1
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Garrett S, Asada MC, Sun J. Axin1's mystique in manipulating microbiome amidst colitis. Gut Microbes 2023; 15:2286674. [PMID: 38010886 PMCID: PMC10730173 DOI: 10.1080/19490976.2023.2286674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Classically, Axin1 is considered a regulator of Wnt/β-catenin signaling. However, Axin1's roles in host-microbial interactions have been unknown. Our recent study has demonstrated that deletion of intestinal epithelial Axin1 in epithelial cells and Paneth cells protects the host against colitis by enhancing Akkermansia muciniphila. Loss of intestinal epithelial or Paneth cell Axin1 results in increased Wnt/β-catenin signaling, proliferation, and cell migration. This is associated with morphologically altered goblet and Paneth cells, including increased Muc2 and decreased lysozyme. Axin1 deletion specifically enriched Akkermansia muciniphila. Akkermansia muciniphila in Axin1 knockout mice is the driver of protection against DSS-induced inflammation. Here, we feature several significant conceptual changes, such as differences between Axin1 and Axin2, Axin1 in innate immunity and microbial homeostasis, and Axin1 reduction of Akkermansia muciniphila. We discuss an important trend in the field related to Paneth cells and tissue-specific Axin1 manipulation of microbiome in health and inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shari Garrett
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Monica C. Asada
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Jun Sun
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- UIC Cancer Center, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Medicine, Jesse Brown VA Medical Center, Chicago, IL, USA
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2
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Khatiwada A, Yilmaz AS, Wolf BJ, Pietrzak M, Chung D. multi-GPA-Tree: Statistical approach for pleiotropy informed and functional annotation tree guided prioritization of GWAS results. PLoS Comput Biol 2023; 19:e1011686. [PMID: 38060592 PMCID: PMC10729974 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pcbi.1011686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Revised: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have successfully identified over two hundred thousand genotype-trait associations. Yet some challenges remain. First, complex traits are often associated with many single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), most with small or moderate effect sizes, making them difficult to detect. Second, many complex traits share a common genetic basis due to 'pleiotropy' and and though few methods consider it, leveraging pleiotropy can improve statistical power to detect genotype-trait associations with weaker effect sizes. Third, currently available statistical methods are limited in explaining the functional mechanisms through which genetic variants are associated with specific or multiple traits. We propose multi-GPA-Tree to address these challenges. The multi-GPA-Tree approach can identify risk SNPs associated with single as well as multiple traits while also identifying the combinations of functional annotations that can explain the mechanisms through which risk-associated SNPs are linked with the traits. First, we implemented simulation studies to evaluate the proposed multi-GPA-Tree method and compared its performance with existing statistical approaches. The results indicate that multi-GPA-Tree outperforms existing statistical approaches in detecting risk-associated SNPs for multiple traits. Second, we applied multi-GPA-Tree to a systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and to a Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcertive colitis (UC) GWAS, and functional annotation data including GenoSkyline and GenoSkylinePlus. Our results demonstrate that multi-GPA-Tree can be a powerful tool that improves association mapping while facilitating understanding of the underlying genetic architecture of complex traits and potential mechanisms linking risk-associated SNPs with complex traits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aastha Khatiwada
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, National Jewish Health, Denver, Colorado, United States of America
| | - Ayse Selen Yilmaz
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, United States of America
| | - Bethany J. Wolf
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, United States of America
| | - Maciej Pietrzak
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, United States of America
| | - Dongjun Chung
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, United States of America
- Pelotonia Institute for Immuno-Oncology, The James Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, United States of America
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Filipe Rosa L, Rings A, Stolzer I, Koeninger L, Wehkamp J, Beisner J, Günther C, Nordkild P, Jensen BAH, Bischoff SC. Human α-Defensin 5 1-9 and Human β-Defensin 2 Improve Metabolic Parameters and Gut Barrier Function in Mice Fed a Western-Style Diet. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:13878. [PMID: 37762180 PMCID: PMC10531064 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241813878] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2023] [Revised: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Obesity and metabolic comorbidities are associated with gut permeability. While high-fructose and Western-style diet (WSD) disrupt intestinal barrier function, oral administration of human α-defensin 5 (HD5) and β-defensin 2 (hBD2) is believed to improve intestinal integrity and metabolic disorders. Eighty-four male C57BL/6J mice were fed a WSD or a control diet (CD) ± fructose (F) for 18 weeks. In week 13, mice were randomly divided into three intervention groups, receiving defensin fragment HD51-9, full-length hBD2, or bovine serum albumin (BSA)-control for six weeks. Subsequently, parameters of hepatic steatosis, glucose metabolism, and gut barrier function were assessed. WSDF increased body weight and hepatic steatosis (p < 0.01) compared to CD-fed mice, whereas peptide intervention decreased liver fat (p < 0.05) and number of hepatic lipid droplets (p < 0.01) compared to BSA-control. In addition, both peptides attenuated glucose intolerance by reducing blood glucose curves in WSDF-fed mice. Evaluation of gut barrier function revealed that HD51-9 and hBD2 improve intestinal integrity by upregulating tight junction and mucin expression. Moreover, peptide treatment restored ileal host defense peptides (HDP) expression, likely by modulating the Wnt, Myd88, p38, and Jak/STAT pathways. These findings strongly suggest that α- and β-defensin treatment improve hepatic steatosis, glucose metabolism, and gut barrier function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louisa Filipe Rosa
- Institute of Nutritional Medicine, University of Hohenheim, Fruwirthstr. 12, 70599 Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Andreas Rings
- Institute of Nutritional Medicine, University of Hohenheim, Fruwirthstr. 12, 70599 Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Iris Stolzer
- Department of Medicine 1, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie (DZI), Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Louis Koeninger
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital Tübingen, 72016 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Jan Wehkamp
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital Tübingen, 72016 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Julia Beisner
- Institute of Nutritional Medicine, University of Hohenheim, Fruwirthstr. 12, 70599 Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Claudia Günther
- Department of Medicine 1, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie (DZI), Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | | | - Benjamin A. H. Jensen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 1353 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Stephan C. Bischoff
- Institute of Nutritional Medicine, University of Hohenheim, Fruwirthstr. 12, 70599 Stuttgart, Germany
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4
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Wang Y, Yu Y, Li L, Zheng M, Zhou J, Gong H, Feng B, Wang X, Meng X, Cui Y, Xia Y, Chu S, Lin L, Chang H, Zhou R, Ma M, Li Z, Ji R, Lu M, Yang X, Zuo X, Li S, Li Y. Bile acid-dependent transcription factors and chromatin accessibility determine regional heterogeneity of intestinal antimicrobial peptides. Nat Commun 2023; 14:5093. [PMID: 37607912 PMCID: PMC10444805 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-40565-7] [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: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are important mediators of intestinal immune surveillance. However, the regional heterogeneity of AMPs and its regulatory mechanisms remain obscure. Here, we clarified the regional heterogeneity of intestinal AMPs at the single-cell level, and revealed a cross-lineages AMP regulation mechanism that bile acid dependent transcription factors (BATFs), NR1H4, NR1H3 and VDR, regulate AMPs through a ligand-independent manner. Bile acids regulate AMPs by perturbing cell differentiation rather than activating BATFs signaling. Chromatin accessibility determines the potential of BATFs to regulate AMPs at the pre-transcriptional level, thus shaping the regional heterogeneity of AMPs. The BATFs-AMPs axis also participates in the establishment of intestinal antimicrobial barriers of fetuses and the defects of antibacterial ability during Crohn's disease. Overall, BATFs and chromatin accessibility play essential roles in shaping the regional heterogeneity of AMPs at pre- and postnatal stages, as well as in maintenance of antimicrobial immunity during homeostasis and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Yanbo Yu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Laboratory of Translational Gastroenterology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for digestive disease, Jinan, China
| | - Lixiang Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Laboratory of Translational Gastroenterology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for digestive disease, Jinan, China
| | - Mengqi Zheng
- Department of Gastroenterology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Jiawei Zhou
- Department of Gastroenterology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Haifan Gong
- School of Computer Science and Engineering, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Bingcheng Feng
- Department of Gastroenterology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Xiao Wang
- Department of Pathology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Xuanlin Meng
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Metabolism, Joint International Research Laboratory of Metabolic and Developmental Sciences, and School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yanyan Cui
- Advanced Medical Research Institute, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Yanan Xia
- Department of Gastroenterology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Shuzheng Chu
- Advanced Medical Research Institute, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Lin Lin
- Department of Gastroenterology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Huijun Chang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Ruchen Zhou
- Department of Gastroenterology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Mingjun Ma
- Department of Gastroenterology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Zhen Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Laboratory of Translational Gastroenterology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for digestive disease, Jinan, China
| | - Rui Ji
- Department of Gastroenterology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Laboratory of Translational Gastroenterology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for digestive disease, Jinan, China
| | - Ming Lu
- Clinical Epidemiology Unit, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Xiaoyun Yang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Laboratory of Translational Gastroenterology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for digestive disease, Jinan, China
| | - Xiuli Zuo
- Department of Gastroenterology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China.
