The scavenger receptor SR-A I/II (CD204) signals via the receptor tyrosine kinase Mertk during apoptotic cell uptake by murine macrophages

Evolution of the Major Components of Innate Immunity in Animals

Innate immunity is present in all animals. In this review, we explore the main conserved mechanisms of recognition and innate immune responses among animals. In this sense, we discuss the receptors, critical for binding to pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) or danger-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs); the downstream signaling proteins; and transcription factors that govern immune responses. We also highlight conserved inflammatory mediators that are induced after the recognition of DAMPs and PAMPs. At last, we discuss the mechanisms that are involved in the regulation and/or generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), influencing immune responses, like heme-oxygenases (HOs).

Myeloid Zfhx3 deficiency protects against hypercapnia-induced suppression of host defense against influenza A virus

Hypercapnia, elevation of the partial pressure of CO2 in blood and tissues, is a risk factor for mortality in patients with severe acute and chronic lung diseases. We previously showed that hypercapnia inhibits multiple macrophage and neutrophil antimicrobial functions and that elevated CO2 increases the mortality of bacterial and viral pneumonia in mice. Here, we show that normoxic hypercapnia downregulates innate immune and antiviral gene programs in alveolar macrophages (AMØs). We also show that zinc finger homeobox 3 (Zfhx3) - a mammalian ortholog of zfh2, which mediates hypercapnic immune suppression in Drosophila - is expressed in mouse and human macrophages. Deletion of Zfhx3 in the myeloid lineage blocked the suppressive effect of hypercapnia on immune gene expression in AMØs and decreased viral replication, inflammatory lung injury, and mortality in hypercapnic mice infected with influenza A virus. To our knowledge, our results establish Zfhx3 as the first known mammalian mediator of CO2 effects on immune gene expression and lay the basis for future studies to identify therapeutic targets to interrupt hypercapnic immunosuppression in patients with advanced lung disease.

Druggable targets for the immunopathy of Alzheimer's disease

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is one of the leading threats to the health and socioeconomic well-being of humankind. Though research to develop disease modifying therapies for AD has traditionally focussed on the misfolding and aggregation of proteins, this approach has failed to yield a definitively curative agent. Accordingly, the search for additional or alternative approaches is a medicinal chemistry priority. Dysfunction of the brain's neuroimmune-neuroinflammation axis has emerged as a leading contender. Neuroimmunity however is mechanistically complex, rendering the recognition of candidate receptors a challenging task. Herein, a review of the role of neuroimmunity in the biomolecular pathogenesis of AD is presented with the identification of a 'druggable dozen' targets; in turn, each identified target represents one or more discrete receptors centred on a common biochemical mechanism. The druggable dozen is composed of both cellular and molecular messenger targets, with a 'targetable ten' microglial targets as well as two cytokine-based targets. For each target, the underlying molecular basis, with a consideration of strengths and weaknesses, is considered.

Toll-like receptor 4 and macrophage scavenger receptor 1 crosstalk regulates phagocytosis of a fungal pathogen

The opportunistic fungal pathogen Cryptococcus neoformans causes lethal infections in immunocompromised patients. Macrophages are central to the host response to cryptococci; however, it is unclear how C. neoformans is recognised and phagocytosed by macrophages. Here we investigate the role of TLR4 in the non-opsonic phagocytosis of C. neoformans. We find that loss of TLR4 function unexpectedly increases phagocytosis of non-opsonised cryptococci by murine and human macrophages. The increased phagocytosis observed in Tlr4-/- cells was dampened by pre-treatment of macrophages with oxidised-LDL, a known ligand of scavenger receptors. The scavenger receptor, macrophage scavenger receptor 1 (MSR1) (also known as SR-A1 or CD204) was upregulated in Tlr4-/- macrophages. Genetic ablation of MSR1 resulted in a 75% decrease in phagocytosis of non-opsonised cryptococci, strongly suggesting that it is a key non-opsonic receptor for this pathogen. We go on to show that MSR1-mediated uptake likely involves the formation of a multimolecular signalling complex involving FcγR leading to SYK, PI3K, p38 and ERK1/2 activation to drive actin remodelling and phagocytosis. Altogether, our data indicate a hitherto unidentified role for TLR4/MSR1 crosstalk in the non-opsonic phagocytosis of C. neoformans.

The contradictory roles of macrophages in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and primary liver cancer-Challenges and opportunities

Chronic liver diseases from varying etiologies generally lead to liver fibrosis and cirrhosis. Among them, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) affects roughly one-quarter of the world population, thus representing a major and increasing public health burden. Chronic hepatocyte injury, inflammation (non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, NASH) and liver fibrosis are recognized soils for primary liver cancer, particularly hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), being the third most common cause for cancer-related deaths worldwide. Despite recent advances in liver disease understanding, therapeutic options on pre-malignant and malignant stages remain limited. Thus, there is an urgent need to identify targetable liver disease-driving mechanisms for the development of novel therapeutics. Monocytes and macrophages comprise a central, yet versatile component of the inflammatory response, fueling chronic liver disease initiation and progression. Recent proteomic and transcriptomic studies performed at singular cell levels revealed a previously overlooked diversity of macrophage subpopulations and functions. Indeed, liver macrophages that encompass liver resident macrophages (also named Kupffer cells) and monocyte-derived macrophages, can acquire a variety of phenotypes depending on microenvironmental cues, and thus exert manifold and sometimes contradictory functions. Those functions range from modulating and exacerbating tissue inflammation to promoting and exaggerating tissue repair mechanisms (i.e., parenchymal regeneration, cancer cell proliferation, angiogenesis, fibrosis). Due to these central functions, liver macrophages represent an attractive target for the treatment of liver diseases. In this review, we discuss the multifaceted and contrary roles of macrophages in chronic liver diseases, with a particular focus on NAFLD/NASH and HCC. Moreover, we discuss potential therapeutic approaches targeting liver macrophages.

Macrophage colony-stimulating factor potentially induces recruitment and maturation of macrophages in recurrent pituitary neuroendocrine tumors

Although pituitary neuroendocrine tumors (PitNETs) are usually benign, some are highly invasive and recurrent. Recurrent PitNETs are often treatment-resistant and there is currently no effective evidence-based treatment. Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) promote tumor growth in many cancers, but the effect of TAMs on PitNETs remains unclear. This study investigated the role of TAMs in the incidence of recurrent PitNETs. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed that the densities of CD163- and CD204-positive TAMs tended to increase in recurrent PitNETs. Compared with TAMs in primary lesions, those in recurrent lesions were enlarged. To clarify the cell-cell interactions between TAMs and PitNETs, in vitro experiments were performed using a mouse PitNET cell line AtT20 and the mouse macrophage cell line J774. Several cytokines related to macrophage chemotaxis and differentiation, such as M-CSF, were elevated significantly by stimulation with macrophage conditioned medium. When M-CSF immunohistochemistry analysis was performed using human PitNET samples, M-CSF expression increased significantly in recurrent lesions compared with primary lesions. Although no M-CSF receptor (M-CSFR) expression was observed in tumor cells of primary and recurrent PitNETs, flow cytometric analysis revealed that the mouse PitNET cell line expressed M-CSFR. Cellular proliferation in mouse PitNETs was inhibited by high concentrations of M-CSFR inhibitors, suggesting that cell-to-cell communication between PitNETs and macrophages induces M-CSF expression, which in turn enhances TAM chemotaxis and maturation in the tumor microenvironment. Blocking the M-CSFR signaling pathway might be a novel therapeutic adjuvant in treating recurrent PitNETs.

