CCL11 as a potential diagnostic marker for asthma?

Tartaric Acid Exacerbates DSS-Induced Colitis by Promoting Eosinophilic Inflammation via IL-13 and IL-5Rα Upregulation

Eosinophils are granulocytes involved in the effector phase of type 2 T cell immune responses, which are elevated in inflammatory conditions like ulcerative colitis (UC) and other allergic diseases. UC is a chronic inflammatory colon disease, marked by excessive eosinophil infiltration and elevated Th2 cytokines, which contribute to mucosal inflammation and tissue damage. Dietary factors, including certain organic acids, can influence UC progression by modulating gut immune responses. This research is the first to explore the dose-dependent effects of tartaric acid (TA), a naturally occurring organic acid widely used in the food industry, on eosinophil activation and Th2 cytokine response in both normal mice and a dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis model. Normal mice were treated with TA at varying doses (5 µg, 25 µg, and 50 µg/mouse/day), while colitis mice received 50 µg TA. Eosinophil activation markers (CD11b+, SiglecF+, and CCR3+), Th2 cytokines (IL-4, IL-13, and IL-31), and IL-17 were assessed in peripheral blood leukocytes, lymph nodes, and splenocytes using flow cytometry. Additionally, mRNA expression levels of eosinophil-associated chemokines and cytokines in the splenocytes were quantified with real-time qPCR. Our results demonstrate a dose-dependent effect of TA, with the highest dose (50 µg) significantly increasing eosinophil activation markers, Th2 cytokines, IL-17, and mRNA expression of SiglecF, CCL11, and toll-like receptor 4 in normal mice. In colitis mice, treatment with 50 µg TA showed marked increases in IL-13 levels compared to those of untreated colitis mice, reflecting increased eosinophil recruitment to inflamed tissues. Moreover, mRNA expression of IL-5Rα was elevated in normal mice and colitis mice administered with TA. These results suggest that TA enhances eosinophil proliferation, the upregulation of their regulatory molecules, and Th2 immune profiles, potentially worsening the severity of colitis.

Network pharmacology integrated with experimental validation reveals the mechanism of Xanthii Fructus against allergic rhinitis via JAK2/STAT3/HIF-1α signaling pathway

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

As a natural medicine, Xanthii Fructus (XF) is widely used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and Tibetan medicine. It has been demonstrated to alleviate allergic rhinitis (AR) in modern research. However, the specific molecular mechanism underlying its treatment of AR is still unclear.

AIM OF STUDY

To elucidate the effect and mechanism of XF in treating AR through network pharmacology and experimental validation.

METHODS

In the present study, blood-entry components of XF were analyzed using UPLC-Orbitrap-HRMS. Then, we conducted pharmacodynamic studies in vitro and vivo. In vitro study, Human IL-4 was used to treat HNEpCs cells to establish a vitro model. Subsequently, HNEpCs cells were administrated with XF extracts (0.5, 1, 2 mg/ml). And ovalbumin (OVA) was employed to establish an allergic rhinitis model, and different doses of XF (8, 16, 32 mg/kg) were administered by gavage to BABL/c mice for in vivo experiments. Next, the Swiss Target Prediction database was employed to acquire blood-entry components targets. Meanwhile, from OMIM and GeneCards databases, AR-related targets were obtained. A protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was established through the STRING database, and potential pathways of XF were identified through Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis. In the end, the results of network pharmacology were experimental validation in vivo and vitro experiments.

RESULTS

Fifteen compounds were identified, most of which were phenolic acids. In pharmacodynamic studies, the vitro study revealed that XF-treated gave rise to a significant decline of iNOS and COX2 protein expression in inflammatory conditions, as evidenced by Western blot results, and there was a sharp decline in the mRNA levels of TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6. Meanwhile, the vivo studies demonstrated that XF exhibited favorable therapeutic efficacy against AR, as evidenced by a decrease in IgE, TNF-α, IL-4, and IL-6 levels in mice serum, an improvement in nasal mucosal injury pathology. Based on these findings, through network pharmacology, we identified 14 core AR-related targets, including HIF-1α, STAT3, TLR4. Using KEGG pathway analysis, it has been revealed that XF can alleviate AR through JAK2/STAT3/HIF-1α signaling pathway. Therefore, further experiments were conducted to verify the molecular mechanism of the anti-AR effect of XF. A decline of the phosphorylation of JAK2, STAT3 and HIF-1α proteins was observed, which resulted in the suppression of JAK2/STAT3/HIF-1α signaling pathway. These findings were corroborated by the same results obtained through IF. The results were verified by RT-qPCR, which demonstrated that XF was capable of downregulating the mRNA levels of TSLP and CCL11. Then, the conclusions were further reinforced with the introduction of WP1066. It could be observed that XF inhibited the STAT3 nuclear translocation. Finally, a restoration of p-JAK2, p-STAT3, HIF-1α expression levels to normal levels in AR mice.

CONCLUSION

The combined findings led to the conclusion that XF play its therapeutic role in AR by suppressing the JAK2/STAT3/HIF-1α signaling pathway.

Dental Pulp Regeneration in Dogs Using a Chemokine Receptor 3 Antagonist Without Transplantation of Dental Pulp Stem Cells

INTRODUCTION

Our previous study showed that transplantation of dental pulp stem cells in combination with a chemokine receptor 3 (CCR3) antagonist into the root canals of aged dogs promoted dental pulp regeneration. In this study, we attempted to regenerate dental pulp in young dogs using a CCR3 antagonist without dental pulp stem cell transplantation.

METHODS

The teeth of dogs were histologically evaluated 4 weeks after extraction of the pulp and administration of scaffold materials and CCR3 antagonist (KDH-136) into the root canal. The effects of KDH-136 on the inflammatory response of RAW264.7 cells were investigated in vitro. In addition, we also examined whether KDH-136 affected neurite outgrowth of PC12 cells.

RESULTS

Application of KDH-136 resulted in the formation of dental pulp-like tissue. Furthermore, nerve and blood vessel regeneration were observed. KDH-136 suppressed chemokine production from RAW264.7 cells and promoted nerve growth factor-stimulated neurite outgrowth of PC12 cells.

CONCLUSIONS

CCR3 antagonists may be useful for developing novel methods of dental pulp regeneration that do not require transplantation of dental pulp stem cells.

Exploring the causal relationship between inflammatory cytokines and myasthenia gravis: A two-way Mendelian randomization study

BACKGROUND

Based on previous research, it is well-established that myasthenia gravis (MG) is linked to chronic inflammation. However, the exact nature of the relationship between inflammatory factors and the development of MG remains unclear. Consequently, the objective of this study is to explore whether alterations in the levels of inflammatory factors, as influenced by genetic factors, are associated with the occurrence of MG. This will be achieved through a two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis.