- Laboratory of Translational Gastroenterology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China.
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for digestive disease, Jinan, China.
| | - Shiyang Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China.
- Advanced Medical Research Institute, Shandong University, Jinan, China.
- Key Laboratory for Experimental Teratology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, China.
| | - Yanqing Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China.
- Laboratory of Translational Gastroenterology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China.
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for digestive disease, Jinan, China.
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Fu J, Zong X, Jin M, Min J, Wang F, Wang Y. Mechanisms and regulation of defensins in host defense. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2023; 8:300. [PMID: 37574471 PMCID: PMC10423725 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-023-01553-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Revised: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023] Open
Abstract
As a family of cationic host defense peptides, defensins are mainly synthesized by Paneth cells, neutrophils, and epithelial cells, contributing to host defense. Their biological functions in innate immunity, as well as their structure and activity relationships, along with their mechanisms of action and therapeutic potential, have been of great interest in recent years. To highlight the key research into the role of defensins in human and animal health, we first describe their research history, structural features, evolution, and antimicrobial mechanisms. Next, we cover the role of defensins in immune homeostasis, chemotaxis, mucosal barrier function, gut microbiota regulation, intestinal development and regulation of cell death. Further, we discuss their clinical relevance and therapeutic potential in various diseases, including infectious disease, inflammatory bowel disease, diabetes and obesity, chronic inflammatory lung disease, periodontitis and cancer. Finally, we summarize the current knowledge regarding the nutrient-dependent regulation of defensins, including fatty acids, amino acids, microelements, plant extracts, and probiotics, while considering the clinical application of such regulation. Together, the review summarizes the various biological functions, mechanism of actions and potential clinical significance of defensins, along with the challenges in developing defensins-based therapy, thus providing crucial insights into their biology and potential clinical utility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Fu
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Animal Nutrition, Ministry of Education, College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition and Feed Science in Eastern China, Ministry of Agriculture, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Xin Zong
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Animal Nutrition, Ministry of Education, College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition and Feed Science in Eastern China, Ministry of Agriculture, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Mingliang Jin
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Animal Nutrition, Ministry of Education, College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition and Feed Science in Eastern China, Ministry of Agriculture, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Junxia Min
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Fudi Wang
- The Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Public Health, State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Basic Medical Sciences, School of Public Health, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, China.
| | - Yizhen Wang
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Animal Nutrition, Ministry of Education, College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.
- Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition and Feed Science in Eastern China, Ministry of Agriculture, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China.
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Angulo-Aguado M, Orjuela-Amarillo S, Mora-Jácome JF, Córdoba LP, Gallego-Ortiz A, Gaviria-Sabogal CC, Contreras N, Figueroa C, Ortega-Recalde O, Morel A, Fonseca-Mendoza DJ. Functional analysis of CTLA4 promoter variant and its possible implication in colorectal cancer immunotherapy. Front Med (Lausanne) 2023; 10:1160368. [PMID: 37601778 PMCID: PMC10436101 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2023.1160368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a prevalent cancer, ranking as the third most common. Recent advances in our understanding of the molecular causes of this disease have highlighted the crucial role of tumor immune evasion in its initiation and progression. CTLA4, a receptor that acts as a negative regulator of T cell responses, plays a pivotal role in this process, and genetic variations in CTLA4 have been linked to CRC susceptibility, prognosis, and response to therapy. Methods We conducted a case-control study involving 98 CRC patients and 424 controls. We genotyped the CTLA4 c.-319C > T variant (rs5742909) and performed an association analysis by comparing allele frequencies between the patients and controls. To assess the potential functional impact of this variant, we first performed an In Silico analysis of transcription factor binding sites using Genomatix. Finally, to validate our findings, we conducted a luciferase reporter gene assay using different cell lines and an electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA). Results The case-control association analysis revealed a significant association between CTLA4 c.-319C > T and CRC susceptibility (p = 0.023; OR 1.89; 95% CI = 1.11-3.23). Genomatix analysis identified LEF1 and TCF7 transcription factors as specific binders to CTLA4 c.-319C. The reporter gene assay demonstrated notable differences in luciferase activity between the c.-319 C and T alleles in COS-7, HCT116, and Jurkat cell lines. EMSA analysis showed differences in TCF7 interaction with the CTLA4 C and T alleles. Conclusion CTLA4 c.-319C > T is associated with CRC susceptibility. Based on our functional validation results, we proposed that CTLA4 c.-319C > T alters gene expression at the transcriptional level, triggering a stronger negative regulation of T-cells and immune tumoral evasion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariana Angulo-Aguado
- Universidad Del Rosario, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Center for Research in Genetics and Genomics (CIGGUR), Institute of Translational Medicine (IMT), Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Sarah Orjuela-Amarillo
- Universidad Del Rosario, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Center for Research in Genetics and Genomics (CIGGUR), Institute of Translational Medicine (IMT), Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Julián Francisco Mora-Jácome
- Universidad Del Rosario, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Center for Research in Genetics and Genomics (CIGGUR), Institute of Translational Medicine (IMT), Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Lea Paloma Córdoba
- Universidad Del Rosario, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Center for Research in Genetics and Genomics (CIGGUR), Institute of Translational Medicine (IMT), Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Antonio Gallego-Ortiz
- Universidad Del Rosario, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Center for Research in Genetics and Genomics (CIGGUR), Institute of Translational Medicine (IMT), Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Cristian Camilo Gaviria-Sabogal
- Universidad Del Rosario, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Center for Research in Genetics and Genomics (CIGGUR), Institute of Translational Medicine (IMT), Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Nora Contreras
- Universidad Del Rosario, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Center for Research in Genetics and Genomics (CIGGUR), Institute of Translational Medicine (IMT), Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Carlos Figueroa
- Departamento de Coloproctología, Hospital Universitario Mayor-Méderi, Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Oscar Ortega-Recalde
- Universidad Del Rosario, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Center for Research in Genetics and Genomics (CIGGUR), Institute of Translational Medicine (IMT), Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Adrien Morel
- Universidad Del Rosario, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Center for Research in Genetics and Genomics (CIGGUR), Institute of Translational Medicine (IMT), Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Dora Janeth Fonseca-Mendoza
- Universidad Del Rosario, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Center for Research in Genetics and Genomics (CIGGUR), Institute of Translational Medicine (IMT), Bogotá, Colombia
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7
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Ai LS, Yu YB. Role of Paneth cells-associated Crohn's disease susceptibility genes in development of Crohn's disease. Shijie Huaren Xiaohua Zazhi 2022; 30:1009-1015. [DOI: 10.11569/wcjd.v30.i23.1009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Crohn's disease (CD) is a chronic inflammatory digestive tract disease, and its pathogenesis involves many factors such as genetics, environment, and flora. In terms of genetic factors, many susceptibility genes and pathogenic pathways of CD are associated with Paneth cells (PCs). Numerous studies have demonstrated that PCs are involved in the pathogenesis of CD by affecting the gut microbiota and inducing intestinal epithelial barrier dysfunction and immune abnormalities. These advances provide new ideas for the prevention of CD and potential therapeutic targets for this disease. This article reviews the role of PCs-associated CD susceptibility genes in the pathogenesis of CD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Si Ai
- Qilu Hospital of Shandong University (First Clinical College), Jinan 250012, Shandong Province, China
| | - Yan-Bo Yu
- Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan 250012, Shandong Province, China
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Ramakrishnan AB, Burby PE, Adiga K, Cadigan KM. SOX9 and TCF transcription factors associate to mediate Wnt/β-catenin target gene activation in colorectal cancer. J Biol Chem 2022; 299:102735. [PMID: 36423688 PMCID: PMC9771724 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2022.102735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2022] [Revised: 11/02/2022] [Accepted: 11/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Activation of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway regulates gene expression by promoting the formation of a β-catenin-T-cell factor (TCF) complex on target enhancers. In addition to TCFs, other transcription factors interact with the Wnt/β-catenin pathway at different levels to produce tissue-specific patterns of Wnt target gene expression. The transcription factor SOX9 potently represses many Wnt target genes by downregulating β-catenin protein levels. Here, we find using colony formation and cell growth assays that SOX9 surprisingly promotes the proliferation of Wnt-driven colorectal cancer (CRC) cells. In contrast to how it indirectly represses Wnt targets, SOX9 directly co-occupies and activates multiple Wnt-responsive enhancers in CRC cells. Our examination of the binding site grammar of these enhancers shows the presence of TCF and SOX9 binding sites that are necessary for transcriptional activation. In addition, we identify a physical interaction between the DNA-binding domains of TCFs and SOX9 and show that TCF-SOX9 interactions are important for target gene regulation and CRC cell growth. Our work demonstrates a highly context-dependent effect of SOX9 on Wnt targets, with the presence or absence of SOX9-binding sites on Wnt-regulated enhancers determining whether they are directly activated or indirectly repressed by SOX9.
