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Maria Medeiros de Ataides Bezerra M, Cristina de Farias Andrade I, Cesar Dias de Melo Silva J, Clara Santos Costa A, Ricardo Costa da Silva R, Richardison Silva Vasconcelos L, de Fátima Cavalcanti Toscano Barreto M, Maria Moreira Beltrão Pereira L, Wanessa Santos Rocha S. Hepatic expression of tumor necrosis factor-α and evaluation of MAPK-p38 and NFκB signaling pathways in autoimmune hepatitis. Cytokine 2024; 177:156541. [PMID: 38368696 DOI: 10.1016/j.cyto.2024.156541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2023] [Revised: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is a necroinflammatory disease that occurs when genetically susceptible individuals are exposed to an environmental trigger. It is a rare disease, and its epidemiological aspects are nearly unknown in Northeast Brazil. In the literature, the activation of components of the inflammatory cascade pathways, including interleukins such as TNF-α and signaling factors like MAPK-p38 and NFκB, in the pathogenesis of AIH is well described in animal models. This study evaluated, for the first time, the immunostaining of TNF-α, MAPK-p38, and NFκB in immunohistochemical analysis of liver biopsies from AIH patients. The activation of the MAPK-p38 pathway was also studied through immunoassay analysis in the peripheral blood of AIH patients. METHODS AND RESULTS Data from medical records of 25 AIH patients were analyzed. Histological and immunohistochemical analysis of liver tissue obtained from biopsies was performed to detect NFκB, MAPK-p38, and TNF-α. Immunoassay analysis of the MAPK-p38 pathway was performed in peripheral blood from 18 AIH patients and 8 healthy volunteers. Medical record analysis showed an average age of 33.3 years, with a female predominance in a ratio of 7.3:1. Concomitance with other autoimmune diseases was observed in 36 % of patients, with thyroid disorders being the most prominent among them, and an 8 % indication for liver transplantation. In the evaluation of autoantibodies, ANA was detected in 52 %, followed by SMA at 20 %, and Anti-LKM-1 at 16 %. Liver biopsy findings were like the global literature, with interface hepatitis and lymphoplasmacytic infiltration observed. Immunohistochemical analysis showed immunostaining for NFκB, MAPK-p38, and TNF-α, corroborating the inflammatory and immunological characteristics of the disease. Immunoassay analysis in peripheral blood confirmed the activation of the MAPK-p38 signaling pathway, with a statistically significant difference between AIH patients and healthy controls. CONCLUSIONS The epidemiological and histological findings of AIH in this study in Northeast Brazil were like global population data. Immunohistochemical analysis of liver tissue and immunoassay analysis in peripheral blood confirmed the activation of TNF-α and the NFκB and MAPK-p38 signaling pathways in AIH patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Sura Wanessa Santos Rocha
- Graduate Program in Applied Cellular and Molecular Biology (BCMA), Brazil; Institute of Biological Sciences, University of Pernambuco (ICB), Brazil.
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Sun C, Zhu D, Zhu Q, He Z, Lou Y, Chen D. The significance of gut microbiota in the etiology of autoimmune hepatitis: a narrative review. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2024; 14:1337223. [PMID: 38404291 PMCID: PMC10884129 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2024.1337223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is a chronic inflammatory disease of the liver that is mediated by autoimmunity and has complex pathogenesis. Its prevalence has increased globally. Since the liver is the first organ to be exposed to harmful substances, such as gut-derived intestinal microbiota and its metabolites, gut health is closely related to liver health, and the "liver-gut axis" allows abnormalities in the gut microbiota to influence the development of liver-related diseases such as AIH. Changes in the composition of the intestinal microbiota and its resultant disruption of the intestinal barrier and microbial transport are involved in multiple ways in the disruption of immune homeostasis and inflammation, thereby influencing the development of AIH. In terms of the mechanisms involved in immune, the gut microbiota or its metabolites, which is decreased in secondary bile acids, short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), and polyamines, and increased in lipopolysaccharide (LPS), branched-chain amino acids (BCAA), tryptophan metabolite, amino acid, and bile acid, can disrupt immune homeostasis by activating various immune cells and immune-related signaling pathways, resulting in aberrant activation of the immune system. Clarifying this mechanism has significant clinical implications for the treatment of AIH with drugs that target intestinal microbiota and related signaling pathways. Therefore, this narrative review summarizes the progress in exploring the involvement of gut microbiota in the pathogenesis of AIH, with the aim of helping to improve the precise targeting of therapeutic treatments against AIH for the benefit of clinical AIH treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Sun
- Clinical Research Center, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Dongzi Zhu
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People’s Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Qi Zhu
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Zeping He
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yichao Lou
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Desheng Chen
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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Yuming Z, Ruqi T, Gershwin ME, Xiong M. Autoimmune Hepatitis: Pathophysiology. Clin Liver Dis 2024; 28:15-35. [PMID: 37945156 DOI: 10.1016/j.cld.2023.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
Genome-wide association analyses suggest that HLA genes including HLA-DRB*0301, HLA-DRB*0401, and HLA-B*3501 as well as non-HLA genes including CD28/CTLA4/ICOS and SYNPR increased AIH susceptibility. The destruction of hepatocytes is the result of the imbalance between proinflammatory cells and immunosuppressive cells, especially the imbalance between Tregs and Th17 cells. The microbiome in patients with AIH is decreased in diversity with a specific decline in Bifidobacterium and enrichment in Veillonella and Faecalibacterium. Recent evidence has demonstrated the pathogenic role of E. gallinarum and L.reuteri in inducing autoimmunity in the liver.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhou Yuming
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Ministry of Health, NHC Key Laboratory of Digestive Diseases, State Key Laboratory for Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Institute of Digestive Disease, 145 Middle Shandong Road, Shanghai, China
| | - Tang Ruqi
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Ministry of Health, NHC Key Laboratory of Digestive Diseases, State Key Laboratory for Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Institute of Digestive Disease, 145 Middle Shandong Road, Shanghai, China
| | - Merrill Eric Gershwin
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Allergy and Clinical Immunology, University of California at Davis, 451 Health Sciences Drive, Suite 6510, Davis, CA 95616, USA.
| | - Ma Xiong
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Ministry of Health, NHC Key Laboratory of Digestive Diseases, State Key Laboratory for Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Institute of Digestive Disease, 145 Middle Shandong Road, Shanghai, China; Institute of Aging & Tissue Regeneration, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.
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Moriya K, Saeki K, Nishimura N, Sato S, Sawada Y, Takaya H, Kaji K, Kawaratani H, Namisaki T, Akahane T, Yoshiji H. Zinc Supplementation and an Improved Quality of Life in Patients with Autoimmune Hepatitis. Intern Med 2024; 63:145-152. [PMID: 37197963 PMCID: PMC10864085 DOI: 10.2169/internalmedicine.1817-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 05/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Objecive Patients with autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) reportedly have an impaired quality of life (QOL), mainly due to depression, even during remission. In addition, hypozincaemia has been demonstrated in patients with chronic liver disease, including AIH, and is known to be related to depression. Corticosteroids are known to cause mental instability. We therefore investigated the longitudinal association between zinc supplementation and changes in the mental status among AIH patients treated with corticosteroids. Materials This study enrolled 26 patients with serological remission of AIH routinely treated at our facility after excluding 15 patients who either discontinued polaprezinc (150 mg/day) within 24 months or interrupted treatment. Two questionnaires, the Chronic Liver Disease Questionnaire (CLDQ) and SF-36, were adopted to evaluate the QOL before and after zinc supplementation. Results Serum zinc levels were significantly elevated after zinc supplementation (p<0.0001). The CLDQ worry subscale significantly improved after zinc supplementation (p=0.017), but none of the SF-36 subscales was affected. Multivariate analyses demonstrated that daily prednisolone dosing was inversely related to both the CLDQ worry domain score (p=0.036) and the SF-36 mental health component (p=0.031). There was a significant negative correlation between the changes in the daily steroid dose and the CLDQ worry domain scores before and after zinc supplementation (p=0.006). No serious adverse events occurred during the observation period. Conclusion Zinc supplementation safely and efficiently improved mental impairment, possibly caused by continuous treatment with corticosteroids, in patients with AIH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kei Moriya
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Nara Medical University, Japan
| | - Keigo Saeki
- Department of Epidemiology, Nara Medical University, Japan
| | - Norihisa Nishimura
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Nara Medical University, Japan
| | - Shinya Sato
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Nara Medical University, Japan
| | - Yasuhiko Sawada
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Nara Medical University, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Takaya
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Nara Medical University, Japan
| | - Kosuke Kaji
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Nara Medical University, Japan
| | - Hideto Kawaratani
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Nara Medical University, Japan
| | - Tadashi Namisaki
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Nara Medical University, Japan
| | - Takemi Akahane
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Nara Medical University, Japan
| | - Hitoshi Yoshiji
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Nara Medical University, Japan
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Xu W, Wang Y, Jin C, Zhang W, Chen J, Chen X, Gao J, Gao J, Wang H. IL-17 Imbalance Promotes the Pyroptosis in Immune-Mediated Liver Injury Through STAT3-IFI16 Axis. Immune Netw 2023; 23:e46. [PMID: 38188602 PMCID: PMC10767549 DOI: 10.4110/in.2023.23.e46] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2023] [Revised: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) affects all age group and occurs mainly in women. Pyroptosis is a novel programmed cell death featured with cell bursting and release of proinflammatory cytokines. A deeper understanding of AIH pathogenesis will contribute to novel therapy for AIH patients. Here, we aimed to investigate the role of IL-17 in immune-mediated liver injury. The levels of cytokines were measured by ELISA, and mRNA levels of STAT3 and IFN gamma-inducible protein 16 (IFI16) were detected by PCR. Expressions of STAT3, IFI16, gasdermin D and cleaved caspase-1 were measured by western-blotting. Immunohistochemical staining and transmission electron microscopy were applied to evaluate liver histopathological changes of the treated mice. Our results showed that the levels of IFI16 was increased in hepatocytes treated with IL-17 protein, and further elevated after STAT3-overexpressed (STAT3-OE) lentivirus treatment. The levels of IFI16 were reduced in hepatocytes treated with IL-17 neutralizing Ab (nAb), but were significantly increased after STAT3-OE treatment. Pyroptosis was observed in hepatocytes treated with IL-17 protein, and further cell damage was observed after STAT3-OE lentivirus treatment. Liver damage was alleviated in mice treated with IL-17 nAb, however sever damage was experienced after STAT3-OE lentivirus treatment. A binding interaction between IFI16 and STAT3 was detected in IL-17 treated hepatocytes. Glutathione transaminase activity was enhanced in concanavalin A-induced AIH mice compared to the control group (p<0.01). IL-17 plays an important role in activating STAT3 and up-regulating IFI16, which may promote the pyroptosis in AIH-related liver injury through STAT3-IFI16 axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenfang Xu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Affiliated Hospital of Shaoxing University, Shaoxing 312020, China
| | - Yanan Wang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Affiliated Hospital of Shaoxing University, Shaoxing 312020, China
| | - Changzhong Jin
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, China
| | - Weiyang Zhang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Affiliated Hospital of Shaoxing University, Shaoxing 312020, China
| | - Jiangnan Chen
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Affiliated Hospital of Shaoxing University, Shaoxing 312020, China
| | - Xuefang Chen
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Affiliated Hospital of Shaoxing University, Shaoxing 312020, China
| | - Junli Gao
- Hangzhou Cosmos Wisdom Mass Spectrometry Center of Zhejiang University Medical School, Hangzhou 311200, China
- Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine in Diagnosis and Monitoring Research of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 310016, China
| | - Junshun Gao
- Hangzhou Cosmos Wisdom Mass Spectrometry Center of Zhejiang University Medical School, Hangzhou 311200, China
- Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine in Diagnosis and Monitoring Research of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 310016, China
| | - Hong Wang
- Hangzhou Cosmos Wisdom Mass Spectrometry Center of Zhejiang University Medical School, Hangzhou 311200, China
- Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine in Diagnosis and Monitoring Research of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 310016, China
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El-Mokhtar SA, Afifi NA, Abdel-Malek MO, Hassan WA, Hetta H, El-Badawy O. Aberrant cytokine and VCAM-1 expression in patients with viral and non-viral related liver cirrhosis. Cytokine 2023; 171:156385. [PMID: 37788510 DOI: 10.1016/j.cyto.2023.156385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2023] [Revised: 08/26/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/05/2023]
Abstract
The study aim was to compare the alterations in the expression levels of proinflammatory and chemotactic cytokines as tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin (IL)-17A and IL-8, the down regulatory cytokine IL-10, in addition to the vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1) gene in different groups of patients with cirrhosis due to various etiologies. This case-control study included 84 patients suffering from cirrhosis of viral and non-viral etiologies and 20 sex and age-matched healthy controls. All patients were subjected to detailed history taking, clinical examination, and liver function assessment. The expression levels of TNF-α, IL-17A, IL-8, IL-10, and VCAM-1 were assessed in peripheral blood mononuclear cells by real-time PCR. Patients with cirrhosis showed marked changes in the tested gene expression levels relative to the control group. Higher expression levels of all genes except IL-10 were seen in patients of the viral than in the non-viral groups. Most of the significant correlations of liver function parameters were observed with TNF-α in both the viral and non-viral groups, followed by IL-17A. Increased TNF-α and IL-17A presented potential risk factors for disease progression to cirrhosis of Child class C.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara A El-Mokhtar
- Microbiology & Immunology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Noha A Afifi
- Medical Microbiology & Immunology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Mohamed O Abdel-Malek
- Tropical Medicine & Gastroenterology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Waleed A Hassan
- Tropical Medicine & Gastroenterology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Helal Hetta
- Medical Microbiology & Immunology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Omnia El-Badawy
- Medical Microbiology & Immunology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt.