Effective-mononuclear cell (E-MNC) therapy alleviates salivary gland damage by suppressing lymphocyte infiltration in Sjögren-like disease

Introduction: Sjögren syndrome (SS) is an autoimmune disease characterized by salivary gland (SG) destruction leading to loss of secretory function. A hallmark of the disease is the presence of focal lymphocyte infiltration in SGs, which is predominantly composed of T cells. Currently, there are no effective therapies for SS. Recently, we demonstrated that a newly developed therapy using effective-mononuclear cells (E-MNCs) improved the function of radiation-injured SGs due to anti-inflammatory and regenerative effects. In this study, we investigated whether E-MNCs could ameliorate disease development in non-obese diabetic (NOD) mice as a model for primary SS. Methods: E-MNCs were obtained from peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMNCs) cultured for 7 days in serum-free medium supplemented with five specific recombinant proteins (5G culture). The anti-inflammatory characteristics of E-MNCs were then analyzed using a co-culture system with CD3/CD28-stimulated PBMNCs. To evaluate the therapeutic efficacy of E-MNCs against SS onset, E-MNCs were transplanted into SGs of NOD mice. Subsequently, saliva secretion, histological, and gene expression analyses of harvested SG were performed to investigate if E-MNCs therapy delays disease development. Results: First, we characterized that both human and mouse E-MNCs exhibited induction of CD11b/CD206-positive cells (M2 macrophages) and that human E-MNCs could inhibit inflammatory gene expressions in CD3/CD28- stimulated PBMNCs. Further analyses revealed that Msr1-and galectin3-positive macrophages (immunomodulatory M2c phenotype) were specifically induced in E-MNCs of both NOD and MHC class I-matched mice. Transplanted E-MNCs induced M2 macrophages and reduced the expression of T cell-derived chemokine-related and inflammatory genes in SG tissue of NOD mice at SS-onset. Then, E-MNCs suppressed the infiltration of CD4-positive T cells and facilitated the maintenance of saliva secretion for up to 12 weeks after E-MNC administration. Discussion: Thus, the immunomodulatory actions of E-MNCs could be part of a therapeutic strategy targeting the early stage of primary SS.

The New General Biological Property of Stem-like Tumor Cells (Part II: Surface Molecules, Which Belongs to Distinctive Groups with Particular Functions, Form a Unique Pattern Characteristic of a Certain Type of Tumor Stem-like Cells)

An ability of poorly differentiated cells of different genesis, including tumor stem-like cells (TSCs), to internalize extracellular double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) fragments was revealed in our studies. Using the models of Krebs-2 murine ascites carcinoma and EBV-induced human B-cell lymphoma culture, we demonstrated that dsDNA internalization into the cell consists of several mechanistically distinct phases. The primary contact with cell membrane factors is determined by electrostatic interactions. Firm contacts with cell envelope proteins are then formed, followed by internalization into the cell of the complex formed between the factor and the dsDNA probe bound to it. The key binding sites were found to be the heparin-binding domains, which are constituents of various cell surface proteins of TSCs-either the C1q domain, the collagen-binding domain, or domains of positively charged amino acids. These results imply that the interaction between extracellular dsDNA fragments and the cell, as well as their internalization, took place with the involvement of glycocalyx components (proteoglycans/glycoproteins (PGs/GPs) and glycosylphosphatidylinositol-anchored proteins (GPI-APs)) and the system of scavenger receptors (SRs), which are characteristic of TSCs and form functional clusters of cell surface proteins in TSCs. The key provisions of the concept characterizing the principle of organization of the "group-specific" cell surface factors of TSCs of various geneses were formulated. These factors belong to three protein clusters: GPs/PGs, GIP-APs, and SRs. For TSCs of different tumors, these clusters were found to be represented by different members with homotypic functions corresponding to the general function of the cluster to which they belong.

The role of macrophage scavenger receptor 1 (MSR1) in inflammatory disorders and cancer

Macrophage scavenger receptor 1 (MSR1), also named CD204, holds key inflammatory roles in multiple pathophysiologic processes. Present primarily on the surface of various types of macrophage, this receptor variably affects processes such as atherosclerosis, innate and adaptive immunity, lung and liver disease, and more recently, cancer. As highlighted throughout this review, the role of MSR1 is often dichotomous, being either host protective or detrimental to the pathogenesis of disease. We will discuss the role of MSR1 in health and disease with a focus on the molecular mechanisms influencing MSR1 expression, how altered expression affects disease process and macrophage function, the limited cell signalling pathways discovered thus far, the emerging role of MSR1 in tumour associated macrophages as well as the therapeutic potential of targeting MSR1.

Histamine Signaling Is Essential for Tissue Macrophage Differentiation and Suppression of Bacterial Overgrowth in the Stomach

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Histamine in the stomach traditionally is considered to regulate acid secretion but also has been reported to participate in macrophage differentiation, which plays an important role in tissue homeostasis. Therefore, this study aimed to uncover the precise role of histamine in mediating macrophage differentiation and in maintaining stomach homeostasis.

METHODS

Here, we expand on this role using histidine decarboxylase knockout (Hdc^-/-) mice with hypertrophic gastropathy. In-depth in vivo studies were performed in Hdc^-/- mice, germ-free Hdc^-/- mice, and bone-marrow-transplanted Hdc^-/- mice. The stomach macrophage populations and function were characterized by flow cytometry. To identify stomach macrophages and find the new macrophage population, we performed single-cell RNA sequencing analysis on Hdc^+/+ and Hdc^-/- stomach tissues.

RESULTS

Single-cell RNA sequencing and flow cytometry of the stomach cells of Hdc^-/- mice showed alterations in the ratios of 3 distinct tissue macrophage populations (F4/80⁺Il1b^high, F4/80⁺CD93⁺, and F4/80^-MHC class II^highCD74^high). Tissue macrophages of the stomachs of Hdc^-/- mice showed impaired phagocytic activity, increasing the bacterial burden of the stomach and attenuating hypertrophic gastropathy in germ-free Hdc^-/- mice. The transplantation of bone marrow cells of Hdc^+/+ mice to Hdc^-/- mice recovered the normal differentiation of stomach macrophages and relieved the hypertrophic gastropathy of Hdc^-/- mice.

CONCLUSIONS

This study showed the importance of histamine signaling in tissue macrophage differentiation and maintenance of gastric homeostasis through the suppression of bacterial overgrowth in the stomach.

Pleiotropic Roles of Scavenger Receptors in Circadian Retinal Phagocytosis: A New Function for Lysosomal SR-B2/LIMP-2 at the RPE Cell Surface

The retinal phagocytic machinery resembles the one used by macrophages to clear apoptotic cells. However, in the retina, the permanent contact between photoreceptor outer segments (POS) and retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells requires a tight control of this circadian machinery. In addition to the known receptors synchronizing POS internalization, several others are expressed by RPE cells. Notably, scavenger receptor CD36 has been shown to intervene in the internalization speed. We thus investigated members of the scavenger receptor family class A SR-AI and MARCO and class B CD36, SR-BI and SR-B2/LIMP-2 using immunoblotting, immunohisto- and immunocytochemistry, lipid raft flotation gradients, phagocytosis assays after siRNA/antibody inhibition, RT-qPCR and western blot analysis along the light:dark cycle. All receptors were expressed by RPE cell lines and tissues and colocalized with POS, except SR-BI. All receptors were associated with lipid rafts, and even more upon POS challenge. SR-B2/LIMP-2 inhibition suggested a role in the control of the internalization speed similar to CD36. In vivo, MARCO and CD36 displayed rhythmic gene and protein expression patterns concomitant with the phagocytic peak. Taken together, our results indicate that CD36 and SR-B2/LIMP-2 play a direct regulatory role in POS phagocytosis dynamics, while the others such as MARCO might participate in POS clearance by RPE cells either as co-receptors or via an indirect process.

Expression of Macrophage Scavenger Receptor (MSR1) in Peripheral Blood Cells from Patients with Different Respiratory Diseases: Beyond Monocytes

Background: Macrophage scavenger receptor 1 (MSR1) has mostly been described in macrophages, but we previously found a significant gene expression increase in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of asthmatic patients. Objective: To confirm those results and to define its cellular origin in PBMCs. Methods: Four groups of subjects were studied: healthy controls (C), nonallergic asthmatic (NA), allergic asthmatic (AA), and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients. RNA was extracted from PBMCs. MSR1 gene expression was analyzed by RT-qPCR. The presence of MSR1 on the cellular surface of PBMC cellular subtypes was analyzed by confocal microscopy and flow cytometry. Results: MSR1 gene expression was significantly increased in the three clinical conditions compared to the healthy control group, with substantial variations according to disease type and severity. MSR1 expression on T cells (CD4⁺ and CD8⁺), B cells, and monocytes was confirmed by confocal microscopy and flow cytometry. In all clinical groups, the four immune cell subtypes studied expressed MSR1, with a greater expression on B lymphocytes and monocytes, exhibiting differences according to disease and severity. Conclusions: This is the first description of MSR1’s presence on lymphocytes’ surfaces and reinforces the potential role of MSR1 as a player in asthma and COPD.