METHODS

We conducted a bidirectional Mendelian randomization (MR) study utilizing genetic data from genome-wide association studies (GWAS), encompassing 1873 MG cases and 36,370 individuals of European ancestry as controls. Data on inflammatory cytokines were obtained from GWAS data of 8293, healthy participants. The inverse variance-weighted (IVW) method was primarily employed to investigate the causal relationship between exposure and outcome. Additionally, various sensitivity analysis methods such as MR-Egger, weighted median, simple mode, weighted mode, and MR-PRESSO were applied to strengthen the reliability of the results. Through these rigorous approaches, we extensively examined the relationship between inflammatory factors and MG; however, further research is required to establish the specific causal relationship.

RESULTS

After applying Bonferroni correction, the genetic predictions revealed a significant correlation between Monokine induced by gamma interferon (MIG) and MG (OR: 1.09, 95 % CI: 1.04-1.14; P = 0.0006). Furthermore, there were preliminary findings indicating a positive genetic association between Eotaxin and interleukin-2 receptor antagonist (IL-2ra) with MG (OR: 0.81, 95 % CI: 0.66-0.99, P = 0.044; OR: 0.80, 95 % CI: 0.68-0.94, P = 0.008). Reverse MR analysis provided initial evidence of associations between MIP1α, GROa, IL-13, TRAIL, IL-2ra, and IL-1ra with the development of MG. No indications of pleiotropy or heterogeneity among genetic variants were observed (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

This study uncovers a new connection between inflammatory cytokines and MG, shedding light on potential factors contributing to the development of the disease. Elevated levels of Eotaxin and IL-2ra are associated with a higher risk of MG, while indicating that MIG, MIP1α, GROa, IL-13, TRAIL, IL-2ra, and IL-1ra may be elevated as a result of MG, Especially MIG. These findings suggest that targeting and regulating specific inflammatory factors could offer promising avenues for the treatment and prevention of MG.

Alcohol-Induced Activation of Chemokine System and Neuroinflammation Development

Chemokines are immunoregulatory proteins with pleiotropic functions involved in neuromodulation, neurogenesis, and neurotransmission. The way chemokines affect the CNS plays an important role in modulating various conditions that could have negative impact on CNS functions, including development of alcohol use disorders. In this review, we analyzed the literature data available on the problem of chemokine participation in pathogenesis, clinical presentation, and remission of alcohol use disorders both in animal models and in the study of patients with alcoholism. The presented information confirms the hypothesis that the alcohol-induced chemokine production could modulate chronic neuroinflammation. Thus, the data summarized and shown in this review are focused on the relevant direction of research in the field of psychiatry, which is in demand by both scientists and clinical specialists.

Causal effects of systemic inflammatory proteins on Guillain-Barre Syndrome: insights from genome-wide Mendelian randomization, single-cell RNA sequencing analysis, and network pharmacology

Background

Evidence from observational studies indicates that inflammatory proteins play a vital role in Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS). Nevertheless, it is unclear how circulating inflammatory proteins are causally associated with GBS. Herein, we conducted a two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis to systematically explore the causal links of genetically determined systemic inflammatory proteins on GBS.

Methods

A total of 8,293 participants of European ancestry were included in a genome-wide association study of 41 inflammatory proteins as instrumental variables. Five MR approaches, encompassing inverse-variance weighted, weighted median, MR-Egger, simple model, and weighted model were employed to explore the causal links between inflammatory proteins and GBS. MR-Egger regression was utilized to explore the pleiotropy. Cochran's Q statistic was implemented to quantify the heterogeneity. Furthermore, we performed single-cell RNA sequencing analysis and predicted potential drug targets through molecular docking technology.

Results

By applying MR analysis, four inflammatory proteins causally associated with GBS were identified, encompassing IFN-γ (OR:1.96, 95%CI: 1.02-3.78, PIVW=0.045), IL-7 (OR:1.86, 95%CI: 1.07-3.23, PIVW=0.029), SCGF-β (OR:1.56, 95%CI: 1.11-2.19, PIVW=0.011), and Eotaxin (OR:1.99, 95%CI: 1.01-3.90, PIVW=0.046). The sensitivity analysis revealed no evidence of pleiotropy or heterogeneity. Additionally, significant genes were found through single-cell RNA sequencing analysis and several anti-inflammatory or neuroprotective small molecular compounds were identified by utilizing molecular docking technology.

Conclusions

Our MR analysis suggested that IFN-γ, IL-7, SCGF-β, and Eotaxin were causally linked to the occurrence and development of GBS. These findings elucidated potential causal associations and highlighted the significance of these inflammatory proteins in the pathogenesis and prospective therapeutic targets for GBS.

Sex-specific alterations in the gut and lung microbiome of allergen-induced mice

Introduction

Recent evidence has demonstrated that the microbiome is a driver of the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms of respiratory disease. Studies have indicated that bacterial metabolites produced in the gut and lung can impact lung inflammation and immune cell activity, affecting disease pathology. Despite asthma being a disease with marked sex differences, experimental work linking microbiomes and asthma has not considered the sex variable.

Methods

To test the hypothesis that the lung and gut microbial composition impacts allergic lung inflammation in a sex-specific manner, we evaluated lung and gut microbiome alterations in a mouse model of allergic inflammation and assessed their association with lung function and inflammation phenotypes. For this, we exposed male and female adult C57BL/6J mice intranasally to 25 µg of a house dust mite extract mix (HDM) daily, or phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) as control, for 5 weeks (n = 4-6/group). DNA from fecal pellets collected before and after the 5-week treatment, and from lung tissue collected at endpoint, was extracted using the ZymoBIOMICS®-96 MagBead DNA Kit and analyzed to determine the 16S microbiome via Targeted Metagenomic Sequencing.

Results

The HDM treatment induced a sex-specific allergic inflammation phenotype with significantly higher neutrophilia, lymphocytosis, inflammatory gene expression, and histopathological changes in females than males following exposure to HDM, but higher airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR) in males than females. In addition, sex-specific lung gene expression and associated pathways were identified HDM mix after challenge. These changes corresponded to sex-specific alterations in the gut microbiome, where the Firmicutes to Bacteroidetes ratio (F:B) was significantly reduced in fecal samples from only male mice after HDM challenge, and alpha diversity was increased in males, but decreased in females, after 5-weeks of HDM treatment.