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Zhang Y, Zhang D, Chen L, Zhou J, Ren B, Chen H. The progress of autoimmune hepatitis research and future challenges. Open Med (Wars) 2023; 18:20230823. [PMID: 38025543 PMCID: PMC10655690 DOI: 10.1515/med-2023-0823] [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: 04/17/2023] [Revised: 09/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is a chronic liver inflammatory disease with various immune system manifestations, showing a global trend of increased prevalence. AIH is diagnosed through histological abnormalities, clinical manifestations, and biochemical indicators. The biochemical markers involve interfacial hepatitis, transaminase abnormalities, positive autoantibodies, etc. Although AIH pathogenesis is unclear, gene mutations and immunological factors could be the leading factors. AIH usually presents as a chronic liver disease and sometimes as acute hepatitis, making it challenging to distinguish it from drug-related hepatitis due to similar clinical symptoms. Normalizing transaminases and serum IgG levels is essential in assessing the remission status of AIH treatment. Glucocorticoids and azathioprine are the first-line AIH treatment, with lifelong maintenance therapy in some patients. The quality of life and survival can be improved after appropriate treatment. However, certain limitations jeopardize the quality of treatment, including long treatment cycles, side effects, poor patient compliance, and inability to inhibit liver fibrosis and cirrhosis. Accurate AIH animal models will help us understand the pathophysiology of the disease while providing fresh perspectives for avoiding and treating AIH. This review will help us understand AIH better, from the cellular and molecular causes to the clinical features, and will provide insight into new therapy techniques with fewer side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Zhang
- Graduate Department of Zhejiang Chinese Medicine University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Affiliated Jinhua Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Jinhua, China
| | - Dehe Zhang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Affiliated Jinhua Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Jinhua, China
| | - Ling Chen
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Affiliated Jinhua Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Jinhua, China
| | - Jing Zhou
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Affiliated Jinhua Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Jinhua, China
| | - Binbin Ren
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Affiliated Jinhua Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Jinhua, China
| | - Haijun Chen
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Affiliated Jinhua Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Jinhua, China
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8
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Chen H, Han Z, Fan Y, Chen L, Peng F, Cheng X, Wang Y, Su J, Li D. CD4+ T-cell subsets in autoimmune hepatitis: A review. Hepatol Commun 2023; 7:e0269. [PMID: 37695088 PMCID: PMC10497257 DOI: 10.1097/hc9.0000000000000269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is a chronic autoimmune liver disease that can lead to hepatocyte destruction, inflammation, liver fibrosis, cirrhosis, and liver failure. The diagnosis of AIH requires the identification of lymphoblast cell interface hepatitis and serum biochemical abnormalities, as well as the exclusion of related diseases. According to different specific autoantibodies, AIH can be divided into AIH-1 and AIH-2. The first-line treatment for AIH is a corticosteroid and azathioprine regimen, and patients with liver failure require liver transplantation. However, the long-term use of corticosteroids has obvious side effects, and patients are prone to relapse after drug withdrawal. Autoimmune diseases are characterized by an imbalance in immune tolerance of self-antigens, activation of autoreactive T cells, overactivity of B cells, and increased production of autoantibodies. CD4+ T cells are key players in adaptive immunity and can secrete cytokines, activate B cells to produce antibodies, and influence the cytotoxicity of CD8+ T cells. According to their characteristics, CD4+ T cells can be divided into different subsets. In this review, we discuss the changes in T helper (Th)1, Th2, Th17, Th9, Th22, regulatory T cell, T follicular helper, and T peripheral helper cells and their related factors in AIH and discuss the therapeutic potential of targeting CD4+ T-cell subsets in AIH.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Zhongyu Han
- School of Medical and Life Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Yiyue Fan
- Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, China
| | - Liuyan Chen
- School of Medical and Life Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Fang Peng
- Chengdu Xinhua Hospital, Chengdu, China
| | | | - Yi Wang
- Chengdu Xinhua Hospital, Chengdu, China
| | - Junyan Su
- The First People’s Hospital of Longquanyi District, Chengdu, China
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9
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Schneider KM, Kummen M, Trivedi PJ, Hov JR. Role of microbiome in autoimmune liver diseases. Hepatology 2023:01515467-990000000-00493. [PMID: 37369002 DOI: 10.1097/hep.0000000000000506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023]
Abstract
The microbiome plays a crucial role in integrating environmental influences into host physiology, potentially linking it to autoimmune liver diseases, such as autoimmune hepatitis, primary biliary cholangitis, and primary sclerosing cholangitis. All autoimmune liver diseases are associated with reduced diversity of the gut microbiome and altered abundance of certain bacteria. However, the relationship between the microbiome and liver diseases is bidirectional and varies over the course of the disease. This makes it challenging to dissect whether such changes in the microbiome are initiating or driving factors in autoimmune liver diseases, secondary consequences of disease and/or pharmacological intervention, or alterations that modify the clinical course that patients experience. Potential mechanisms include the presence of pathobionts, disease-modifying microbial metabolites, and more nonspecific reduced gut barrier function, and it is highly likely that the effect of these change during the progression of the disease. Recurrent disease after liver transplantation is a major clinical challenge and a common denominator in these conditions, which could also represent a window to disease mechanisms of the gut-liver axis. Herein, we propose future research priorities, which should involve clinical trials, extensive molecular phenotyping at high resolution, and experimental studies in model systems. Overall, autoimmune liver diseases are characterized by an altered microbiome, and interventions targeting these changes hold promise for improving clinical care based on the emerging field of microbiota medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Martin Kummen
- Norwegian PSC Research Center, Department of Transplantation Medicine, Oslo University Hospital Oslo, Norway
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Oncology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Palak J Trivedi
- National Institute for Health and Care Research Birmingham Biomedical Research Centre, Centre for Liver and Gastroenterology Research, University of Birmingham, UK
- Liver Unit, University Hospitals Birmingham Queen Elizabeth, Birmingham, UK
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, UK
- Institute of Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, UK
| | - Johannes R Hov
- Norwegian PSC Research Center, Department of Transplantation Medicine, Oslo University Hospital Oslo, Norway
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Research Institute of Internal Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Norway
- Section of Gastroenterology, Department of Transplantation Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Norway
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Li D, Chen J, Lin B, Guo Y, Pan J, Yu C, Wan X. Celastrol pretreatment attenuates concanavalin A-induced hepatitis in mice by suppressing interleukin-6/STAT3-interleukin-17 signaling. J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2023; 38:821-829. [PMID: 36967570 DOI: 10.1111/jgh.16183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM Celastrol is extracted from Tripterygium wilfordii Hook F. It has been reported to have protective effects against various liver diseases and immune regulation of autoimmune diseases. However, little is known about whether celastrol protects against immune-mediated hepatitis. This study aimed to investigate the effect of celastrol on liver injury induced by concanavalin A (ConA) and the potential mechanisms. METHODS Intravenous administration of ConA was applied to induce acute liver injury in mice with or without pretreatment of celastrol. The effects of celastrol on ConA-induced liver injury were further demonstrated by biochemical and histopathological assessments, immunoblotting, and flow cytometry analysis. RESULTS Both biochemical and histopathological observations showed that pretreatment of celastrol significantly ameliorated liver injury induced by ConA. Moreover, the hepatocyte apoptosis and inflammatory responses induced by ConA were also improved in celastrol-pretreated mice. Further studies revealed that these improvements were characterized as the celastrol-mediated suppression of total interleukin (IL)-17 from liver mononuclear cells in ConA-treated mice. Flow cytometry analysis suggested that celastrol specifically decreased IL-17 production by CD4+ T cells but not by CD8+ T cells. Fundamentally, pretreatment with celastrol inhibited both the IL-6 produced by F4/80+ macrophages and the IL-6 receptor on Th17 cells in the liver, which further led to the downregulated activation of STAT3, thus accounting for blocked Th17 signaling. CONCLUSIONS Celastrol may exhibit immune regulatory effects by regulating IL-6/STAT3-IL-17 signaling in ConA-induced hepatitis, which suggested new potentials for celastrol to be applied in treating immune-mediated liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dingwu Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, the First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Jianing Chen
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Bingru Lin
- Department of Gastroenterology, the First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Yanjun Guo
- Department of Gastroenterology, the First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Jiaqi Pan
- Department of Gastroenterology, the First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Chaohui Yu
- Department of Gastroenterology, the First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Xingyong Wan
- Department of Gastroenterology, the First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, China
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11
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Subramanian K, Paul S, Libby A, Patterson J, Arterbery A, Knight J, Castaldi C, Wang G, Avitzur Y, Martinez M, Lobritto S, Deng Y, Geliang G, Kroemer A, Fishbein T, Mason A, Dominguez-Villar M, Mariappan M, Ekong UD. HERV1-env Induces Unfolded Protein Response Activation in Autoimmune Liver Disease: A Potential Mechanism for Regulatory T Cell Dysfunction. JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY (BALTIMORE, MD. : 1950) 2023; 210:732-744. [PMID: 36722941 PMCID: PMC10691554 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.2100186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2021] [Accepted: 01/12/2023] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Regulatory T cells (Tregs) are not terminally differentiated but can acquire effector properties. Here we report an increased expression of human endogenous retrovirus 1 (HERV1-env) proteins in Tregs of patients with de novo autoimmune hepatitis and autoimmune hepatitis, which induces endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress. HERV1-env-triggered ER stress activates all three branches (IRE1, ATF6, and PERK) of the unfolded protein response (UPR). Our coimmunoprecipitation studies show an interaction between HERV1-env proteins and the ATF6 branch of the UPR. The activated form of ATF6α activates the expression of RORC and STAT3 by binding to promoter sequences and induces IL-17A production. Silencing of HERV1-env results in recovery of Treg suppressive function. These findings identify ER stress and UPR activation as key factors driving Treg plasticity (species: human).
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Affiliation(s)
- Kumar Subramanian
- Department of Surgery, Georgetown University School of Medicine, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Saikat Paul
- Department of Surgery, Georgetown University School of Medicine, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Andrew Libby
- Dept of Biochemistry and Molecular & Cellular Biology, Georgetown University, Washington, DC
| | - Jordan Patterson
- Division of Gastroenterology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Adam Arterbery
- Pediatric Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - James Knight
- Yale Center for Genome Analysis, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | | | - Guilin Wang
- Yale Center for Genome Analysis, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Yaron Avitzur
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Mercedes Martinez
- Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Steve Lobritto
- Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Yanhong Deng
- Yale Center for Analytical Sciences, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Gan Geliang
- Yale Center for Analytical Sciences, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Alexander Kroemer
- Department of Surgery, Georgetown University School of Medicine, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Thomas Fishbein
- Department of Surgery, Georgetown University School of Medicine, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Andrew Mason
- Division of Gastroenterology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | | | | | - Udeme D. Ekong
- Pediatric Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
- Department of Surgery, Georgetown University School of Medicine, Washington, DC, USA
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12
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Gerussi A, Halliday N, Carbone M, Invernizzi P, Thorburn D. Open challenges in the management of autoimmune hepatitis. Minerva Gastroenterol (Torino) 2023; 69:61-83. [PMID: 33267568 DOI: 10.23736/s2724-5895.20.02805-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/02/2023]
Abstract
Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is a rare autoimmune disease of the liver with many open questions as regards its etiopathogenesis, natural history and clinical management. The classical picture of AIH is chronic hepatitis with fluctuating elevation of serum transaminases and Immunoglobulin G levels, the presence of circulating autoantibodies and typical histological features. However, atypical presentations do occur and are not well captured by current diagnostic scores, with important consequences in terms of missed diagnoses and delayed treatments. AIH is treated with corticosteroids and immunosuppressive drugs but up to 40% of patients do not achieve full biochemical response and are at risk of progressing to cirrhosis and liver failure. Moreover, standard therapies are associated by significant side-effects which may impair the quality of life of patients living with AIH. However, advances in the understanding of the underlying immunology of AIH is raising the prospect of novel therapies and optimization of existing therapeutic approaches to reduce side-effect burdens and potentially restore immunological tolerance. In this review we outlined the clinical characteristics, etiopathogenesis and management of AIH and current challenges in the diagnosis and management of AIH and provided evidence underlying the evolution of diagnostic and clinical management protocols.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessio Gerussi
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine and Surgery, Center for Autoimmune Liver Diseases, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Monza-Brianza, Italy - .,European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER), San Gerardo Hospital, Monza, Monza-Brianza, Italy - .,Ancient DNA Lab Dan David Center for Human Evolution and Biohistory Research, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel -
| | - Neil Halliday
- Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Marco Carbone
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine and Surgery, Center for Autoimmune Liver Diseases, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Monza-Brianza, Italy.,European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER), San Gerardo Hospital, Monza, Monza-Brianza, Italy
| | - Pietro Invernizzi
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine and Surgery, Center for Autoimmune Liver Diseases, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Monza-Brianza, Italy.,European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER), San Gerardo Hospital, Monza, Monza-Brianza, Italy
| | - Douglas Thorburn
- Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, University College London, London, UK
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13
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Liver Regeneration and Immunity: A Tale to Tell. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24021176. [PMID: 36674692 PMCID: PMC9864482 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24021176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Revised: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 12/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
The physiological importance of the liver is demonstrated by its unique and essential ability to regenerate following extensive injuries affecting its function. By regenerating, the liver reacts to hepatic damage and thus enables homeostasis to be restored. The aim of this review is to add new findings that integrate the regenerative pathway to the current knowledge. An optimal regeneration is achieved through the integration of two main pathways: IL-6/JAK/STAT3, which promotes hepatocyte proliferation, and PI3K/PDK1/Akt, which in turn enhances cell growth. Proliferation and cell growth are events that must be balanced during the three phases of the regenerative process: initiation, proliferation and termination. Achieving the correct liver/body weight ratio is ensured by several pathways as extracellular matrix signalling, apoptosis through caspase-3 activation, and molecules including transforming growth factor-beta, and cyclic adenosine monophosphate. The actors involved in the regenerative process are numerous and many of them are also pivotal players in both the immune and non-immune inflammatory process, that is observed in the early stages of hepatic regeneration. Balance of Th17/Treg is important in liver inflammatory process outcomes. Knowledge of liver regeneration will allow a more detailed characterisation of the molecular mechanisms that are crucial in the interplay between proliferation and inflammation.
