Tract to Chlamydial Infection. Infect Immun 2021; 89:e0080020. [PMID: 34424753 DOI: 10.1128/iai.00800-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) comprise five distinct subsets. ILCs are found at mucosal barriers and may fight invading pathogens. Chlamydia is an intracellular bacterium that infects the mucosa of the genital tract and can cause severe tissue damage. Here, we used a mouse infection model with Chlamydia muridarum to measure the reaction of genital tract ILCs to the infection. Tissue-resident natural killer (NK) cells were the largest group in the uninfected female genital tract, and their number did not substantially change. Conventional NK cells were present in the greatest numbers during acute infection, while ILC1s continuously increased to high numbers. ILC2 and ILC3s were found at lower numbers that oscillated by a factor of 2 to 4. The majority of ILC3s transdifferentiated into ILC1s. NK cells and ILC1s produced gamma interferon (IFN-γ) and, rarely, tumor necrosis factor (TNF), but only early in the infection. Lack of B and T cells increased ILC numbers, while the loss of myeloid cells decreased them. ILCs accumulated to a high density in the oviduct, a main site of tissue destruction. ILC subsets are part of the inflammatory and immune reaction during infection with C. muridarum and may contribute to tissue damage during chlamydial infection.
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8
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Zheng X, Zhong W, O'Connell CM, Liu Y, Haggerty CL, Geisler WM, Anyalechi GE, Kirkcaldy RD, Wiesenfeld HC, Hillier SL, Steinkampf MP, Hammond KR, Fine J, Li Y, Darville T. Host Genetic Risk Factors for Chlamydia trachomatis-Related Infertility in Women. J Infect Dis 2021; 224:S64-S71. [PMID: 34396400 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiab149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chlamydia trachomatis (Ct) infection ascending to the upper genital tract can cause infertility. Direct association of genetic variants as contributors is challenging because infertility may not be diagnosed until years after infection. Investigating the intermediate trait of ascension bridges this gap. METHODS We identified infertility genome-wide association study (GWAS) loci using deoxyribonucleic acid from Ct-seropositive cisgender women in a tubal factor infertility study and Ct-infected cisgender women from a longitudinal pelvic inflammatory disease cohort with known fertility status. Deoxyribonucleic acid and blood messenger ribonucleic acid from 2 additional female cohorts with active Ct infection and known endometrial infection status were used to investigate the impact of infertility single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) on Ct ascension. A statistical mediation test examined whether multiple infertility SNPs jointly influenced ascension risk by modulating expression of mediator genes. RESULTS We identified 112 candidate infertility GWAS loci, and 31 associated with Ct ascension. The SNPs altered chlamydial ascension by modulating expression of 40 mediator genes. Mediator genes identified are involved in innate immune responses including type I interferon production, T-cell function, fibrosis, female reproductive tract health, and protein synthesis and degradation. CONCLUSIONS We identified Ct-related infertility loci and their potential functional effects on Ct ascension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaojing Zheng
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA.,Department of Biostatistics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Wujuan Zhong
- Department of Biostatistics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Catherine M O'Connell
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Yutong Liu
- Department of Biostatistics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Catherine L Haggerty
- Department of Epidemiology, Graduate School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - William M Geisler
- Departments of Medicine and Epidemiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Gloria E Anyalechi
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Division of STD Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Robert D Kirkcaldy
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Division of STD Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Harold C Wiesenfeld
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine and the Magee-Womens Research Institute Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Sharon L Hillier
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine and the Magee-Womens Research Institute Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | | | | | - Jason Fine
- Department of Biostatistics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Yun Li
- Department of Biostatistics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA.,Department of Genetics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Toni Darville
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
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9
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Dockterman J, Coers J. Immunopathogenesis of genital Chlamydia infection: insights from mouse models. Pathog Dis 2021; 79:ftab012. [PMID: 33538819 PMCID: PMC8189015 DOI: 10.1093/femspd/ftab012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2020] [Accepted: 02/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Chlamydiae are pathogenic intracellular bacteria that cause a wide variety of diseases throughout the globe, affecting the eye, lung, coronary arteries and female genital tract. Rather than by direct cellular toxicity, Chlamydia infection generally causes pathology by inducing fibrosis and scarring that is largely mediated by host inflammation. While a robust immune response is required for clearance of the infection, certain elements of that immune response may also damage infected tissue, leading to, in the case of female genital infection, disease sequelae such as pelvic inflammatory disease, infertility and ectopic pregnancy. It has become increasingly clear that the components of the immune system that destroy bacteria and those that cause pathology only partially overlap. In the ongoing quest for a vaccine that prevents Chlamydia-induced disease, it is important to target mechanisms that can achieve protective immunity while preventing mechanisms that damage tissue. This review focuses on mouse models of genital Chlamydia infection and synthesizes recent studies to generate a comprehensive model for immunity in the murine female genital tract, clarifying the respective contributions of various branches of innate and adaptive immunity to both host protection and pathogenic genital scarring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob Dockterman
- Department of Immunology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 22710, USA
| | - Jörn Coers
- Department of Immunology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 22710, USA
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 22710, USA
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10
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D Helble J, N Starnbach M. T cell responses to Chlamydia. Pathog Dis 2021; 79:6164867. [PMID: 33693620 DOI: 10.1093/femspd/ftab014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2020] [Accepted: 03/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Chlamydia trachomatis is the most commonly reported sexually transmitted infection in the United States. The high prevalence of infection and lack of a vaccine indicate a critical knowledge gap surrounding the host's response to infection and how to effectively generate protective immunity. The immune response to C. trachomatis is complex, with cells of the adaptive immune system playing a crucial role in bacterial clearance. Here, we discuss the CD4+ and CD8+ T cell response to Chlamydia, the importance of antigen specificity and the role of memory T cells during the recall response. Ultimately, a deeper understanding of protective immune responses is necessary to develop a vaccine that prevents the inflammatory diseases associated with Chlamydia infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer D Helble
- Department of Microbiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
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11
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Innate IFN-γ Is Essential for Systemic Chlamydia muridarum Control in Mice, While CD4 T Cell-Dependent IFN-γ Production Is Highly Redundant in the Female Reproductive Tract. Infect Immun 2021; 89:IAI.00541-20. [PMID: 33257535 PMCID: PMC8097277 DOI: 10.1128/iai.00541-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2020] [Accepted: 11/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Protective immunity against the obligate intracellular bacterium Chlamydia has long been thought to rely on CD4 T cell-dependent gamma interferon (IFN-γ) production. Nevertheless, whether IFN-γ is produced by other cellular sources during Chlamydia infection and how CD4 T cell-dependent and -independent IFN-γ contribute differently to host resistance have not been carefully evaluated. In this study, we dissected the requirements of IFN-γ produced by innate immune cells and CD4 T cells for resolution of Chlamydia muridarum female reproductive tract (FRT) infection. After C. muridarum intravaginal infection, IFN-γ-deficient and T cell-deficient mice exhibited opposite phenotypes for survival and bacterial shedding at the FRT mucosa, demonstrating the distinct requirements for IFN-γ and CD4 T cells in host defense against Chlamydia In Rag1-deficient mice, IFN-γ produced by innate lymphocytes (ILCs) accounted for early bacterial control and prolonged survival in the absence of adaptive immunity. Although type I ILCs are potent IFN-γ producers, we found that mature NK cells and ILC1s were not the sole sources of innate IFN-γ in response to Chlamydia By conducting T cell adoptive transfer, we showed definitively that IFN-γ-deficient CD4 T cells were sufficient for effective bacterial killing in the FRT during the first 21 days of infection and reduced bacterial burden more than 1,000-fold, although mice receiving IFN-γ-deficient CD4 T cells failed to completely eradicate the bacteria from the FRT like their counterparts receiving wild-type (WT) CD4 T cells. Together, our results revealed that innate IFN-γ is essential for preventing systemic Chlamydia dissemination, whereas IFN-γ produced by CD4 T cells is largely redundant at the FRT mucosa.
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De Clercq E, Van Gils M, Schautteet K, Devriendt B, Kiekens C, Chiers K, Van Den Broeck W, Cox E, Dean D, Vanrompay D. Chlamydia trachomatis L2c Infection in a Porcine Model Produced Urogenital Pathology and Failed to Induce Protective Immune Responses Against Re-Infection. Front Immunol 2020; 11:555305. [PMID: 33193323 PMCID: PMC7649141 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.555305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2020] [Accepted: 09/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The current study was designed to evaluate the pathogenesis, pathology and immune response of female genital tract infection with Chlamydia trachomatis L2c, the most recently discovered lymphogranuloma venereum strain, using a porcine model of sexually transmitted infections. Pigs were mock infected, infected once or infected and re-infected intravaginally, and samples were obtained for chlamydial culture, gross and microscopic pathology, and humoral and cell-mediated immunity. Intravaginal inoculation of pigs with this bacterium resulted in an infection that was confined to the urogenital tract, where inflammation and pathology were caused that resembled what is seen in human infection. Re-infection resulted in more severe gross pathology than primary infection, and chlamydial colonization of the urogenital tract was similar for primary infected and re-infected pigs. This indicates that primary infection failed to induce protective immune responses against re-infection. Indeed, the proliferative responses of mononuclear cells from blood and lymphoid tissues to C. trachomatis strain L2c were never statistically different among groups, suggesting that C. trachomatis-specific lymphocytes were not generated following infection or re-infection. Nevertheless, anti-chlamydial antibodies were elicited in sera and vaginal secretions after primary infection and re-infection, clearly resulting in a secondary systemic and mucosal antibody response. While primary infection did not protect against reinfection, the porcine model is relevant for evaluating immune and pathogenic responses for emerging and known C. trachomatis strains to advance drug and/or vaccine development in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evelien De Clercq
- Laboratory for Immunology and Animal Biotechnology, Department of Animal Production, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Matthias Van Gils
- Laboratory for Immunology and Animal Biotechnology, Department of Animal Production, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Katelijn Schautteet
- Laboratory for Immunology and Animal Biotechnology, Department of Animal Production, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Bert Devriendt
- Laboratory of Immunology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Celien Kiekens
- Laboratory for Immunology and Animal Biotechnology, Department of Animal Production, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Koen Chiers
- Department of Pathology, Bacteriology and Poultry Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Wim Van Den Broeck
- Department of Morphology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Eric Cox
- Laboratory of Immunology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Deborah Dean
- Center for Immunobiology and Vaccine Development, Children's Hospital Oakland, Research Institute, Oakland, CA, United States.,Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, CA, United States.,Joint Graduate Program in Bioengineering, University of California, Berkeley, CA, United States
| | - Daisy Vanrompay
- Laboratory for Immunology and Animal Biotechnology, Department of Animal Production, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
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Coxiella burnetii-Infected NK Cells Release Infectious Bacteria by Degranulation. Infect Immun 2020; 88:IAI.00172-20. [PMID: 32817330 DOI: 10.1128/iai.00172-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells are critically involved in the early immune response against various intracellular pathogens, including Coxiella burnetii and Chlamydia psittaci Chlamydia-infected NK cells functionally mature, induce cellular immunity, and protect themselves by killing the bacteria in secreted granules. Here, we report that infected NK cells do not allow intracellular multiday growth of Coxiella, as is usually observed in other host cell types. C. burnetii-infected NK cells display maturation and gamma interferon (IFN-γ) secretion, as well as the release of Coxiella-containing lytic granules. Thus, NK cells possess a potent program to restrain and expel different types of invading bacteria via degranulation. Strikingly, though, in contrast to Chlamydia, expulsed Coxiella organisms largely retain their infectivity and, hence, escape the cell-autonomous self-defense mechanism in NK cells.