Discussion

Overall, our findings indicate that intranasal allergen challenge triggers sex-specific changes in both gut and lung microbiomes, and induces sex-specific lung inflammation, AHR, and lung inflammatory gene expression pathways, suggesting a contribution of the lung-gut axis in allergic airway disease.

Differences in Eotaxin Serum Levels between Polytraumatized Patients with and without Concomitant Traumatic Brain Injury-A Matched Pair Analysis

Background/Objectives: Early detection of traumatic brain injury (TBI) is crucial for minimizing secondary neurological damage. Our study aimed to assess the potential of IL-4, IL-6, IL-7, IL-8, IL-10, TNF, and eotaxin serum levels-as a single clinical tool or combined into a panel-for diagnosing TBI in multiple injured patients. Methods: Out of 110 prospectively enrolled polytrauma victims (median age, 39 years; median ISS, 33; 70.9% male) admitted to our level I trauma center over four years, we matched 41 individuals with concomitant TBI (TBI cohort) to 41 individuals without TBI (non-TBI cohort) based on age, gender, Injury Severity Score (ISS), and mortality. Patients' protein levels were measured upon admission (day 0) and on days 1, 3, 5, 7, and 10 during routine blood withdrawal using one separation gel tube each time. Results: The median serum levels of IL-4, IL-6, IL-7, IL-8, IL-10, and TNF exhibited non-similar time courses in the two cohorts and showed no significant differences on days 0, 1, 3, 5, and 7. However, the median eotaxin levels had similar trend lines in both cohorts, with consistently higher levels in the TBI cohort, reaching significance on days 0, 3, and 5. In both cohorts, the median eotaxin level significantly decreased from day 0 to day 1, then significantly increased until day 10. We also found a significant positive association between day 0 eotaxin serum levels and the presence of TBI, indicating that for every 20 pg/mL increase in eotaxin level, the odds of a prevalent TBI rose by 10.5%. ROC analysis provided a cutoff value of 154 pg/mL for the diagnostic test (sensitivity, 0.707; specificity, 0.683; AUC = 0.718). Conclusions: Our findings identified the brain as a significant source, solely of eotaxin release in humans who have suffered a TBI. Nevertheless, the eotaxin serum level assessed upon admission has limited diagnostic value. IL-4, IL-6, IL-7, IL-8, IL-10, and TNF do not indicate TBI in polytraumatized patients.

Genetic insight into putative causes of xanthelasma palpebrarum: a Mendelian randomization study

Xanthelasma palpebrarum (XP) is the most common form of cutaneous xanthoma, with a prevalence of 1.1%~4.4% in the population. However, the cause of XP remains largely unknown. In the present study, we used Mendelian randomization to assess the genetic association between plasma lipids, metabolic traits, and circulating protein with XP, leveraging summary statistics from large genome-wide association studies (GWAS). Genetically predicted plasma cholesterol and LDL-C, but not HDL-C or triglyceride, were significantly associated with XP. Metabolic traits, including BMI, fasting glucose, type 2 diabetes, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, were not significantly associated with XP. Furthermore, we found genetically predicted 12 circulating proteins were associated with XP, including FN1, NTM, FCN2, GOLM1, ICAM5, PDE5A, C5, CLEC11A, CXCL1, CCL2, CCL11, CCL13. In conclusion, this study identified plasma cholesterol, LDL-C, and 12 circulating proteins to be putative causal factors for XP, highlighting the role of plasma cholesterol and inflammatory response in XP development.

Role of Microglia, Decreased Neurogenesis and Oligodendrocyte Depletion in Long COVID-Mediated Brain Impairments

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is the cause of a recent worldwide coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. SARS-CoV-2 primarily causes an acute respiratory infection but can progress into significant neurological complications in some. Moreover, patients with severe acute COVID-19 could develop debilitating long-term sequela. Long-COVID is characterized by chronic symptoms that persist months after the initial infection. Common complaints are fatigue, myalgias, depression, anxiety, and "brain fog," or cognitive and memory impairments. A recent study demonstrated that a mild COVID-19 respiratory infection could generate elevated proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines in the cerebral spinal fluid. This commentary discusses findings from this study, demonstrating that even a mild respiratory SARS-CoV-2 infection can cause considerable neuroinflammation with microglial and macrophage reactivity. Such changes could also be gleaned by measuring chemokines and cytokines in the circulating blood. Moreover, neuroinflammation caused by mild SARS-CoV-2 infection can also impair hippocampal neurogenesis, deplete oligodendrocytes, and decrease myelinated axons. All these changes likely contribute to cognitive deficits in long-COVID syndrome. Therefore, strategies capable of restraining neuroinflammation, maintaining better hippocampal neurogenesis, and preserving oligodendrocyte lineage differentiation and maturation may prevent or reduce the incidence of long-COVID after SARS-CoV-2 respiratory infection.

Adjuvant effect of inhaled particulate matter containing free radicals following house-dust mite induction of asthma in mice

INTRODUCTION

Exposures to particulate matter (PM) from combustion sources can exacerbate preexisting asthma. However, the cellular and molecular mechanisms by which PM promotes the exacerbation of asthma remain elusive. We used a house dust mite (HDM)-induced mouse model of asthma to test the hypothesis that inhaled DCB230, which are PM containing environmentally persistent free radicals (EPFRs), will aggravate asthmatic responses.

METHODS

Groups of 8-10-week-old C57BL/6 male mice were exposed to either air or DCB230 aerosols at a concentration of 1.5 mg/m3 4 h/day for 10 days with or without prior HDM-induction of asthma.

RESULTS

Aerosolized DCB230 particles formed small aggregates (30-150 nm). Mice exposed to DCB230 alone showed significantly reduced lung tidal volume, overexpression of the Muc5ac gene, and dysregulation of 4 inflammation related genes, Ccl11, Ccl24, Il-10, and Tpsb2. This suggests DCB230 particles interacted with the lung epithelium inducing mucous hypersecretion and restricting lung volume. In addition to reduced lung tidal volume, compared to respective controls, the HDM + DCB230-exposed group exhibited significantly increased lung tissue damping and up-regulated expression of Muc5ac, indicating that in this model, mucous hypersecretion may be central to pulmonary dysfunction. This group also showed augmented lung eosinophilic inflammation accompanied by an up-regulation of 36 asthma related genes. Twelve of these genes are part of IL-17 signaling, suggesting that this pathway is critical for DCB230 induced toxicity and adjuvant effects in lungs previously exposed to HDM.