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14
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Akhter S, Tasnim FM, Islam MN, Rauf A, Mitra S, Emran TB, Alhumaydhi FA, Khalil AA, Aljohani ASM, Al Abdulmonem W, Thiruvengadam M. Role of Th17 and IL-17 Cytokines on Inflammatory and Auto-immune Diseases. Curr Pharm Des 2023; 29:2078-2090. [PMID: 37670700 DOI: 10.2174/1381612829666230904150808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Revised: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The IL-17 (interleukin 17) family consists of six structurally related pro-inflammatory cytokines, namely IL-17A to IL-17F. These cytokines have garnered significant scientific interest due to their pivotal role in the pathogenesis of various diseases. Notably, a specific subset of T-cells expresses IL-17 family members, highlighting their importance in immune responses against microbial infections. INTRODUCTION IL-17 cytokines play a critical role in host defense mechanisms by inducing cytokines and chemokines, recruiting neutrophils, modifying T-cell differentiation, and stimulating the production of antimicrobial proteins. Maintaining an appropriate balance of IL-17 is vital for overall health. However, dysregulated production of IL-17A and other members can lead to the pathogenesis of numerous inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. METHOD This review provides a comprehensive overview of the IL-17 family and its involvement in several inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. Relevant literature and research studies were analyzed to compile the data presented in this review. RESULTS IL-17 cytokines, particularly IL-17A, have been implicated in the development of various inflammatory and autoimmune disorders, including multiple sclerosis, Hashimoto's thyroiditis, systemic lupus erythematosus, pyoderma gangrenosum, autoimmune hepatic disorders, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, osteoarthritis, and graft-versus-host disease. Understanding the role of IL-17 in these diseases is crucial for developing targeted therapeutic strategies. CONCLUSION The significant involvement of IL-17 cytokines in inflammatory and autoimmune diseases underscores their potential as therapeutic targets. Current treatments utilizing antibodies against IL-17 cytokines and IL-17RA receptors have shown promise in managing these conditions. This review consolidates the understanding of IL-17 family members and their roles, providing valuable insights for the development of novel immunomodulators to effectively treat inflammatory and autoimmune diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saima Akhter
- Department of Pharmacy, International Islamic University Chittagong, Chittagong 4318, Bangladesh
| | - Farhin Muntaha Tasnim
- Department of Pharmacy, International Islamic University Chittagong, Chittagong 4318, Bangladesh
| | - Mohammad Nazmul Islam
- Department of Pharmacy, International Islamic University Chittagong, Chittagong 4318, Bangladesh
| | - Abdur Rauf
- Department of Chemistry, University of Swabi, Swabi, Pakistan
| | - Saikat Mitra
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Dhaka, Dhaka, 1000, Bangladesh
| | - Talha Bin Emran
- Department of Pharmacy, BGC Trust University Bangladesh, Chittagong 4381, Bangladesh
| | - Fahad A Alhumaydhi
- Department of Medical Laboratories, College of Applied Medical Science, Qassim University, Buraydah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Anees Ahmed Khalil
- University Institute of Diet and Nutritionals Sciences, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, The University of Lahore, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Abdullah S M Aljohani
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Qassim University, Buraydah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Waleed Al Abdulmonem
- Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, Qassim University, Buraydah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Muthu Thiruvengadam
- Department of Crop Science, College of Sanghuh Life Science, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Republic of Korea
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15
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Harrington C, Krishnan S, Mack CL, Cravedi P, Assis DN, Levitsky J. Noninvasive biomarkers for the diagnosis and management of autoimmune hepatitis. Hepatology 2022; 76:1862-1879. [PMID: 35611859 PMCID: PMC9796683 DOI: 10.1002/hep.32591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2022] [Revised: 03/29/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is a rare disease of unclear etiology characterized by loss of self-tolerance that can lead to liver injury, cirrhosis, and acute liver failure. First-line treatment consists of systemic corticosteroids, or budesonide, and azathioprine, to which most patients are initially responsive, although predictors of response are lacking. Relapses are very common, correlate with histological activity despite normal serum transaminases, and increase hepatic fibrosis. Furthermore, current regimens lead to adverse effects and reduced quality of life, whereas medication titration is imprecise. Biomarkers that can predict the clinical course of disease, identify patients at elevated risk for relapse, and improve monitoring and medication dosing beyond current practice would have high clinical value. Herein, we review novel candidate biomarkers in adult and pediatric AIH based on prespecified criteria, including gene expression profiles, proteins, metabolites, and immune cell phenotypes in different stages of AIH. We also discuss biomarkers relevant to AIH from other immune diseases. We conclude with proposed future directions in which biomarker implementation into clinical practice could lead to advances in personalized therapeutic management of AIH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claire Harrington
- Division of Gastroenterology & HepatologyNorthwestern University Feinberg School of MedicineChicagoIllinoisUSA
| | - Swathi Krishnan
- Medicine DepartmentYale School of MedicineNew HavenConnecticutUSA
| | - Cara L. Mack
- Section of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology & Nutrition, Children's Hospital ColoradoUniversity of Colorado School of MedicineAuroraColoradoUSA
| | - Paolo Cravedi
- Division of NephrologyIcahn School of Medicine at Mount SinaiNew YorkNew YorkUSA
| | - David N. Assis
- Section of Digestive DiseasesYale School of MedicineNew HavenConnecticutUSA
| | - Josh Levitsky
- Division of Gastroenterology & HepatologyNorthwestern University Feinberg School of MedicineChicagoIllinoisUSA
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16
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Han HT, Jin WL, Li X. Mesenchymal stem cells-based therapy in liver diseases. MOLECULAR BIOMEDICINE 2022; 3:23. [PMID: 35895169 PMCID: PMC9326420 DOI: 10.1186/s43556-022-00088-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Multiple immune cells and their products in the liver together form a complex and unique immune microenvironment, and preclinical models have demonstrated the importance of imbalances in the hepatic immune microenvironment in liver inflammatory diseases and immunocompromised liver diseases. Various immunotherapies have been attempted to modulate the hepatic immune microenvironment for the purpose of treating liver diseases. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have a comprehensive and plastic immunomodulatory capacity. On the one hand, they have been tried for the treatment of inflammatory liver diseases because of their excellent immunosuppressive capacity; On the other hand, MSCs have immune-enhancing properties in immunocompromised settings and can be modified into cellular carriers for targeted transport of immune enhancers by genetic modification, physical and chemical loading, and thus they are also used in the treatment of immunocompromised liver diseases such as chronic viral infections and hepatocellular carcinoma. In this review, we discuss the immunological basis and recent strategies of MSCs for the treatment of the aforementioned liver diseases. Specifically, we update the immune microenvironment of the liver and summarize the distinct mechanisms of immune microenvironment imbalance in inflammatory diseases and immunocompromised liver diseases, and how MSCs can fully exploit their immunotherapeutic role in liver diseases with both immune imbalance patterns.
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17
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Adil N, Siddiqui AJ, Musharraf SG. Metabolomics‐based Researches in Autoimmune Liver Disease: A
Mini‐Review. Scand J Immunol 2022. [DOI: 10.1111/sji.13208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Nurmeen Adil
- H. E. J. Research Institute of Chemistry, International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences University of Karachi Karachi Pakistan
| | - Amna Jabbar Siddiqui
- Dr. Panjwani Center for Molecular Medicine and Drug Research, International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences University of Karachi Karachi Pakistan
| | - Syed Ghulam Musharraf
- H. E. J. Research Institute of Chemistry, International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences University of Karachi Karachi Pakistan
- Dr. Panjwani Center for Molecular Medicine and Drug Research, International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences University of Karachi Karachi Pakistan
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18
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Intestinal homeostasis in autoimmune liver diseases. Chin Med J (Engl) 2022; 135:1642-1652. [PMID: 36193976 PMCID: PMC9509077 DOI: 10.1097/cm9.0000000000002291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
ABSTRACT Intestinal homeostasis depends on complex interactions between the gut microbiota and host immune system. Emerging evidence indicates that the intestinal microbiota is a key player in autoimmune liver disease (AILD). Autoimmune hepatitis, primary biliary cholangitis, primary sclerosing cholangitis, and IgG4-related sclerosing cholangitis have been linked to gut dysbiosis. Diverse mechanisms contribute to disturbances in intestinal homeostasis in AILD. Bacterial translocation and molecular mimicry can lead to hepatic inflammation and immune activation. Additionally, the gut and liver are continuously exposed to microbial metabolic products, mediating variable effects on liver immune pathologies. Importantly, microbiota-specific or associated immune responses, either hepatic or systemic, are abnormal in AILD. Comprehensive knowledge about host-microbiota interactions, included but not limited to this review, facilitates novel clinical practice from a microbiome-based perspective. However, many challenges and controversies remain in the microbiota field of AILD, and there is an urgent need for future investigations.
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19
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Pandey SP, Bender MJ, McPherson AC, Phelps CM, Sanchez LM, Rana M, Hedden L, Sangani KA, Chen L, Shapira JH, Siller M, Goel C, Verdú EF, Jabri B, Chang A, Chandran UR, Mullett SJ, Wendell SG, Singhi AD, Tilstra JS, Pierre JF, Arteel GE, Hinterleitner R, Meisel M. Tet2 deficiency drives liver microbiome dysbiosis triggering Tc1 cell autoimmune hepatitis. Cell Host Microbe 2022; 30:1003-1019.e10. [PMID: 35658976 PMCID: PMC9841318 DOI: 10.1016/j.chom.2022.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2021] [Revised: 03/04/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
The triggers that drive interferon-γ (IFNγ)-producing CD8 T cell (Tc1 cell)-mediated autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) remain obscure. Here, we show that lack of hematopoietic Tet methylcytosine dioxygenase 2 (Tet2), an epigenetic regulator associated with autoimmunity, results in the development of microbiota-dependent AIH-like pathology, accompanied by hepatic enrichment of aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) ligand-producing pathobionts and rampant Tc1 cell immunity. We report that AIH-like disease development is dependent on both IFNγ and AhR signaling, as blocking either reverts ongoing AIH-like pathology. Illustrating the critical role of AhR-ligand-producing pathobionts in this condition, hepatic translocation of the AhR ligand indole-3-aldehyde (I3A)-releasing Lactobacillus reuteri is sufficient to trigger AIH-like pathology. Finally, we demonstrate that I3A is required for L. reuteri-induced Tc1 cell differentiation in vitro and AIH-like pathology in vivo, both of which are restrained by Tet2 within CD8 T cells. This AIH-disease model may contribute to the development of therapeutics to alleviate AIH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Surya P Pandey
- Department of Immunology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Mackenzie J Bender
- Department of Immunology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Alex C McPherson
- Department of Immunology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Department of Infectious Diseases and Microbiology, University of Pittsburgh School of Public Health, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Catherine M Phelps
- Department of Immunology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | | | - Mohit Rana
- Department of Immunology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Lee Hedden
- Department of Immunology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Kishan A Sangani
- Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA; Committee on Immunology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Li Chen
- Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA; Committee on Immunology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Jake H Shapira
- Department of Immunology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Magdalena Siller
- Department of Immunology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Chhavi Goel
- Department of Immunology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Elena F Verdú
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Farncombe Family Digestive Health Research Institute, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Bana Jabri
- Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA; Committee on Immunology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA; Department of Pathology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA; Department of Pediatrics, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Alexander Chang
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Uma R Chandran
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Steven J Mullett
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Health Sciences Metabolomics and Lipidomics Core, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Stacy G Wendell
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Health Sciences Metabolomics and Lipidomics Core, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Aatur D Singhi
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Jeremy S Tilstra
- Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Joseph F Pierre
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Gavin E Arteel
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Department of Medicine, Pittsburgh Liver Research Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Reinhard Hinterleitner
- Department of Immunology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Marlies Meisel
- Department of Immunology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
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20
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Cancer-inducing niche: the force of chronic inflammation. Br J Cancer 2022; 127:193-201. [PMID: 35292758 PMCID: PMC9296522 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-022-01775-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2021] [Revised: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The growth of cancer tissue is thought to be considered driven by a small subpopulation of cells, so-called cancer stem cells (CSCs). CSCs are located at the apex of a hierarchy in a cancer tissue with self-renewal, differentiation and tumorigenic potential that produce the progeny in the tissue. Although CSCs are generally believed to play a critical role in the growth, metastasis, and recurrence of cancers, the origin of CSCs remains to be reconsidered. We hypothesise that, chronic diseases, including obesity and diabetes, establish the cancer-inducing niche (CIN) that drives the undifferentiated/progenitor cells into CSCs, which then develop malignant tumours in vivo. In this context, a CIN could be traced to chronic inflammation that involves long-lasting tissue damage and repair after being exposed to factors such as cytokines and growth factors. This must be distinguished from the cancer microenvironment, which is responsible for cancer maintenance. The concept of a CIN is most important for cancer prevention as well as cancer therapy.