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9
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Swoboda J, Mittelsdorf P, Chen Y, Weiskirchen R, Stallhofer J, Schüle S, Gassler N. Intestinal Wnt in the transition from physiology to oncology. World J Clin Oncol 2022; 13:168-185. [PMID: 35433295 PMCID: PMC8966512 DOI: 10.5306/wjco.v13.i3.168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2021] [Revised: 09/07/2021] [Accepted: 02/20/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Adult stem cells are necessary for self-renewal tissues and regeneration after damage. Especially in the intestine, which self-renews every few days, they play a key role in tissue homeostasis. Therefore, complex regulatory mechanisms are needed to prevent hyperproliferation, which can lead in the worst case to carcinogenesis or under-activation of stem cells, which can result in dysfunctional epithelial. One main regulatory signaling pathway is the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. It is a highly conserved pathway, with β-catenin, a transcription factor, as target protein. Translocation of β-catenin from cytoplasm to nucleus activates the transcription of numerous genes involved in regulating stem cell pluripo-tency, proliferation, cell differentiation and regulation of cell death. This review presents a brief overview of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, the regulatory mechanism of this pathway and its role in intestinal homeostasis. Additionally, this review highlights the molecular mechanisms and the histomorphological features of Wnt hyperactivation. Furthermore, the central role of the Wnt signaling pathway in intestinal carcinogenesis as well as its clinical relevance in colorectal carcinoma are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Swoboda
- Section Pathology, Institute of Forensic Medicine, Jena University Hospital, Jena 07747, Germany
| | - Patrick Mittelsdorf
- Section Pathology, Institute of Forensic Medicine, Jena University Hospital, Jena 07747, Germany
| | - Yuan Chen
- Section Pathology, Institute of Forensic Medicine, Jena University Hospital, Jena 07747, Germany
| | - Ralf Weiskirchen
- Institute of Molecular Pathobiochemistry, Experimental Gene Therapy and Clinical Chemistry, RWTH University Hospital Aachen, Aachen 52074, Germany
| | - Johannes Stallhofer
- Department of Internal Medicine IV (Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Infectious Diseases), Jena University Hospital, Jena 07747, Germany
| | - Silke Schüle
- Department of General, Visceral and Vascular Surgery, Jena University Hospital, Jena 07747, Germany
| | - Nikolaus Gassler
- Section Pathology, Institute of Forensic Medicine, Jena University Hospital, Jena 07747, Germany
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10
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The RNA helicase Dhx15 mediates Wnt-induced antimicrobial protein expression in Paneth cells. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2021; 118:2017432118. [PMID: 33483420 PMCID: PMC7848544 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2017432118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
RNA helicases play roles in various essential biological processes such as RNA splicing and editing. Recent in vitro studies show that RNA helicases are involved in immune responses toward viruses, serving as viral RNA sensors or immune signaling adaptors. However, there is still a lack of in vivo data to support the tissue- or cell-specific function of RNA helicases owing to the lethality of mice with complete knockout of RNA helicases; further, there is a lack of evidence about the antibacterial role of helicases. Here, we investigated the in vivo role of Dhx15 in intestinal antibacterial responses by generating mice that were intestinal epithelial cell (IEC)-specific deficient for Dhx15 (Dhx15 f/f Villin1-cre, Dhx15ΔIEC). These mice are susceptible to infection with enteric bacteria Citrobacter rodentium (C. rod), owing to impaired α-defensin production by Paneth cells. Moreover, mice with Paneth cell-specific depletion of Dhx15 (Dhx15 f/f Defensinα6-cre, Dhx15ΔPaneth) are more susceptible to DSS (dextran sodium sulfate)-induced colitis, which phenocopy Dhx15ΔIEC mice, due to the dysbiosis of the intestinal microbiota. In humans, reduced protein levels of Dhx15 are found in ulcerative colitis (UC) patients. Taken together, our findings identify a key regulator of Wnt-induced α-defensins in Paneth cells and offer insights into its role in the antimicrobial response as well as intestinal inflammation.