CONCLUSION

Our data indicate that inhaled DCB230 can act as an adjuvant, exacerbating asthma through IL-17-mediated responses in a HDM mouse model.

Urine 2-hydroxyphenanthrene is associated with current asthma: evidence from NHANES 2007-2012

OBJECTIVE

The current study aims to explore the effects of nine urine monohydroxy PAH metabolites (OHPAH) including 1-hydroxynaphthalene (1-OHNAP), 2-hydroxynaphthalene (2-OHNAP), 3-hydroxyfluorene (3-OHFLU), 9-hydroxyfluorene (9-OHFLU), 1-hydroxyphenanthrene (1-OHPHE), 2-hydroxyphenanthrene (2-OHPHE), 3-hydroxyphenanthrene (3-OHPHE), and 1-hydroxypyrene (1-OHPYR) on current asthma in people in the United States using a variety of statistical techniques.

METHODS

A cross-sectional examination of a subsample of 3804 adults aged ≥20 from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) was conducted between 2007 and 2012. To investigate the relationship between urine OHPAHs levels and current asthma, multivariate logistic regression, Bayesian kernel machine regression (BKMR), and quantile g-computation (qgcomp) were utilized.

RESULTS

In the multivariate logistic regression model, after controlling for confounders, urine 2-OHPHE was associated with current asthma in both male (AOR = 7.17, 95% CI: 1.28-40.08) and female (AOR = 2.91, 95% CI: 1.06-8.01) smokers. In the qgcomp analysis, 2-OHPHE (39.5%), 1-OHNAP (33.1%), and 2-OHNAP (22.5%) were the major positive contributors to the risk of current asthma (OR = 2.29, 95% CI: 0.99, 5.25), and in female smokers, 9-OHFLU (25.8%), 2-OHFLU (21.5%), and 2-OHPHE (15.1%) were the major positive contributors (OR = 2.19, 95% CI: 1.06, 4.47). The results of the BKMR model basically agreed with qgcomp analysis.

CONCLUSION

Our results demonstrate a strong association of urine 2-OHPHE with current asthma, and further longitudinal studies are needed to understand the precise relationship between PAH exposure and current asthma risk.

In-silico identification and prioritization of therapeutic targets of asthma

Asthma is a "common chronic disorder that affects the lungs causing variable and recurring symptoms like repeated episodes of wheezing, breathlessness, chest tightness and underlying inflammation. The interaction of these features of asthma determines the clinical manifestations and severity of asthma and the response to treatment" [cited from: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. Expert Panel 3 Report. Guidelines for the Diagnosis and Management of Asthma 2007 (EPR-3). Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK7232/ (accessed on January 3, 2023)]. As per the WHO, 262 million people were affected by asthma in 2019 that leads to 455,000 deaths ( https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/asthma ). In this current study, our aim was to evaluate thousands of scientific documents and asthma associated omics datasets to identify the most crucial therapeutic target for experimental validation. We leveraged the proprietary tool Ontosight® Discover to annotate asthma associated genes and proteins. Additionally, we also collected and evaluated asthma related patient datasets through bioinformatics and machine learning based approaches to identify most suitable targets. Identified targets were further evaluated based on the various biological parameters to scrutinize their candidature for the ideal therapeutic target. We identified 7237 molecular targets from published scientific documents, 2932 targets from genomic structured databases and 7690 dysregulated genes from the transcriptomics and 560 targets from genomics mutational analysis. In total, 18,419 targets from all the desperate sources were analyzed and evaluated though our approach to identify most promising targets in asthma. Our study revealed IL-13 as one of the most important targets for asthma with approved drugs on the market currently. TNF, VEGFA and IL-18 were the other top targets identified to be explored for therapeutic benefit in asthma but need further clinical testing. HMOX1, ITGAM, DDX58, SFTPD and ADAM17 were the top novel targets identified for asthma which needs to be validated experimentally.

Ambient air pollution and inflammation-related proteins during early childhood

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Experimental studies show that short-term exposure to air pollution may alter cytokine concentrations. There is, however, a lack of epidemiological studies evaluating the association between long-term air pollution exposure and inflammation-related proteins in young children. Our objective was to examine whether air pollution exposure is associated with inflammation-related proteins during the first 2 years of life.

METHODS

In a pooled analysis of two birth cohorts from Stockholm County (n = 158), plasma levels of 92 systemic inflammation-related proteins were measured by Olink Proseek Multiplex Inflammation panel at 6 months, 1 year and 2 years of age. Time-weighted average exposure to particles with an aerodynamic diameter of <10 μm (PM₁₀), <2.5 μm (PM_2.5), and nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) at residential addresses from birth and onwards was estimated via validated dispersion models. Stratified by sex, longitudinal cross-referenced mixed effect models were applied to estimate the overall effect of preceding air pollution exposure on combined protein levels, "inflammatory proteome", over the first 2 years of life, followed by cross-sectional protein-specific bootstrapped quantile regression analysis.

RESULTS

We identified significant longitudinal associations of inflammatory proteome during the first 2 years of life with preceding PM_2.5 exposure, while consistent associations with PM₁₀ and NO₂ across ages were only observed among girls. Subsequent protein-specific analyses revealed significant associations of PM₁₀ exposure with an increase in IFN-gamma and IL-12B in boys, and a decrease in IL-8 in girls at different percentiles of proteins levels, at age 6 months. Several inflammation-related proteins were also significantly associated with preceding PM₁₀, PM_2.5 and NO₂ exposures, at ages 1 and 2 years, in a sex-specific manner.

CONCLUSIONS

Ambient air pollution exposure influences inflammation-related protein levels already during early childhood. Our results also suggest age- and sex-specific differences in the impact of air pollution on children's inflammatory profiles.

Chemokine Expression-Based Endotype Clustering of Chronic Rhinosinusitis

Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) with (CRSwNP) or without nasal polyps (CRSsNP) is a persistent, heterogeneous inflammatory condition affecting the upper respiratory tract. The present study aimed to improve the characterization of CRS endotypes based on the chemokine and cytokine expression pattern in the CRS tissues. Concentrations of chemokines and cytokines were measured in tissues from nasal biopsies obtained from 66 CRS patients and 25 control subjects using multiplexing or single analyte technologies. Cluster analysis based on the concentration of type-1 (MCP-3/CCL7, MIP-1 α/CCL3), type-2 (IL-5, MCP-3/CCL7, MIP-1 α/CCL3, TARC/CCL17, PARC/CCL18, IP-10/CXCL10, ECP), and type-3 (IL-22) chemokines and cytokines identified six CRS endotypes (clusters). Cluster 1 (type-3) and 2 (type-1) were associated with a low prevalence of nasal polyps, Cluster 3 (type-1, -2, -3) and Cluster 4 (type-2, -3, medium IL-22) with medium, and Cluster 5 (type-2, -3, high Il-22) and Cluster 6 (type-2) with high prevalence of nasal polyps. Asthma was highly prevalent in Cluster-6. Our findings add to the existing knowledge of CRS endotypes and may be useful for the clinical decision-making process. The advancement of biologics therapy for upper respiratory tract disorders rationalizes the personalized diagnostic approach to warrant a successful treatment and monitoring of CRS.