Scavenger Receptor A1 Signaling Pathways Affecting Macrophage Functions in Innate and Adaptive Immunity

First discovered on macrophages by Goldstein and Brown in 1979, Scavenger Receptors have since been shown to participate in a diverse number of cell functions; equally diverse are their structures and the ligands they bind. Macrophage activation is crucial in the outcome of an immune response. SR-A1 is highly abundant on macrophages and recognizes both host- and microorganism-derived molecules that impact processes that are initiated, perpetuated, or modified. This review summarizes the involvement of SR-A1 in both inflammatory and anti-inflammatory responses, the multiple-ligand internalization mechanisms and the diversity of signaling pathways that impact macrophage function and activation. Engagement of SR-A1 results in the stimulation of differential signaling pathways and patterns of cytokine expression, kinetics, magnitude of response and activation status. SR-A1 plays essential roles in phagocytosis and efferocytosis, interacting with other receptors and promoting tolerance in response to apoptotic cell uptake. In cell adhesion, tissue remodeling, and cell migration, SR-A1 signals through different pathways engaging different cytoplasmic motifs. We describe the role of SR-A1 during innate and adaptive immune responses, such as participation in macrophage polarization and interaction with other innate receptors, as well as in antigen uptake, processing, and presentation, regulating T and B cell activation. The dichotomous contribution of SR-A1 on macrophage functions is discussed. A better understanding of the role SR-A1 plays through molecular mechanisms and crosstalk with other receptors may provide insights into developing novel therapeutic strategies to modulate immune responses and immunopathologies.

Beyond immune checkpoint blockade: emerging immunological strategies

The success of checkpoint inhibitors has accelerated the clinical implementation of a vast mosaic of single agents and combination immunotherapies. However, the lack of clinical translation for a number of immunotherapies as monotherapies or in combination with checkpoint inhibitors has clarified that new strategies must be employed to advance the field. The next chapter of immunotherapy should examine the immuno-oncology therapeutic failures, and consider the complexity of immune cell-cancer cell interactions to better design more effective anticancer drugs. Herein, we briefly review the history of immunotherapy and checkpoint blockade, highlighting important clinical failures. We discuss the critical aspects - beyond T cell co-receptors - of immune processes within the tumour microenvironment (TME) that may serve as avenues along which new therapeutic strategies in immuno-oncology can be forged. Emerging insights into tumour biology suggest that successful future therapeutics will focus on two key factors: rescuing T cell homing and dysfunction in the TME, and reappropriating mononuclear phagocyte function for TME inflammatory remodelling. New drugs will need to consider the complex cell networks that exist within tumours and among cancer types.

Systems-Level Proteomics Evaluation of Microglia Response to Tumor-Supportive Anti-Inflammatory Cytokines

Background

Microglia safeguard the CNS against injuries and pathogens, and in the presence of certain harmful stimuli are capable of inducing a disease-dependent inflammatory response. When exposed to anti-inflammatory cytokines, however, these cells possess the ability to switch from an inflammatory to an immunosuppressive phenotype. Cancer cells exploit this property to evade the immune system, and elicit an anti-inflammatory microenvironment that facilitates tumor attachment and growth.

Objective

The tumor-supportive biological processes that are activated in microglia cells in response to anti-inflammatory cytokines released from cancer cells were explored with mass spectrometry and proteomic technologies.

Methods

Serum-depleted and non-depleted human microglia cells (HMC3) were treated with a cocktail of IL-4, IL-13, IL-10, TGFβ, and CCL2. The cellular protein extracts were analyzed by LC-MS/MS. Using functional annotation clustering tools, statistically significant proteins that displayed a change in abundance between cytokine-treated and non-treated cells were mapped to their biological networks and pathways.

Results

The proteomic analysis of HMC3 cells enabled the identification of ~10,000 proteins. Stimulation with anti-inflammatory cytokines resulted in the activation of distinct, yet integrated clusters of proteins that trigger downstream a number of tumor-promoting biological processes. The observed changes could be classified into four major categories, i.e., mitochondrial gene expression, ECM remodeling, immune response, and impaired cell cycle progression. Intracellular immune activation was mediated mainly by the transducers of MAPK, STAT, TGFβ, NFKB, and integrin signaling pathways. Abundant collagen formation along with the expression of additional receptors, matrix components, growth factors, proteases and protease inhibitors, was indicative of ECM remodeling processes supportive of cell-cell and cell-matrix adhesion. Overexpression of integrins and their modulators was reflective of signaling processes that link ECM reorganization with cytoskeletal re-arrangements supportive of cell migration. Antigen processing/presentation was represented by HLA class I histocompatibility antigens, and correlated with upregulated proteasomal subunits, vesicular/viral transport, and secretory processes. Immunosuppressive and proangiogenic chemokines, as well as anti-angiogenic factors, were detectable in low abundance. Pronounced pro-inflammatory, chemotactic or phagocytic trends were not observed, however, the expression of certain receptors, signaling and ECM proteins indicated the presence of such capabilities.

Conclusions

Comprehensive proteomic profiling of HMC3 cells stimulated with anti-inflammatory cytokines revealed a spectrum of microglia phenotypes supportive of cancer development in the brain via microenvironment-dependent biological mechanisms.

A critical role for MSR1 in vesicular stomatitis virus infection of the central nervous system

Macrophage scavenger receptor 1 (MSR1) plays an important role in host defense to bacterial infections, M2 macrophage polarization, and lipid homeostasis. However, its physiological function in viral pathogenesis remains poorly defined. Herein, we report that MSR1 facilitates vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV) infection in the central nervous system. Msr1-deficient (Msr1^−/−) mice presented reduced morbidity, mortality, and viral loads in the spinal cord following lethal VSV infection, along with normal viremia and innate immune responses, compared to Msr1^+/− littermates and wild-type mice. Msr1 expression was most significantly upregulated in the spinal cord, the predominant target of VSV. Mechanistically, through its extracellular domains, MSR1 interacted with VSV surface glycoprotein and facilitated its cellular entry in a low-density lipoprotein receptor-dependent manner. In conclusion, our results demonstrate that MSR1 serves as a cofactor for VSV cellular entry and facilitates its infection preferentially in the spinal cord.

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MSR1 contributes to VSV pathogenesis in mice

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MSR1 is highly upregulated and facilitates VSV infection in the central nervous system

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MSR1 facilitates cellular entry of VSV in an LDLR family-dependent manner

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MSR1 interacts with VSV glycoprotein G via its extracellular domains

Tyro3, Axl, Mertk receptor-mediated efferocytosis and immune regulation in the tumor environment

Three structurally related tyrosine receptor cell surface kinases, Tyro3, Axl, and Mertk (TAM) have been recognized to modulate immune function, tissue homeostasis, cardiovasculature, and cancer. The TAM receptor family appears to operate in adult mammals across multiple cell types, suggesting both widespread and specific regulation of cell functions and immune niches. TAM family members regulate tissue homeostasis by monitoring the presence of phosphatidylserine expressed on stressed or apoptotic cells. The detection of phosphatidylserine on apoptotic cells requires intermediary molecules that opsonize the dying cells and tether them to TAM receptors on phagocytes. This complex promotes the engulfment of apoptotic cells, also known as efferocytosis, that leads to the resolution of inflammation and tissue healing. The immune mechanisms dictating these processes appear to fall upon specific family members or may involve a complex of different receptors acting cooperatively to resolve and repair damaged tissues. Here, we focus on the role of TAM receptors in triggering efferocytosis and its consequences in the regulation of immune responses in the context of inflammation and cancer.