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11
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Urbauer E, Rath E, Haller D. Mitochondrial Metabolism in the Intestinal Stem Cell Niche-Sensing and Signaling in Health and Disease. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 8:602814. [PMID: 33469536 PMCID: PMC7813778 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.602814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2020] [Accepted: 11/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Mitochondrial metabolism, dynamics, and stress responses in the intestinal stem cell niche play a pivotal role in regulating intestinal epithelial cell homeostasis, including self-renewal and differentiation. In addition, mitochondria are increasingly recognized for their involvement in sensing the metabolic environment and their capability of integrating host and microbial-derived signals. Gastrointestinal diseases such as inflammatory bowel diseases and colorectal cancer are characterized by alterations of intestinal stemness, the microbial milieu, and mitochondrial metabolism. Thus, mitochondrial function emerges at the interface of determining health and disease, and failure to adapt mitochondrial function to environmental cues potentially results in aberrant tissue responses. A mechanistic understanding of the underlying role of mitochondrial fitness in intestinal pathologies is still in its infancy, and therapies targeting mitochondrial (dys)function are currently lacking. This review discusses mitochondrial signaling and metabolism in intestinal stem cells and Paneth cells as critical junction translating host- and microbe-derived signals into epithelial responses. Consequently, we propose mitochondrial fitness as a hallmark for intestinal epithelial cell plasticity, determining the regenerative capacity of the epithelium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabeth Urbauer
- Chair of Nutrition and Immunology, Technische Universität München, Freising-Weihenstephan, Germany
| | - Eva Rath
- Chair of Nutrition and Immunology, Technische Universität München, Freising-Weihenstephan, Germany
| | - Dirk Haller
- Chair of Nutrition and Immunology, Technische Universität München, Freising-Weihenstephan, Germany.,ZIEL Institute for Food & Health, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany
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12
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Yang E, Shen J. The roles and functions of Paneth cells in Crohn's disease: A critical review. Cell Prolif 2020; 54:e12958. [PMID: 33174662 PMCID: PMC7791172 DOI: 10.1111/cpr.12958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2020] [Revised: 10/15/2020] [Accepted: 10/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Paneth cells (PCs) are located at the base of small intestinal crypts and secrete the α‐defensins, human α‐defensin 5 (HD‐5) and human α‐defensin 6 (HD‐6) in response to bacterial, cholinergic and other stimuli. The α‐defensins are broad‐spectrum microbicides that play critical roles in controlling gut microbiota and maintaining intestinal homeostasis. Inflammatory bowel disease, including ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease (CD), is a complicated autoimmune disorder. The pathogenesis of CD involves genetic factors, environmental factors and microflora. Surprisingly, with regard to genetic factors, many susceptible genes and pathogenic pathways of CD, including nucleotide‐binding oligomerization domain 2 (NOD2), autophagy‐related 16‐like 1 (ATG16L1), immunity‐related guanosine triphosphatase family M (IRGM), wingless‐related integration site (Wnt), leucine‐rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2), histone deacetylases (HDACs), caspase‐8 (Casp8) and X‐box‐binding protein‐1 (XBP1), are relevant to PCs. As the underlying mechanisms are being unravelled, PCs are identified as the central element of CD pathogenesis, integrating factors among microbiota, intestinal epithelial barrier dysfunction and the immune system. In the present review, we demonstrate how these genes and pathways regulate CD pathogenesis via their action on PCs and what treatment modalities can be applied to deal with these PC‐mediated pathogenic processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erpeng Yang
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Ministry of Health, Inflammatory Bowel Disease Research Center, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Digestive Disease, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jun Shen
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Ministry of Health, Inflammatory Bowel Disease Research Center, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Digestive Disease, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
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13
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Li J, Li X, Song J, Yan B, Rock S, Jia J, Liu J, Wang C, Weiss T, Weiss HL, Gao T, Alam A, Evers BM. Absence of neurotensin attenuates intestinal dysbiosis and inflammation by maintaining Mmp7/α-defensin axis in diet-induced obese mice. FASEB J 2020; 34:8596-8610. [PMID: 32359121 PMCID: PMC7754978 DOI: 10.1096/fj.201902374rr] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2019] [Revised: 04/16/2020] [Accepted: 04/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
We previously reported that high levels of plasma neurotensin (NT), a gut hormone released from enteroendocrine cells of the small bowel, contribute to obesity and comorbid conditions. Gut microbiota has been implicated in the obesity development. Paneth cells are critical in maintaining gut microbiota composition and homeostasis by releasing antimicrobial proteins including α-defensins. The purpose of our current study was to determine the possible role of NT in gut microbiota composition and α-defensin gene expression associated with obesity. Here we show that the ratio of Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes (F/B ratio) and intestinal proinflammatory cytokines is significantly increased in NT+/+ mice fed with a high-fat diet (HFD) which were improved in NT-deficient mice. HFD disrupted the intestinal Mmp7/α-defensin axis, which was completely prevented in NT-/- mice. In addition, NT treatment inhibited DEFA5 expression and concurrent NF-κB activity, which was blocked by a pan PKC inhibitor (Gö6983) or an inhibitor for atypical PKCs (CRT0066854). More importantly, the shRNA-mediated knockdown of atypical PKCτ reversed NT-attenuated DEFA5 expression and increased NF-κB activity. NT contributes to the HFD-induced disruption of gut microbiota composition and α-defensin expression. PKCτ/λ plays a central role in NT-mediated α-defensin gene expression which might be mediated through the inhibition of NF-κB signaling pathways in Paneth cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Li
- Department of Surgery, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
- Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Xian Li
- Department of Surgery, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
- Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Jun Song
- Department of Surgery, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
- Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Baoxiang Yan
- Department of Surgery, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
- Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Stephanie Rock
- Department of Surgery, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
- Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Jianhang Jia
- Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Jinpeng Liu
- Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Chi Wang
- Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Todd Weiss
- Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Heidi L. Weiss
- Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Tianyan Gao
- Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Ashfaqul Alam
- Microbiology, Immunology & Molecular Genetics, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - B. Mark Evers
- Department of Surgery, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
- Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
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14
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Wehkamp J, Stange EF. An Update Review on the Paneth Cell as Key to Ileal Crohn's Disease. Front Immunol 2020; 11:646. [PMID: 32351509 PMCID: PMC7174711 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.00646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2020] [Accepted: 03/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The Paneth cells reside in the small intestine at the bottom of the crypts of Lieberkühn, intermingled with stem cells, and provide a niche for their neighbors by secreting growth and Wnt-factors as well as different antimicrobial peptides including defensins, lysozyme and others. The most abundant are the human Paneth cell α-defensin 5 and 6 that keep the crypt sterile and control the local microbiome. In ileal Crohn's disease various mechanisms including established genetic risk factors contribute to defects in the production and ordered secretion of these peptides. In addition, life-style risk factors for Crohn's disease like tobacco smoking also impact on Paneth cell function. Taken together, current evidence suggest that defective Paneth cells may play the key role in initiating inflammation in ileal, and maybe ileocecal, Crohn's disease by allowing bacterial attachment and invasion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Wehkamp
- University of Tübingen, Medizinische Klinik I, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Eduard F Stange
- University of Tübingen, Medizinische Klinik I, Tübingen, Germany
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15
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Koeninger L, Armbruster NS, Brinch KS, Kjaerulf S, Andersen B, Langnau C, Autenrieth SE, Schneidawind D, Stange EF, Malek NP, Nordkild P, Jensen BAH, Wehkamp J. Human β-Defensin 2 Mediated Immune Modulation as Treatment for Experimental Colitis. Front Immunol 2020; 11:93. [PMID: 32076420 PMCID: PMC7006816 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.00093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2019] [Accepted: 01/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Defensins represents an integral part of the innate immune system serving to ward off potential pathogens and to protect the intestinal barrier from microbial encroachment. In addition to their antimicrobial activities, defensins in general, and human β-defensin 2 (hBD2) in particular, also exhibit immunomodulatory capabilities. In this report, we assessed the therapeutic efficacy of systemically administered recombinant hBD2 to ameliorate intestinal inflammation in three distinct animal models of inflammatory bowel disease; i.e., chemically induced mucosal injury (DSS), loss of mucosal tolerance (TNBS), and T-cell transfer into immunodeficient recipient mice. Treatment efficacy was confirmed in all tested models, where systemically administered hBD2 mitigated inflammation, improved disease activity index, and hindered colitis-induced body weight loss on par with anti-TNF-α and steroids. Treatment of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-activated human peripheral blood mononuclear cells with rhBD2 confirmed the immunomodulatory capacity in the circulatory compartment. Subsequent analyzes revealed dendritic cells (DCs) as the main target population. Suppression of LPS-induced inflammation was dependent on chemokine receptor 2 (CCR2) expression. Mechanistically, hBD2 engaged with CCR2 on its DC target cell to decrease NF-κB, and increase CREB phosphorylation, hence curbing inflammation. To our knowledge, this is the first study showing in vivo efficacy of a systemically administered defensin in experimental disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louis Koeninger
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Nicole S Armbruster
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | | | | | | | - Carolin Langnau
- Department of Internal Medicine II, University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Stella E Autenrieth
- Department of Internal Medicine II, University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Dominik Schneidawind
- Department of Internal Medicine II, University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Eduard F Stange
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Nisar P Malek
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | | | - Benjamin A H Jensen
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Cardiology Axis, Quebec Heart and Lung Institute, Laval University, Quebec, QC, Canada.,Section for Human Genomics and Metagenomics in Metabolism, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jan Wehkamp
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
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16
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Oral fecal microbiota transplant for recurrent Clostridium difficile in pediatric autoimmune enteropathy. Eur J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2019; 31:1602-1603. [PMID: 31688252 DOI: 10.1097/meg.0000000000001548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/10/2022]
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17
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Age-of-diagnosis dependent ileal immune intensification and reduced alpha-defensin in older versus younger pediatric Crohn Disease patients despite already established dysbiosis. Mucosal Immunol 2019; 12:491-502. [PMID: 30542108 PMCID: PMC6375755 DOI: 10.1038/s41385-018-0114-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2018] [Revised: 11/06/2018] [Accepted: 11/15/2018] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Age-of-diagnosis associated variation in disease location and antimicrobial sero-reactivity has suggested fundamental differences in pediatric Crohn Disease (CD) pathogenesis. This variation may be related to pubertal peak incidence of ileal involvement and Peyer's patches maturation, represented by IFNγ-expressing Th1 cells. However, direct mucosal evidence is lacking. We characterize the global pattern of ileal gene expression and microbial communities in 525 treatment-naive pediatric CD patients and controls (Ctl), stratifying samples by their age-of-diagnosis. We show a robust ileal gene signature notable for higher expression of specific immune genes including GM-CSF and INFγ, and reduced expression of antimicrobial Paneth cell α-defensins, in older compared to younger patients. Reduced α-defensin expression in older patients was associated with higher IFNγ expression. By comparison, the CD-associated ileal dysbiosis, characterized by expansion of Enterobacteriaceae and contraction of Lachnospiraceae and Ruminococcaceae, was already established within the younger group and did not vary systematically with increasing age-of-diagnosis. Multivariate analysis considering individual taxa, however did demonstrate negative associations between Lachnospiraceae and IFNγ, and positive associations between Bacteroides and α-defensin expression. These data provide evidence for maturation of mucosal Th1 immune responses and loss of epithelial antimicrobial α-defensins which are associated with specific taxa with increasing age-of-diagnosis in pediatric CD.