A combination of circulating microRNA-375-3p and chemokines CCL11, CXCL12, and G-CSF differentiate Crohn's disease and intestinal tuberculosis

Differentiation of Crohn’s disease (CD) from intestinal tuberculosis (ITB) is a big challenge to gastroenterologists because of their indistinguishable features and insensitive diagnostic tools. A non-invasive biomarker is urgently required to distinguish ITB/CD patients particularly in India, a TB endemic region, where CD frequency is increasing rapidly due to urbanization. Among the three differentially expressed miRNAs obtained from small RNA transcriptomic profiling of ileocaecal/terminal ileal tissue of ITB/CD patients (n = 3), only two down-regulated miRNAs, miR-31-5p, and miR-215-5p showed comparable data in qRT-PCR. Out of which, only miR-215-5p was detectable in the patient’s plasma, but there was no significant difference in expression between ITB/CD. On the other hand, miR-375-3p, the pulmonary TB specific marker was found in higher amount in the plasma of ITB patients than CD while reverse expression was observed in the ileocaecal/terminal ileal tissues of the same patients. Next, using Bioplex pro-human cytokine 48-plex screening panel, only three chemokines, Eotaxin-1/CCL11, SDF-1α/CXCL12, and G-CSF have noted significantly different levels in the serum of ITB/CD patients. ROC analysis has revealed that compared to a single molecule, a combination of miR-375-3p + Eotaxin-1/CCL11 + SDF-1α /CXCL12 + G-CSF showed a better AUC of 0.83, 95% CI (0.69–0.96) with 100% specificity and positive predictive value while sensitivity, negative predictive value, and accuracy were 56%, 69%, and 78% respectively in distinguishing ITB from CD. This study suggests that a combination of plasma markers shows better potential in differentiating ITB from CD than a single marker and this panel of markers may be used for clinical management of ITB/CD patients.

Anti-Inflammatory Activity and Chemical Analysis of Different Fractions from Solidago chilensis Inflorescence

Solidago chilensis Meyen (Compositae) is a species native to South America (Brazil) popularly known as arnica. In Brazilian popular medicine, inflorescences and rhizomes of this plant have been used since the end of the 19th century to replace the exogenous and hepatotoxic Arnica montana L. in the treatment of edema and inflammatory pathologies. Although the anti-inflammatory activity of S. chilensis is evidenced in the literature, there is a lack of studies with enriched fractions or compounds isolated from it. The objective of the current study was to characterize phytochemically and to evaluate the pharmacological action in vivo and in vitro of the crude extract and the different fractions (hexane, dichloromethane, acetal, butanolic, and aqueous) isolated from the inflorescence of S. chilensis. The inflorescence crude extract (ScIE) and fractions were administered by intraperitoneal route to mice at different doses. In an LPS-induced pleurisy model, inhibition of leukocyte influx was observed for the ScIE and all fractions tested, as compared to controls. Dichloromethane (ScDicF), butanolic (ScButF), and aqueous (ScAquF) were selected for further analysis as they showed the best inhibitory effects in leukocyte migration and inflammatory cytokine and chemokine production: TNF-α, CXCL1/KC, CXCL2/MIP-2, and CCL11/eotaxin-1. In LPS-stimulated J774A.1 cell line, ScIE and the ScDicF exhibited an inhibitory effect on nitric oxide (NO) production and downmodulated the COX-2 expression; ScAquF failed to modulate NO production and COX-2 expression. In phytochemical analysis, HPLC-UV-DAD chromatograms of ScDicF and ScAquF showed the main peaks with UV spectrum characteristics of flavonoids; chlorogenic acid and isoquercetin were the most present phytochemicals identified in the ScAquF, and a high number of n-alkanes was found in ScHexF. Our study was the first to address biological effects and correlate them to phytochemically characterized fractions from inflorescences of S. chilensis.

Inflammatory markers in exhaled breath condensate in bronchial asthma

Chronic respiratory diseases are among the most common non- infection diseases. In particular, it is bronchial asthma (BA), characterized by bronchial hyperreactivity and varying degrees of airway obstruction that is the cause of morbidity and mortality. The methods available for the information about the presence of inflammation in the airways, such as bronchoscopy and bronchial biopsy to be obtained have currently been invasive and difficult in everyday clinical practice, especially for children and seriously ill patients. In this regard, recently there has been an increase in the development of non-invasive methods for diagnosing the respiratory system, being comfortable and painless for trial subjects, especially children, also providing the inflammatory process control in the lungs, the severity assessment and monitoring the treatment process. The exhaled breath condensate (EBC) is of great attention, which is a source of various biomolecules, including nitric oxide (NO), leukotrienes, 8-isoprostane, prostaglandins, etc., being locally or systemically associated with disease processes in the body. Of particular interest is the presence of cytokines in EBC, namely the specific proteins produced by various cells of the body that play a key role in inflammatory processes in AD and provide cell communication (cytokine network). Thereby, it becomes possible for the severity and control level of childhood bronchial asthma using only the EBC analysis to be assessed. In addition, the non-invasiveness of this method allows it to be reused for monitoring lung diseases of even the smallest patients, including infants. Thus, the field of metabolite analysis in EBC has been developing and, in the near future, the given method is likely to be the most common for diagnosing the respiratory system diseases in both children and adults.