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Li J, Zheng J, Wang M, Zhang Y, Jiang Y, Zhang X, Guo P. [Inhibition of CD96 enhances interferon-γ secretion by natural killer cells to alleviate lung injury in mice with pulmonary Chlamydia muridarum infection]. NAN FANG YI KE DA XUE XUE BAO = JOURNAL OF SOUTHERN MEDICAL UNIVERSITY 2020; 40:930-935. [PMID: 32895152 DOI: 10.12122/j.issn.1673-4254.2020.07.03] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the effect of neutralizing CD96 on natural killer (NK) cell functions in mice with pulmonary Chlamydia muridarum infection and explore the possible mechanism. METHODS Male BALB/c mice were randomly divided into infection group (Cm group), anti-CD96 treatment group (anti-CD96 group) and control group (n=5). In the former two groups, C. muridarum was inoculated via intranasal administration to establish mouse models of pulmonary C. muridarum infection, and the mice in the control group received intranasal administration of the inhalation buffer. In anti-CD96 group, the mice were injected with anti-CD96 antibody intraperitoneally at the dose of 250 μg every 3 days after the infection; the mice in Cm group received intraperitoneal injections of saline. The body weight of the mice was recorded daily. The mice were sacrificed 5 days after C. muridarum infection, and CD96 expression was detected by quantitative real-time PCR and Western blotting. HE staining and pathological scores were used to evaluate pneumonia of the mice. The inclusion body forming units (IFUs) were detected in the lung tissue homogenates to assess lung tissue chlamydia load. Flow cytometry and ELISA were used to assess the capacity of the lung NK cells to produce interferon-γ (IFN-γ) and regulate macrophages and Th1 cells. RESULTS C. muridarum infection inhibited CD96 expression in NK cells of the mice. Compared with those in Cm group, the mice in antiCD96 mice showed significantly milder lung inflammation (P < 0.05) and reduced chlamydia load in the lung tissue (P < 0.05). Neutralizing CD96 with anti-CD96 significantly enhanced IFN-γ secretion by the NK cells (P < 0.05) and augmented the immunoregulatory effect of the NK cells shown by enhanced responses of the lung macrophages (P < 0.05) and Th1 cells (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Inhibition of CD96 alleviates pneumonia in C. muridarum-infected mice possibly by enhancing IFN-γ secretion by NK cells and augmenting the immunoregulatory effect of the NK cells on innate and adaptive immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Li
- Clinical Laboratory, First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu 233004, China
| | - Jing Zheng
- Clinical Laboratory, First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu 233004, China
| | - Minda Wang
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Tissue Transplantation, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu 233030, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Tissue Transplantation, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu 233030, China
| | - Yifan Jiang
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Tissue Transplantation, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu 233030, China
| | - Xiaofeng Zhang
- Central Laboratory, First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu 233004, China
| | - Pu Guo
- Clinical Laboratory, First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu 233004, China
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Keb G, Fields KA. An Ancient Molecular Arms Race: Chlamydia vs. Membrane Attack Complex/Perforin (MACPF) Domain Proteins. Front Immunol 2020; 11:1490. [PMID: 32760406 PMCID: PMC7371996 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.01490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2020] [Accepted: 06/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Dynamic interactions that govern the balance between host and pathogen determine the outcome of infection and are shaped by evolutionary pressures. Eukaryotic hosts have evolved elaborate and formidable defense mechanisms that provide the basis for innate and adaptive immunity. Proteins containing a membrane attack complex/Perforin (MACPF) domain represent an important class of immune effectors. These pore-forming proteins induce cell killing by targeting microbial or host membranes. Intracellular bacteria can be shielded from MACPF-mediated killing, and Chlamydia spp. represent a successful paradigm of obligate intracellular parasitism. Ancestors of present-day Chlamydia likely originated at evolutionary times that correlated with or preceded many host defense pathways. We discuss the current knowledge regarding how chlamydiae interact with the MACPF proteins Complement C9, Perforin-1, and Perforin-2. Current evidence indicates a degree of resistance by Chlamydia to MACPF effector mechanisms. In fact, chlamydiae have acquired and adapted their own MACPF-domain protein to facilitate infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabrielle Keb
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Molecular Genetics, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, KY, United States
| | - Kenneth A Fields
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Molecular Genetics, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, KY, United States
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Innate Lymphoid Cells Are Required for Endometrial Resistance to Chlamydia trachomatis Infection. Infect Immun 2020; 88:IAI.00152-20. [PMID: 32341118 DOI: 10.1128/iai.00152-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2020] [Accepted: 04/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
In some women, sexually transmitted Chlamydia trachomatis may ascend to infect the endometrium, leading to pelvic inflammatory disease. To identify endometrial innate immune components that interact with Chlamydia, we introduced C. trachomatis into mouse endometrium via transcervical inoculation and compared the infectious yields in mice with and without immunodeficiency. Live C. trachomatis recovered from vaginal swabs or endometrial tissues peaked on day 3 and then declined in all mice with or without deficiency in adaptive immunity, indicating a critical role for innate immunity in endometrial control of C. trachomatis infection. Additional knockout of interleukin 2 receptor common gamma chain (IL-2Rγc) from adaptive immunity-deficient mice significantly compromised the endometrial innate immunity, demonstrating an important role for innate lymphoid cells (ILCs). Consistently, deficiency in IL-7 receptor alone, a common gamma chain-containing receptor required for ILC development, significantly reduced endometrial innate immunity. Furthermore, mice deficient in RORγt or T-bet became more susceptible to endometrial infection with C. trachomatis, suggesting a role for group 3-like ILCs in endometrial innate immunity. Furthermore, genetic deletion of gamma interferon (IFN-γ) but not IL-22 or antibody-mediated depletion of IFN-γ from adaptive immunity-deficient mice significantly compromised the endometrial innate immunity. Finally, depletion of NK1.1+ cells from adaptive immunity-deficient mice both significantly reduced IFN-γ and increased C. trachomatis burden in the endometrial tissue, confirming that mouse ILCs contribute significantly to endometrial innate immunity via an IFN-γ-dependent effector mechanism. It will be worth investigating whether IFN-γ-producing ILCs also improve endometrial resistance to sexually transmitted C. trachomatis infection in women.
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Evasion of Innate Lymphoid Cell-Regulated Gamma Interferon Responses by Chlamydia muridarum To Achieve Long-Lasting Colonization in Mouse Colon. Infect Immun 2020; 88:IAI.00798-19. [PMID: 31818961 DOI: 10.1128/iai.00798-19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2019] [Accepted: 12/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Revealing the mechanisms by which bacteria establish long-lasting colonization in the gastrointestinal tract is an area of intensive investigation. The obligate intracellular bacterium Chlamydia is known to colonize mouse colon for long periods. A colonization-deficient mutant strain of this intracellular bacterium is able to regain long-lasting colonization in gamma interferon (IFN-γ) knockout mice following intracolon inoculation. We now report that mice deficient in conventional T lymphocytes or recombination-activating gene (Rag) failed to show rescue of mutant colonization. Nevertheless, antibody depletion of IFN-γ or genetic deletion of interleukin 2 (IL-2) receptor common gamma chain in Rag-deficient mice did rescue mutant colonization. These observations suggest that colonic IFN-γ, responsible for inhibiting the intracellular bacterial mutant, is produced by innate lymphoid cells (ILCs). Consistently, depletion of NK1.1+ cells in Rag-deficient mice both prevented IFN-γ production and rescued mutant colonization. Furthermore, mice deficient in transcriptional factor RORγt, but not chemokine receptor CCR6, showed full rescue of the long-lasting colonization of the mutant, indicating a role for group 3-like ILCs. However, the inhibitory function of the responsible group 3-like ILCs was not dependent on the natural killer cell receptor (NCR1), since NCR1-deficient mice still inhibited mutant colonization. Consistently, mice deficient in the transcriptional factor T-bet only delayed the clearance of the bacterial mutant without fully rescuing the long-lasting colonization of the mutant. Thus, we have demonstrated that the obligate intracellular bacterium Chlamydia maintains its long-lasting colonization in the colon by evading IFN-γ from group 3-like ILCs.