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18
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Rogala AR, Schoenborn AA, Fee BE, Cantillana VA, Joyce MJ, Gharaibeh RZ, Roy S, Fodor AA, Sartor RB, Taylor GA, Gulati AS. Environmental factors regulate Paneth cell phenotype and host susceptibility to intestinal inflammation in Irgm1-deficient mice. Dis Model Mech 2018; 11:dmm.031070. [PMID: 29361512 PMCID: PMC5894938 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.031070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2017] [Accepted: 12/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Crohn's disease (CD) represents a chronic inflammatory disorder of the intestinal tract. Several susceptibility genes have been linked to CD, though their precise role in the pathogenesis of this disorder remains unclear. Immunity-related GTPase M (IRGM) is an established risk allele in CD. We have shown previously that conventionally raised (CV) mice lacking the IRGM ortholog, Irgm1 exhibit abnormal Paneth cells (PCs) and increased susceptibility to intestinal injury. In the present study, we sought to utilize this model system to determine if environmental conditions impact these phenotypes, as is thought to be the case in human CD. To accomplish this, wild-type and Irgm1−/− mice were rederived into specific pathogen-free (SPF) and germ-free (GF) conditions. We next assessed how these differential housing environments influenced intestinal injury patterns, and epithelial cell morphology and function in wild-type and Irgm1−/− mice. Remarkably, in contrast to CV mice, SPF Irgm1−/− mice showed only a slight increase in susceptibility to dextran sodium sulfate-induced inflammation. SPF Irgm1−/− mice also displayed minimal abnormalities in PC number and morphology, and in antimicrobial peptide expression. Goblet cell numbers and epithelial proliferation were also unaffected by Irgm1 in SPF conditions. No microbial differences were observed between wild-type and Irgm1−/− mice, but gut bacterial communities differed profoundly between CV and SPF mice. Specifically, Helicobacter sequences were significantly increased in CV mice; however, inoculating SPF Irgm1−/− mice with Helicobacter hepaticus was not sufficient to transmit a pro-inflammatory phenotype. In summary, our findings suggest the impact of Irgm1-deficiency on susceptibility to intestinal inflammation and epithelial function is critically dependent on environmental influences. This work establishes the importance of Irgm1−/− mice as a model to elucidate host-environment interactions that regulate mucosal homeostasis and intestinal inflammatory responses. Defining such interactions will be essential for developing novel preventative and therapeutic strategies for human CD. Summary: In this study, we rederived conventionally raised Irgm1-deficient mice into specific pathogen-free and germ-free conditions. We show that these environments determine how Irgm1 regulates Paneth cell function and gut inflammation susceptibility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allison R Rogala
- Center for Gastrointestinal Biology and Disease, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Division of Gastroenterology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Alexi A Schoenborn
- Center for Gastrointestinal Biology and Disease, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Division of Gastroenterology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Brian E Fee
- Geriatric Research, Education, and Clinical Center, VA Medical Center, Durham, NC 27705, USA
| | - Viviana A Cantillana
- Departments of Medicine; Molecular Genetics and Microbiology; and Immunology; Division of Geriatrics, and Center for the Study of Aging and Human Development, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Maria J Joyce
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Disease, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Raad Z Gharaibeh
- Department of Bioinformatics and Genomics, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, NC 28223, USA
| | - Sayanty Roy
- Center for Gastrointestinal Biology and Disease, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Division of Gastroenterology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Anthony A Fodor
- Center for Gastrointestinal Biology and Disease, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA.,Department of Bioinformatics and Genomics, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, NC 28223, USA
| | - R Balfour Sartor
- Center for Gastrointestinal Biology and Disease, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA.,Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA.,Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Gregory A Taylor
- Geriatric Research, Education, and Clinical Center, VA Medical Center, Durham, NC 27705, USA.,Departments of Medicine; Molecular Genetics and Microbiology; and Immunology; Division of Geriatrics, and Center for the Study of Aging and Human Development, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Ajay S Gulati
- Center for Gastrointestinal Biology and Disease, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA .,Department of Pediatrics, Division of Gastroenterology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA.,Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
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19
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Cerrillo E, Moret I, Iborra M, Ramos D, Busó E, Tortosa L, Sáez-González E, Nos P, Beltrán B. Alpha-defensins (α-Defs) in Crohn's disease: decrease of ileal α-Def 5 via permanent methylation and increase in plasma α-Def 1-3 concentrations offering biomarker utility. Clin Exp Immunol 2018; 192:120-128. [PMID: 29193023 DOI: 10.1111/cei.13085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2017] [Revised: 11/17/2017] [Accepted: 11/18/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
An impaired expression of α-defensins (α-Defs) in the ileal mucosa and, conversely, increased levels in plasma, have been reported in Crohn's disease (CD). However, the specificity and correlation of these findings with the degree of inflammation are unclear. We aimed to characterize the concentration and utility of ileal and plasma α-Defs in CD and to analyse a potential epigenetic mechanism of α-Def expression. Peripheral blood samples and ileal biopsies were obtained from patients at disease onset (aCD), from those who achieved remission (iCD) and from two control groups (healthy controls and non-CD-aetiology ileitis patients). Plasma α-Defs 1-3 and 4 were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA); α-Def 5 by immunolocalization. Methylation analysis of the α-Def 5 gene was performed using the MassARRAY EpiTYPER system. Plasma α-Defs 1-3 concentrations were significantly higher in aCD with ileal involvement (L1, L3) versus iCD or the control groups. The α-Defs 1-3 concentrations were also similar to healthy controls in patients with non-CD ileitis. There was a significant positive correlation between plasma α-Defs 1-3 levels in aCD and the endoscopic index, as well as with C-reactive protein (CRP) levels. The immunopositivity scoring showed significantly reduced α-Def 5 expression in ileal inflamed (aCD) versus non-inflamed mucosa (iCD and healthy controls). The α-Def 5 gene showed a higher methylation status in CD patients than controls, regardless of the inflammation. Plasma α-Defs 1-3 concentrations correlate with the degree of inflammation and appear to be specific biomarkers of ileal-CD at diagnosis. Ileal α-Def 5 expression is down-regulated permanently by methylation.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Cerrillo
- Gastroenterology Department, IBD Unit La Fe University and Polytechnic Hospital, Valencia, Spain.,Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, Valencia, Spain.,Centro de investigación biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Barcelona, Spain
| | - I Moret
- Gastroenterology Department, IBD Unit La Fe University and Polytechnic Hospital, Valencia, Spain.,Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, Valencia, Spain.,Centro de investigación biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Barcelona, Spain
| | - M Iborra
- Gastroenterology Department, IBD Unit La Fe University and Polytechnic Hospital, Valencia, Spain.,Centro de investigación biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Barcelona, Spain
| | - D Ramos
- Pathology Department, La Fe University and Polytechnic Hospital, Valencia, Spain
| | - E Busó
- Laboratory of Epigenetics and Genotyping, UCIM, Faculty of Medicine, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - L Tortosa
- Gastroenterology Department, IBD Unit La Fe University and Polytechnic Hospital, Valencia, Spain.,Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, Valencia, Spain.,Centro de investigación biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Barcelona, Spain
| | - E Sáez-González
- Gastroenterology Department, IBD Unit La Fe University and Polytechnic Hospital, Valencia, Spain
| | - P Nos
- Gastroenterology Department, IBD Unit La Fe University and Polytechnic Hospital, Valencia, Spain.,Centro de investigación biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Barcelona, Spain
| | - B Beltrán
- Gastroenterology Department, IBD Unit La Fe University and Polytechnic Hospital, Valencia, Spain.,Centro de investigación biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Barcelona, Spain
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20