Platelets Independently Recruit into Asthmatic Lungs and Models of Allergic Inflammation via CCR3

Platelet activation and pulmonary recruitment occur in patients with asthma and in animal models of allergic asthma, in which leukocyte infiltration, airway remodeling, and hyperresponsiveness are suppressed by experimental platelet depletion. These observations suggest the importance of platelets to various characteristics of allergic disease, but the mechanisms of platelet migration and location are not understood. The aim of this study was to assess the mechanism of platelet recruitment to extravascular compartments of lungs from patients with asthma and after allergen challenge in mice sensitized to house dust mite (HDM) extract (contains the DerP1 [Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus extract peptidase 1] allergen); in addition, we assessed the role of chemokines in this process. Lung sections were immunohistochemically stained for CD42b⁺ platelets. Intravital microscopy in allergic mice was used to visualize platelets tagged with an anti-mouse CD49b-PE (phycoerythrin) antibody. Platelet-endothelial interactions were measured in response to HDM (DerP1) exposure in the presence of antagonists to CCR3, CCR4, and CXCR4. Extravascular CD42b⁺ platelets were detected in the epithelium and submucosa in bronchial biopsy specimens taken from subjects with steroid-naive mild asthma. Platelets were significantly raised in the lung parenchyma from patients with fatal asthma compared with postmortem control-lung tissue. Furthermore, in DerP1-sensitized mice, subsequent HDM exposure induced endothelial rolling, endothelial adhesion, and recruitment of platelets into airway walls, compared with sham-sensitized mice, via a CCR3-dependent mechanism in the absence of aggregation or interactions with leukocytes. Localization of singular, nonaggregated platelets occurs in lungs of patients with asthma. In allergic mice, platelet recruitment occurs via recognized vascular adhesive and migratory events, independently of leukocytes via a CCR3-dependent mechanism.

Orally administered anti-eotaxin-1 monoclonal antibody is biologically active in the gut and alleviates immune-mediated hepatitis: A novel anti-inflammatory personalized therapeutic approach

Personalized therapies are designed to optimize the safety-to-efficacy ratio by selecting patients with higher response rates based on specific biomarkers. Inflammation plays a vital role in the pathogenesis of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), a common liver disorder. Eotaxin-1 plays a role in innate and adaptive immune responses. High eotaxin-1 levels are associated with diabetes and fatty liver disease and, therefore, serves as a biomarker for patient selection. The anti-eotaxin-1 monoclonal antibody is tailored for the personalized therapy of patients with inflammatory conditions due to high levels of eotaxin-1. To evaluate the biological activity and immunomodulatory effect of orally administered anti-eotaxin-1. C57B1/6 mice were treated with either oral or intra-peritoneal anti-eotaxin-1 antibody before induction of immune-mediated hepatitis using an injection of concanavalin A (ConA) and checked for liver injury and eotaxin-1 serum levels. Oral administration of anti-eotaxin-1 alleviated the immune-mediated liver injury. Serum alanine aminotransferase levels decreased to 1807 U/L, compared with 19025 U/L in untreated controls and 3657 U/L in mice treated with parenteral anti-eotaxin-1 (P < 0.005). A trend toward reduced serum eotaxin-1 levels was observed in treated mice, ranging from 594 pg/mL in the controls to 554 and 561 pg/mL in mice treated orally and intraperitoneally (P = 0.08, P = 0.06, respectively). Oral administration of anti-eotaxin-1 antibody shows biological activity in the gut and exerts a systemic immunomodulatory effect to alleviate immune-mediated hepatitis. The data suggest that testing for eotaxin-1 serum levels may enable screening patients with high-eotaxin-1 levels-associated NASH.

TMT-based quantitative proteomics reveals suppression of SLC3A2 and ATP1A3 expression contributes to the inhibitory role of acupuncture on airway inflammation in an OVA-induced mouse asthma model

Asthma is a chronic airway inflammatory disease and acupuncture is frequently used in patients suffering from asthma in clinic. However, the regulatory mechanism of acupuncture treatment in asthma is not fully elucidated. We sought to investigate the effectiveness of acupuncture on asthma and the associated regulatory mechanism. An ovalbumin (OVA)-induced mouse asthma model was established and the effect of acupuncture on airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR), mucus hypersecretion and inflammation was assessed. Tandem mass tag (TMT)-based quantitative proteomics analysis of lung tissue and bioinformatics analysis were performed. Our results revealed that the OVA-induced mouse asthma model was successfully established with the significantly elevated AHR to methacholine (Mch), and acupuncture was effective in attenuation of AHR to Mch, peribronchial and perivascular inflammation and mucus production. The inflammatory cells around the airways, mucous secretion as well as levels of IgE, CCL5, CCL11, IL-17A in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and IL-4, IL-5 and IL-13 levels in serum were siginificantly inhibited by acupuncture. TMT-based quantitative proteomics analysis found that a total of 6078 quantifiable proteins were identified, and 564 (334 up-regulated and 230 down regulated) differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) were identified in OVA-induced asthma model group (A) versus normal control group (NC). Acupuncture treatment resulted in 667 DEPs (416 up-regulated and 251 down regulated) compared with A group, and 86 overlapping DEPs were identified in NC, A and AA groups. Among the 86 overlapping DEPs, we identified 41 DEPs regulated by acupuncture. Based on the above data, we performed a systematic bioinformatics analysis of the 41 DEPs, and results showed that these 41 DEPs were predominantly related to 4 KEGG pathways including SNARE interactions in vesicular transport, ferroptosis, endocrine and other factor-regulated calcium reabsorption, and protein digestion and absorption. DEPs of SLC3A2 and ATP1A3 expression levels were verified by immumohistochemical staining. Mice in OVA-induced asthma model group had elevated SLC3A2 and ATP1A3 expression and acupuncture had the ability to downregulate SLC3A2 and ATP1A3 protein expression. Furthermore, acupuncture reduced the MDA level and increased the GSH and SOD levels in the lung tissue. Taken together, our data suggested that acupuncture was effective in treating asthma by attenuation of AHR, mucus secretion and airway inflammation, and the mechanism was associated with regulation of ferroptosis, SLC3A2 and ATP1A3 protein expression as well as oxidative stress. Results from our experiments revealed the anti-inflammatory effect of acupuncture in OVA-induced mouse asthma model, leading to a more effective approach to be chosen by patients in clinic.