In vitro phagocytosis of liquid-stored red blood cells requires serum and can be inhibited with fucoidan and dextran sulphate

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Red-blood-cells (RBCs) undergo structural and metabolic changes with prolonged storage, which ultimately may decrease their survival after transfusion. Although the storage-induced damage to RBCs has been rather well described biochemically, little is known about the mechanisms underlying the recognition and rapid clearance of the damaged cells by macrophages.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We, here, used a murine model for cold (+4°C) RBC storage and transfusion. Phagocytosis of human or murine RBCs, liquid stored for 6-8 weeks or 10-14 days, respectively, was investigated in murine peritoneal macrophages.

RESULTS

The effects of storage on murine RBCs resembled that described for stored human RBCs with regard to decreased adenosine triphosphate (ATP) levels, accumulation of microparticles (MPs) during storage, and RBC recovery kinetics after transfusion. Under serum-free conditions, phagocytosis of stored human or murine RBCs in vitro was reduced by 70-75%, as compared with that in the presence of heat-inactivated fetal calf serum (FCS). Human serum promoted phagocytosis of stored human RBCs similar to that seen with FCS. By adding fucoidan or dextran sulphate (blockers of scavenger receptors class A (SR-A)), phagocytosis of human or murine RBCs was reduced by more than 90%. Phagocytosis of stored human RBCs was also sensitive to inhibition by the phosphatidylinositol 3 kinase-inhibitor LY294002, the ERK1/2-inhibitor PD98059, or the p38 MAPK-inhibitor SB203580.

CONCLUSION

RBCs damaged during liquid storage may be recognized by macrophage SR-A and serum-dependent mechanisms. This species-independent recognition mechanism may help to further understand the rapid clearance of stored RBCs shortly after transfusion.

Phagocytosis: Phenotypically Simple Yet a Mechanistically Complex Process

Phagocytosis is a pivotal immunological process, and its discovery by Elia Metchnikoff in 1882 was a step toward the establishment of the innate immune system as a separate branch of immunology. Elia Metchnikoff received the Nobel Prize in physiology and medicine for this discovery in 1908. Since its discovery almost 140 years before, phagocytosis remains the hot topic of research in immunology. The phagocytosis research has seen a great advancement since its first discovery. Functionally, phagocytosis is a simple immunological process required to engulf and remove pathogens, dead cells and tumor cells to maintain the immune homeostasis. However, mechanistically, it is a very complex process involving different mechanisms, induced and regulated by several pattern recognition receptors, soluble pattern recognition molecules, scavenger receptors (SRs) and opsonins. These mechanisms involve the formation of phagosomes, their maturation into phagolysosomes causing pathogen destruction or antigen synthesis to present them to major histocompatibility complex molecules for activating an adaptive immune response. Any defect in this mechanism may predispose the host to certain infections and inflammatory diseases (autoinflammatory and autoimmune diseases) along with immunodeficiency. The article is designed to discuss its mechanistic complexity at each level, varying from phagocytosis induction to phagolysosome resolution.

Excitatory pathway engaging glutamate, calcineurin, and NFAT upregulates IL-4 in ischemic neurons to polarize microglia

Excitotoxicity and microglia/macrophage over-activation are the important pathogenic steps in brain damage caused by ischemic stroke. Recent studies from our group suggest that the neurons in ischemic penumbra generate an anti-inflammatory cytokine, interleukin-4 (IL-4). This neuron-produced IL-4 could subsequently convert surrounding microglia/macrophages to a reparative (M2)-phenotype. The present study was designed to establish the mechanisms by which neurons under transient ischemic condition produce/secrete IL-4. We employed primary rat cortical neurons and a validated in vitro ischemic injury model involving transient oxygen-glucose deprivation (OGD). We discovered that only sublethal OGD induces IL-4 production/secretion by neurons. We then showed that excitotoxic stimulus (an integral component of OGD-mediated damage) involving N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA), and not kainate receptor, triggers neuronal IL-4 production/release. Of note, oxidative stress or pro-apoptotic stimuli did not induce IL-4 production by neurons. Next, using the calcineurin inhibitor FK506, we implicated this phosphatase in activation of the nuclear factor of activated T-cells (NFAT; a transcription factor activated through calcineurin-mediated dephosphorylation) and propose that this pathway is involved in transcriptional upregulation of the IL-4 synthesis in NMDA-treated neurons. Finally, using a transfer of culture medium from NMDA-conditioned neuron to microglia, we showed that the neuronal IL-4 can polarize microglia toward a restorative, phagocytic phenotype.

Long Non-Coding RNAs Link Oxidized Low-Density Lipoprotein With the Inflammatory Response of Macrophages in Atherogenesis

Atherosclerosis is characterized as a chronic inflammatory response to cholesterol deposition in arteries. Low-density lipoprotein (LDL), especially the oxidized form (ox-LDL), plays a crucial role in the occurrence and development of atherosclerosis by inducing endothelial cell (EC) dysfunction, attracting monocyte-derived macrophages, and promoting chronic inflammation. However, the mechanisms linking cholesterol accumulation with inflammation in macrophage foam cells are poorly understood. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are a group of non-protein-coding RNAs longer than 200 nucleotides and are found to regulate the progress of atherosclerosis. Recently, many lncRNAs interfering with cholesterol deposition or inflammation were identified, which might help elucidate their underlying molecular mechanism or be used as novel therapeutic targets. In this review, we summarize and highlight the role of lncRNAs linking cholesterol (mainly ox-LDL) accumulation with inflammation in macrophages during the process of atherosclerosis.

The scavenger receptor SCARA1 (CD204) recognizes dead cells through spectrin

Scavenger receptor class A member 1 (SCARA1 or CD204) is an immune receptor highly expressed on macrophages. It forms homotrimers on the cell surface and plays important roles in regulating immune responses via its involvement in multiple pathways. However, both the structure and the functional roles of SCARA1 are not fully understood. Here, we determined the crystal structure of the C-terminal SRCR domain of SCARA1 at 1.8 Å resolution, revealing its Ca²⁺-binding site. Results from cell-based assays revealed that SCARA1 can recognize dead cells, rather than live cells, specifically through its SRCR domain and in a Ca²⁺-dependent manner. Furthermore, by combining MS and biochemical assays, we found that cellular spectrin is the binding target of SCARA1 on dead cells and that the SRCR domain of SCARA1 recognizes the SPEC repeats of spectrin in the presence of Ca²⁺ We also found that macrophages can internalize dead cells or debris from both erythrocytes and other cells through the interaction between SCARA1 and spectrin, suggesting that SCARA1 could function as a scavenging receptor that recognizes dead cells. These results suggest that spectrin, which is one of the major components of the cytoskeleton, acts as a cellular marker that enables the recognition of dead cells by the immune system.

Scavenger receptor A impairs interferon response to HBV infection by limiting TRAF3 ubiquitination through recruiting OTUB1

The battle between hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection and the host immune defense determines the outcome of the disease. Scavenger receptor A (SRA) is a phagocytic pattern recognition receptor involved in various cellular processes, including lipid metabolism, recognition, and clearance of pathogens or modified self-molecules. Emerging evidence pointed out that SRA might act as an immunomodulator that contributes to innate immune defense against invading pathogens. Herein, we examined the role of SRA in the initiation of type I interferon (IFN) response to HBV infection and the virus clearance. Our results showed that SRA-deficient (SRA^-/- ) mice were resistant to HBV infection developed by hydrodynamic injection of HBV replicon plasmid. We found lower levels of HBV DNA and viral protein expression in SRA^-/- mice, which was associated with enhanced type I IFN production, compared with wild-type controls. Besides, we performed gain and loss of function experiments and determined that SRA inhibits innate antiviral immune responses to HBV. SRA could interact directly with tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated factor 3 (TRAF3) and inhibit its K63-linked ubiquitination. Moreover, we provided evidence that SRA negatively regulates the stability of TRAF3 protein by promoting the recruitment of OTUB1 to TRAF3. Our findings indicate that SRA plays a crucial role in innate immune signaling by targeting TRAF3 for degradation and balancing the innate antiviral immunity.