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21
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Autoimmunity in human CE: Correlative with the fertility status of the CE cyst. Helminthologia 2022; 59:1-17. [PMID: 35601761 PMCID: PMC9075880 DOI: 10.2478/helm-2022-0011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2020] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Cystic echinococcosis is speculated to exert several immune-evasion strategies involving autoimmune-phenomena. We evaluated the hypothesizes that the prevalence of autoantibodies increases in the sera of CE patients that may evidence the association between the parasite and autoimmune diseases. Sera from 63 subjects at distinct types of CE cyst fertility were investigated for antinuclear antibodies (ANA), and anti-CCP antibodies. Plasma levels and cellular production of IL-17A cytokine were specifically defined as being assumed to prime for autoimmunity. Healthy-controls were age and gender-matched to test sera. ANA expressions inside the surgically removed metacestode and adventitial layer were also assayed. Out of 63 patients, 35 % had fertile highly viable cysts (group-1), 41 % had fertile low viable cysts (group-2) and 24 % had non-fertile cysts (group-3). A four-fold increase in ANA sera-levels was detected in group-1 compared with their controls (p-value 0.001) while anti-CCP levels were of insignificant differences. In group-2 and group-3, no significant differences were detected between ANA and anti-CCP sera-levels in CE patients and their controls. IL-17A sera-levels in group-1 and group- 2 were significantly higher than their healthy-controls while being of insignificant differences in group-3, p-value= 0.300. No association was detected between sera-levels of IL-17A and ANA as well as anti-CCP antibodies. Interestingly, relative IL-17A cellular expression associated positive ANA deposition in the parasite cells and adventitial layer. Collectively, based on the parasite fertility, IL-17A and ANA seemed to be involved in the host immune defenses against CE. There is no association between CE and anti-CCP antibodies.
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22
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B cells in autoimmune hepatitis: bystanders or central players? Semin Immunopathol 2022; 44:411-427. [PMID: 35488094 PMCID: PMC9256567 DOI: 10.1007/s00281-022-00937-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2022] [Accepted: 04/07/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
B cells are central for the adaptive immune system to mount successful immune responses not only as antibody producers but also as regulators of cellular immunity. These multifaceted features are also reflected in autoimmunity where autoreactive B cells can fuel disease by production of cytotoxic autoantibodies, presentation of autoantigens to autoreactive T cells, and secretion of cytokines and chemokines that either promote detrimental immune activation or impair regulatory T and B cells. The role of B cells and autoantibodies in autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) have been controversially discussed, with typical autoantibodies and hypergammaglobulinemia indicating a key role, while strong HLA class II association suggests T cells as key players. In this review, we summarize current knowledge on B cells in AIH and how different B cell subpopulations may drive AIH progression beyond autoantibodies. We also discuss recent findings of B cell-directed therapies in AIH.
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23
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Th17 cells in the liver: balancing autoimmunity and pathogen defense. Semin Immunopathol 2022; 44:509-526. [PMID: 35211777 DOI: 10.1007/s00281-022-00917-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
In addition to carcinogenesis, T helper 17 (Th17) cells (a subtype of CD4 + T lymphocytes) are involved in the acute, chronic, and cirrhotic phases of liver diseases; however, their role in the development and progression of liver diseases remains unclear. It is difficult to elucidate the role of Th17 cells in liver diseases due to their dichotomous nature, i.e., plasticity in terms of pathogenic or host protective function depending on environmental and time phase factors. Moreover, insufficient depletion of Th17 cells by inhibiting the cytokines and transcription factors involved in their production causes difficulties in analyzing their specific role in vitro and in vivo murine models, partially due to complex interaction. This review summarizes the recent progress in understanding the plasticity and function of hepatic Th17 cells and type 3 cytokines.
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24
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Terziroli Beretta-Piccoli B, Mieli-Vergani G, Vergani D. Autoimmmune hepatitis. Cell Mol Immunol 2022; 19:158-176. [PMID: 34580437 PMCID: PMC8475398 DOI: 10.1038/s41423-021-00768-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2021] [Accepted: 08/29/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is a T-cell mediated, inflammatory liver disease affecting all ages and characterized by female preponderance, elevated serum transaminase and immunoglobulin G levels, positive circulating autoantibodies, and presence of interface hepatitis at liver histology. AIH type 1, affecting both adults and children, is defined by positive anti-nuclear and/or anti-smooth muscle antibodies, while type 2 AIH, affecting mostly children, is defined by positive anti-liver-kidney microsomal type 1 and/or anti-liver cytosol type 1 antibody. While the autoantigens of type 2 AIH are well defined, being the cytochrome P4502D6 (CYP2D6) and the formiminotransferase cyclodeaminase (FTCD), in type 1 AIH they remain to be identified. AIH-1 predisposition is conferred by possession of the MHC class II HLA DRB1*03 at all ages, while DRB1*04 predisposes to late onset disease; AIH-2 is associated with possession of DRB1*07 and DRB1*03. The majority of patients responds well to standard immunosuppressive treatment, based on steroid and azathioprine; second- and third-line drugs should be considered in case of intolerance or insufficient response. This review offers a comprehensive overview of pathophysiological and clinical aspects of AIH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benedetta Terziroli Beretta-Piccoli
- Epatocentro Ticino & Facoltà di Scienze Biomediche, Università della Svizzera Italiana, Lugano, Switzerland.
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine, Bellinzona, Switzerland.
- King's College London Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine at King's College Hospital, London, UK.
| | - Giorgina Mieli-Vergani
- King's College London Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine at King's College Hospital, London, UK
- Paediatric Liver, GI and Nutrition Centre, MowatLabs, King's College Hospital, London, UK
| | - Diego Vergani
- King's College London Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine at King's College Hospital, London, UK
- Institute of Liver Studies, MowatLabs, King's College Hospital, London, UK
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25
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Changes of Serum Cytokine Levels and Relation to Clinical Specificity in Patients with Primary Biliary Cholangitis. BIONANOSCIENCE 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s12668-022-00937-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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26
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Fasano R, Malerba E, Prete M, Solimando AG, Buonavoglia A, Silvestris N, Leone P, Racanelli V. Impact of Antigen Presentation Mechanisms on Immune Response in Autoimmune Hepatitis. Front Immunol 2022; 12:814155. [PMID: 35116039 PMCID: PMC8804214 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.814155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 12/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The liver is a very tolerogenic organ. It is continually exposed to a multitude of antigens and is able to promote an effective immune response against pathogens and simultaneously immune tolerance against self-antigens. In spite of strong peripheral and central tolerogenic mechanisms, loss of tolerance can occur in autoimmune liver diseases, such as autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) through a combination of genetic predisposition, environmental factors, and an imbalance in immunological regulatory mechanisms. The liver hosts several types of conventional resident antigen presenting cells (APCs) such as dendritic cells, B cells and macrophages (Kupffer cells), and unconventional APCs including liver sinusoidal endothelial cells, hepatic stellate cells and hepatocytes. By standard (direct presentation and cross-presentation) and alternative mechanisms (cross-dressing and MHC class II-dressing), liver APCs presents self-antigen to naive T cells in the presence of costimulation leading to an altered immune response that results in liver injury and inflammation. Additionally, the transport of antigens and antigen:MHC complexes by trogocytosis and extracellular vesicles between different cells in the liver contributes to enhance antigen presentation and amplify autoimmune response. Here, we focus on the impact of antigen presentation on the immune response in the liver and on the functional role of the immune cells in the induction of liver inflammation. A better understanding of these key pathogenic aspects could facilitate the establishment of novel therapeutic strategies in AIH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rossella Fasano
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, “Aldo Moro” University of Bari Medical School, Bari, Italy
- Medical Oncology Unit, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) Istituto Tumori Giovanni Paolo II, Bari, Italy
| | - Eleonora Malerba
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, “Aldo Moro” University of Bari Medical School, Bari, Italy
| | - Marcella Prete
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, “Aldo Moro” University of Bari Medical School, Bari, Italy
| | - Antonio Giovanni Solimando
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, “Aldo Moro” University of Bari Medical School, Bari, Italy
- Medical Oncology Unit, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) Istituto Tumori Giovanni Paolo II, Bari, Italy
| | - Alessio Buonavoglia
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, “Aldo Moro” University of Bari Medical School, Bari, Italy
| | - Nicola Silvestris
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, “Aldo Moro” University of Bari Medical School, Bari, Italy
- Medical Oncology Unit, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) Istituto Tumori Giovanni Paolo II, Bari, Italy
| | - Patrizia Leone
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, “Aldo Moro” University of Bari Medical School, Bari, Italy
| | - Vito Racanelli
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, “Aldo Moro” University of Bari Medical School, Bari, Italy
- *Correspondence: Vito Racanelli,
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27
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Sirbe C, Simu G, Szabo I, Grama A, Pop TL. Pathogenesis of Autoimmune Hepatitis-Cellular and Molecular Mechanisms. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:13578. [PMID: 34948375 PMCID: PMC8703580 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222413578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2021] [Revised: 12/09/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Pediatric autoimmune liver disorders include autoimmune hepatitis (AIH), autoimmune sclerosing cholangitis (ASC), and de novo AIH after liver transplantation. AIH is an idiopathic disease characterized by immune-mediated hepatocyte injury associated with the destruction of liver cells, causing inflammation, liver failure, and fibrosis, typically associated with autoantibodies. The etiology of AIH is not entirely unraveled, but evidence supports an intricate interaction among genetic variants, environmental factors, and epigenetic modifications. The pathogenesis of AIH comprises the interaction between specific genetic traits and molecular mimicry for disease development, impaired immunoregulatory mechanisms, including CD4+ T cell population and Treg cells, alongside other contributory roles played by CD8+ cytotoxicity and autoantibody production by B cells. These findings delineate an intricate pathway that includes gene to gene and gene to environment interactions with various drugs, viral infections, and the complex microbiome. Epigenetics emphasizes gene expression through hereditary and reversible modifications of the chromatin architecture without interfering with the DNA sequence. These alterations comprise DNA methylation, histone transformations, and non-coding small (miRNA) and long (lncRNA) RNA transcriptions. The current first-line therapy comprises prednisolone plus azathioprine to induce clinical and biochemical remission. Further understanding of the cellular and molecular mechanisms encountered in AIH may depict their impact on clinical aspects, detect biomarkers, and guide toward novel, effective, and better-targeted therapies with fewer side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Sirbe
- 2nd Pediatric Discipline, Department of Mother and Child, “Iuliu Hatieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (C.S.); (T.L.P.)
- 2nd Pediatric Clinic, Emergency Clinical Hospital for Children, 400177 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Gelu Simu
- Cardiology Department, “Iuliu Hatieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania;
- Cardiology Department, Rehabilitation Hospital, 400066 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Iulia Szabo
- Department of Rheumatology, “Iuliu Hatieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania;
| | - Alina Grama
- 2nd Pediatric Discipline, Department of Mother and Child, “Iuliu Hatieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (C.S.); (T.L.P.)
- 2nd Pediatric Clinic, Emergency Clinical Hospital for Children, 400177 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Tudor Lucian Pop
- 2nd Pediatric Discipline, Department of Mother and Child, “Iuliu Hatieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (C.S.); (T.L.P.)