A Microengineered Airway Lung Chip Models Key Features of Viral-induced Exacerbation of Asthma

Viral-induced exacerbation of asthma remains a major cause of hospitalization and mortality. New human-relevant models of the airways are urgently needed to understand how respiratory infections may trigger asthma attacks and to advance treatment development. Here, we describe a new human-relevant model of rhinovirus-induced asthma exacerbation that recapitulates viral infection of asthmatic airway epithelium and neutrophil transepithelial migration, and enables evaluation of immunomodulatory therapy. Specifically, a microengineered model of fully differentiated human mucociliary airway epithelium was stimulated with IL-13 to induce a T-helper cell type 2 asthmatic phenotype and infected with live human rhinovirus 16 (HRV16) to reproduce key features of viral-induced asthma exacerbation. We observed that the infection with HRV16 replicated key hallmarks of the cytopathology and inflammatory responses observed in human airways. Generation of a T-helper cell type 2 microenvironment through exogenous IL-13 stimulation induced features of asthmatic airways, including goblet cell hyperplasia, reduction of cilia beating frequency, and endothelial activation, but did not alter rhinovirus infectivity or replication. High-resolution kinetic analysis of secreted inflammatory markers revealed that IL-13 treatment altered IL-6, IFN-λ1, and CXCL10 secretion in response to HRV16. Neutrophil transepithelial migration was greatest when viral infection was combined with IL-13 treatment, whereas treatment with MK-7123, a CXCR2 antagonist, reduced neutrophil diapedesis in all conditions. In conclusion, our microengineered Airway Lung-Chip provides a novel human-relevant platform for exploring the complex mechanisms underlying viral-induced asthma exacerbation. Our data suggest that IL-13 may impair the hosts' ability to mount an appropriate and coordinated immune response to rhinovirus infection. We also show that the Airway Lung-Chip can be used to assess the efficacy of modulators of the immune response.

Airway Redox Homeostasis and Inflammation Gone Awry: From Molecular Pathogenesis to Emerging Therapeutics in Respiratory Pathology

As aerobic organisms, we are continuously and throughout our lifetime subjected to an oxidizing atmosphere and, most often, to environmental threats. The lung is the internal organ most highly exposed to this milieu. Therefore, it has evolved to confront both oxidative stress induced by reactive oxygen species (ROS) and a variety of pollutants, pathogens, and allergens that promote inflammation and can harm the airways to different degrees. Indeed, an excess of ROS, generated intrinsically or from external sources, can imprint direct damage to key structural cell components (nucleic acids, sugars, lipids, and proteins) and indirectly perturb ROS-mediated signaling in lung epithelia, impairing its homeostasis. These early events complemented with efficient recognition of pathogen- or damage-associated recognition patterns by the airway resident cells alert the immune system, which mounts an inflammatory response to remove the hazards, including collateral dead cells and cellular debris, in an attempt to return to homeostatic conditions. Thus, any major or chronic dysregulation of the redox balance, the air-liquid interface, or defects in epithelial proteins impairing mucociliary clearance or other defense systems may lead to airway damage. Here, we review our understanding of the key role of oxidative stress and inflammation in respiratory pathology, and extensively report current and future trends in antioxidant and anti-inflammatory treatments focusing on the following major acute and chronic lung diseases: acute lung injury/respiratory distress syndrome, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, pulmonary fibrosis, and cystic fibrosis.

Serum levels of chemokines in adolescents with major depression treated with fluoxetine

BACKGROUND

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a global health issue that affects 350 million people of all ages. Although between 2% and 5.6% of affected individuals are adolescents, research on young patients is limited. The inflammatory response contributes to the onset of depression, and in adult MDD patients, symptom severity has been linked to chemokine levels.

AIM

To determine the differences in circulatory levels of chemokines in healthy volunteers (HVs) and adolescents with MDD, and assess the changes induced by fluoxetine consume.

METHODS

The 22 adolescents with MDD were monitored during the first 8 wk of clinical follow-up and clinical psychiatric evaluation was done using the Hamilton depresión rating scale (HDRS). The serum levels of monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), macrophage inflammatory protein (MIP)-1α, MIP-1β, interleukin (IL)-8, interferon gamma-induced protein (IP)-10, and eotaxin were measured in patients and HVs.

RESULTS

In all cases, significant differences were detected in circulating chemokine levels between patients before treatment and HVs (P < 0.0001). All chemokines decreased at 4 wk, but only MCP-1 and IL-8 significantly differed (P < 0.05) between 0 wk and 4 wk. In the patients, all chemokines rose to their initial concentrations by 8 wk vs 0 wk, but only IP-10 did so significantly (P < 0.05). All patients experienced a significant decrease in HDRS scores at 4 wk (P < 0.0001) and 8 wk (P < 0.0001) compared with 0 wk.

CONCLUSION

Despite the consumption of fluoxetine, patients had significantly higher chemokine levels, even after considering the improvement in HDRS score. The high levels of eotaxin, IP-10, and IL-8 partially explain certain aspects that are affected in MDD such as cognition, memory, and learning.

Relationship between chemokines and T lymphocytes in the context of respiratory allergies (Review)

Allergic diseases have been classified in the last decades using various theories. The main classes of the newest classification in allergic respiratory diseases focus on the characterization of the endotype (which takes into account biomarkers related to determinant pathophysiological mechanisms) and of the phenotype (based on the description of the disease). Th2, Th1 and Th17 lymphocytes and the type of inflammatory response mediated by them represent the basis for Th2 and non-Th2 endotype classification. In addition, new lymphocytes were also used to characterize allergic diseases: Th9 lymphocytes, Th22 lymphocytes, T follicular helper cells (T_FH) lymphocytes and invariant natural killer T (iNKT) lymphocytes. In the last decade, a growing body of evidence focused on chemokines, chemoattractant cytokines, which seems to have an important contribution to the pathogenesis of this pathology. This review presents the interactions between chemokines and Th lymphocytes in the context of Th2/non-Th2 endotype classification of respiratory allergies.

CCR3 antagonist protects against induced cellular senescence and promotes rejuvenation in periodontal ligament cells for stimulating pulp regeneration in the aged dog

Pulp regeneration after transplantation of mobilized dental pulp stem cells (MDPSCs) declines in the aged dogs due in part to the chronic inflammation and/or cellular senescence. Eotaxin-1/C-C motif chemokine 11 (CCL11) is an inflammation marker via chemokine receptor 3 (CCR3). Moreover, CCR3 antagonist (CCR3A) can inhibit CCL11 binding to CCR3 and prevent CCL11/CCR3 signaling. The study aimed to examine the effect of CCR3A on cellular senescence and anti-inflammation/immunomodulation in human periodontal ligament cells (HPDLCs). The rejuvenating effects of CCR3A on neurite extension and migratory activity to promote pulp regeneration in aged dog teeth were also evaluated. In vivo, the amount of regenerated pulp tissues was significantly increased by transplantation of MDPSCs with CCR3A compared to control without CCR3A. In vitro, senescence of HPDLCs was induced after p-Cresol exposure, as indicated by increased cell size, decreased proliferation and increased senescence markers, p21 and IL-1β. Treatment of HPDLCs with CCR3A prevented the senescence effect of p-Cresol. Furthermore, CCR3A significantly decreased expression of CCL11, increased expression of immunomodulatory factor, IDO, and enhanced neurite extension and migratory activity. In conclusion, CCR3A protects against p-Cresol-induced cellular senescence and enhances rejuvenating effects, suggesting its potential utility to stimulate pulp regeneration in the aged teeth.