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Armbruster NS, Stange EF, Wehkamp J. In the Wnt of Paneth Cells: Immune-Epithelial Crosstalk in Small Intestinal Crohn's Disease. Front Immunol 2017; 8:1204. [PMID: 29018451 PMCID: PMC5622939 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2017.01204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2017] [Accepted: 09/11/2017] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Paneth cells, specialized secretory epithelial cells of the small intestine, play a pivotal role in host defense and regulation of microbiota by producing antimicrobial peptides especially-but not only-the human α-defensin 5 (HD5) and HD6. In small intestinal Crohn's disease (CD) which is an entity of inflammatory bowel diseases, the expression of HD5 and HD6 is specifically compromised leading to a disturbed barrier and change in the microbial community. Different genetically driven but also non-genetic defects associated with small intestinal CD affect different lines of antimicrobial Paneth cell functions. In this review, we focus on the mechanisms and the crosstalk of Paneth cells and bone marrow-derived cells and highlight recent studies about the role of the Wnt signaling pathway in this connection of ileal CD. In summary, different lines of investigations led by us but also now numerous other groups support and reconfirm the proposed classification of this disease entity as Paneth's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Eduard F Stange
- Internal Medicine I, University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Jan Wehkamp
- Internal Medicine I, University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
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21
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Steinbach G, Hockenbery DM, Huls G, Furlong T, Myerson D, Loeb KR, Fann JR, Castilla-Llorente C, McDonald GB, Martin PJ. Pilot study of lithium to restore intestinal barrier function in severe graft-versus-host disease. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0183284. [PMID: 28817727 PMCID: PMC5560707 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0183284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2015] [Accepted: 07/31/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Severe intestinal graft-vs-host disease (GVHD) after allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) causes mucosal ulceration and induces innate and adaptive immune responses that amplify and perpetuate GVHD and the associated barrier dysfunction. Pharmacological agents to target mucosal barrier dysfunction in GVHD are needed. We hypothesized that induction of Wnt signaling by lithium, an inhibitor of glycogen synthase kinase (GSK3), would potentiate intestinal crypt proliferation and mucosal repair and that inhibition of GSK3 in inflammatory cells would attenuate the deregulated inflammatory response to mucosal injury. We conducted an observational pilot study to provide data for the potential design of a randomized study of lithium. Twenty patients with steroid refractory intestinal GVHD meeting enrollment criteria were given oral lithium carbonate. GVHD was otherwise treated per current practice, including 2 mg/kg per day of prednisone equivalent. Seventeen patients had extensive mucosal denudation (extreme endoscopic grade 3) in the duodenum or colon. We observed that 8 of 12 patients (67%) had a complete remission (CR) of GVHD and survived more than 1 year (median 5 years) when lithium administration was started promptly within 3 days of endoscopic diagnosis of denuded mucosa. When lithium was started promptly and less than 7 days from salvage therapy for refractory GVHD, 8 of 10 patients (80%) had a CR and survived more than 1 year. In perspective, a review of 1447 consecutive adult HCT patients in the preceding 6 years at our cancer center showed 0% one-year survival in 27 patients with stage 3-4 intestinal GVHD and grade 3 endoscopic appearance in the duodenum or colon. Toxicities included fatigue, somnolence, confusion or blunted affect in 50% of the patients. The favorable outcomes in patients who received prompt lithium therapy appear to support the future conduct of a randomized study of lithium for management of severe GVHD with extensive mucosal injury. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov NCT00408681.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gideon Steinbach
- Division of Clinical Research, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - David M. Hockenbery
- Division of Clinical Research, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Gerwin Huls
- Department of Haematology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Terry Furlong
- Division of Clinical Research, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - David Myerson
- Division of Clinical Research, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- Department of Pathology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Keith R. Loeb
- Division of Clinical Research, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- Department of Pathology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Jesse R. Fann
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Christina Castilla-Llorente
- Division of Clinical Research, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - George B. McDonald
- Division of Clinical Research, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Paul J. Martin
- Division of Clinical Research, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
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22
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Han W, He L, Cao B, Zhao X, Zhang K, Li Y, Beck P, Zhou Z, Tian Y, Cheng S, Wang H. Differential expression of LEF1/TCFs family members in colonic carcinogenesis. Mol Carcinog 2017; 56:2372-2381. [PMID: 27433921 DOI: 10.1002/mc.22530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2016] [Revised: 07/04/2016] [Accepted: 07/11/2016] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Wenxiao Han
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Longmei He
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Bangrong Cao
- Department of etiology, National Cancer Center/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- Department of Basic Research, Sichuan Cancer Hospital and Institute, Sichuan, China
| | - Xinhua Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Kaitai Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- Department of etiology, National Cancer Center/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yan Li
- Inflammation Research Network, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Paul Beck
- Inflammation Research Network, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Zhixiang Zhou
- Department of Gastrointestinal Cancer Surgery, National Cancer Center/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yantao Tian
- Department of Gastrointestinal Cancer Surgery, National Cancer Center/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Shujun Cheng
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- Department of etiology, National Cancer Center/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Hongying Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
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23
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Sankaran-Walters S, Hart R, Dills C. Guardians of the Gut: Enteric Defensins. Front Microbiol 2017; 8:647. [PMID: 28469609 PMCID: PMC5395650 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2017.00647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2016] [Accepted: 03/29/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Enteric defensins likely play a key role in the management of the human microbiome throughout development. The functional and mechanistic diversity of defensins is much greater than was initially thought. Defensin expression and overall Paneth cell physiology likely plays a key role in the development of colitis and other inflammatory or dysbiotic diseases of the gut. As our understanding of enteric defensins grows, their potential as tools of clinical intervention becomes more apparent. In this review, we focus on the function and activity of Paneth Cell defensins and highlight their role in disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ronald Hart
- Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of California, DavisDavis, CA, USA
| | - Chantelle Dills
- Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of California, DavisDavis, CA, USA
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24
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Mäkitie RE, Haanpää M, Valta H, Pekkinen M, Laine CM, Lehesjoki AE, Schalin-Jäntti C, Mäkitie O. Skeletal Characteristics of WNT1 Osteoporosis in Children and Young Adults. J Bone Miner Res 2016; 31:1734-42. [PMID: 27005318 DOI: 10.1002/jbmr.2841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2015] [Revised: 03/13/2016] [Accepted: 03/20/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