Scavenger receptor A1 attenuates aortic dissection via promoting efferocytosis in macrophages

Macrophage class A1 scavenger receptor (SR-A1) is a pattern recognition receptor with an anti-inflammatory feature in cardiovascular diseases. However, its role in acute aortic dissection (AD) is not known yet. Using an aortic dissection model in SR-A1-deficient mice and their wild type littermates, we found that SR-A1 deficiency aggravated beta-aminopropionitrile monofumarate induced thoracic aortic dilation, false lumen formation, extracellular matrix degradation, vascular inflammation and accumulation of apoptotic cells. These pathological changes were associated with an impaired macrophage efferocytosis mediated by tyrosine-protein kinase receptor Tyro3 in vitro and in vivo. SR-A1 could directly interact with Tyro3 and was required for Tyro3 phosphorylation to activate its downstream PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. Importantly, co-culture of SR-A1^-/- macrophages with apoptotic Jurkat cells resulted in less devoured apoptotic cells accompanied by swelling mitochondria and damaged ATP generation, following poor IL-10 and robust TNF-α production. Deficiency of SR-A1 did not influence phagolysosome formation during the efferocytosis. Lentiviral overexpression of Tyro3 in SR-A1^-/- macrophages induced restorative phagocytosis in vitro. Administration of Tyro3 agonist protein S could restore SR-A1^-/- macrophages phagocytosis in vitro and in vivo. These findings suggest that SR-A1-Tyro3 axis in macrophages mitigate AD damage by promoting efferocytosis and inhibiting inflammation.

Antibody Cross-Linking of CD14 Activates MerTK and Promotes Human Macrophage Clearance of Apoptotic Neutrophils: the Dual Role of CD14 at the Crossroads Between M1 and M2c Polarization

Mer receptor tyrosine kinase (MerTK) is key for efficient phagocytosis of apoptotic neutrophils (ANs) and homeostasis of IL-10 production by human anti-inflammatory M2c monocytes/macrophages. We asked whether stimulation of M2c surface receptors contributes in turn to MerTK activation. For this purpose, human monocytes/macrophages were differentiated under M1, M2a, and M2c polarizing conditions. The effects of antibody-mediated cross-linking of M2c receptors (i.e., CD14, CD16, CD32, CD163, CD204) on MerTK phosphorylation and phagocytosis of ANs were tested. MerTK expression was also studied by flow cytometry and western blot in the presence of LPS and in M2c-derived microvesicles (MVs). Antibody cross-linking of either CD14 or CD32/FcγRII led to Syk activation and MerTK phosphorylation in its two distinct glycoforms (175-205 and 135-155 kDa). Cross-linked CD14 enhanced efferocytosis by M2c macrophages and enabled M1 and M2a cells to clear ANs efficiently. In M1 conditions, LPS abolished surface MerTK expression on CD14^bright cell subsets, so disrupting the anti-inflammatory pathway. In M2c cells, instead, MerTK was diffusely and brightly co-expressed with CD14, and was also detected in M2c macrophage-derived MVs; in these conditions, LPS only partially downregulated MerTK on cell surfaces, while the smaller MerTK glycoform contained in MVs remained intact. Altogether, cooperation between CD14 and MerTK may foster the clearance of ANs by human monocytes/macrophages. CD14 stands between M1-related LPS co-receptor activity and M2c-related MerTK-dependent response. MerTK interaction with CD32/FcγRII, its detection in M2c MVs, and the differential localization and LPS susceptibility of MerTK glycoforms add further new elements to the complexity of the MerTK network.

Human-Specific Mutations and Positively Selected Sites in MARCO Confer Functional Changes

Macrophage Receptor with COllagenous structure (MARCO) is a class A scavenger receptor that binds, phagocytoses, and modifies inflammatory responses to bacterial pathogens. Multiple candidate gene approach studies have shown that polymorphisms in MARCO are associated with susceptibility or resistance to Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection, but how these variants alter function is not known. To complement candidate gene approach studies, we previously used phylogenetic analyses to identify a residue, glutamine 452 (Q452), within the ligand-binding Scavenger Receptor Cysteine Rich domain as undergoing positive selection in humans. Herein, we show that Q452 is found in Denisovans, Neanderthals, and extant humans, but all other nonprimate, terrestrial, and aquatic mammals possess an aspartic acid (D452) residue. Further analysis of hominoid sequences of MARCO identified an additional human-specific mutation, phenylalanine 282 (F282), within the collagenous domain. We show that residue 282 is polymorphic in humans, but only 17% of individuals (rs6761637) possess the ancestral serine residue at position 282. We show that rs6761637 is in linkage disequilibrium with MARCO polymorphisms that have been previously linked to susceptibility to pulmonary tuberculosis. To assess the functional importance of sites Q452 and F282 in humans, we cloned the ancestral residues and loss-of-function mutations and investigated the role of these residues in binding and internalizing polystyrene microspheres and Escherichia coli. Herein, we show that the residues at sites 452 and 282 enhance receptor function.

Macrophages and Cardiovascular Health

Research during the last decade has generated numerous insights on the presence, phenotype, and function of myeloid cells in cardiovascular organs. Newer tools with improved detection sensitivities revealed sizable populations of tissue-resident macrophages in all major healthy tissues. The heart and blood vessels contain robust numbers of these cells; for instance, 8% of noncardiomyocytes in the heart are macrophages. This number and the cell's phenotype change dramatically in disease conditions. While steady-state macrophages are mostly monocyte independent, macrophages residing in the inflamed vascular wall and the diseased heart derive from hematopoietic organs. In this review, we will highlight signals that regulate macrophage supply and function, imaging applications that can detect changes in cell numbers and phenotype, and opportunities to modulate cardiovascular inflammation by targeting macrophage biology. We strive to provide a systems-wide picture, i.e., to focus not only on cardiovascular organs but also on tissues involved in regulating cell supply and phenotype, as well as comorbidities that promote cardiovascular disease. We will summarize current developments at the intersection of immunology, detection technology, and cardiovascular health.

More Than Just a Removal Service: Scavenger Receptors in Leukocyte Trafficking

Scavenger receptors are a highly diverse superfamily of proteins which are grouped by their inherent ability to bind and internalize a wide array of structurally diverse ligands which can be either endogenous or exogenous in nature. Consequently, scavenger receptors are known to play important roles in host homeostasis, with common endogenous ligands including apoptotic cells, and modified low density lipoproteins (LDLs); additionally, scavenger receptors are key regulators of inflammatory diseases, such as atherosclerosis. Also, as a consequence of their affinity for a wide range of microbial products, their role in innate immunity is also being increasingly studied. However, in this review, a secondary function of a number of endothelial-expressed scavenger receptors is discussed. There is increasing evidence that some endothelial-expressed scavenger receptors are able to directly bind leukocyte-expressed ligands and subsequently act as adhesion molecules in the trafficking of leukocytes in lymphatic and vascular tissues. Here, we cover the current literature on this alternative role for endothelial-expressed scavenger receptors and also speculate on their therapeutic potential.

Make It Simple: (SR-A1+TLR7) Macrophage Targeted NANOarchaeosomes

Hyperhalophilic archaebacteria exclusively produce sn2,3 diphytanylglycerol diether archaeolipids, unique structures absent in bacteria and eukaryotes. Nanovesicles made of archaeolipids known as nanoarchaeosomes (nanoARC), possess highly stable bilayers, some of them displaying specific targeting ability. Here we hypothesize that nanoARC made from Halorubrum tebenquichense archaebacteria, may constitute efficient carriers for the TLR7 agonist imiquimod (IMQ). NanoARC-IMQ takes advantage of the intense interaction between IMQ and the highly disordered, poorly fluid branched archaeolipid bilayers, rich in archaeol analog of methyl ester of phosphatidylglycerophosphate (PGP-Me), a natural ligand of scavenger receptor A1 (SR-A1). This approach lacks complex manufacture steps required for bilayers labeling, enabling future analytical characterization, batch reproducibility, and adaptation to higher scale production. SR-A1 mediated internalization of particulate material is mostly targeted to macrophages and is extensive because it is not submitted to a negative feedback. A massive and selective intracellular delivery of IMQ may concentrate its effect specifically into the endosomes, where the TLR7 is expressed, magnifying its immunogenicity, at the same time reducing its systemic bioavailability, and therefore it's in vivo adverse effects. NanoARC-IMQ (600-900 nm diameter oligolamellar vesicles of ~-43 mV Z potential) were heavily loaded with IMQ at ~44 μg IMQ/mg phospholipids [~20 folds higher than the non-SR-A1 ligand soyPC liposomes loaded with IMQ (LIPO-IMQ)]. In vitro, nanoARC-IMQ induced higher TNF-α and IL-6 secretion by J774A1 macrophages compared to same dose of IMQ and same lipid dose of LIPO-IMQ. In vivo, 3 subcutaneous doses of nanoARC-IMQ+ 10 μg total leishmania antigens (TLA) at 50 μg IMQ per Balb/C mice, induced more pronounced DTH response, accompanied by a nearly 2 orders higher antigen-specific systemic IgG titers than IMQ+TLA and LIPO-IMQ. The isotype ratio of nanoARC-IMQ+TLA remained ~0.5 indicating, the same as IMQ+TLA, a Th2 biased response distinguished by a pronounced increase in antibody titers, without negative effects on splenocytes lymphoproliferation, with a potential CD8+LT induction 10 days after the last dose. Overall, this first approach showed that highly SR-A1 mediated internalization of heavily loaded nanoARC-IMQ, magnified the effect of IMQ on TLR7 expressing macrophages, leading to a more intense in vivo immune response.