- 2nd Pediatric Clinic, Emergency Clinical Hospital for Children, 400177 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
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28
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Zhu H, Liu Z, An J, Zhang M, Qiu Y, Zou MH. Activation of AMPKα1 is essential for regulatory T cell function and autoimmune liver disease prevention. Cell Mol Immunol 2021; 18:2609-2617. [PMID: 34728795 DOI: 10.1038/s41423-021-00790-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2021] [Accepted: 10/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Regulatory T cells (Treg cells) are crucial for maintaining immune tolerance. Compromising the regulatory function of Treg cells can lead to autoimmune liver disease. However, how Treg cell function is regulated has not been fully clarified. Here, we report that mice with AMP-activated protein kinase alpha 1 (AMPKα1) globally knocked out spontaneously develop immune-mediated liver injury, with massive lymphocyte infiltration in the liver, elevated serum alanine aminotransferase levels, and greater production of autoantibodies. Both transplantation of wild-type bone marrow and adoptive transfer of wild-type Treg cells can prevent liver injury in AMPKα1-KO mice. In addition, Treg cell-specific AMPKα1-KO mice display histological features similar to those associated with autoimmune liver disease, greater production of autoantibodies, and hyperactivation of CD4+ T cells. AMPKα1 deficiency significantly impairs Treg cell suppressive function but does not affect Treg cell differentiation or proliferation. Furthermore, AMPK is activated upon T cell receptor (TCR) stimulation, which triggers Foxp3 phosphorylation, suppressing Foxp3 ubiquitination and proteasomal degradation. Importantly, the frequency of Treg cells and the phosphorylation levels of AMPK at T172 in circulating blood are significantly lower in patients with autoimmune liver diseases. Conclusion: Our data suggest that AMPK maintains the immunosuppressive function of Treg cells and confers protection against autoimmune liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huaiping Zhu
- The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Blood Research and Applications, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230001, P.R. China.,Center for Molecular and Translational Medicine, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, 30303, USA
| | - Zhaoyu Liu
- Center for Molecular and Translational Medicine, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, 30303, USA. .,Medical Research Center, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510120, P.R. China.
| | - Junqing An
- Center for Molecular and Translational Medicine, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, 30303, USA
| | - Miao Zhang
- Department of Medicine, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, 73117, USA
| | - Yu Qiu
- Center for Molecular and Translational Medicine, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, 30303, USA
| | - Ming-Hui Zou
- Center for Molecular and Translational Medicine, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, 30303, USA
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29
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Vuerich M, Wang N, Kalbasi A, Graham JJ, Longhi MS. Dysfunctional Immune Regulation in Autoimmune Hepatitis: From Pathogenesis to Novel Therapies. Front Immunol 2021; 12:746436. [PMID: 34650567 PMCID: PMC8510512 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.746436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2021] [Accepted: 09/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is a chronic inflammatory disorder characterized by hypergammaglobulinemia, presence of serum autoantibodies and histological features of interface hepatitis. AIH therapeutic management still relies on the administration of corticosteroids, azathioprine and other immunosuppressants like calcineurin inhibitors and mycophenolate mofetil. Withdrawal of immunosuppression often results in disease relapse, and, in some cases, therapy is ineffective or associated with serious side effects. Understanding the mechanisms underlying AIH pathogenesis is therefore of paramount importance to develop more effective and well tolerated agents capable of restoring immunotolerance to liver autoantigens. Imbalance between effector and regulatory cells permits liver damage perpetuation and progression in AIH. Impaired expression and regulation of CD39, an ectoenzyme key to immunotolerance maintenance, have been reported in Tregs and effector Th17-cells derived from AIH patients. Interference with these altered immunoregulatory pathways may open new therapeutic avenues that, in addition to limiting aberrant inflammatory responses, would also reconstitute immune homeostasis. In this review, we highlight the most recent findings in AIH immunopathogenesis and discuss how these could inform and direct the development of novel therapeutic tools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Vuerich
- Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care & Pain Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Na Wang
- Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care & Pain Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States.,Department of Hematology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China.,School of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Ahmadreza Kalbasi
- Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care & Pain Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Jonathon J Graham
- Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care & Pain Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Maria Serena Longhi
- Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care & Pain Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
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30
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Rey I, Effendi-Ys R. Association Between Serum IL-6, IL-10, IL-12, and IL-23 Levels and Severity of Liver Cirrhosis. Med Arch 2021; 75:199-203. [PMID: 34483450 PMCID: PMC8385729 DOI: 10.5455/medarh.2021.75.199-203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2021] [Accepted: 06/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Liver cirrhosis contributes to high liver-related mortality globally. Systemic inflammation mediated by immune cells contributes to the progression of liver cirrhosis. Growing evidence shows that several pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines might have an important role in liver cirrhosis. Objective To evaluate the association between serum IL-6, IL-10, IL-12, and IL-23 levels and severity of liver cirrhosis. Methods This observational study was carried out at the Department of Internal Medicine, Universitas Sumatera Utara, Indonesia from March 2018 to August 2019. The severity of liver cirrhosis was assessed by using the Child-Pugh score. IL-6, IL-10, IL-12, and IL-23 levels, hepatitis and renal function were measured in all study subjects. Independent t-test and Mann-Whitney tests were conducted to observe differences between groups. Results A total of 78 liver cirrhosis patients were enrolled, mean age was 50.6±11.4. Median serum IL-6, IL-10, IL-12, and IL-23 levels were 24.5(2.6-46.4)pg/ml, 2.1(0.4-9.3)pg/ml, 3.5(1.4-20.8)pg/ml and 20.3(9.2-218)pg/ml, respectively. A higher IL-6 level was associated with more severe liver cirrhosis (p=0.001) and the presence of hepatic encephalopathy (p=0.018). Higher IL-23 level was found in patients with no hepatic encephalopathy (p=0.049). There was no association between serum cytokines levels and hepatitis viral infection status. Conclusion IL-6 is associated with the severity of liver cirrhosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Imelda Rey
- Division of Gastroenterohepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Universitas Sumatera Utara, Medan, Indonesia.,Haji Adam Malik General Hospital, Medan Indonesia
| | - Rustam Effendi-Ys
- Division of Gastroenterohepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Universitas Sumatera Utara, Medan, Indonesia.,"dr. Pirngadi" General Hospital, Medan Indonesia
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31
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Muscate F, Woestemeier A, Gagliani N. Functional heterogeneity of CD4 + T cells in liver inflammation. Semin Immunopathol 2021; 43:549-561. [PMID: 34463867 PMCID: PMC8443520 DOI: 10.1007/s00281-021-00881-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2021] [Accepted: 07/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
CD4+ T cells play an essential role in orchestrating adequate immunity, but their overactivity has been associated with the development of immune-mediated inflammatory diseases, including liver inflammatory diseases. These cells can be subclassified according to their maturation stage, cytokine profile, and pro or anti-inflammatory functions, i.e., functional heterogeneity. In this review, we summarize what has been discovered so far regarding the role of the different CD4+ T cell polarization states in the progression of two prominent and still different liver inflammatory diseases: non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and autoimmune hepatitis (AIH). Finally, the potential of CD4+ T cells as a therapeutic target in both NASH and AIH is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franziska Muscate
- Department of General, Visceral and Thoracic Surgery, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- Department of Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Anna Woestemeier
- Department of General, Visceral and Thoracic Surgery, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Nicola Gagliani
- Department of General, Visceral and Thoracic Surgery, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.
- Department of Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.
- Hamburg Center for Translational Immunology (HCTI), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.
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32
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Lotfy A, Elgamal A, Burdzinska A, Swelum AA, Soliman R, Hassan AA, Shiha G. Stem cell therapies for autoimmune hepatitis. Stem Cell Res Ther 2021; 12:386. [PMID: 34233726 PMCID: PMC8262021 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-021-02464-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2021] [Accepted: 05/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Autoimmune hepatitis is a chronic inflammatory hepatic disorder which may cause liver fibrosis. Appropriate treatment of autoimmune hepatitis is therefore important. Adult stem cells have been investigated as therapies for a variety of disorders in latest years. Hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) were the first known adult stem cells (ASCs) and can give rise to all of the cell types in the blood and immune system. Originally, HSC transplantation was served as a therapy for hematological malignancies, but more recently researchers have found the treatment to have positive effects in autoimmune diseases such as multiple sclerosis. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are ASCs which can be extracted from different tissues, such as bone marrow, adipose tissue, umbilical cord, and dental pulp. MSCs interact with several immune response pathways either by direct cell-to-cell interactions or by the secretion of soluble factors. These characteristics make MSCs potentially valuable as a therapy for autoimmune diseases. Both ASC and ASC-derived exosomes have been investigated as a therapy for autoimmune hepatitis. This review aims to summarize studies focused on the effects of ASCs and their products on autoimmune hepatitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed Lotfy
- Biotechnology and Life Sciences Department, Faculty of Postgraduate Studies for Advanced Sciences (PSAS), Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, 62511, Egypt.
| | - Aya Elgamal
- Department of Animal Histology and Anatomy, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Badr University in Cairo (BUC), Cairo, Egypt
| | - Anna Burdzinska
- Department of Immunology, Transplantology and Internal Diseases, Medical University of Warsaw, Nowogrodzka 59, 02-006, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Ayman A Swelum
- Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, 44511, Egypt.,Department of Animal Production, College of Food and Agriculture Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh, 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Reham Soliman
- Tropical Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine, Port Said University, Port Said, Egypt.,Egyptian Liver Research Institute and Hospital (ELRIAH), Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Ayman A Hassan
- Egyptian Liver Research Institute and Hospital (ELRIAH), Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Gamal Shiha
- Egyptian Liver Research Institute and Hospital (ELRIAH), Mansoura, Egypt. .,Hepatology and Gastroenterology Unit, Internal Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt.
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Czaja AJ. Incorporating mucosal-associated invariant T cells into the pathogenesis of chronic liver disease. World J Gastroenterol 2021; 27:3705-3733. [PMID: 34321839 PMCID: PMC8291028 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v27.i25.3705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2020] [Revised: 03/22/2021] [Accepted: 06/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Mucosal-associated invariant T (MAIT) cells have been described in liver and non-liver diseases, and they have been ascribed antimicrobial, immune regulatory, protective, and pathogenic roles. The goals of this review are to describe their biological properties, indicate their involvement in chronic liver disease, and encourage investigations that clarify their actions and therapeutic implications. English abstracts were identified in PubMed by multiple search terms, and bibliographies were developed. MAIT cells are activated by restricted non-peptides of limited diversity and by multiple inflammatory cytokines. Diverse pro-inflammatory, anti-inflammatory, and immune regulatory cytokines are released; infected cells are eliminated; and memory cells emerge. Circulating MAIT cells are hyper-activated, immune exhausted, dysfunctional, and depleted in chronic liver disease. This phenotype lacks disease-specificity, and it does not predict the biological effects. MAIT cells have presumed protective actions in chronic viral hepatitis, alcoholic hepatitis, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, primary sclerosing cholangitis, and decompensated cirrhosis. They have pathogenic and pro-fibrotic actions in autoimmune hepatitis and mixed actions in primary biliary cholangitis. Local factors in the hepatic microenvironment (cytokines, bile acids, gut-derived bacterial antigens, and metabolic by-products) may modulate their response in individual diseases. Investigational manipulations of function are warranted to establish an association with disease severity and outcome. In conclusion, MAIT cells constitute a disease-nonspecific, immune response to chronic liver inflammation and infection. Their pathological role has been deduced from their deficiencies during active liver disease, and future investigations must clarify this role, link it to outcome, and explore therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Albert J Czaja
- Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Rochester, MN 55905, United States
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34
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Schmidt C, Stürznickel J, Strahl A, Oheim R, Weiler-Normann C, Sebode M, Barvencik F, Lohse AW, Schinke T, Amling M, Schramm C, Rolvien T. Bone microarchitecture in patients with autoimmune hepatitis. J Bone Miner Res 2021; 36:1316-1325. [PMID: 33724539 DOI: 10.1002/jbmr.4289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2020] [Revised: 02/22/2021] [Accepted: 03/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
In patients with autoimmune hepatitis (AIH), osteoporosis represents a common extrahepatic complication, which we recently showed by an assessment of areal bone mineral density (aBMD) via dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA). However, it is well established that bone quality and fracture risk does not solely depend on aBMD, but also on bone microarchitecture. It is currently not known whether AIH patients exhibit a site-specific or compartment-specific deterioration in the skeletal microarchitecture. In order to assess potential geometric, volumetric, and microarchitectural changes, high-resolution peripheral quantitative computed tomography (HR-pQCT) measurements were performed at the distal radius and distal tibia in female patients with AIH (n = 51) and compared to age-matched female healthy controls (n = 32) as well as to female patients with AIH/primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) overlap syndrome (n = 25) and female patients with PBC alone (PBC, n = 36). DXA at the lumbar spine and hip, clinical characteristics, transient elastography (FibroScan) and laboratory analyses were also included in this analysis. AIH patients showed a predominant reduction of cortical thickness (Ct.Th) in the distal radius and tibia compared to healthy controls (p < .0001 and p = .003, respectively). In contrast, trabecular parameters such as bone volume fraction (BV/TV) did not differ significantly at the distal radius (p = .453) or tibia (p = .508). Linear regression models revealed significant negative associations between age and Ct.Th (95% confidence interval [CI], -14 to -5 μm/year, p < .0001), but not between liver stiffness, cumulative prednisolone dose (even after an adjustment for age), or disease duration with bone microarchitecture. The duration of high-dose prednisolone (≥7.5 mg) was negatively associated with trabecular thickness (Tb.Th) at the distal radius. No differences in bone microarchitecture parameters between AIH, AIH/PBC, and PBC could be detected. In conclusion, AIH patients showed a severe age-dependent deterioration of the cortical bone microarchitecture, which is most likely the major contribution to the observed increased fracture risk in these patients. © 2021 The Authors. Journal of Bone and Mineral Research published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR).