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18
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Marks ZRC, Campbell N, deWeerd NA, Lim SS, Gearing LJ, Bourke NM, Hertzog PJ. PROPERTIES AND FUNCTIONS OF THE NOVEL TYPE I INTERFERON EPSILON. Semin Immunol 2019; 43:101328. [PMID: 31734130 DOI: 10.1016/j.smim.2019.101328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2019] [Accepted: 10/17/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Interferon epsilon (IFNε) is a type I IFN with unusual patterns of expression and therefore, function. It is constitutively expressed by reproductive tract epithelium and regulated by hormones during estrus cycle, reproduction, and menopause and by exogenous hormones. The IFNe protein is encoded by a gene in the type I IFN locus, binds to IFNAR1 and 2 which are required for signaling via the JAK STAT pathway. Its affinity for binding receptors and transducing signals is less potent than IFNα or β subtypes in vitro. Nevertheless, in vivo experiments indicate its efficacy in regulating mucosal immune responses and protecting from bacterial and viral infections. These studies demonstrate a different mechanism of action to type I IFNs. In this organ system with dynamic fluxes in cellularity, requirement to tolerate an implanted fetus, and be protected from disease, there is co-option of a special IFN from a family of effective immunoregulators, with unique controls and modified potency to make it a safe and effective constitutive reproductive tract cytokine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zoe R C Marks
- Centre for Innate Immunity and Infectious Diseases, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia; Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, Monash University Clayton Victoria, Australia
| | - Nicole Campbell
- Centre for Innate Immunity and Infectious Diseases, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia; Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, Monash University Clayton Victoria, Australia
| | - Nicole A deWeerd
- Centre for Innate Immunity and Infectious Diseases, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia; Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, Monash University Clayton Victoria, Australia
| | - San S Lim
- Centre for Innate Immunity and Infectious Diseases, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia; Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, Monash University Clayton Victoria, Australia
| | - Linden J Gearing
- Centre for Innate Immunity and Infectious Diseases, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia; Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, Monash University Clayton Victoria, Australia
| | - Nollaig M Bourke
- Centre for Innate Immunity and Infectious Diseases, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia; Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, Monash University Clayton Victoria, Australia; Department of Medical Gerontology, School of Medicine, Trinity Translational Medicine Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Ireland
| | - Paul J Hertzog
- Centre for Innate Immunity and Infectious Diseases, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia; Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, Monash University Clayton Victoria, Australia.
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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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Early Colonization of the Upper Genital Tract by Chlamydia muridarum Is Associated with Enhanced Inflammation Later in Infection. Infect Immun 2019; 87:IAI.00405-19. [PMID: 31285254 DOI: 10.1128/iai.00405-19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2019] [Accepted: 07/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Chlamydia trachomatis is the most commonly reported bacterial sexually transmitted infection in the United States. Modeling infection in animals can be challenging, as mice naturally clear C. trachomatis when it is deposited in the lower genital tract. However, C. trachomatis can productively infect mice when the lower genital tract is bypassed and bacteria are deposited directly into the upper genital tract via transcervical inoculation. Interestingly, the mouse-adapted Chlamydia species C. muridarum can infect mice both by transcervical inoculation and by natural ascension if introduced into the vaginal vault. In this study, we investigated whether the route of infection plays a role in the downstream immune responses to C. muridarum infection. We found that transcervical infection with C. muridarum results in higher bacterial burdens in the upper genital tract at earlier time points, correlating with levels of innate immune cells. When bacterial burdens were equivalent in intravaginally and transcervically infected mice at later time points, we observed substantially higher levels of adaptive immune cells in transcervically infected mice. Our data suggest that different routes of infection with the same organism can elicit different immune responses in the same tissue.
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The Important Role of Dendritic Cell (DC) in iNKT-Mediated Modulation of NK Cell Function in Chlamydia pneumoniae Lung Infection. Mediators Inflamm 2019; 2019:4742634. [PMID: 31236064 PMCID: PMC6545808 DOI: 10.1155/2019/4742634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2018] [Revised: 03/29/2019] [Accepted: 04/15/2019] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Chlamydia pneumoniae (Cpn) infection causes multiple acute and chronic human diseases. The role of DCs in host defense against Cpn infection has been well documented. The same is true for invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells and NK cells, but the interaction among cells is largely unknown. In this study, we investigated the influence and mechanism of iNKT cell on the differentiation and function of NK cell in Cpn lung infection and the role played by DCs in this process. We found that expansion of IFN-γ-producing NK cells quickly happened after the infection, but this response was altered in iNKT knockout (KO) mice. The expression of activation markers and the production of IFN-γ by different NK subsets were significantly lower in KO mice than wild-type (WT) mice. Using in vitro DC-NK coculture and in vivo adoptive transfer approaches, we further examined the role of DCs in iNKT-mediated modulation of NK cell function. We found that NK cells expressed lower levels of activation markers and produced less IFN-γ when they were cocultured with DCs from KO mice than WT mice. More importantly, we found that the adoptive transfer of DCs from the KO mice induced less NK cell activation and IFN-γ production. The results provided evidence on the modulating effect of iNKT cell on NK cell function, particularly the critical role of DCs in this modulation process. The finding suggests the complexity of cellular interactions in Cpn lung infection, which should be considered in designing preventive and therapeutic approaches for diseases and infections.
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Human Papilloma Virus and Chlamydia trachomatis: Casual Acquaintances or Partners in Crime? CURRENT CLINICAL MICROBIOLOGY REPORTS 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s40588-019-00117-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
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NK Cell-Mediated Processing Of Chlamydia psittaci Drives Potent Anti-Bacterial Th1 Immunity. Sci Rep 2019; 9:4799. [PMID: 30886314 PMCID: PMC6423132 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-41264-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2018] [Accepted: 03/05/2019] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells are innate immune cells critically involved in the early immune response against various pathogens including chlamydia. Here, we demonstrate that chlamydia-infected NK cells prevent the intracellular establishment and growth of the bacteria. Upon infection, they display functional maturation characterized by enhanced IFN-γ secretion, CD146 induction, PKCϴ activation, and granule secretion. Eventually, chlamydia are released in a non-infectious, highly immunogenic form driving a potent Th1 immune response. Further, anti-chlamydial antibodies generated during immunization neutralize the infection of epithelial cells. The release of chlamydia from NK cells requires PKCϴ function and active degranulation, while granule-associated granzyme B drives the loss of chlamydial infectivity. Cellular infection and bacterial release can be undergone repeatedly and do not affect NK cell function. Strikingly, NK cells passing through such an infection cycle significantly improve their cytotoxicity. Thus, NK cells not only protect themselves against productive chlamydial infections but also actively trigger potent anti-bacterial responses.
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Slade JA, Hall JV, Kintner J, Schoborg RV. The type I interferon receptor is not required for protection in the Chlamydia muridarum and HSV-2 murine super-infection model. Pathog Dis 2018; 76:5132873. [PMID: 30321322 PMCID: PMC6208986 DOI: 10.1093/femspd/fty075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2018] [Accepted: 10/12/2018] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Chlamydia trachomatis/HSV-2 vaginal co-infections are seen clinically, suggesting that these sexually transmitted pathogens may interact. We previously established an intravaginal Chlamydia muridarum/HSV-2 super-infection model and observed that chlamydial pre-infection protects mice from a subsequent lethal HSV-2 challenge. However, the mechanism of protection remains unknown. The type I interferon, IFN-β, binds to the type I interferon receptor (IFNR), elicits a host cellular antiviral response and inhibits HSV replication in vitro and in vivo. Previous studies have demonstrated that C. muridarum infection stimulates genital tract (GT) IFN-β production; therefore, we hypothesized that chlamydial pre-infection protects mice from HSV-2 challenge via the IFN-β/IFNR-induced antiviral response. To test this prediction, we quantified IFN-β levels in vaginal swab samples. Detection of IFN-β in C. muridarum singly infected, but not in mock-infected animals, prompted the use of the super-infection model in IFNR knockout (IFNR−/−) mice. We observed that C. muridarum pre-infection reduces HSV-2-induced mortality by 40% in wild-type mice and by 60% IFNR−/− mice. Severity of HSV-2 disease symptoms and viral shedding was also similarly reduced by C. muridarum pre-infection. These data indicate that, while chlamydial infection induces GT production of IFN-β, type I IFN-induced antiviral responses are likely not required for the observed protective effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica A Slade
- Emerging Pathogens Institute and Department of Environmental and Global Health, College of Public Health and Health Professions, University of Florida, 2055 Mowry Road, Gainesville, FL 32608, USA
| | - Jennifer V Hall
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Center for Inflammation, Infectious Disease and Immunity, James H. Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Box 70577, Johnson City, TN 37614, USA
| | - Jennifer Kintner
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Center for Inflammation, Infectious Disease and Immunity, James H. Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Box 70577, Johnson City, TN 37614, USA
| | - Robert V Schoborg
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Center for Inflammation, Infectious Disease and Immunity, James H. Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Box 70577, Johnson City, TN 37614, USA
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Poston TB, O'Connell CM, Girardi J, Sullivan JE, Nagarajan UM, Marinov A, Scurlock AM, Darville T. T Cell-Independent Gamma Interferon and B Cells Cooperate To Prevent Mortality Associated with Disseminated Chlamydia muridarum Genital Tract Infection. Infect Immun 2018; 86:e00143-18. [PMID: 29661927 PMCID: PMC6013674 DOI: 10.1128/iai.00143-18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2018] [Accepted: 04/04/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
CD4 T cells and antibody are required for optimal acquired immunity to Chlamydia muridarum genital tract infection, and T cell-mediated gamma interferon (IFN-γ) production is necessary to clear infection in the absence of humoral immunity. However, the role of T cell-independent immune responses during primary infection remains unclear. We investigated this question by inoculating wild-type and immune-deficient mice with C. muridarum CM001, a clonal isolate capable of enhanced extragenital replication. Genital inoculation of wild-type mice resulted in transient dissemination to the lungs and spleen that then was rapidly cleared from these organs. However, CM001 genital infection proved lethal for STAT1-/- and IFNG-/- mice, in which IFN-γ signaling was absent, and for Rag1-/- mice, which lacked T and B cells and in which innate IFN-γ signaling was retained. In contrast, B cell-deficient muMT mice, which can generate a Th1 response, and T cell-deficient mice with intact B cell and innate IFN-γ signaling survived. These data collectively indicate that IFN-γ prevents lethal CM001 dissemination in the absence of T cells and suggests a B cell corequirement. Adoptive transfer of convalescent-phase immune serum but not naive IgM to Rag1-/- mice infected with CM001 significantly increased the survival time, while transfer of naive B cells completely rescued Rag1-/- mice from CM001 lethality. Protection was associated with a significant reduction in the lung chlamydial burden of genitally infected mice. These data reveal an important cooperation between T cell-independent B cell responses and innate IFN-γ in chlamydial host defense and suggest that interactions between T cell-independent antibody and IFN-γ are essential for limiting extragenital dissemination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taylor B Poston
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Catherine M O'Connell
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Jenna Girardi
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Jeanne E Sullivan
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Uma M Nagarajan
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Anthony Marinov
- Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Amy M Scurlock
- Department of Pediatrics, Arkansas Children's Hospital, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas, USA
| | - Toni Darville
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
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Ibana JA, Sherchand SP, Fontanilla FL, Nagamatsu T, Schust DJ, Quayle AJ, Aiyar A. Chlamydia trachomatis-infected cells and uninfected-bystander cells exhibit diametrically opposed responses to interferon gamma. Sci Rep 2018; 8:8476. [PMID: 29855501 PMCID: PMC5981614 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-26765-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2018] [Accepted: 05/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The intracellular bacterial pathogen, Chlamydia trachomatis, is a tryptophan auxotroph. Therefore, induction of the host tryptophan catabolizing enzyme, indoleamine-2,3-dioxgenase-1 (IDO1), by interferon gamma (IFNγ) is one of the primary protective responses against chlamydial infection. However, despite the presence of a robust IFNγ response, active and replicating C. trachomatis can be detected in cervical secretions of women. We hypothesized that a primary C. trachomatis infection may evade the IFNγ response, and that the protective effect of this cytokine results from its activation of tryptophan catabolism in bystander cells. To test this hypothesis, we developed a novel method to separate a pool of cells exposed to C. trachomatis into pure populations of live infected and bystander cells and applied this technique to distinguish between the effects of IFNγ on infected and bystander cells. Our findings revealed that the protective induction of IDO1 is suppressed specifically within primary infected cells because Chlamydia attenuates the nuclear import of activated STAT1 following IFNγ exposure, without affecting STAT1 levels or phosphorylation. Critically, the IFNγ-mediated induction of IDO1 activity is unhindered in bystander cells. Therefore, the IDO1-mediated tryptophan catabolism is functional in these cells, transforming these bystander cells into inhospitable hosts for a secondary C. trachomatis infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joyce A Ibana
- Immunopharmacology Research Laboratory, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City, 1101, Philippines.