WNT proteins comprise a 19-member glycoprotein family that act in several developmental and regenerative processes. In bone, WNT proteins regulate osteoblast differentiation and maintain bone health by activating the canonical WNT/β-catenin pathway. We reported a heterozygous missense mutation c.652T>G (p.C218G) in WNT1 exon 4 as the cause for severe early-onset, autosomal dominant osteoporosis. The initial study concerned a large Finnish family with 10 affected adults. Here we report clinical findings of the WNT1 osteoporosis in 8 children and young adults (median age 14 years; range 10 to 30 years) in two families, all with the p.C218G mutation in WNT1. Clinical assessments showed no apparent dysmorphia or features similar to typical osteogenesis imperfecta (OI). Biochemistry revealed no changes in parameters of calcium metabolism and bone turnover markers. Fracture frequencies varied, but all subjects had sustained at least one fracture and 4 had a pathological fracture history. Plain radiographs showed osteopenic appearance, loss in vertebral height, and thin diaphyses of the long bones. Bone densitometry showed the BMD to be below normal median in all subjects and the bone mass deficit seemed to be more severe in older participants. Bone histomorphometry revealed a low turnover osteoporosis in 2 subjects at ages 14 and 16 years. These findings are congruent with earlier findings in adult patients and indicate that WNT1 osteoporosis causes significant skeletal changes already in early childhood and impairs bone mass gain during pubertal years. Genetic testing of children or close relatives of affected individuals is recommended for appropriate preventive measures. © 2016 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riikka E Mäkitie
- Folkhälsan Institute of Genetics and University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Maria Haanpää
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland
| | - Helena Valta
- Children's Hospital, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Minna Pekkinen
- Folkhälsan Institute of Genetics and University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Christine M Laine
- Folkhälsan Institute of Genetics and University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,Department of Endocrinology, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska University Hospital and University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | | | - Camilla Schalin-Jäntti
- Endocrinology, Abdominal Center, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Outi Mäkitie
- Folkhälsan Institute of Genetics and University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,Children's Hospital, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland.,Center for Molecular Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, and Clinical Genetics, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
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25
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Pellino G, Pallante P, Selvaggi F. Novel biomarkers of fibrosis in Crohn’s disease. World J Gastrointest Pathophysiol 2016; 7:266-275. [PMID: 27574564 PMCID: PMC4981766 DOI: 10.4291/wjgp.v7.i3.266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2016] [Revised: 06/27/2016] [Accepted: 07/22/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Fibrosis represents a major challenge in Crohn’s disease (CD), and many CD patients will develop fibrotic strictures requiring treatment throughout their lifetime. There is no drug that can reverse intestinal fibrosis, and so endoscopic balloon dilatation and surgery are the only effective treatments. Since patients may need repeated treatments, it is important to obtain the diagnosis at an early stage before strictures become symptomatic with extensive fibrosis. Several markers of fibrosis have been proposed, but most need further validation. Biomarkers can be measured either in biological samples obtained from the serum or bowel of CD patients, or using imaging tools and tests. The ideal tool should be easily obtained, cost-effective, and reliable. Even more challenging is fibrosis occurring in ulcerative colitis. Despite the important burden of intestinal fibrosis, including its detrimental effect on outcomes and quality of life in CD patients, it has received less attention than fibrosis occurring in other organs. A common mechanism that acts via a specific signaling pathway could underlie both intestinal fibrosis and cancer. A comprehensive overview of recently introduced biomarkers of fibrosis in CD is presented, along with a discussion of the controversial areas remaining in this field.
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26
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Volynets V, Rings A, Bárdos G, Ostaff MJ, Wehkamp J, Bischoff SC. Intestinal barrier analysis by assessment of mucins, tight junctions, and α-defensins in healthy C57BL/6J and BALB/cJ mice. Tissue Barriers 2016; 4:e1208468. [PMID: 27583194 DOI: 10.1080/21688370.2016.1208468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2016] [Revised: 06/21/2016] [Accepted: 06/25/2016] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The intestinal barrier is gaining increasing attention because it is related to intestinal homeostasis and disease. Different parameters have been used in the past to assess intestinal barrier functions in experimental studies; however most of them are poorly defined in healthy mice. Here, we compared a number of barrier markers in healthy mice, established normal values and correlations. In 48 mice (24 C57BL/6J, 24 BALB/cJ background), we measured mucus thickness, and expression of mucin-2, α-defensin-1 and -4, zonula occludens-1, occludin, junctional adhesion molecule-A, claudin-1, 2 and -5. We also analyzed claudin-3 and fatty acid binding protein-2 in urine and plasma, respectively. A higher expression of mucin-2 protein was found in the colon compared to the ileum. In contrast, the α-defensins-1 and -4 were expressed almost exclusively in the ileum. The protein expression of the tight junction molecules claudin-1, occludin and zonula occludens-1 did not differ between colon and ileum, although some differences occurred at the mRNA level. No age- or gender-related differences were found. Differences between C57BL/6J and BALB/cJ mice were found for α-defensin-1 and -4 mRNA expression, and for urine and plasma marker concentrations. The α-defensin-1 mRNA correlated with claudin-5 mRNA, whereas α-defensin-4 mRNA correlated with claudin-3 concentrations in urine. In conclusion, we identified a number of murine intestinal barrier markers requiring tissue analyses or measurable in urine or plasma. We provide normal values for these markers in mice of different genetic background. Such data might be helpful for future animal studies in which the intestinal barrier is of interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Volynets
- Department of Nutritional Medicine, University of Hohenheim , Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Andreas Rings
- Department of Nutritional Medicine, University of Hohenheim , Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Gyöngyi Bárdos
- Department of Nutritional Medicine, University of Hohenheim , Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Maureen J Ostaff
- University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus , Denver, CO, USA
| | - Jan Wehkamp
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Tübingen , Tübingen, Germany
| | - Stephan C Bischoff
- Department of Nutritional Medicine, University of Hohenheim , Stuttgart, Germany
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27
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Belinson H, Savage AK, Fadrosh D, Kuo YM, Lin D, Valladares R, Nusse Y, Wynshaw-Boris A, Lynch SV, Locksley RM, Klein OD. Dual epithelial and immune cell function of Dvl1 regulates gut microbiota composition and intestinal homeostasis. JCI Insight 2016; 1:85395. [PMID: 27525310 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.85395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Homeostasis of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract is controlled by complex interactions between epithelial and immune cells and the resident microbiota. Here, we studied the role of Wnt signaling in GI homeostasis using Disheveled 1 knockout (Dvl1-/-) mice, which display an increase in whole gut transit time. This phenotype is associated with a reduction and mislocalization of Paneth cells and an increase in CD8+ T cells in the lamina propria. Bone marrow chimera experiments demonstrated that GI dysfunction requires abnormalities in both epithelial and immune cells. Dvl1-/- mice exhibit a significantly distinct GI microbiota, and manipulation of the gut microbiota in mutant mice rescued the GI transit abnormality without correcting the Paneth and CD8+ T cell abnormalities. Moreover, manipulation of the gut microbiota in wild-type mice induced a GI transit abnormality akin to that seen in Dvl1-/- mice. Together, these data indicate that microbiota manipulation can overcome host dysfunction to correct GI transit abnormalities. Our findings illustrate a mechanism by which the epithelium and immune system coregulate gut microbiota composition to promote normal GI function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haim Belinson
- Department of Pediatrics and Institute for Human Genetics.,Department of Orofacial Sciences and Program in Craniofacial Biology
| | - Adam K Savage
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Department of Microbiology & Immunology, and
| | - Douglas Fadrosh
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Yien-Ming Kuo
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Din Lin
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Ricardo Valladares
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Ysbrand Nusse
- Department of Pediatrics and Institute for Human Genetics.,Department of Orofacial Sciences and Program in Craniofacial Biology
| | - Anthony Wynshaw-Boris
- Department of Pediatrics and Institute for Human Genetics.,Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Susan V Lynch
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Richard M Locksley
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Department of Microbiology & Immunology, and.,Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Ophir D Klein
- Department of Pediatrics and Institute for Human Genetics.,Department of Orofacial Sciences and Program in Craniofacial Biology