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Affiliation(s)
- Constantin Schmidt
- Department of Osteology and Biomechanics, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.,Division of Orthopaedics, Department of Trauma and Orthopaedic Surgery, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Julian Stürznickel
- Department of Osteology and Biomechanics, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - André Strahl
- Division of Orthopaedics, Department of Trauma and Orthopaedic Surgery, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Ralf Oheim
- Department of Osteology and Biomechanics, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.,Martin Zeitz Center for Rare Diseases, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Christina Weiler-Normann
- Martin Zeitz Center for Rare Diseases, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.,1st Department of Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Marcial Sebode
- 1st Department of Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Florian Barvencik
- Department of Osteology and Biomechanics, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.,Martin Zeitz Center for Rare Diseases, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Ansgar W Lohse
- Martin Zeitz Center for Rare Diseases, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.,1st Department of Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Thorsten Schinke
- Department of Osteology and Biomechanics, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Michael Amling
- Department of Osteology and Biomechanics, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.,Martin Zeitz Center for Rare Diseases, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Christoph Schramm
- Martin Zeitz Center for Rare Diseases, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.,1st Department of Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Tim Rolvien
- Department of Osteology and Biomechanics, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.,Division of Orthopaedics, Department of Trauma and Orthopaedic Surgery, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
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35
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Wang G, Tanaka A, Zhao H, Jia J, Ma X, Harada K, Wang FS, Wei L, Wang Q, Sun Y, Hong Y, Rao H, Efe C, Lau G, Payawal D, Gani R, Lindor K, Jafri W, Omata M, Sarin SK. The Asian Pacific Association for the Study of the Liver clinical practice guidance: the diagnosis and management of patients with autoimmune hepatitis. Hepatol Int 2021; 15:223-257. [PMID: 33942203 PMCID: PMC8144150 DOI: 10.1007/s12072-021-10170-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2020] [Accepted: 02/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Guiqiang Wang
- Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China. .,Peking University International Hospital, Beijing, China.
| | | | - Hong Zhao
- Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China.,Peking University International Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Jidong Jia
- Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiong Ma
- Shanghai Institute of Digestive Disease, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Kenichi Harada
- Department of Human Pathology, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medicine Kanazawa, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Fu-Sheng Wang
- Fifth Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Lai Wei
- Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Qixia Wang
- Shanghai Institute of Digestive Disease, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ying Sun
- Fifth Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yuan Hong
- Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Huiying Rao
- Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Cumali Efe
- Department of Gastroenterology, Harran University, Şanlıurfa, Turkey
| | - George Lau
- Humanity and Health Medical Group, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
| | - Diana Payawal
- Department of Hepatology, Cardinal Santos Medical Center, Manila, Philippines
| | - Rino Gani
- Department of Internal Medicine, Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital, University of Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Keith Lindor
- College of Health Solutions, Arizona State University, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | | | - Masao Omata
- Department of Gastroenterology, Yamanashi Prefectural Central Hospital, Kofu-City, Yamanashi, Japan.,The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
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Aboushousha T, Emad M, Rizk G, Ragab K, Hammam O, Fouad R, Helal NS. IL-4, IL-17 and CD163 Immunoexpression and IL-6 Gene Polymorphism in Chronic Hepatitis C Patients and Associated Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Asian Pac J Cancer Prev 2021; 22:1105-1113. [PMID: 33906302 PMCID: PMC8325124 DOI: 10.31557/apjcp.2021.22.4.1105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2020] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective: To assess the expression of IL-4, IL-17 and CD-163 as well as study of IL6-572 C/G gene polymorphism in chronic HCV and HCC on top of HCV. Methods: Sixty HCC specimens and 60 adjacent hepatic tissue with HCV of different grades of necro-inflammation and different stages of fibrosis. In addition to 55 HCV, 60 HCC and 50 healthy venous blood samples for evaluation of IL6-572 C/G gene polymorphism. Results: high expression of IL-4, IL-17 and CD163 in higher grades of activity, late stages of fibrosis and higher degrees of steatosis of HCV. IL-4 and CD163 showed higher expression in advanced grades of HCC, while IL-17 more expressed in lower grades. No significant difference in IL6-572 C/G gene polymorphism among studied groups regarding G/C, G/G, C/C frequencies or G and C allele’s frequencies. Conclusion: IL-4, IL-17 and CD163 were associated with HCV severity. Their expression in HCC suggests their important role in HCC development. Blocking of these proteins may be a good target to control inflammation in HCV and can hinder progression to cirrhosis then to HCC. On the other hand, IL6-572 promoter gene polymorphism is neither associated with HCV infection nor with HCC development and its progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tarek Aboushousha
- Department oF Pathology, Theodor Bilharz Research Institute, Giza, Egypt
| | - Marine Emad
- Faculty of Biotechnology, October University for Modern Sciences and Arts, Giza, Egypt
| | - Gina Rizk
- Faculty of Biotechnology, October University for Modern Sciences and Arts, Giza, Egypt
| | - Khaled Ragab
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Theodor Bilharz Research Institute, Giza, Egypt
| | - Olfat Hammam
- Department oF Pathology, Theodor Bilharz Research Institute, Giza, Egypt
| | - Rabab Fouad
- Department of Hematology, Theodor Bilharz Research Institute, Giza, Egypt
| | - Noha Said Helal
- Department oF Pathology, Theodor Bilharz Research Institute, Giza, Egypt
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Wu H, Tang S, Zhou M, Xue J, Yu Z, Zhu J. Tim-3 suppresses autoimmune hepatitis via the p38/MKP-1 pathway in Th17 cells. FEBS Open Bio 2021; 11:1406-1416. [PMID: 33728805 PMCID: PMC8091815 DOI: 10.1002/2211-5463.13148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Revised: 02/01/2021] [Accepted: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
T‐cell immunoglobulin‐ and mucin‐domain‐containing molecule‐3 (Tim‐3) mediates T‐cell suppression in various autoimmune diseases, such as chronic inflammatory liver disease. However, the regulatory effect of Tim‐3 on Th17 cells in autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is incompletely understood. Here, we studied the expression and function of Tim‐3 in T cells in AIH patients and in a Con A (concanavalin A)‐induced mouse AIH model. We report that the frequency of CD4+Tim‐3+ T cells in peripheral blood samples of AIH patients was lower than that in the control group. The p38/MKP‐1 and p‐JNK pathways were activated, and the expression of interleukin‐17A protein was elevated in patients with AIH. Furthermore, the extent of pathological damage in the livers of mice with a blocked Tim‐3 signaling pathway (anti‐Tim‐3 group) was markedly increased and correlated with elevated alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase levels. In addition, the frequency of CD4+ IL‐17+ T (Th17) cells in the anti‐Tim‐3 group was increased, while that in mice with blocked p38 activity was decreased. Finally, the expression of MKP‐1 (p‐p38) gradually increased in the control, Con A, and anti‐Tim‐3 groups, but the levels of interleukin‐17A were decreased in the p38‐blocked group. In summary, our results suggest that Tim‐3 suppresses AIH by regulating Th17 cells through the p38/MKP‐1 pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongwei Wu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Affiliated Taizhou Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Linhai, China
| | - Shiyue Tang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Affiliated Taizhou Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Linhai, China
| | - Mengya Zhou
- Department of Pathology, Affiliated Taizhou Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Linhai, China
| | - Jiji Xue
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Affiliated Taizhou Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Linhai, China
| | - Zhenjun Yu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Affiliated Taizhou Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Linhai, China
| | - Jiansheng Zhu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Affiliated Taizhou Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Linhai, China
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38
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Wan M, Han J, Ding L, Hu F, Gao P. Novel Immune Subsets and Related Cytokines: Emerging Players in the Progression of Liver Fibrosis. Front Med (Lausanne) 2021; 8:604894. [PMID: 33869241 PMCID: PMC8047058 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2021.604894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2020] [Accepted: 03/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is a pathological process caused by persistent chronic injury of the liver. Kupffer cells, natural killer (NK) cells, NKT cells, and dendritic cells (DCs), which are in close contact with T and B cells, serve to bridge innate and adaptive immunity in the liver. Meanwhile, an imbalanced inflammatory response constitutes a challenge in liver disease. The dichotomous roles of novel immune cells, including T helper 17 (Th17), regulatory T cells (Tregs), mucosa-associated invariant T cells (MAIT), and innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) in liver fibrosis have gradually been revealed. These cells not only induce damage during liver fibrosis but also promote tissue repair. Hence, immune cells have unique, and often opposing, roles during the various stages of fibrosis. Due to this heterogeneity, the treatment, or reversal of fibrosis through the target of immune cells have attracted much attention. Moreover, activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) constitutes the core of fibrosis. This activation is regulated by various immune mediators, including Th17, Th22, and Th9, MAIT, ILCs, and γδ T cells, as well as their related cytokines. Thus, liver fibrosis results from the complex interaction of these immune mediators, thereby complicating the ability to elucidate the mechanisms of action elicited by each cell type. Future developments in biotechnology will certainly aid in this feat to inform the design of novel therapeutic targets. Therefore, the aim of this review was to summarize the role of specific immune cells in liver fibrosis, as well as biomarkers and treatment methods related to these cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minjie Wan
- Department of Hepatology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin University, Changchun, China.,Central Laboratory, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Jiawen Han
- Central Laboratory, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Lili Ding
- Central Laboratory, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin University, Changchun, China.,Intensive Care Unit, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Feng Hu
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, The Second Part of First Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Pujun Gao
- Department of Hepatology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin University, Changchun, China
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39
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Chung Y, Rahim MN, Graham JJ, Zen Y, Heneghan MA. An update on the pharmacological management of autoimmune hepatitis. Expert Opin Pharmacother 2021; 22:1475-1488. [PMID: 33624559 DOI: 10.1080/14656566.2021.1895747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is an immune mediated, inflammatory disease affecting the liver as a result of environmental triggers in susceptible individuals leading to loss of self-tolerance. The immunopathogenesis of AIH is not fully understood, which limits targeted therapeutic options.Areas covered: In this review, the authors provide an overview of current practice in the management of AIH, which include induction therapy with corticosteroids (± thiopurines), followed by maintenance therapy. Lack of early response to treatment may serve as a predictor of those at risk of requiring treatment escalation to second- and third-line agents such as mycophenolate mofetil (MMF), calcineurin inhibitors or biologics. Evidence for third-line agents from small retrospective studies or individual centers are reviewed. The nuances of AIH treatment in pregnancy, overlap syndromes, and drug induced liver injury (DILI) warrant further consideration.Expert opinion: Augmenting the balance of regulatory T cells (Treg) and effector T cells is an appealing therapeutic target with a multitude of agents in development. Many of the challenges in AIH research are due to its rarity and lack of randomized data. Management of AIH should strive towards individualized care through risk stratification and use of the best therapeutic modality for each patient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yooyun Chung
- Institute of Liver Studies, King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Denmark Hill, London, United Kingdom
| | - Mussarat N Rahim
- Institute of Liver Studies, King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Denmark Hill, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jonathon J Graham
- Institute of Liver Studies, King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Denmark Hill, London, United Kingdom
| | - Yoh Zen
- Institute of Liver Studies, King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Denmark Hill, London, United Kingdom
| | - Michael A Heneghan
- Institute of Liver Studies, King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Denmark Hill, London, United Kingdom
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40
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Liu G, Zhao W, Bai J, Cui J, Liang H, Lu B. Formononetin protects against concanavalin-A-induced autoimmune hepatitis in mice through its anti-apoptotic and anti-inflammatory properties. Biochem Cell Biol 2021; 99:231-240. [PMID: 33749318 DOI: 10.1139/bcb-2020-0197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is a chronic inflammatory liver disease that seriously threatens the health of humans globally. Formononetin (FMN) is a natural herb extract with multiple biological functions. In this study, an experimental model of AIH was established in mice through the use of concanavalin A (ConA). To investigate the effects of FMN on ConA-induced hepatitis, the mice were pretreated with 50 or 100 mg/kg body mass of FMN. The results show that FMN alleviated ConA-induced liver injury of mice in a dose-dependent manner. Moreover, pretreatment with FMN inhibited the apoptosis of hepatocytes in the ConA-treated mice through downregulating the expression of pro-apoptotic proteins (Bax, cleaved caspase 9, and cleaved caspase 3) and upregulating the expression of anti-apoptotic protein (Bcl-2). It was also found that the levels of proinflammatory cytokines were greatly reduced in the serum and liver tissues of mice pretreated with FMN. Further studies showed that FMN reduced the level of phosphorylated nuclear factor kappa B (p-NF-κB) p65 and enhanced the level of IκBα (inhibitor of NF-κB), suggesting that FMN inhibits the activation of the NF-κB signaling pathway. In addition, FMN inhibited activation of the NOD-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome. Therefore, FMN could be a promising agent for the treatment of AIH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guangwei Liu
- Spleen, Stomach and Hepatobiliary Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou 450004, P.R. China
| | - Wenxia Zhao
- Spleen, Stomach and Hepatobiliary Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou 450004, P.R. China
| | - Jiameng Bai
- Spleen, Stomach and Hepatobiliary Department, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou 450046, P.R. China
| | - Jianjiao Cui
- Spleen, Stomach and Hepatobiliary Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou 450004, P.R. China
| | - Haowei Liang
- Spleen, Stomach and Hepatobiliary Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou 450004, P.R. China
| | - Baoping Lu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou 450046, P.R. China
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is a chronic disease characterized by a lymphocyte infiltrate in the liver. For decades, nonspecific immunosuppression has been used to limit chronic liver inflammation. The high risk of relapse, the treatments side effects, and the significant number of refractory patients are the main clinical issues that require efforts to understand AIH immune mechanisms. RECENT FINDINGS The balance between regulatory CD4 T cells, known to control autoimmunity, and effector CD4 T cells, that recognize liver self-antigens and mediate the liver inflammation, appears central in AIH immune mechanisms. Recent advances in the identification of pathogenic auto-reactive CD4 T cells, and of new mechanisms of immune regulatory defects in AIH patients, give new insights into the pathophysiology of this disease. SUMMARY In this review, we propose an overview of the central role of CD4 T cells (both regulatory and pathogenic) in mechanisms of AIH, with a focus on recent advances regarding defective regulatory mechanisms and immune profile of auto-reactive CD4 T cells. These findings may have implication for the orientation of new therapeutic strategies to treat AIH, such as regulatory T-cell infusion or targeting B cells and cytokines released by pathogenic CD4 T cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anaïs Cardon
- Université de Nantes, Inserm, Centre de Recherche en Transplantation et Immunologie, UMR 1064, ITUN, Nantes, France
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42
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Longhi MS, Mieli-Vergani G, Vergani D. Regulatory T cells in autoimmune hepatitis: an updated overview. J Autoimmun 2021; 119:102619. [PMID: 33652348 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaut.2021.102619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2021] [Revised: 02/12/2021] [Accepted: 02/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Regulatory T-cells (Tregs) are key players in the maintenance of immune homeostasis by preventing immune responses to self-antigens. Defects in Treg frequency and/or function result in overwhelming CD4 and CD8 T cell immune responses participating in the autoimmune attack. Perpetuation of autoimmune damage is also favored by Treg predisposition to acquire effector cell features upon exposure to a proinflammatory challenge. Treg impairment plays a permissive role in the initiation and perpetuation of autoimmune liver diseases, namely autoimmune hepatitis, primary biliary cholangitis and primary sclerosing cholangitis. In this Review, we outline studies reporting the role of Treg impairment in the pathogenesis of these conditions and discuss methods to restore Treg number and function either by generation/expansion in the test tube or through in vivo expansion upon administration of low dose IL-2. Challenges and caveats of these potential therapeutic strategies are also reviewed and discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Serena Longhi
- Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, 330 Brookline Avenue, Boston, MA, 02215, USA.