| | - Shardulendra P Sherchand
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, 70112, USA
| | - Francis L Fontanilla
- Immunopharmacology Research Laboratory, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City, 1101, Philippines
| | - Takeshi Nagamatsu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty Medicine, University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Danny J Schust
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Women's Health, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, 15276, USA
| | - Alison J Quayle
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, 70112, USA
| | - Ashok Aiyar
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, 70112, USA
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Neutrophils Are Central to Antibody-Mediated Protection against Genital Chlamydia. Infect Immun 2017; 85:IAI.00409-17. [PMID: 28739831 PMCID: PMC5607418 DOI: 10.1128/iai.00409-17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2017] [Accepted: 07/18/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Determining the effector populations involved in humoral protection against genital chlamydia infection is crucial to development of an effective chlamydial vaccine. Antibody has been implicated in protection studies in multiple animal models, and we previously showed that the passive transfer of immune serum alone does not confer immunity in the mouse. Using the Chlamydia muridarum model of genital infection, we demonstrate a protective role for both Chlamydia-specific immunoglobulin G (IgG) and polymorphonuclear neutrophils and show the importance of an antibody/effector cell interaction in mediating humoral immunity. While neutrophils were found to contribute significantly to antibody-mediated protection in vivo, natural killer (NK) cells were dispensable for protective immunity. Furthermore, gamma interferon (IFN-γ)-stimulated primary peritoneal neutrophils (PPNs) killed chlamydiae in vitro in an antibody-dependent manner. The results from this study support the view that an IFN-γ-activated effector cell population cooperates with antibody to protect against genital chlamydia and establish neutrophils as a key effector cell in this response.
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Jiang J, Maxion H, Champion CI, Liu G, Kelly KA. Expression of CXCR3 on Adaptive and Innate Immune Cells Contributes Oviduct Pathology throughout Chlamydia muridarum Infection. JOURNAL OF MUCOSAL IMMUNOLOGY RESEARCH 2017; 1:104. [PMID: 29552679 PMCID: PMC5851010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
CXCR3 is a chemokine receptor expressed on a wide range of leukocytes, and it is involved in leukocyte migration throughout the blood and lymphatics. Specifically, CXCR3 is required for lymphocyte homing to the genital mucosa. When compared to wild type (WT) mice, CXCR3 deficiency (CXCR3-/-) mice infected with Chlamydia muridarum (C. muridarum) did not display impaired clearance and resolution of infection. However, they possessed significantly higher bacterial burden and lower levels of IFN-γ-producing TH1 cells. The knockouts also demonstrated a significant decrease in the level of activated conventional dendritic cells in the GT, ultimately leading to the decrease in activated TH1 cells. In addition, few activated plasmacytoid dendritic cells, which possess an inflammatory phenotype, were found in the lymph node of infected mice. This reduction in pDCs may be responsible for the decrease in neutrophils, which are acute inflammatory cells, in the CXCR3-/- mice. Due to the significantly reduced level of acute inflammation, these mice also possess a decrease in dilation and pathology in the oviduct. This demonstrates that the CXCR3-/- mice possess the ability to clear C. muridarum infections, but they do so without the increased inflammation and pathology in the GT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janina Jiang
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, 10833 Le Conte Ave. CHS 1P-177, LA, CA 90095, USA
| | - Heather Maxion
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, 10833 Le Conte Ave. CHS 1P-177, LA, CA 90095, USA
| | - Cheryl I. Champion
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, 10833 Le Conte Ave. CHS 1P-177, LA, CA 90095, USA
| | - Guangchao Liu
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, 10833 Le Conte Ave. CHS 1P-177, LA, CA 90095, USA
| | - Kathleen A. Kelly
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, 10833 Le Conte Ave. CHS 1P-177, LA, CA 90095, USA
- California Nano Systems, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
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Jiang J, Liu G, Kickhoefer VA, Rome LH, Li LX, McSorley SJ, Kelly KA. A Protective Vaccine against Chlamydia Genital Infection Using Vault Nanoparticles without an Added Adjuvant. Vaccines (Basel) 2017; 5:vaccines5010003. [PMID: 28106821 PMCID: PMC5371739 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines5010003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2016] [Revised: 12/23/2016] [Accepted: 01/06/2017] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Chlamydia trachomatis genital infection is the most common sexually transmitted bacterial disease, causing a significant burden to females due to reproductive dysfunction. Intensive screening and antibiotic treatment are unable to completely prevent female reproductive dysfunction, thus, efforts have become focused on developing a vaccine. A major impediment is identifying a safe and effective adjuvant which induces cluster of differentiation 4 (CD4) cells with attributes capable of halting genital infection and inflammation. Previously, we described a natural nanocapsule called the vault which was engineered to contain major outer membrane protein (MOMP) and was an effective vaccine which significantly reduced early infection and favored development of a cellular immune response in a mouse model. In the current study, we used another chlamydial antigen, a polymorphic membrane protein G-1 (PmpG) peptide, to track antigen-specific cells and evaluate, in depth, the vault vaccine for its protective capacity in the absence of an added adjuvant. We found PmpG-vault immunized mice significantly reduced the genital bacterial burden and histopathologic parameters of inflammation following a C. muridarum challenge. Immunization boosted antigen-specific CD4 cells with a multiple cytokine secretion pattern and reduced the number of inflammatory cells in the genital tract making the vault vaccine platform safe and effective for chlamydial genital infection. We conclude that vaccination with a Chlamydia-vault vaccine boosts antigen-specific immunities that are effective at eradicating infection and preventing reproductive tract inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janina Jiang
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, 10833 Le Conte Ave. CHS 1P-177, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA.
| | - Guangchao Liu
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, 10833 Le Conte Ave. CHS 1P-177, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA.
| | - Valerie A Kickhoefer
- Department of Biological Chemistry, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA.
| | - Leonard H Rome
- Department of Biological Chemistry, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA.
| | - Lin-Xi Li
- Center for Comparative Medicine, Department of Anatomy, Physiology & Cell Biology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California-Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA.
| | - Stephen J McSorley
- Center for Comparative Medicine, Department of Anatomy, Physiology & Cell Biology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California-Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA.
| | - Kathleen A Kelly
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, 10833 Le Conte Ave. CHS 1P-177, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA.
- Department of Biological Chemistry, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA.
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30
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NK-DC Crosstalk in Immunity to Microbial Infection. J Immunol Res 2016; 2016:6374379. [PMID: 28097157 PMCID: PMC5206438 DOI: 10.1155/2016/6374379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2016] [Accepted: 11/13/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The interaction between natural killer (NK) cell and dendritic cell (DC), two important cellular components of innate immunity, started to be elucidated in the last years. The crosstalk between NK cells and DC, which leads to NK cell activation, DC maturation, or apoptosis, involves cell-cell contacts and soluble factors. This interaction either in the periphery or in the secondary lymphoid organs acts as a key player linking innate and adaptive immune responses to microbial stimuli. This review focuses on the mechanisms of NK-DC interaction and their relevance in antimicrobial responses. We specifically aim to emphasize the ability of various microbial infections to differently influence NK-DC crosstalk thereby contributing to distinct adaptive immune response.