Scavenger receptor B promotes bacteria clearance by enhancing phagocytosis and attenuates white spot syndrome virus proliferation in Scylla paramamosian

Phagocytosis and apoptosis are key cellular innate immune responses against bacteria and virus in invertebrates. Class B scavenger receptors (SRBs), which contain a CD36 domain, are critical pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) of phagocytosis for bacteria and apoptotic cells. In the present study, we identified a member of SRB subfamily in mud crab Scylla paramamosain, named Sp-SRB. The full-length cDNA of Sp-SRB is 2593 bp with a 1629 bp open reading frame (ORF) encoding a putative protein of 542 amino acids, and predicted to contain a CD36 domain with two transmembrane regions at the C- and N-terminals. Real-time qPCR analysis revealed that Sp-SRB was widely expressed in all tissues tested, and the expression of Sp-SRB was up-regulated upon challenge with Vibrio parahaemolyticus, white spot syndrome virus (WSSV), lipopolysaccharides (LPS) and polyinosinic polycytidylic acid (PolyI:C). Moreover, in vitro experiments indicated that recombinant Sp-SRB protein (rSp-SRB) could bind to fungi, Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. RNA interference of Sp-SRB resulted in significant reduction in the expression level of phagocytosis related genes, antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) and Toll-like receptors (TLRs), which consequently led to impairment in both bacterial clearance and the phagocytotic activity of hemocytes. In addition, we found that Sp-SRB had the ability to attenuate the replication of WSSV proliferation in mud crab S. paramamosain. Collectively, this study has shown that Sp-SRB contributed to bacteria clearance by enhancing phagocytosis and up-regulating the expression of AMPs possibly in a TRLs (SpToll 1 and SpToll 2)-dependent manner. Besides, Sp-SRB inhibited the replication of WSSV in S. paramamosian probably through enhancement of hemocytes phagocytosis of apoptotic cells.

Crucial role of Mer tyrosine kinase in the maintenance of SIGN-R1+ marginal zone macrophages

Mer Tyrosine Kinase receptor (Mer) is involved in anti-inflammatory efferocytosis. Here we report elevated spontaneous germinal center (Spt-GC) responses in Mer-deficient mice (Mer^-/- ) that are associated with the loss of SIGN-R1⁺ marginal zone macrophages (MZMs). The dissipation of MZMs in Mer^-/- mice occurs independently of reduced cellularity or delocalization of marginal zone B cells, sinusoidal cells or of CD169⁺ metallophillic macrophages. We find that MZM dissipation in Mer^-/- mice contributes to apoptotic cell (AC) accumulation in Spt-GCs and dysregulation of the GC checkpoint, allowing an expansion of DNA-reactive B cells in GCs. We further observe that bone marrow derived macrophages from Mer^-/- mice produce more TNFα, and are susceptible to cell death upon exposure to ACs compared to WT macrophages. Anti-TNFα Ab treatment of Mer^-/- mice is, however, unable to reverse MZM loss, but results in reduced Spt-GC responses, indicating that TNFα promotes Spt-GC responses in Mer^-/- mice. Contrary to an anti-TNFα Ab treatment, treatment of Mer^-/- mice with a synthetic agonist for the transcription factor LXRα rescues a significant number of MZMs in vivo. Our data suggest that Mer-LXRα signaling plays an important role in the differentiation and maintenance of MZMs, which in turn regulate Spt-GC responses and tolerance.

Prognostic role of tumour-associated macrophages and macrophage scavenger receptor 1 in prostate cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Recent studies suggested that the tumour associated macrophages may be associated with prostate cancer outcome. A meta-analysis was performed to evaluate the prognostic value of tumor associated macrophages and macrophage scavenger receptor 1, marker for a subset of macrophages, by pooled hazard ratio and 95% confidence intervals from qualified studies following a systemic search. The results indicate that higher infiltration of tumor associated macrophages predicts poor overall survival (HR=1.57, 95%CI: 1.15-1.98), but not biochemical recurrence (HR=1.01, 95%CI: 0.98-1.04) or recurrence-free survival (HR=1.03, 95%CI: 0.05-2.01). In contrast, elevated level of macrophage scavenger receptor 1 was significantly associated with better recurrence-free survival (HR=3.26, 95%CI: 1.22-5.29). Thus, our analysis confirmed the prognostic value of these markers in prostate cancer outcome. We also discussed potential causes of the controversies in the literature and future research directions.

Age-associated alterations in the levels of cytotoxic lipid molecular species and oxidative stress in the murine thymus are reduced by growth hormone treatment

During age-associated thymic involution, thymocytes decrease and lipid-laden cells accumulate. However, if and how aging affects the thymic lipid profile is not well understood, nor is it known if the hormonal milieu modifies this process. Here we demonstrate a correlation between reduced thymocyte numbers and markers of inflammation and oxidative stress with age. Evaluating the lipidomics profile of the whole thymus, between the ages of 4 (young) and 18 months (old), we found increased amounts of triacylglycerides, free cholesterol, cholesterol ester and 4-hydroxynonenal (4-HNE) with age. Moreover, levels of C24:0 and C24:1 sphingomyelins and ceramide C16:0 were elevated in 12-14 month-old (middle-aged) mice while the levels of sulfatide ceramide and ganglioside GD1a increased in the old thymus. Evaluating isolated thymocytes, we found increased levels of cholesterol ester and 4-HNE adducts, as compared to young mice. Next, we treated middle-aged mice with growth hormone (GH), which has been considered a potent immunomodulator. GH reduced thymic levels of TNF-α and 4-HNE and increased the number of thymocytes as well as the thymic levels of dihydroceramide, a ceramide precursor and autophagic stimuli for cell survival. In conclusion, GH treatment attenuated inflammation and age-related increases in oxidative stress and lipotoxicity in the thymus.

Aging Impairs Alveolar Macrophage Phagocytosis and Increases Influenza-Induced Mortality in Mice

Influenza viral infections often lead to increased mortality in older people. However, the mechanisms by which aging impacts immunity to influenza lung infection remain unclear. We employed a murine model of influenza infection to identify these mechanisms. With aging, we found reduced numbers of alveolar macrophages, cells essential for lung homeostasis. We also determined that these macrophages are critical for influenza-induced mortality with aging. Furthermore, aging vastly alters the transcriptional profile and specifically downregulates cell cycling pathways in alveolar macrophages. Aging impairs the ability of alveolar macrophages to limit lung damage during influenza infection. Moreover, aging decreases alveolar macrophage phagocytosis of apoptotic neutrophils, downregulates the scavenging receptor CD204, and induces retention of neutrophils during influenza infection. Thus, aging induces defective phagocytosis by alveolar macrophages and increases lung damage. These findings indicate that therapies that enhance the function of alveolar macrophages may improve outcomes in older people infected with respiratory viruses.