| | - Giorgina Mieli-Vergani
- Institute of Liver Studies, MowatLabs, Department of Inflammation Biology, School of Immunology & Microbial Sciences, Faculty of Liver Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, London, United Kingdom.
| | - Diego Vergani
- Institute of Liver Studies, MowatLabs, Department of Inflammation Biology, School of Immunology & Microbial Sciences, Faculty of Liver Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, London, United Kingdom.
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43
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Savio LEB, Robson SC, Longhi MS. Ectonucleotidase Modulation of Lymphocyte Function in Gut and Liver. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 8:621760. [PMID: 33553158 PMCID: PMC7859358 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.621760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2020] [Accepted: 12/15/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Imbalance between regulatory and effector T lymphocytes contributes to loss of immunotolerance and plays a permissive role in the initiation, perpetuation, and progression of chronic inflammatory diseases and autoimmune disorders. Regulatory/effector cell balance is governed by the CD39 ectonucleotidase, the prototype member of the NTPDase family that hydrolyzes ATP and ADP into AMP, subsequently converted into adenosine by CD73. Generation of adenosine impacts T-cell function as it contributes to the mechanism of suppression of Tregs and confers regulatory properties to pathogenic Th17-cells. CD39 cell distribution, mechanism of regulation and impact on inflammatory and regulatory signaling pathways are also discussed here. Innovative therapeutic strategies to boost CD39 levels and activity by either administering soluble ADPases or interfering with CD39 inhibitory signals are reviewed. Restoration of CD39 levels and function has enormous translational and clinical implications and should be regarded as an additional form of treatment to be deployed in the chronic inflammatory setting. The key role of CD39 in immunoregulation in the context of Crohn's disease, one of the most frequent manifestations of inflammatory bowel disease, and autoimmune hepatitis, an autoimmune disorder of the liver, is reviewed and discussed here.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luiz Eduardo Baggio Savio
- Laboratory of Immunophysiology, Biophysics Institute Carlos Chagas Filho, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Simon C Robson
- Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care & Pain Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States.,Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Maria Serena Longhi
- Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care & Pain Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
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44
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Splenectomy Prior to Experimental Induction of Autoimmune Hepatitis Promotes More Severe Hepatic Inflammation, Production of IL-17 and Apoptosis. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9010058. [PMID: 33435354 PMCID: PMC7827897 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9010058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2020] [Revised: 01/05/2021] [Accepted: 01/07/2021] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is detected at a late stage in the course of the disease. Therefore, induction and etiology are largely unclear. It is controversial if the induction of autoimmunity occurs in the liver or in the spleen. In our experimental murine AIH model, the induction of autoimmunity did not occur in the spleen. Instead, a protective role of the spleen could be more likely. Therefore, we splenectomized mice followed by induction of experimental murine AIH. Splenectomized mice presented more severe portal inflammation. Furthermore, these mice had more IL-17, IL-23 receptor (IL-23R) and caspase 3 (casp3) and a decreased amount of erythropoietin in serum, while intrahepatic T cell compartments were unaffected. These results indicate that the spleen is not necessary for induction of AIH, and splenectomy disrupts the ability to immune regulate the intensity of hepatic inflammation, production of IL-17 and apoptosis.
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45
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Vuerich M, Harshe R, Frank LA, Mukherjee S, Gromova B, Csizmadia E, Nasser IAM, Ma Y, Bonder A, Patwardhan V, Robson SC, Longhi MS. Altered aryl-hydrocarbon-receptor signalling affects regulatory and effector cell immunity in autoimmune hepatitis. J Hepatol 2021; 74:48-57. [PMID: 32663496 PMCID: PMC7749856 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2020.06.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2020] [Revised: 06/15/2020] [Accepted: 06/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS In autoimmune hepatitis (AIH), the imbalance between regulatory T cells (Tregs) and T-helper type 17 (Th17) cells has been linked to low levels of CD39, an ectoenzyme that hydrolyses ATP, ultimately generating immunosuppressive adenosine. Upregulation of CD39 results from activation of aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR), which mediates toxin responses to modulate T-cell immunity. In this study, we investigated whether altered AHR signalling underlies defective CD39 expression and function in AIH Tregs and Th17 cells, therefore contributing to regulatory/effector cell imbalance. METHODS Tregs and Th17 cells, obtained from the peripheral blood of 49 patients with AIH and 21 healthy individuals (HI), were tested for response to endogenous and exogenous AHR ligands. RESULTS When compared to those of HI, AIH-derived Tregs and Th17 cells displayed impaired responses to AHR activation, reflected by impaired upregulation of CD39, delayed increase in ectoenzymatic activity, and defective Treg suppressive function. These impairments resulted, at least in part, from heightened levels of AHRR and Erα in Tregs and high HIF-1α in Th17 cells, and were reverted upon molecular blockade. Importantly, in AIH-derived Tregs, the binding affinity of AHR was higher for Erα than ARNT. CONCLUSIONS In AIH, high levels of AHRR and HIF-1α inhibit AHR signalling in Tregs and Th17 cells. AHR non-canonical binding to Erα further amplifies the lack of effective CD39 upregulation. Blockade of these inhibitory and/or non-canonical activation pathways represents a potential therapeutic approach to restore CD39 and immunohomeostasis in AIH. LAY SUMMARY In patients with autoimmune hepatitis, the imbalance between regulatory T cells and T helper type-17 cells is linked to dysfunction of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor pathway, resulting from aberrant inhibition or non-canonical activation. These alterations impair Treg- and Th17 cell-induced upregulation of CD39, an ectoenzyme key to immunoregulation. Blockade of excessive inhibition or non-canonical activation of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor pathway might represent a novel therapeutic strategy to control inflammation while restoring immune balance in autoimmune hepatitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Vuerich
- Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care & Pain Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, 330 Brookline Avenue, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Rasika Harshe
- Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care & Pain Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, 330 Brookline Avenue, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Luiza Abrahão Frank
- Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care & Pain Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, 330 Brookline Avenue, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Samiran Mukherjee
- Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care & Pain Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, 330 Brookline Avenue, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Barbora Gromova
- Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care & Pain Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, 330 Brookline Avenue, Boston, MA 02215, USA,Institute of Molecular Biomedicine, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Eva Csizmadia
- Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care & Pain Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, 330 Brookline Avenue, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Imad AM Nasser
- Department of Pathology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, 330 Brookline Avenue, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Yun Ma
- Institute of Liver Studies, Department of Inflammation Biology, School of Immunology & Microbial Sciences, Faculty of Liver Sciences and Medicine, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Alan Bonder
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, 330 Brookline Avenue, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Vilas Patwardhan
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, 330 Brookline Avenue, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Simon C. Robson
- Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care & Pain Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, 330 Brookline Avenue, Boston, MA 02215, USA,Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, 330 Brookline Avenue, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Maria Serena Longhi
- Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
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46
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Renand A, Cervera-Marzal I, Gil L, Dong C, Garcia A, Kervagoret E, Aublé H, Habes S, Chevalier C, Vavasseur F, Clémenceau B, Cardon A, Judor JP, Mosnier JF, Tanné F, Laplaud DA, Brouard S, Gournay J, Milpied P, Conchon S. Integrative molecular profiling of autoreactive CD4 T cells in autoimmune hepatitis. J Hepatol 2020; 73:1379-1390. [PMID: 32649971 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2020.05.053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2019] [Revised: 05/25/2020] [Accepted: 05/27/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS In most autoimmune disorders, crosstalk of B cells and CD4 T cells results in the accumulation of autoantibodies. In autoimmune hepatitis (AIH), the presence of anti-soluble liver antigen (SLA) autoantibodies is associated with reduced overall survival, but the associated autoreactive CD4 T cells have not yet been characterised. Herein, we isolated and deeply characterised SLA-specific CD4 T cells in patients with AIH. METHODS We used brief ex vivo restimulation with overlapping SLA peptides to isolate and phenotype circulating SLA-specific CD4 T cells, and integrative single-cell RNA-seq (scRNA-seq) to characterise their transcriptome and T-cell receptor (TCR) repertoire. Autoreactive TCRs were cloned and used to identify dominant SLA-derived epitopes. SLA-specific CD4 T cells were tracked in peripheral blood through TCR sequencing to identify their phenotypic niche. We further characterised disease-associated peripheral blood T cells by high-content flow cytometry in 42 patients with AIH and 17 controls with non-alcoholic steatohepatitis. RESULTS Autoreactive SLA-specific CD4 T cells were only detected in patients with anti-SLA autoantibodies and had a memory PD-1+CXCR5-CCR6-CD27+ phenotype. ScRNA-seq revealed their pro-inflammatory/B-helper profile. SLA81-100 and SLA177-204 contain dominant T-cell epitopes. Autoreactive TCR clonotypes were predominantly found in the memory PD-1+CXCR5-CD4 T cells, which were significantly increased in the blood of patients with AIH and supported B-cell differentiation through IL-21. Finally, we identified specific T-cell phenotypes linked to disease activity and IgG level during AIH. CONCLUSIONS We provide a deep characterisation of rare circulating autoreactive CD4 T cells and identify their peripheral reservoir in AIH. We also propose a specific phenotype of autoreactive T cells related to AIH disease activity, which will be essential to track, delineate, and potentially target these pathogenic cells. LAY SUMMARY One principal characteristic of autoimmune hepatitis (AIH), like for many other autoimmune diseases, is the accumulation of autoantibodies produced by B lymphocytes following their interaction with autoreactive CD4 T lymphocytes. In this study, we identified and characterised with high resolution these CD4 T cells. This will be essential to track, delineate, and potentially target them during AIH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amédée Renand
- Université de Nantes, CHU Nantes, Inserm, Centre de Recherche en Transplantation et Immunologie, UMR 1064, ITUN, Nantes, France
| | - Iñaki Cervera-Marzal
- Aix Marseille Université, CNRS, Inserm, Centre d'Immunologie de Marseille-Luminy, CIML, Marseille, France
| | - Laurine Gil
- Aix Marseille Université, CNRS, Inserm, Centre d'Immunologie de Marseille-Luminy, CIML, Marseille, France
| | - Chuang Dong
- Aix Marseille Université, CNRS, Inserm, Centre d'Immunologie de Marseille-Luminy, CIML, Marseille, France
| | - Alexandra Garcia
- Université de Nantes, CHU Nantes, Inserm, Centre de Recherche en Transplantation et Immunologie, UMR 1064, ITUN, Nantes, France
| | - Erwan Kervagoret
- Université de Nantes, CHU Nantes, Inserm, Centre de Recherche en Transplantation et Immunologie, UMR 1064, ITUN, Nantes, France
| | - Hélène Aublé
- Centre d'Investigation Clinique gastro-nutrition, CHU Nantes, Nantes, France
| | - Sarah Habes
- Service Hepato-gastro-entérologie et Assistance Nutritionnelle, CHU Nantes, Nantes, France
| | - Caroline Chevalier
- Centre d'Investigation Clinique gastro-nutrition, CHU Nantes, Nantes, France
| | - Fabienne Vavasseur
- Centre d'Investigation Clinique gastro-nutrition, CHU Nantes, Nantes, France
| | | | - Anaïs Cardon
- Université de Nantes, CHU Nantes, Inserm, Centre de Recherche en Transplantation et Immunologie, UMR 1064, ITUN, Nantes, France
| | - Jean-Paul Judor
- Université de Nantes, CHU Nantes, Inserm, Centre de Recherche en Transplantation et Immunologie, UMR 1064, ITUN, Nantes, France
| | - Jean-François Mosnier
- Université de Nantes, CHU Nantes, Inserm, Centre de Recherche en Transplantation et Immunologie, UMR 1064, ITUN, Nantes, France; Service Anatomie et Cytologie Pathologiques, CHU Nantes, Nantes, France
| | - Florence Tanné
- Service d'hépato gastroentérologie, CHU Cavale Blanche, Brest, France
| | - David-Axel Laplaud
- Université de Nantes, CHU Nantes, Inserm, Centre de Recherche en Transplantation et Immunologie, UMR 1064, ITUN, Nantes, France; Service de Neurologie et CIC 1413, CHU Nantes, Nantes, France
| | - Sophie Brouard
- Université de Nantes, CHU Nantes, Inserm, Centre de Recherche en Transplantation et Immunologie, UMR 1064, ITUN, Nantes, France
| | - Jérôme Gournay
- Service Hepato-gastro-entérologie et Assistance Nutritionnelle, CHU Nantes, Nantes, France; Institut des Maladies de l'Appareil Digestif, IMAD, CHU Nantes, Nantes, France
| | - Pierre Milpied
- Aix Marseille Université, CNRS, Inserm, Centre d'Immunologie de Marseille-Luminy, CIML, Marseille, France
| | - Sophie Conchon
- Université de Nantes, CHU Nantes, Inserm, Centre de Recherche en Transplantation et Immunologie, UMR 1064, ITUN, Nantes, France.