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31
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Erneholm K, Lorenzen E, Bøje S, Olsen AW, Andersen P, Cassidy JP, Follmann F, Jensen HE, Agerholm JS. Genital tract lesions in sexually mature Göttingen minipigs during the initial stages of experimental vaginal infection with Chlamydia trachomatis serovar D. BMC Vet Res 2016; 12:200. [PMID: 27614611 PMCID: PMC5018167 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-016-0793-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2015] [Accepted: 03/23/2015] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Chlamydia is one of the most common sexually transmitted diseases in humans worldwide, causing chronic lesions in the reproductive tract. Due to its often asymptomatic course, there is limited knowledge about the initial changes in the genital tract following infection. This study employs a novel sexually mature minipig model to investigate the initial histopathological changes following vaginal infection with Chlamydia trachomatis serovar D. Results A vaginal inoculation resulted in an infection primarily affecting the lower genital tract. The histopathological changes were characterized by a subepithelial inflammation consisting of neutrophils and mononuclear cells, followed by an increase in the number of plasma cells within the sub-epithelial stroma of the vagina. Detection of Chlamydia was associated with expression of cyclooxygenase-2 and interleukin-8 by superficial epithelial cells. The infection was self-limiting, with a duration of 7 days. Conclusion Neutrophils, plasma cells and IL-8 have been linked with Chlamydia genital infection of unknown duration in human patients. In this study, we observe a similar pattern of local immune response/inflammation following experimental inoculation suggesting this porcine model shows promise as a model for translational chlamydia research. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12917-016-0793-6) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karin Erneholm
- Section of Veterinary Reproduction and Obstetrics, Department of Large Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg C, Denmark. .,Department of Infectious Disease Immunology, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen S, Denmark. .,Present address: Timeline Bioresearch, Lund, Sweden.
| | - Emma Lorenzen
- Section of Veterinary Reproduction and Obstetrics, Department of Large Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg C, Denmark.,Department of Infectious Disease Immunology, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen S, Denmark
| | - Sarah Bøje
- Section of Veterinary Reproduction and Obstetrics, Department of Large Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg C, Denmark.,Department of Infectious Disease Immunology, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen S, Denmark.,Present address: Novo Nordisk A/S, Kalundborg, Denmark
| | - Anja Weinreich Olsen
- Department of Infectious Disease Immunology, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen S, Denmark
| | - Peter Andersen
- Department of Infectious Disease Immunology, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen S, Denmark
| | - Joseph P Cassidy
- Pathobiology Section, School of Veterinary Medicine, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Frank Follmann
- Department of Infectious Disease Immunology, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen S, Denmark
| | - Henrik E Jensen
- Section of Experimental Animal Models, Department of Veterinary Disease Biology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg C, Denmark
| | - Jørgen S Agerholm
- Section of Veterinary Reproduction and Obstetrics, Department of Large Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg C, Denmark
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Goncalves A, Makalo P, Joof H, Burr S, Ramadhani A, Massae P, Malisa A, Mtuy T, Derrick T, Last AR, Nabicassa M, Cassama E, Houghton J, Palmer CD, Pickering H, Burton MJ, Mabey DCW, Bailey RL, Goodier MR, Holland MJ, Roberts CH. Differential frequency of NKG2C/KLRC2 deletion in distinct African populations and susceptibility to Trachoma: a new method for imputation of KLRC2 genotypes from SNP genotyping data. Hum Genet 2016; 135:939-51. [PMID: 27312142 PMCID: PMC4947484 DOI: 10.1007/s00439-016-1694-2] [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: 03/21/2016] [Accepted: 06/02/2016] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
NKG2C is an activating receptor that is preferentially expressed on natural killer (NK) cells. The gene encoding NKG2C (killer cell lectin-like receptor C2, KLRC2) is present at different copy numbers in the genomes of different individuals. Deletion at the NKG2C locus was investigated in a case-control study of 1522 individuals indigenous to East- and West-Africa and the association with the ocular Chlamydia trachomatis infection and its sequelae was explored. The frequency of homozygous KLRC2 deletion was 13.7 % in Gambians and 4.7 % in Tanzanians. A significantly higher frequency of the deletion allele was found in West-Africans from the Gambia and Guinea-Bissau (36.2 % p = 2.105 × 10(-8), 26.8 % p = 0.050; respectively) in comparison to East-African Tanzanians where the frequency of the deletion is comparable to other human populations (20.9 %). We found no evidence for an association between the numbers of KLRC2 gene copies and the clinical manifestations of trachoma (follicular trachoma or conjunctival scarring). A new method for imputation of KLRC2 genotypes from single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) data in 2621 individuals from the Gambia further confirmed these results. Our data suggest that NKG2C does not play a major role in trachomatous disease. We found that the deletion allele is present at different frequencies in different populations but the reason behind these differences is currently not understood. The new method offers the potential to use SNP arrays from genome wide association studies to study the frequency of KLRC2 deletion in other populations and its association with other diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adriana Goncalves
- Department of Clinical Research, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Pateh Makalo
- Disease Control and Elimination Theme, Medical Research Council Unit, Fajara, The Gambia
| | - Hassan Joof
- Disease Control and Elimination Theme, Medical Research Council Unit, Fajara, The Gambia
| | - Sarah Burr
- Department of Clinical Research, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
- Disease Control and Elimination Theme, Medical Research Council Unit, Fajara, The Gambia
| | | | | | - Aiweda Malisa
- Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre, Moshi, Tanzania
| | - Tara Mtuy
- Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre, Moshi, Tanzania
- International Centre for Eye Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Tamsyn Derrick
- Department of Clinical Research, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
- Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre, Moshi, Tanzania
| | - Anna R Last
- Department of Clinical Research, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Meno Nabicassa
- Programa Nacional de Saude de Visao, Ministerio de Saude Publica, Bissau, Guinea-Bissau
| | - Eunice Cassama
- Programa Nacional de Saude de Visao, Ministerio de Saude Publica, Bissau, Guinea-Bissau
| | - Joanna Houghton
- Department of Clinical Research, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Christine D Palmer
- Department of Clinical Research, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Harry Pickering
- Department of Clinical Research, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Matthew J Burton
- Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre, Moshi, Tanzania
- International Centre for Eye Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - David C W Mabey
- Department of Clinical Research, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Robin L Bailey
- Department of Clinical Research, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Martin R Goodier
- Department of Immunology and Infectious Disease, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Martin J Holland
- Department of Clinical Research, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
- Disease Control and Elimination Theme, Medical Research Council Unit, Fajara, The Gambia
| | - Chrissy H Roberts
- Department of Clinical Research, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK.
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Genital Chlamydia trachomatis: understanding the roles of innate and adaptive immunity in vaccine research. Clin Microbiol Rev 2016; 27:346-70. [PMID: 24696438 DOI: 10.1128/cmr.00105-13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Chlamydia trachomatis is the leading cause of bacterial sexually transmitted disease worldwide, and despite significant advances in chlamydial research, a prophylactic vaccine has yet to be developed. This Gram-negative obligate intracellular bacterium, which often causes asymptomatic infection, may cause pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), ectopic pregnancies, scarring of the fallopian tubes, miscarriage, and infertility when left untreated. In the genital tract, Chlamydia trachomatis infects primarily epithelial cells and requires Th1 immunity for optimal clearance. This review first focuses on the immune cells important in a chlamydial infection. Second, we summarize the research and challenges associated with developing a chlamydial vaccine that elicits a protective Th1-mediated immune response without inducing adverse immunopathologies.
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34
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Hu VH, Luthert PJ, Derrick T, Pullin J, Weiss HA, Massae P, Mtuy T, Makupa W, Essex D, Mabey DCW, Bailey RL, Holland MJ, Burton MJ. Immunohistochemical Analysis of Scarring Trachoma Indicates Infiltration by Natural Killer and Undefined CD45 Negative Cells. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2016; 10:e0004734. [PMID: 27219121 PMCID: PMC4878762 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0004734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2016] [Accepted: 05/03/2016] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The phenotype and function of immune cells infiltrating the conjunctiva in scarring trachoma have yet to be fully characterized. We assessed tissue morphology and immunophenotype of cellular infiltrates found in trachomatous scarring compared to control participants. METHODOLOGY Clinical assessments and conjunctival biopsy samples were obtained from 34 individuals with trachomatous scarring undergoing trichiasis surgery and 33 control subjects undergoing cataract or retinal detachment surgery. Biopsy samples were fixed in buffered formalin and embedded in paraffin wax. Hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining was performed for assessment of the inflammatory cell infiltrate. Immunohistochemical staining of single markers on individual sections was performed to identify cells expressing CD3 (T-cells), CD4 (helper T-cells), CD8 (suppressor/cytotoxic T-cells and Natural Killer, NK, cells), NCR1 (NK cells), CD20 (B-cells), CD45 (nucleated hematopoietic cells), CD56 (NK and T-cells), CD68 (macrophages/monocytes) and CD83 (mature dendritic cells). The degree of scarring was assessed histologically using cross-polarized light to visualize collagen fibres. PRINCIPLE FINDINGS Scarring, regardless of clinical inflammation, was associated with increased inflammatory cell infiltrates on H&E and CD45 staining. Scarring was also associated with increased CD8+ and CD56+ cells, but not CD3+ cells, suggestive of a NK cell infiltrate. This was supported by the presence of NCR1+ cells. There was some increase in CD20+ cells, but no evidence for increased CD4+, CD68+ or CD83+ cells. Numerous CD45 negative cells were also seen in the population of infiltrating inflammatory cells in scarred conjunctiva. Disorganization of the normal collagen architecture was strongly associated with clinical scarring. CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE These data point to the infiltration of immune cells with a phenotype suggestive of NK cells in conjunctival trachomatous scarring. A large proportion of CD45 negative inflammatory cells were also present. Future work should seek to understand the stimuli leading to the recruitment of these cells and their role in progressive scarring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victor H. Hu
- International Centre for Eye Health, Department of Clinical Research, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
- Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre, Moshi, Tanzania
| | | | - Tamsyn Derrick
- Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre, Moshi, Tanzania
- Department of Clinical Research, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - James Pullin