Engulfment signals and the phagocytic machinery for apoptotic cell clearance

The clearance of apoptotic cells is an essential process for tissue homeostasis. To this end, cells undergoing apoptosis must display engulfment signals, such as ‘find-me' and ‘eat-me' signals. Engulfment signals are recognized by multiple types of phagocytic machinery in phagocytes, leading to prompt clearance of apoptotic cells. In addition, apoptotic cells and phagocytes release tolerogenic signals to reduce immune responses against apoptotic cell-derived self-antigens. Here we discuss recent advances in our knowledge of engulfment signals, the phagocytic machinery and the signal transduction pathways for apoptotic cell engulfment.

Human Scavenger Receptor A1-Mediated Inflammatory Response to Silica Particle Exposure Is Size Specific

The application of nanotechnology in the health care setting has many potential benefits; however, our understanding of the interactions between nanoparticles and our immune system remains incomplete. Although many of the biological effects of nanoparticles are negatively correlated with particle size, some are clearly size specific and the mechanisms underlying these size-specific biological effects remain unknown. Here, we examined the pro-inflammatory effects of silica particles in THP-1 cells with respect to particle size; a large overall size range with narrow intervals between particle diameters (particle diameter: 10, 30, 50, 70, 100, 300, and 1,000 nm) was used. Secretion of the pro-inflammatory cytokines interleukin (IL)-1β and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α induced by exposure to the silica particles had a bell-shaped distribution, where the maximal secretion was induced by silica nanoparticles with a diameter of 50 nm and particles with smaller or larger diameters had progressively less effect. We found that blockade of IL-1β secretion markedly inhibited TNF-α secretion, suggesting that IL-1β is upstream of TNF-α in the inflammatory cascade induced by exposure to silica particles, and that the induction of IL-1β secretion was dependent on both the NLRP3 inflammasome and on uptake of the silica particles into the cells via endocytosis. However, a quantitative analysis of silica particle uptake showed that IL-1β secretion was not correlated with the amount of silica particles taken up by the cells. Further investigation revealed that the induction of IL-1β secretion and uptake of silica nanoparticles with diameters of 50 or 100 nm, but not of 10 or 1,000 nm, was dependent on scavenger receptor (SR) A1. In addition, of the silica particles examined, only those with a diameter of 50 nm induced strong IL-1β secretion via activation of Mer receptor tyrosine kinase, a signal mediator of SR A1. Together, our results suggest that the SR A1-mediated pro-inflammatory response is dependent on ligand size and that both SR A1-mediated endocytosis and receptor-mediated signaling are required to produce the maximal pro-inflammatory response to exposure to silica particles.

Expression of scavenger receptor-AI promotes alternative activation of murine macrophages to limit hepatic inflammation and fibrosis

The liver maintains an immunologically tolerant environment as a result of continuous exposure to food and bacterial constituents from the digestive tract. Hepatotropic pathogens can take advantage of this niche and establish lifelong chronic infections causing hepatic fibrosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Macrophages (Mϕ) play a critical role in regulation of immune responses to hepatic infection and regeneration of tissue. However, the factors crucial for Mϕ in limiting hepatic inflammation or resolving liver damage have not been fully understood. In this report, we demonstrate that expression of C-type lectin receptor scavenger receptor-AI (SR-AI) is crucial for promoting M2-like Mϕ activation and polarization during hepatic inflammation. Liver Mϕ uniquely up-regulated SR-AI during hepatotropic viral infection and displayed increased expression of alternative Mϕ activation markers, such as YM-1, arginase-1, and interleukin-10 by activation of mer receptor tyrosine kinase associated with inhibition of mammalian target of rapamycin. Expression of these molecules was reduced on Mϕ obtained from livers of infected mice deficient for the gene encoding SR-AI (msr1). Furthermore, in vitro studies using an SR-AI-deficient Mϕ cell line revealed impeded M2 polarization and decreased phagocytic capacity. Direct stimulation with virus was sufficient to activate M2 gene expression in the wild-type (WT) cell line, but not in the knockdown cell line. Importantly, tissue damage and fibrosis were exacerbated in SR-AI^-/- mice following hepatic infection and adoptive transfer of WT bone-marrow-derived Mϕ conferred protection against fibrosis in these mice.

CONCLUSION

SR-AI expression on liver Mϕ promotes recovery from infection-induced tissue damage by mediating a switch to a proresolving Mϕ polarization state. (Hepatology 2017;65:32-43).

Apoptotic cell recognition receptors and scavenger receptors

Phosphatidylserine recognition receptors are a highly diverse set of receptors grouped by their ability to recognize the 'eat-me' signal phosphatidylserine on apoptotic cells. Most of the phosphatidylserine recognition receptors dampen inflammation by inducing the production of anti-inflammatory mediators during the phagocytosis of apoptotic corpses. However, many phosphatidylserine receptors are also capable of recognizing other ligands, with some receptors being categorized as scavenger receptors. It is now appreciated that these receptors can elicit different downstream events for particular ligands. Therefore, how phosphatidylserine recognition receptors mediate specific signals during recognition of apoptotic cells versus other ligands, and how this might help regulate the inflammatory state of a tissue is an important question that is not fully understood. Here, we revisit the work on signaling downstream of the phosphatidylserine recognition receptor BAI1, and evaluate how these and other signaling modules mediate signaling downstream from other receptors, including Stabilin-2, MerTK, and αvβ5. We also propose the concept that phosphatidylserine recognition receptors could be viewed as a subset of scavenger receptors that are capable of eliciting anti-inflammatory responses to apoptotic cells.

Endocytosis of indium-tin-oxide nanoparticles by macrophages provokes pyroptosis requiring NLRP3-ASC-Caspase1 axis that can be prevented by mesenchymal stem cells

The biological effects of indium-tin-oxide (ITO) are of considerable importance because workers exposed to indium compounds have been diagnosed with interstitial lung disease or pulmonary alveolar proteinosis; however, the pathophysiology of these diseases is undefined. Here, mice intraperitoneally inoculated with ITO-nanoparticles (ITO-NPs) resulted in peritonitis dependent in NLRP3 inflammasome, with neutrophils recruitment and interleukin-1β (IL-1β) production. Withal peritoneal macrophages exposed ex vivo to ITO-NPs caused IL-1β secretion and cytolysis. Further, alveolar macrophages exposed to ITO-NPs in vitro showed ITO-NP endocytosis and production of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and IL-1β, ensued cell death by cytolysis. This cell death was RIPK1-independent but caspase1-dependent, and thus identified as pyroptosis. Endocytosis of ITO-NPs by activated THP-1 cells induced pyroptosis with IL-1β/TNF-α production and cytolysis, but not in activated THP-1 cells with knockdown of NLRP3, ASC, or caspase1. However, exposing activated THP-1 cells with NLRP3 or ASC knockdown to ITO-NPs resulted in cell death but without cytolysis, with deficiency in IL-1β/TNF-α, and revealing features of apoptosis. While, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) co-cultured with macrophages impaired both inflammation and cell death induced by ITO-NPs. Together, our findings provide crucial insights to the pathophysiology of respiratory diseases caused by ITO particles, and identify MSCs as a potent therapeutic.

Complex molecular and functional outcomes of single versus sequential cytokine stimulation of rat microglia

BACKGROUND

Microglia are the "professional" phagocytes of the CNS. Phagocytosis is crucial for normal CNS development and maintenance, but it can be either beneficial or detrimental after injury or disease. For instance, white matter damage releases myelin debris that must be cleared by microglia in order for re-myelination to occur. However, phagocytosis can also produce damaging reactive oxygen species (ROS). Furthermore, microglia can acquire pro-inflammatory (M1) or anti-inflammatory (M2) activation states that affect cell functions. Although microglia are exposed to a changing cytokine environment after injury or disease, little is known about the molecular and functional consequences. Therefore, we applied several microglial activation paradigms, with or without myelin debris. We assessed (i) gene expression changes reflecting microglial activation and inflammatory states, and receptors and enzymes related to phagocytosis and ROS production, (ii) myelin phagocytosis and production of ROS, and (iii) expression and contributions of several ion channels that are considered potential targets for regulating microglial behavior.