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47
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Drescher HK, Bartsch LM, Weiskirchen S, Weiskirchen R. Intrahepatic T H17/T Reg Cells in Homeostasis and Disease-It's All About the Balance. Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:588436. [PMID: 33123017 PMCID: PMC7566778 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.588436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2020] [Accepted: 09/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Both acute and chronic hepatic inflammation likely result from an imbalance in the TH1/TH2 cell response and can lead to liver fibrosis and end-stage liver disease. More recently, a novel CD4+ T helper cell subset was described, characterized by the production of IL-17 and IL-22. These TH17 cells 50were predominantly implicated in host defense against infections and in autoimmune diseases. Interestingly, studies over the last 10 years revealed that the development of TH17 cells favors pro-inflammatory responses in almost all tissues and there is a reciprocal relationship between TH17 and TReg cells. The balance between TH17and TReg cells is critical for immune reactions, especially in injured liver tissue and the return to immune homeostasis. The pathogenic contribution of TH17 and TReg cells in autoimmunity, acute infection, and chronic liver injury is diverse and varies among disease etiologies. Understanding the mechanisms underlying TH17 cell development, recruitment, and maintenance, along with the suppression of TReg cells, will inform the development of new therapeutic strategies in liver diseases. Active manipulation of the balance between pathogenic and regulatory processes in the liver may assist in the restoration of homeostasis, especially in hepatic inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah K Drescher
- Division of Gastroenterology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Lea M Bartsch
- Division of Gastroenterology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Sabine Weiskirchen
- Institute of Molecular Pathobiochemistry, Experimental Gene Therapy and Clinical Chemistry (IFMPEGKC), University Hospital, RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Ralf Weiskirchen
- Institute of Molecular Pathobiochemistry, Experimental Gene Therapy and Clinical Chemistry (IFMPEGKC), University Hospital, RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
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48
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Halliday N, Dyson JK, Thorburn D, Lohse AW, Heneghan MA. Review article: experimental therapies in autoimmune hepatitis. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2020; 52:1134-1149. [PMID: 32794592 DOI: 10.1111/apt.16035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2020] [Revised: 03/02/2020] [Accepted: 07/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Current therapeutic options for autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) are limited by adverse events associated with corticosteroids and thiopurines and the limited evidence base for second- and third-line treatment options. Furthermore, current treatment approaches require long-term exposure of patients to pharmacological agents. There have been significant advances in the understanding of the mechanisms underpinning autoimmunity and an expansion in the available therapeutic agents for suppressing autoimmune responses or potentially restoring self-tolerance. AIM To review the mechanisms and evidence for experimental therapies that are being actively explored in the management of AIH. METHODS We have reviewed the literature relating to a range of novel therapeutic immunomodulatory treatment strategies and drugs. RESULTS Drugs which block B cell-activating factor of the tumour necrosis factor family (BAFF) and tumour necrosis factor α are currently in clinical trials for the treatment of AIH. Experimental therapies and technologies to increase immune tolerance, such as pre-implantation factor and regulatory T cell therapies, are undergoing development for application in autoimmune disorders. There is also evidence for targeting inflammatory pathways to control other autoimmune conditions, such as blockade of IL1 and IL6 and Janus-associated kinase (JAK) inhibitors. CONCLUSIONS With the range of tools available to clinicians and patients increasing, it is likely that the therapeutic landscape of AIH will change over the coming years and treatment approaches offering lower corticosteroid use and aiming to restore immune self-tolerance should be sought.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neil Halliday
- Institute of Liver and Digestive Health, University College London, London, UK.,The Sheila Sherlock Liver Centre, Royal Free Hospital, London, UK
| | - Jessica Katharine Dyson
- Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK.,Hepatology Department, Newcastle Upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK
| | - Douglas Thorburn
- Institute of Liver and Digestive Health, University College London, London, UK.,The Sheila Sherlock Liver Centre, Royal Free Hospital, London, UK
| | - Ansgar W Lohse
- Department of Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
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49
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Castillo-Dela Cruz P, Wanek AG, Kumar P, An X, Elsegeiny W, Horne W, Fitch A, Burr AHP, Gopalakrishna KP, Chen K, Methé BA, Canna SW, Hand TW, Kolls JK. Intestinal IL-17R Signaling Constrains IL-18-Driven Liver Inflammation by the Regulation of Microbiome-Derived Products. Cell Rep 2020; 29:2270-2283.e7. [PMID: 31747600 PMCID: PMC6886715 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2019.10.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2019] [Revised: 09/04/2019] [Accepted: 10/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Interleukin (IL)-17 signaling to the intestinal epithelium regulates the intestinal microbiome. Given the reported links between intestinal dysbiosis, bacterial translocation, and liver disease, we hypothesize that intestinal IL-17R signaling plays a critical role in mitigating hepatic inflammation. To test this, we study intestinal epithelium-specific IL-17RA-deficient mice in an immune-driven hepatitis model. At the naive state, these mice exhibit microbiome dysbiosis and increased translocation of bacterial products (CpG DNA), which drives liver IL-18 production. Upon disease induction, absence of enteric IL-17RA signaling exacerbates hepatitis and hepatocyte cell death. IL-18 is necessary for disease exacerbation and is associated with increased activated hepatic lymphocytes based on Ifng and Fasl expression. Thus, intestinal IL-17R regulates translocation of TLR9 ligands and constrains susceptibility to hepatitis. These data connect enteric Th17 signaling and the microbiome in hepatitis, with broader implications on the effects of impaired intestinal immunity and subsequent release of microbial products observed in other extra-intestinal pathologies. Castillo-dela Cruz et al. describe a unique protective role of intestinal IL-17RA in hepatitis. Disruption of intestinal IL-17RA signaling results in microbiome dysbiosis and translocation of bacterial products, specifically unmethylated CpG DNA, to the liver. This promotes IL-18 production and subsequent lymphocyte activation and cell death to exacerbate liver inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia Castillo-Dela Cruz
- Richard King Mellon Foundation Institute for Pediatric Research, Department of Pediatrics, UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15224, USA; Department of Immunology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Alanna G Wanek
- Departments of Medicine and Pediatrics, Center for Translational Research in Infection and Inflammation, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
| | - Pawan Kumar
- Richard King Mellon Foundation Institute for Pediatric Research, Department of Pediatrics, UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15224, USA
| | - Xiaojing An
- Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Waleed Elsegeiny
- Richard King Mellon Foundation Institute for Pediatric Research, Department of Pediatrics, UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15224, USA
| | - William Horne
- Richard King Mellon Foundation Institute for Pediatric Research, Department of Pediatrics, UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15224, USA
| | - Adam Fitch
- Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA; Center for Medicine and the Microbiome, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Ansen H P Burr
- Richard King Mellon Foundation Institute for Pediatric Research, Department of Pediatrics, UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15224, USA; Department of Immunology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Kathyayini P Gopalakrishna
- Richard King Mellon Foundation Institute for Pediatric Research, Department of Pediatrics, UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15224, USA; Department of Human Genetics, University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Kong Chen
- Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Barbara A Methé
- Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA; Center for Medicine and the Microbiome, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Scott W Canna
- Richard King Mellon Foundation Institute for Pediatric Research, Department of Pediatrics, UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15224, USA; Department of Immunology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Timothy W Hand
- Richard King Mellon Foundation Institute for Pediatric Research, Department of Pediatrics, UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15224, USA; Department of Immunology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Jay K Kolls
- Richard King Mellon Foundation Institute for Pediatric Research, Department of Pediatrics, UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15224, USA; Departments of Medicine and Pediatrics, Center for Translational Research in Infection and Inflammation, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA.
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50
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Her Z, Tan JHL, Lim YS, Tan SY, Chan XY, Tan WWS, Liu M, Yong KSM, Lai F, Ceccarello E, Zheng Z, Fan Y, Chang KTE, Sun L, Chang SC, Chin CL, Lee GH, Dan YY, Chan YS, Lim SG, Chan JKY, Chandy KG, Chen Q. CD4 + T Cells Mediate the Development of Liver Fibrosis in High Fat Diet-Induced NAFLD in Humanized Mice. Front Immunol 2020; 11:580968. [PMID: 33013934 PMCID: PMC7516019 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.580968] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2020] [Accepted: 08/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has been on a global rise. While animal models have rendered valuable insights to the pathogenesis of NAFLD, discrepancy with patient data still exists. Since non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) involves chronic inflammation, and CD4+ T cell infiltration of the liver is characteristic of NASH patients, we established and characterized a humanized mouse model to identify human-specific immune response(s) associated with NAFLD progression. Immunodeficient mice engrafted with human immune cells (HIL mice) were fed with high fat and high calorie (HFHC) or chow diet for 20 weeks. Liver histology and immune profile of HIL mice were analyzed and compared with patient data. HIL mice on HFHC diet developed steatosis, inflammation and fibrosis of the liver. Human CD4+ central and effector memory T cells increased within the liver and in the peripheral blood of our HIL mice, accompanied by marked up-regulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-17A and IFNγ). In vivo depletion of human CD4+ T cells in HIL mice reduced liver inflammation and fibrosis, but not steatosis. Our results highlight CD4+ memory T cell subsets as important drivers of NAFLD progression from steatosis to fibrosis and provides a humanized mouse model for pre-clinical evaluation of potential therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhisheng Her
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A∗STAR), Singapore, Singapore
| | - Joel Heng Loong Tan
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A∗STAR), Singapore, Singapore
| | - Yee-Siang Lim
- Genome Institute of Singapore, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A∗STAR), Singapore, Singapore
| | - Sue Yee Tan
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A∗STAR), Singapore, Singapore
| | - Xue Ying Chan
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A∗STAR), Singapore, Singapore
| | - Wilson Wei Sheng Tan
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A∗STAR), Singapore, Singapore
| | - Min Liu
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A∗STAR), Singapore, Singapore
| | - Kylie Su Mei Yong
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A∗STAR), Singapore, Singapore
| | - Fritz Lai
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A∗STAR), Singapore, Singapore
| | - Erica Ceccarello
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A∗STAR), Singapore, Singapore.,Programme in Emerging Infectious Diseases, Duke-NUS Graduate Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Zhiqiang Zheng
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A∗STAR), Singapore, Singapore
| | - Yong Fan
- Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Kenneth Tou En Chang
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, KK Women's and Children's Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Lei Sun
- Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disorders, Duke-NUS Graduate Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Shih Chieh Chang
- Laboratory of Molecular Physiology, Infection and Immunity Theme, Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Chih-Liang Chin
- Translational Biomarkers, Merck Research Laboratories, MSD, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Guan Huei Lee
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, National University Hospital, National University Health System, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Yock Young Dan
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, National University Hospital, National University Health System, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Yun-Shen Chan
- Genome Institute of Singapore, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A∗STAR), Singapore, Singapore
| | - Seng Gee Lim
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, National University Hospital, National University Health System, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Jerry Kok Yen Chan
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, KK Women's and Children's Hospital, Singapore, Singapore.,Experimental Fetal Medicine Group, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - K George Chandy
- Laboratory of Molecular Physiology, Infection and Immunity Theme, Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Qingfeng Chen
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A∗STAR), Singapore, Singapore.,Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Physiology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
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