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London, United Kingdom
| | - Helen A. Weiss
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Tara Mtuy
- International Centre for Eye Health, Department of Clinical Research, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
- Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre, Moshi, Tanzania
| | | | - David Essex
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London, United Kingdom
| | - David C. W. Mabey
- Department of Clinical Research, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Robin L. Bailey
- Department of Clinical Research, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Martin J. Holland
- Department of Clinical Research, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Matthew J. Burton
- International Centre for Eye Health, Department of Clinical Research, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
- Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre, Moshi, Tanzania
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35
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Li J, Dong X, Zhao L, Wang X, Wang Y, Yang X, Wang H, Zhao W. Natural killer cells regulate Th1/Treg and Th17/Treg balance in chlamydial lung infection. J Cell Mol Med 2016; 20:1339-51. [PMID: 27028780 PMCID: PMC4929289 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.12821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2015] [Accepted: 01/30/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cell is an important component in innate immunity, playing a critical role in bridging innate and adaptive immunity by modulating the function of other immune cells including T cells. In this study, we focused on the role of NK cells in regulating Th1/Treg and Th17/Treg balance during chlamydial lung infection. We found that NK cell‐depleted mice showed decreased Th1 and Th17 cells, which was correlated with reduced interferon‐γ, interleukin (IL)‐12, IL‐17 and IL‐22 production as well as T‐bet and receptor‐related orphan receptor gamma t expression compared with mice treated with the isotype control antibody. In contrast, NK cell depletion significantly increased Treg in cell number and related transcription factor (Foxp3) expression. The opposite trends of changes of Th1/Th17 and Treg led to significant reduction in the Th1/Treg and Th17/Treg ratios. The data implicate that NK cells play an important role in host defence against chlamydial lung infection, mainly through maintaining Th1/Treg and Th17/Treg balance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Li
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, Shandong University School of Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Xiaojing Dong
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, Shandong University School of Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Lei Zhao
- Institute of Basic Medical Science, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Xiao Wang
- Department of Pathology, Shandong University School of Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Yan Wang
- Department of Pathology, Shandong University School of Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Xi Yang
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, Shandong University School of Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China.,Department of Immunology and Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Hong Wang
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, Shandong University School of Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Weiming Zhao
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, Shandong University School of Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
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Slade J, Hall JV, Kintner J, Schoborg RV. Chlamydial Pre-Infection Protects from Subsequent Herpes Simplex Virus-2 Challenge in a Murine Vaginal Super-Infection Model. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0146186. [PMID: 26726882 PMCID: PMC4699815 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0146186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2015] [Accepted: 12/14/2015] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Chlamydia trachomatis and Herpes Simplex Virus-2 (HSV-2) genital tract co-infections have been reported in humans and studied in vitro but the clinical consequences are unknown. Limited epidemiologic evidence suggests that these co-infections could be more severe than single infections of either pathogen, but the host-pathogen interactions during co-infection remain uncharacterized. To determine whether disease progression and/or pathogen shedding differs between singly-infected and super-infected animals, we developed an in vivo super-infection model in which female BALB/c mice were vaginally infected with Chlamydia muridarum (Cm) followed later by HSV-2. Pre-infection with Chlamydia 3 or 9 days prior to HSV-2 super-infection conferred significant protection from HSV-2-induced neurologic disease and significantly reduced viral recovery compared to HSV-2 singly-infected controls. Neither protection from mortality nor reduced viral recovery were observed when mice were i) super-infected with HSV-2 on day 27 post Cm; ii) infected with UV-irradiated Cm and super-infected with HSV-2; or iii) azithromycin-treated prior to HSV-2 super-infection. Therefore, protection from HSV-2-induced disease requires active infection with viable chlamydiae and is not observed after chlamydial shedding ceases, either naturally or due to antibiotic treatment. Thus, Chlamydia-induced protection is transient and requires the continued presence of chlamydiae or their components. These data demonstrate that chlamydial pre-infection can alter progression of subsequent HSV-2 infection, with implications for HSV-2 transmission from co-infected humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Slade
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Center for Inflammation, Infectious Disease and Immunity, James H. Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, Tennessee, United States of America
| | - Jennifer V. Hall
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Center for Inflammation, Infectious Disease and Immunity, James H. Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, Tennessee, United States of America
| | - Jennifer Kintner
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Center for Inflammation, Infectious Disease and Immunity, James H. Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, Tennessee, United States of America
| | - Robert V. Schoborg
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Center for Inflammation, Infectious Disease and Immunity, James H. Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, Tennessee, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Johnson RM, Kerr MS. Modeling the transcriptome of genital tract epithelial cells and macrophages in healthy mucosa versus mucosa inflamed by Chlamydia muridarum infection. Pathog Dis 2015; 73:ftv100. [PMID: 26519447 PMCID: PMC4732027 DOI: 10.1093/femspd/ftv100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Revised: 09/13/2015] [Accepted: 10/21/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Chlamydia trachomatis urogenital serovars are intracellular bacteria that parasitize human reproductive tract epithelium. As the principal cell type supporting bacterial replication, epithelial cells are central to Chlamydia immunobiology initially as sentries and innate defenders, and subsequently as collaborators in adaptive immunity-mediated bacterial clearance. In asymptomatic individuals who do not seek medical care a decisive struggle between C. trachomatis and host defenses occurs at the epithelial interface. For this study, we modeled the immunobiology of epithelial cells and macrophages lining healthy genital mucosa and inflamed/infected mucosa during the transition from innate to adaptive immunity. Upper reproductive tract epithelial cell line responses were compared to bone marrow-derived macrophages utilizing gene expression microarray technology. Those comparisons showed minor differences in the intrinsic innate defenses of macrophages and epithelial cells. Major lineage-specific differences in immunobiology relate to epithelial collaboration with adaptive immunity including an epithelial requirement for inflammatory cytokines to express MHC class II molecules, and a paucity and imbalance between costimulatory and coinhibitory ligands on epithelial cells that potentially limits sterilizing immunity (replication termination) to Chlamydia-specific T cells activated with limited or unconventional second signals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raymond M Johnson
- Department of Medicine, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Micah S Kerr
- Department of Microbiology, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
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Morris KM, Mathew M, Waugh C, Ujvari B, Timms P, Polkinghorne A, Belov K. Identification, characterisation and expression analysis of natural killer receptor genes in Chlamydia pecorum infected koalas (Phascolarctos cinereus). BMC Genomics 2015; 16:796. [PMID: 26471184 PMCID: PMC4608214 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-015-2035-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2015] [Accepted: 10/08/2015] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Koalas (Phascolarctos cinereus), an iconic Australian marsupial, are being heavily impacted by the spread of Chlamydia pecorum, an obligate intracellular bacterial pathogen. Koalas vary in their response to this pathogen, with some showing no symptoms, while others suffer severe symptoms leading to infertility, blindness or death. Little is known about the pathology of this disease and the immune response against it in this host. Studies have demonstrated that natural killer (NK) cells, key components of the innate immune system, are involved in the immune response to chlamydial infections in humans. These cells can directly lyse cells infected by intracellular pathogens and their ability to recognise these infected cells is mediated through NK receptors on their surface. These are encoded in two regions of the genome, the leukocyte receptor complex (LRC) and the natural killer complex (NKC). These two families evolve rapidly and different repertoires of genes, which have evolved by gene duplication, are seen in different species. METHODS In this study we aimed to characterise genes belonging to the NK receptor clusters in the koala by searching available koala transcriptomes using a combination of search methods. We developed a qPCR assay to quantify relative expression of four genes, two encoded within the NK receptor cluster (CLEC1B, CLEC4E) and two known to play a role in NK response to Chalmydia in humans (NCR3, PRF1). RESULTS We found that the NK receptor repertoire of the koala closely resembles that of the Tasmanian devil, with minimal genes in the NKC, but with lineage specific expansions in the LRC. Additional genes important for NK cell activity, NCR3 and PRF1, were also identified and characterised. In a preliminary study to investigate whether these genes are involved in the koala immune response to infection by its chlamydial pathogen, C. pecorum, we investigated the expression of four genes in koalas with active chlamydia infection, those with past infection and those without infection using qPCR. This analysis revealed that one of these four, CLEC4E, may be upregulated in response to chlamydia infection. CONCLUSION We have characterised genes of the NKC and LRC in koalas and have discovered evidence that one of these genes may be upregulated in koalas with chlamydia, suggesting that these receptors may play a role in the immune response of koalas to chlamydia infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katrina M Morris
- Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia.
| | - Marina Mathew
- Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Kelvin Grove, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.
| | - Courtney Waugh
- Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Kelvin Grove, Brisbane, QLD, Australia. .,Faculty of Science, Health, Education and Engineering, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, QLD, Australia.
| | - Beata Ujvari
- Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia. .,Centre for Integrative Ecology, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, Geelong, VIC, Australia.
| | - Peter Timms
- Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Kelvin Grove, Brisbane, QLD, Australia. .,Faculty of Science, Health, Education and Engineering, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, QLD, Australia.
| | - Adam Polkinghorne
- Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Kelvin Grove, Brisbane, QLD, Australia. .,Faculty of Science, Health, Education and Engineering, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, QLD, Australia.
| | - Katherine Belov
- Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia.