METHODS

Primary rat microglia were exposed to cytokines, individually or sequentially. First, responses to individual M1 or M2 stimuli were compared: IFN-γ plus TNF-α ("I + T"; M1 activation), interleukin-4 (M2a/alternative activation), and interleukin-10 (M2c/acquired deactivation). Second, sequential cytokine addition was used to assess microglia repolarization and cell functions. The paradigms were M2a→M1, M2c→M1, M1→M2a, and M1→M2c.

RESULTS

M1 stimulation increased pro-inflammatory genes, phagocytosis, and ROS, as well as expression of Kv1.3, KCa3.1, and Kir2.1 channels. M2a stimulation increased anti-inflammatory genes, ROS production, and Kv1.3 and KCa3.1 expression. Myelin phagocytosis enhanced the M1 profile and dampened the M2a profile, and both phagocytosis and ROS production were dependent on NOX enzymes and Kir2.1 and CRAC channels. Importantly, microglia showed some capacity for re-polarization between M1 and M2a states, based on gene expression changes, myelin phagocytosis, and ROS production.

CONCLUSIONS

In response to polarizing and re-polarizing cytokine treatments, microglia display complex changes in gene transcription profiles, phagocytic capacity, NOX-mediated ROS production, and in ion channels involved in microglial activation. Because these changes might affect microglia-mediated CNS inflammation, they should be considered in future experimental, pre-clinical studies.

Class A Scavenger Receptor-Mediated Double-Stranded RNA Internalization Is Independent of Innate Antiviral Signaling and Does Not Require Phosphatidylinositol 3-Kinase Activity

dsRNA is a potent trigger of innate immune signaling, eliciting effects within virally infected cells and after release from dying cells. Given its inherent stability, extracellular dsRNA induces both local and systemic effects. Although the class A scavenger receptors (SR-As) mediate dsRNA entry, it is unknown whether they contribute to signaling beyond ligand internalization. In this study, we investigated whether SR-As contribute to innate immune signaling independent of the classic TLR and retinoic acid-inducible gene-I-like receptor (RLR) pathways. We generated a stable A549 human epithelial cell line with inducible expression of the hepatitis C virus protease NS3/4A, which efficiently cleaves TRIF and IFN-β promoter stimulator 1, adaptors for TLR3 and the RLRs, respectively. Cells expressing NS3/4A and TLR3/MyD88/IFN-β promoter stimulator 1(-/-) mouse embryonic fibroblasts completely lacked antiviral activity to extracellular dsRNA relative to control cells, suggesting that SR-As do not possess signaling capacity independent of TLR3 or the RLRs. Previous studies implicated PI3K signaling in SR-A-mediated activities and in downstream production of type I IFN. We found that SR-A-mediated dsRNA internalization occurs independent of PI3K activation, whereas downstream signaling leading to IFN production was partially dependent on PI3K activity. Overall, these findings suggest that SR-A-mediated dsRNA internalization is independent of innate antiviral signaling.

Scavenger Receptors: Emerging Roles in Cancer Biology and Immunology

Scavenger receptors constitute a large family of evolutionally conserved protein molecules that are structurally and functionally diverse. Although scavenger receptors were originally identified based on their capacity to scavenge modified lipoproteins, these molecules have been shown to recognize and bind to a broad spectrum of ligands, including modified and unmodified host-derived molecules or microbial components. As a major subset of innate pattern recognition receptors, scavenger receptors are mainly expressed on myeloid cells and function in a wide range of biological processes, such as endocytosis, adhesion, lipid transport, antigen presentation, and pathogen clearance. In addition to playing a crucial role in maintenance of host homeostasis, scavenger receptors have been implicated in the pathogenesis of a number of diseases, e.g., atherosclerosis, neurodegeneration, or metabolic disorders. Emerging evidence has begun to reveal these receptor molecules as important regulators of tumor behavior and host immune responses to cancer. This review summarizes our current understanding on the newly identified, distinct functions of scavenger receptors in cancer biology and immunology. The potential of scavenger receptors as diagnostic biomarkers and novel targets for therapeutic interventions to treat malignancies is also highlighted.

Scavenger receptor SREC-I mediated entry of TLR4 into lipid microdomains and triggered inflammatory cytokine release in RAW 264.7 cells upon LPS activation

Scavenger receptor associated with endothelial cells I (SREC-I) was shown to be expressed in immune cells and to play a role in the endocytosis of peptides and antigen presentation. As our previous studies indicated that SREC-I required intact Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) expression for its functions in tumor immunity, we examined potential interactions between these two receptors. We have shown here that SREC-I became associated with TLR4 on binding bacterial lipopolysaccharides (LPS) in RAW 264.7 and HEK 293 cells overexpressing these two receptors. The receptors then became internalized together in intracellular endosomes. SREC-I promoted TLR4-induced signal transduction through the NF-kB and MAP kinase pathways, leading to enhanced inflammatory cytokine release. Activation of inflammatory signaling through SREC-I/TLR4 complexes appeared to involve recruitment of the receptors into detergent-insoluble, cholesterol-rich lipid microdomains that contained the small GTPase Cdc42 and the non-receptor tyrosine kinase c-src. Under conditions of SREC-I activation by LPS, TLR4 activity required Cdc42 as well as cholesterol and actin polymerization for signaling through NF-kB and MAP kinase pathways in RAW 264.7 cells. SREC-I appeared to respond differently to another ligand, the molecular chaperone Hsp90 that, while triggering SREC-I-TLR4 binding caused only faint activation of the NF-kB pathway. Our experiments therefore indicated that SREC-I could bind LPS and might be involved in innate inflammatory immune responses to extracellular danger signals in RAW 264.7 cells or bone marrow-derived macrophages.

Extracellular dsRNA: its function and mechanism of cellular uptake

Double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) is arguably the most potent viral trigger of innate immune signaling. Its activity has been recognized for over 5 decades, first as a toxin, then as a central component of the interferon system, as an efficient activator of antiviral responses and an immunomodulator for therapeutic applications. Nucleic acid sensing is the main basis for antiviral defense systems throughout the diverse forms of life from bacteria to plants and animals. Pattern recognition receptors of the host defense system not only sense viral dsRNA as a pathogen-associated molecular pattern in infected cells, but also recognize circulating endogenous dsRNA, a nonmicrobial signal, as a danger-associated molecular pattern, often leading to autoimmunity. Despite the effects of extracellular viral and host dsRNA associated with infection and autoimmunity, respectively, the understanding of cellular mechanisms for its recognition and uptake has only been appreciated in recent years. This review presents an overview of this unique form of nucleic acid, addressing its roles in infection, autoimmunity, and host sensing mechanisms. The goal of this review is to highlight the novel findings with a focus on extracellular recognition and uptake by the cell.

Small-size Microparticles as Indicators of Acute Decompensated State in Ischemic Heart Failure

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES

Microparticles are markers for cell activation and apoptosis and could provide valuable information that is not available from clinical data. This study assesses the clinical and biological relationship of small-sized microparticles in different forms of ischemic systolic heart failure and their relation to markers of inflammation and repair.

METHODS

We compared 49 patients with acute heart failure, 39 with stable heart failure and 25 patients with stable coronary artery disease. Small-size microparticles counts were determined by high-resolution flow cytometry. Moreover, 3 different monocyte subpopulations and their expression of inflammatory and adhesive scavenger receptors were analyzed using a conventional flow cytometer.

RESULTS

Endothelial CD144+ microparticle counts were decreased in heart failure groups (P=.008). Annexin V-binding microparticle counts were found increased in heart failure (P=.024) and in patients with lower functional class (P=.013). Platelet CD42b+ microparticle counts positively correlated with left ventricular ejection fraction (P=.006), and annexin V-binding microparticle counts with interleukin-6 levels in stable heart failure (P=.034). Annexin V-binding microparticle counts in the acute status strongly correlated with toll-like receptor-4 expression on all monocyte subsets (all P<.01). Three months after admission with acute heart failure, annexin V-binding microparticle counts were positively correlated with receptors for interleukin-6, CD163 and CD204 (all P<.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Annexin V-binding microparticle counts constitute valuable hallmarks of acute decompensated state in systolic heart failure. The observed relationship between small-size annexin V-binding microparticles and scavenger receptors supports their involvement in the progression of the acute response to injury, and thus their contribution to the pathogenesis of acute decompensated heart failure.