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28
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Ratanasirintrawoot S, Israsena N. Stem Cells in the Intestine: Possible Roles in Pathogenesis of Irritable Bowel Syndrome. J Neurogastroenterol Motil 2016; 22:367-82. [PMID: 27184041 PMCID: PMC4930294 DOI: 10.5056/jnm16023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2016] [Accepted: 03/08/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Irritable bowel syndrome is one of the most common functional gastrointestinal (GI) disorders that significantly impair quality of life in patients. Current available treatments are still not effective and the pathophysiology of this condition remains unclearly defined. Recently, research on intestinal stem cells has greatly advanced our understanding of various GI disorders. Alterations in conserved stem cell regulatory pathways such as Notch, Wnt, and bone morphogenic protein/TGF-β have been well documented in diseases such as inflammatory bowel diseases and cancer. Interaction between intestinal stem cells and various signals from their environment is important for the control of stem cell self-renewal, regulation of number and function of specific intestinal cell types, and maintenance of the mucosal barrier. Besides their roles in stem cell regulation, these signals are also known to have potent effects on immune cells, enteric nervous system and secretory cells in the gut, and may be responsible for various aspects of pathogenesis of functional GI disorders, including visceral hypersensitivity, altered gut motility and low grade gut inflammation. In this article, we briefly summarize the components of these signaling pathways, how they can be modified by extrinsic factors and novel treatments, and provide evidenced support of their roles in the inflammation processes. Furthermore, we propose how changes in these signals may contribute to the symptom development and pathogenesis of irritable bowel syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sutheera Ratanasirintrawoot
- Stem Cell and Cell Therapy Research Unit, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand.,Department of Research Affairs, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Nipan Israsena
- Stem Cell and Cell Therapy Research Unit, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand.,Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
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29
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Emerging Role and Therapeutic Implication of Wnt Signaling Pathways in Autoimmune Diseases. J Immunol Res 2016; 2016:9392132. [PMID: 27110577 PMCID: PMC4826689 DOI: 10.1155/2016/9392132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2015] [Revised: 03/05/2016] [Accepted: 03/09/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The Wnt signaling pathway plays a key role in many biological aspects, such as cellular proliferation, tissue regeneration, embryonic development, and other systemic effects. Under a physiological condition, it is tightly controlled at different layers and arrays, and a dysregulated activation of this signaling has been implicated into the pathogenesis of various human disorders, including autoimmune diseases. Despite the fact that therapeutic interventions are available for ameliorating disease manifestations, there is no curative therapy currently available for autoimmune disorders. Increasing lines of evidence have suggested a crucial role of Wnt signaling during the pathogenesis of many autoimmune diseases; in addition, some of microRNAs (miRNAs), a class of small, noncoding RNA molecules capable of transcriptionally regulating gene expression, have also recently been demonstrated to possess both physiological and pathological roles in autoimmune diseases by regulating the Wnt signaling pathway. This review summarizes currently our understanding of the pathogenic roles of Wnt signaling in several major autoimmune disorders and miRNAs, those targeting Wnt signaling in autoimmune diseases, with a focus on the implication of the Wnt signaling as potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets in immune diseases, as well as miRNA-mediated regulation of Wnt signaling activation in the development of autoimmune diseases.
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30
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Abstract
Crohn's disease (CD) is associated with a multitude of genetic defects, many of which likely affect Paneth cell function. Paneth cells reside in the small intestine and produce antimicrobial peptides essential for the host barrier, principally human α-defensin 5 (HD5) and HD6. Patients with CD of the ileum are characterized by reduced constitutive expression of these peptides and, accordingly, compromised antimicrobial barrier function. Here, we present a previously unidentified regulatory mechanism of Paneth cell defensins. Using cultures of human ileal tissue, we showed that the secretome of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from healthy controls restored the attenuated Paneth cell α-defensin expression characteristic of patients with ileal CD. Analysis of the Wnt pathway in both cultured biopsies and intestinal epithelial cells implicated Wnt ligands driving the PBMC effect, whereas various tested cytokines were ineffective. We further detected another defect in patients with ileal CD, because the PBMC secretomes derived from patients with CD were unable to restore the reduced HD5/HD6 expression. Accordingly, analysis of PBMC subtypes showed that monocytes of patients with CD express significantly lower levels of canonical Wnt ligands, including Wnt3, Wnt3a, Wnt1, and wntless Wnt ligand secretion mediator (Evi/Wls). These studies reveal an important cross-talk between bone marrow-derived cells and epithelial secretory Paneth cells. Defective Paneth cell-mediated innate immunity due to inadequate Wnt ligand stimulation by monocytes provides an additional mechanism in CD. Because defects of Paneth cell function stemming from various etiologies are overcome by Wnt ligands, this mechanism is a potential therapeutic target for this disease.
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31
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Xie Z, Feng J, Yang W, Xiang F, Yang F, Zhao Y, Cao Z, Li W, Chen Z, Wu Y. Human α-defensins are immune-related Kv1.3 channel inhibitors: new support for their roles in adaptive immunity. FASEB J 2015; 29:4324-33. [PMID: 26148969 DOI: 10.1096/fj.15-274787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2015] [Accepted: 06/22/2015] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Defensins form a major family of antimicrobial peptides. Recently, human β-defensin 2 and fungal plectasin were shown to be immune-related potassium voltage-gated channel subfamily A member 3 (Kv1.3) channel inhibitors. This work continued to show that the human α-defensins human neutrophil peptide (HNP) 1 and human defensin (HD) 5 are selective Kv1.3 channel inhibitors with 50% inhibition concentration values of 102.0 ± 30.3 nM and 2.2 ± 0.2 μM, respectively. Furthermore, HNP1 was found to inhibit Kv1.3 currents and IL-2 secretion in human CD3(+) T cells. Despite the structural similarity between HNP1 and HD5, HNP1 could simultaneously bind to the S1-S2 linker and the pore region of the Kv1.3 channel as both a toxinlike blocker and a novel modifier, whereas HD5 could only bind to the channel pore region as a toxinlike blocker. As a channel modifier, HNP1 could shift the conductance-voltage relationship curve of the Kv1.3 channel by ∼9.5 mV in the positive direction and could increase the time constant for channel activation through the electrostatic repulsion between the cationic HNP1 anchored in the S1-S2 linker and the positively charged S4 domain of the Kv1.3 channel. Together, these findings reveal that human α-defensins are novel endogenous inhibitors of Kv1.3 channels with distinct interaction mechanisms, which facilitates future research into their adaptive immune functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zili Xie
- *State Key Laboratory of Virology, College of Life Sciences, and Center for BioDrug Research, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Jing Feng
- *State Key Laboratory of Virology, College of Life Sciences, and Center for BioDrug Research, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Weishan Yang
- *State Key Laboratory of Virology, College of Life Sciences, and Center for BioDrug Research, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Fang Xiang
- *State Key Laboratory of Virology, College of Life Sciences, and Center for BioDrug Research, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Fan Yang
- *State Key Laboratory of Virology, College of Life Sciences, and Center for BioDrug Research, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yonghui Zhao
- *State Key Laboratory of Virology, College of Life Sciences, and Center for BioDrug Research, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhijian Cao
- *State Key Laboratory of Virology, College of Life Sciences, and Center for BioDrug Research, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Wenxin Li
- *State Key Laboratory of Virology, College of Life Sciences, and Center for BioDrug Research, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Zongyun Chen
- *State Key Laboratory of Virology, College of Life Sciences, and Center for BioDrug Research, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yingliang Wu
- *State Key Laboratory of Virology, College of Life Sciences, and Center for BioDrug Research, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
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