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Gracey E, Baglaenko Y, Prayitno N, Van Rooijen N, Akram A, Lin A, Chiu B, Inman RD. Pulmonary Chlamydia muridarum challenge activates lung interstitial macrophages which correlate with IFN-γ production and infection control in mice. Eur J Immunol 2015; 45:3417-30. [PMID: 26344246 DOI: 10.1002/eji.201545874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2015] [Revised: 07/23/2015] [Accepted: 09/01/2015] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Protective immunity to the pathogen Chlamydia is dependent on a robust IFN-γ response generated by innate and adaptive lymphocytes. Here we assess the role of the macrophage in orchestrating a protective response in vivo to the murine pathogen, Chlamydia muridarum. During acute pulmonary and peritoneal infection, resident macrophages in both sites are infected with C. muridarum and adopt an inflammatory phenotype. In the lung, this activation is restricted to interstitial macrophages, which harbor higher levels of C. muridarum 16sRNA than alveolar macrophages. We examined innate and adaptive lymphocyte activation in the peritoneal cavity with macrophage depletion and with adoptive transfer of infected macrophages. These experiments demonstrate macrophage activation correlates with a protective IFN-γ response and effective control of C. muridarum. These studies suggest that a quantitative or qualitative alteration in macrophages may play a key role in the development of Chlamydia-associated diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Gracey
- Department of Immunology, University of Toronto, Canada.,Division of Genetics and Development, Toronto Western Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada
| | - Yuriy Baglaenko
- Department of Immunology, University of Toronto, Canada.,Division of Genetics and Development, Toronto Western Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada
| | | | - Nico Van Rooijen
- Vrije Universiteit, Vrije Universiteit Medical Center, Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ali Akram
- Division of Genetics and Development, Toronto Western Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada
| | - Aifeng Lin
- Division of Genetics and Development, Toronto Western Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada
| | - Basil Chiu
- Division of Genetics and Development, Toronto Western Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada
| | - Robert D Inman
- Department of Immunology, University of Toronto, Canada.,Division of Genetics and Development, Toronto Western Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada
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Gupta R, Wali S, Yu JJ, Chambers JP, Zhong G, Murthy AK, Bakar SA, Guentzel MN, Arulanandam BP. In vivo whole animal body imaging reveals colonization of Chlamydia muridarum to the lower genital tract at early stages of infection. Mol Imaging Biol 2015; 16:635-41. [PMID: 24723309 DOI: 10.1007/s11307-014-0732-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The leading cause of sexually transmitted bacterial infection is Chlamydia trachomatis. The aim of this study is to investigate the early events in colonization of this bacterium within the murine genital tract. PROCEDURES An in vivo animal body imaging technology was used to track fluorophore labeled C. muridarum elementary bodies (EBs) inoculated intravaginally in C57BL/6 mice during the first 24 h of infection. RESULTS Ascension of viable EBs was observed (1) to be localized to the lower regions of the murine genital tract within the first 24 h post challenge and (2) was dose independent during this early exposure period. Molecular detection revealed enhanced bacterial load in lower regions of the genital tract with increasing bacterial load in the upper region beginning 12 h post inoculation. CONCLUSION This study provides additional insight into chlamydial colonization in the murine genital tract during the first 12-24 h following inoculation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rishein Gupta
- South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Disease and Center of Excellence in Infection Genomics, University of Texas at San Antonio, One UTSA Circle, San Antonio, TX, 78249, USA
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Wali S, Gupta R, Veselenak RL, Li Y, Yu JJ, Murthy AK, Cap AP, Guentzel MN, Chambers JP, Zhong G, Rank RG, Pyles RB, Arulanandam BP. Use of a Guinea pig-specific transcriptome array for evaluation of protective immunity against genital chlamydial infection following intranasal vaccination in Guinea pigs. PLoS One 2014; 9:e114261. [PMID: 25502875 PMCID: PMC4263467 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0114261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2014] [Accepted: 11/05/2014] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Guinea pigs have been used as a second animal model to validate putative anti-chlamydial vaccine candidates tested in mice. However, the lack of guinea pig-specific reagents has limited the utility of this animal model in Chlamydia sp. vaccine studies. Using a novel guinea pig-specific transcriptome array, we determined correlates of protection in guinea pigs vaccinated with Chlamydia caviae (C. caviae) via the intranasal route, previously reported by us and others to provide robust antigen specific immunity against subsequent intravaginal challenge. C. caviae vaccinated guinea pigs resolved genital infection by day 3 post challenge. In contrast, mock vaccinated animals continued to shed viable Chlamydia up to day 18 post challenge. Importantly, at day 80 post challenge, vaccinated guinea pigs experienced significantly reduced genital pathology - a sequelae of genital chlamydial infections, in comparison to mock vaccinated guinea pigs. Sera from vaccinated guinea pigs displayed antigen specific IgG responses and increased IgG1 and IgG2 titers capable of neutralizing GPIC in vitro. Th1-cellular/inflammatory immune genes and Th2-humoral associated genes were also found to be elevated in vaccinated guinea pigs at day 3 post-challenge and correlated with early clearance of the bacterium. Overall, this study provides the first evidence of guinea pig-specific genes involved in anti-chlamydial vaccination and illustrates the enhancement of the utility of this animal model in chlamydial pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shradha Wali
- South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases and Center of Excellence in Infection Genomics, University of Texas at San Antonio, One UTSA Circle, San Antonio, Texas 78249, United Stats of America
| | - Rishein Gupta
- South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases and Center of Excellence in Infection Genomics, University of Texas at San Antonio, One UTSA Circle, San Antonio, Texas 78249, United Stats of America
| | - Ronald L. Veselenak
- Departments of Pediatrics and Microbiology & Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, 301 University Boulevard, Galveston, Texas 77555, United States of America
| | - Yansong Li
- US Army Institute of Surgical Research, 3650 Chambers Pass, BHT2, Building 3610/Room224-1, Fort Sam Houston, Texas 78234, United States of America
| | - Jieh-Juen Yu
- South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases and Center of Excellence in Infection Genomics, University of Texas at San Antonio, One UTSA Circle, San Antonio, Texas 78249, United Stats of America
| | - Ashlesh K. Murthy
- Department of Pathology, Midwestern University, Downer's Grove, Illinois, 60148, United States of America
| | - Andrew P. Cap
- US Army Institute of Surgical Research, 3650 Chambers Pass, BHT2, Building 3610/Room224-1, Fort Sam Houston, Texas 78234, United States of America
| | - M. Neal Guentzel
- South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases and Center of Excellence in Infection Genomics, University of Texas at San Antonio, One UTSA Circle, San Antonio, Texas 78249, United Stats of America
| | - James P. Chambers
- South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases and Center of Excellence in Infection Genomics, University of Texas at San Antonio, One UTSA Circle, San Antonio, Texas 78249, United Stats of America
| | - Guangming Zhong
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, 7702 Floyd Curl Drive, San Antonio, Texas 78229, United States of America
| | - Roger G. Rank
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, and Arkansas Children's Hospital Research Institute, Little Rock, Arkansas 72202, United States of America
| | - Richard B. Pyles
- Departments of Pediatrics and Microbiology & Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, 301 University Boulevard, Galveston, Texas 77555, United States of America
| | - Bernard P. Arulanandam
- South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases and Center of Excellence in Infection Genomics, University of Texas at San Antonio, One UTSA Circle, San Antonio, Texas 78249, United Stats of America
- * E-mail:
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Roberts CH, Molina S, Makalo P, Joof H, Harding-Esch EM, Burr SE, Mabey DCW, Bailey RL, Burton MJ, Holland MJ. Conjunctival scarring in trachoma is associated with the HLA-C ligand of KIR and is exacerbated by heterozygosity at KIR2DL2/KIR2DL3. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2014; 8:e2744. [PMID: 24651768 PMCID: PMC3961204 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0002744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2013] [Accepted: 01/30/2014] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chlamydia trachomatis is globally the predominant infectious cause of blindness and one of the most common bacterial causes of sexually transmitted infection. Infections of the conjunctiva cause the blinding disease trachoma, an immuno-pathological disease that is characterised by chronic conjunctival inflammation and fibrosis. The polymorphic Killer-cell Immunoglobulin-like Receptors (KIR) are found on Natural Killer cells and have co-evolved with the Human Leucocyte Antigen (HLA) class I system. Certain genetic constellations of KIR and HLA class I polymorphisms are associated with a number of diseases in which modulation of the innate responses to viral and intracellular bacterial pathogens is central. METHODOLOGY A sample of 134 Gambian pedigrees selected to contain at least one individual with conjunctival scarring in the F1 generation was used. Individuals (n = 830) were genotyped for HLA class I and KIR gene families. Family Based Association Tests and Case Pseudo-control tests were used to extend tests for transmission disequilibrium to take full advantage of the family design, genetic model and phenotype. PRINCIPLE FINDINGS We found that the odds of trachomatous scarring increased with the number of genome copies of HLA-C2 (C1/C2 OR = 2.29 BHP-value = 0.006; C2/C2 OR = 3.97 BHP-value = 0.0004) and further increased when both KIR2DL2 and KIR2DL3 (C2/C2 OR = 5.95 BHP-value = 0.006) were present. CONCLUSIONS To explain the observations in the context of chlamydial infection and trachoma we propose a two-stage model of response and disease that balances the cytolytic response of KIR expressing NK cells with the ability to secrete interferon gamma, a combination that may cause pathology. The data presented indicate that HLA-C genotypes are important determinants of conjunctival scarring in trachoma and that KIR2DL2/KIR2DL3 heterozygosity further increases risk of conjunctival scarring in individuals carrying HLA-C2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chrissy h. Roberts
- Clinical Research Department, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Sandra Molina
- Clinical Research Department, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Pateh Makalo
- Medical Research Council Unit, The Gambia, Atlantic Boulevard, Fajara, The Gambia
| | - Hassan Joof
- Medical Research Council Unit, The Gambia, Atlantic Boulevard, Fajara, The Gambia
| | - Emma M. Harding-Esch
- Clinical Research Department, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Sarah E. Burr
- Clinical Research Department, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
- Medical Research Council Unit, The Gambia, Atlantic Boulevard, Fajara, The Gambia
| | - David C. W. Mabey
- Clinical Research Department, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Robin L. Bailey
- Clinical Research Department, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Matthew J. Burton
- International Centre for Eye Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Martin J. Holland
- Clinical Research Department, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
- Medical Research Council Unit, The Gambia, Atlantic Boulevard, Fajara, The Gambia
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Bossart GD, Romano TA, Peden-Adams MM, Schaefer A, McCulloch S, Goldstein JD, Rice CD, Fair PA, Cray C, Reif JS. Clinicoimmunopathologic findings in Atlantic bottlenose dolphins Tursiops truncatus with positive Chlamydiaceae antibody titers. DISEASES OF AQUATIC ORGANISMS 2014; 108:71-81. [PMID: 24492056 DOI: 10.3354/dao02704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Sera from free-ranging Atlantic bottlenose dolphins Tursiops truncatus inhabiting the Indian River Lagoon (IRL), Florida, and coastal waters of Charleston (CHS), South Carolina, USA, were tested for antibodies to Chlamydiaceae as part of a multidisciplinary study of individual and population health. A suite of clinicoimmunopathologic variables was evaluated in Chlamydiaceae-seropositive dolphins (n = 43) and seronegative healthy dolphins (n = 83). Fibrinogen, lactate dehydrogenase, amylase, and absolute numbers of neutrophils, lymphocytes, and basophils were significantly higher, and serum bicarbonate, total alpha globulin, and alpha-2 globulin were significantly lower in dolphins with positive Chlamydiaceae titers compared with seronegative healthy dolphins. Several differences in markers of innate and adaptive immunity were also found. Concanavalin A-induced T lymphocyte proliferation, lipopolysaccharide-induced B lymphocyte proliferation, and granulocytic phagocytosis were significantly lower, and absolute numbers of mature CD 21 B lymphocytes, natural killer cell activity and lysozyme concentration were significantly higher in dolphins with positive Chlamydiaceae antibody titers compared to seronegative healthy dolphins. Additionally, dolphins with positive Chlamydiaceae antibody titers had significant increases in ELISA antibody titers to Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae. These data suggest that Chlamydiaceae infection may produce subclinical clinicoimmunopathologic perturbations that impact health. Any potential subclinical health impacts are important for the IRL and CHS dolphin populations, as past studies have indicated that both dolphin populations are affected by other complex infectious and neoplastic diseases, often associated with immunologic perturbations and anthropogenic contaminants.
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Kearney S, Delgado C, Lenz LL. Differential effects of type I and II interferons on myeloid cells and resistance to intracellular bacterial infections. Immunol Res 2013; 55:187-200. [PMID: 22983898 DOI: 10.1007/s12026-012-8362-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The type I and II interferons (IFNs) play important roles in regulating immune responses during viral and bacterial infections and in the context of autoimmune and neoplastic diseases. These two IFN types bind to distinct cell surface receptors that are expressed by nearly all cells to trigger signal transduction events and elicit diverse cellular responses. In some cases, type I and II IFNs trigger similar cellular responses, while in other cases, the IFNs have unique or antagonistic effects on host cells. Negative regulators of IFN signaling also modulate cellular responses to the IFNs and play important roles in maintaining immunological homeostasis. In this review, we provide an overview of how IFNs stimulate cellular responses. We discuss the disparate effects of type I and II IFNs on host resistance to certain intracellular bacterial infections and provide an overview of models that have been proposed to account for these disparate effects. Mechanisms of antagonistic cross talk between type I and II IFNs are also introduced.
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Affiliation(s)
- Staci Kearney
- Integrated Department of Immunology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
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Chlamydia trachomatis infection results in a modest pro-inflammatory cytokine response and a decrease in T cell chemokine secretion in human polarized endocervical epithelial cells. Cytokine 2013; 63:151-65. [PMID: 23673287 DOI: 10.1016/j.cyto.2013.04.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2013] [Revised: 04/11/2013] [Accepted: 04/12/2013] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
The endocervical epithelium is a major reservoir for Chlamydia trachomatis in women, and genital infections are extended in their duration. Epithelial cells act as mucosal sentinels by secreting cytokines and chemokines in response to pathogen challenge and infection. We therefore determined the signature cytokine and chemokine response of primary-like endocervix-derived epithelial cells in response to a common genital serovar (D) of C. trachomatis. For these studies, we used a recently-established polarized, immortalized, endocervical epithelial cell model (polA2EN) that maintains, in vitro, the architectural and functional characteristics of endocervical epithelial cells in vivo including the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. PolA2EN cells were susceptible to C. trachomatis infection, and chlamydiae in these cells underwent a normal developmental cycle as determined by a one-step growth curve. IL1α protein levels were increased in both apical and basolateral secretions of C. trachomatis infected polA2EN cells, but this response did not occur until 72h after infection. Furthermore, protein levels of the pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines IL6, TNFα and CXCL8 were not significantly different between C. trachomatis infected polA2EN cells and mock infected cells at any time during the chlamydial developmental cycle up to 120h post-infection. Intriguingly, C. trachomatis infection resulted in a significant decrease in the constitutive secretion of T cell chemokines IP10 and RANTES, and this required a productive C. trachomatis infection. Examination of anti-inflammatory cytokines revealed a high constitutive apical secretion of IL1ra from polA2EN cells that was not significantly modulated by C. trachomatis infection. IL-11 was induced by C. trachomatis, although only from the basolateral membrane. These results suggest that C. trachomatis can use evasion strategies to circumvent a robust pro-inflammatory cytokine and chemokine response. These evasion strategies, together with the inherent immune repertoire of endocervical epithelial cells, may aid chlamydiae in establishing, and possibly sustaining, an intracellular niche in microenvironments of the endocervix in vivo.
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Bastidas RJ, Elwell CA, Engel JN, Valdivia RH. Chlamydial intracellular survival strategies. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Med 2013; 3:a010256. [PMID: 23637308 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a010256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 156] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Chlamydia trachomatis is the most common sexually transmitted bacterial pathogen and the causative agent of blinding trachoma. Although Chlamydia is protected from humoral immune responses by residing within remodeled intracellular vacuoles, it still must contend with multilayered intracellular innate immune defenses deployed by its host while scavenging for nutrients. Here we provide an overview of Chlamydia biology and highlight recent findings detailing how this vacuole-bound pathogen manipulates host-cellular functions to invade host cells and maintain a replicative niche.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert J Bastidas
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Center for Microbial Pathogenesis, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA
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Fung KY, Mangan NE, Cumming H, Horvat JC, Mayall JR, Stifter S, De Weerd N, Roisman LC, Rossjohn J, Robertson S, Schjenken J, Parker B, Gargett C, Nguyen HPT, Carr DJ, Hansbro PM, Hertzog PJ. Interferon-ε protects the female reproductive tract from viral and bacterial infection. Science 2013; 339:1088-92. [PMID: 23449591 PMCID: PMC3617553 DOI: 10.1126/science.1233321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 162] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The innate immune system senses pathogens through pattern-recognition receptors (PRRs) that signal to induce effector cytokines, such as type I interferons (IFNs). We characterized IFN-ε as a type I IFN because it signaled via the Ifnar1 and Ifnar2 receptors to induce IFN-regulated genes. In contrast to other type I IFNs, IFN-ε was not induced by known PRR pathways; instead, IFN-ε was constitutively expressed by epithelial cells of the female reproductive tract (FRT) and was hormonally regulated. Ifn-ε-deficient mice had increased susceptibility to infection of the FRT by the common sexually transmitted infections (STIs) herpes simplex virus 2 and Chlamydia muridarum. Thus, IFN-ε is a potent antipathogen and immunoregulatory cytokine that may be important in combating STIs that represent a major global health and socioeconomic burden.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ka Yee Fung
- Centre for Innate Immunity and Infectious Diseases, Monash Institute of Medical Research, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Niamh E Mangan
- Centre for Innate Immunity and Infectious Diseases, Monash Institute of Medical Research, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Helen Cumming
- Centre for Innate Immunity and Infectious Diseases, Monash Institute of Medical Research, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jay C Horvat
- Centre for Asthma and Respiratory Disease and Hunter Medical Research Institute, The University of Newcastle, Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jemma R Mayall
- Centre for Asthma and Respiratory Disease and Hunter Medical Research Institute, The University of Newcastle, Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Sebastian Stifter
- Centre for Innate Immunity and Infectious Diseases, Monash Institute of Medical Research, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Nicole De Weerd
- Centre for Innate Immunity and Infectious Diseases, Monash Institute of Medical Research, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Laila C Roisman
- Centre for Innate Immunity and Infectious Diseases, Monash Institute of Medical Research, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jamie Rossjohn
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Sarah Robertson
- Robinson Institute and School of Paediatrics and Reproductive Health, University of Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - John Schjenken
- Robinson Institute and School of Paediatrics and Reproductive Health, University of Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Belinda Parker
- Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, East Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Caroline Gargett
- Ritchie Centre, Monash Institute of Medical Research, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Hong PT Nguyen
- Ritchie Centre, Monash Institute of Medical Research, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Daniel J Carr
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Centre, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Philip M Hansbro
- Centre for Asthma and Respiratory Disease and Hunter Medical Research Institute, The University of Newcastle, Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Paul J Hertzog
- Centre for Innate Immunity and Infectious Diseases, Monash Institute of Medical Research, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
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Gondek DC, Olive AJ, Stary G, Starnbach MN. CD4+ T cells are necessary and sufficient to confer protection against Chlamydia trachomatis infection in the murine upper genital tract. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2012; 189:2441-9. [PMID: 22855710 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.1103032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 117] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Chlamydia trachomatis infection is the most common bacterial sexually transmitted disease in the United States. Chlamydia infections that ascend to the upper genital tract can persist, trigger inflammation, and result in serious sequelae such as infertility. However, mouse models in which the vaginal vault is inoculated with C. trachomatis do not recapitulate the course of human disease. These intravaginal infections of the mouse do not ascend efficiently to the upper genital tract, do not cause persistent infection, do not induce significant inflammation, and do not induce significant CD4⁺ T cell infiltration. In this article, we describe a noninvasive transcervical infection model in which we bypass the cervix and directly inoculate C. trachomatis into the uterus. We show that direct C. trachomatis infection of the murine upper genital tract stimulates a robust Chlamydia-specific CD4⁺ T cell response that is both necessary and sufficient to clear infection and provide protection against reinfection.
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Affiliation(s)
- David C Gondek
- Department of Microbiology and Immunobiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA
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Ibana JA, Aiyar A, Quayle AJ, Schust DJ. Modulation of MICA on the surface of Chlamydia trachomatis-infected endocervical epithelial cells promotes NK cell-mediated killing. FEMS IMMUNOLOGY AND MEDICAL MICROBIOLOGY 2012; 65:32-42. [PMID: 22251247 PMCID: PMC5029121 DOI: 10.1111/j.1574-695x.2012.00930.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2011] [Revised: 01/09/2012] [Accepted: 01/09/2012] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Chlamydia trachomatis serovars D-K are obligate intracellular bacteria that have tropism for the columnar epithelial cells of the genital tract. Chlamydia trachomatis infection has been reported to induce modifications in immune cell ligand expression on epithelial host cells. In this study, we used an in vitro infection model that resulted in a partial infection of C. trachomatis-exposed primary-like immortalized endocervical epithelial cells (A2EN). Using this model, we demonstrated that expression of the natural killer (NK) cell activating ligand, MHC class I-related protein A (MICA), was upregulated on C. trachomatis-infected, but not on noninfected bystander cells. MICA upregulation was concomitant with MHC class I downregulation and impacted the susceptibility of C. trachomatis-infected cells to NK cell activity. The specificity of MICA upregulation was reflected by a higher cytolytic activity of an NK cell line (NK92MI) against C. trachomatis-infected cells compared with uninfected control cells. Significantly, data also indicated that NK cells exerted a partial, but incomplete sterilizing effect on C. trachomatis as shown by the reduction in recoverable inclusion forming units (IFU) when cocultured with C. trachomatis-infected cells. Taken together, our data suggest that NK cells may play a significant role in the ability of the host to counter C. trachomatis infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joyce Altamarino Ibana
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, Louisiana State University Health Science Center, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Ashok Aiyar
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, Louisiana State University Health Science Center, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Alison Jane Quayle
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, Louisiana State University Health Science Center, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Danny Joseph Schust
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women’s Health, University of Missouri School of Medicine, Columbia, MO, USA
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