Altered chemokine profile in Refractory Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia infected children

BACKGROUND

Mycoplasma pneumoniae is one of the major pathogens causing community-acquired pneumonia in children. Although usually self-limited, Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia (MPP) may lead to complicated morbidity that can even be life-threatening. Upon MPP infection, alveolar macrophage becomes attracted and activated and will induce subsequent cytokine and chemokine reaction. Refractory Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia (RMPP) is manifested by clinical or radiological deterioration despite proper antibiotic therapy. RMPP is characterized with excessive inflammation and may need subsequent glucocorticoid treatment.

AIM

The aim of this study was to investigate the change of plasma chemokines in non-refractory Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia (NRMPP) and RMPP before and after antibiotic or methylprednisolone treatment.

METHOD

A total of 42 children with MPP were enrolled in this study. Plasma specimens were collected at admission and one to two weeks after antibiotic or methylprednisolone treatment with declined fever. Plasma specimens were then indicated to chemokines detection.

RESULTS

Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia altered the chemokine profile through the observation of decreased plasma M1 related chemokines (CCL2, CCL8 and CXCL10) and increased M2 related chemokines (CCL17 and CCL22) after treatment.When the patients were divided into RMPP and NRMPP groups and the chemokines before treatment were compared, the RMPP group showed higher CXCL10 but lower CCL3 and CCL11 than the NRMPP group.

CONCLUSION

Unique changes in macrophage related chemokines is observed in the course of MPP infection. NRMPP and RMPP infection in children showed distinct manifestation in chemokine profiles.

TLR5 Activation Exacerbates Airway Inflammation in Asthma

INTRODUCTION

Innate immune activation through exposure to indoor and outdoor pollutants is emerging as an important determinant of asthma severity. For example, household levels of the bacterial product lipopolysaccharide (LPS) are associated with increased asthma severity. We hypothesized that activation of the innate immune receptor TLR5 by its bacterial ligand flagellin will exacerbate airway inflammation and asthma symptoms.

METHODS

We determined the effect of flagellin co-exposure with ovalbumin in a murine model of allergic asthma. We evaluated the presence of flagellin activity in house dust of asthma patients. Finally, we analyzed the association of a dominant-negative polymorphism in TLR5 (rs5744168) with asthma symptoms in patients with asthma.

RESULTS

We showed that bacterial flagellin can be found in the house dust of patients with asthma and that this bacterial product exacerbates allergic airway inflammation in an allergen-specific mouse model of asthma. Furthermore, a dominant-negative genetic polymorphism in TLR5, the receptor for flagellin, is associated with decreased symptoms in patients with asthma.

CONCLUSION

Together, our results reveal a novel genetic protective factor (TLR5 deficiency) and a novel environmental pollutant (microbial flagellin) that influence asthma severity. (Clinical trials NCT01688986 and NCT01087307).

Immune network dysregulation associated with child neurodevelopmental delay: modulatory role of prenatal alcohol exposure

Background

Evidence suggests that cytokine imbalances may be at the root of deficits that occur in numerous neurodevelopmental disorders, including schizophrenia and autism spectrum disorder. Notably, while clinical studies have demonstrated maternal cytokine imbalances with alcohol consumption during pregnancy—and data from animal models have identified immune disturbances in alcohol-exposed offspring—to date, immune alterations in alcohol-exposed children have not been explored. Thus, here we hypothesized that perturbations in the immune environment as a result of prenatal alcohol exposure will program the developing immune system, and result in immune dysfunction into childhood. Due to the important role of cytokines in brain development/function, we further hypothesized that child immune profiles might be associated with their neurodevelopmental status.

Methods

As part of a longitudinal study in Ukraine, children of mothers reporting low/no alcohol consumption or moderate-to-heavy alcohol consumption during pregnancy were enrolled in the study and received neurodevelopmental assessments. Group stratification was based on maternal alcohol consumption and child neurodevelopmental status resulting in the following groups: A/TD, alcohol-consuming mother, typically developing child; A/ND, alcohol-consuming mother, neurodevelopmental delay in the child; C/TD, control mother (low/no alcohol consumption), typically development child; and C/ND, control mother, neurodevelopmental delay in the child. Forty cytokines/chemokines were measured in plasma and data were analyzed using regression and constrained principle component analysis.

Results

Analyses revealed differential cytokine network activity associated with both prenatal alcohol exposure and neurodevelopmental status. Specifically, alcohol-exposed children showed activation of a cytokine network including eotaxin-3, eotaxin, and bFGF, irrespective of neurodevelopmental status. However, another cytokine network was differentially activated based on neurodevelopmental outcome: A/TD showed activation of MIP-1β, MDC, and MCP-4, and inhibition of CRP and PlGF, with opposing pattern of activation/inhibition detected in the A/ND group. By contrast, in the absence of alcohol-exposure, activation of a network including IL-2, TNF-β, IL-10, and IL-15 was associated with neurodevelopmental delay.

Conclusions

Taken together, this comprehensive assessment of immune markers allowed for the identification of unique immune milieus that are associated with alcohol exposure as well as both alcohol-related and alcohol-independent neurodevelopmental delay. These findings are a critical step towards establishing unique immune biomarkers for alcohol-related and alcohol-independent neurodevelopmental delay.

Berberine Inhibits Pro-inflammatory Cytokine-induced IL-6 and CCL11 Production via Modulation of STAT6 Pathway in Human Bronchial Epithelial Cells

Berberine is an isoquinoline alkaloid isolated from various Chinese herbs that has potential of anti-inflammatory, anti-lipidemic, anti-neoplastic, and anti-diabetic activity. In this study, we evaluated the anti-inflammatory efficacy of berberine on allergic airway inflammation by targeting epithelial cells. Allergic airway inflammation driven by T helper 2 (Th2)-type immunity is characterized by airway hyperresponsiveness, elevated IgE production, and eosinophilic infiltration. For eosinophil recruitment, major chemoattractant CCL11 (eotaxin-1) was secreted by lung epithelial cells. BEAS-2B cells, a human bronchial epithelial cell line, were pre-treated with berberine and then activated by IL-4 plus TNF-α. The viability of BEAS-2B cells was assessed. Expression levels of IL-6 and CCL11 were determined using ELISA and real-time PCR. The signaling pathways of MAP kinases, NF-κB, and STAT6 were analyzed by western blot. Berberine treatment (≤1 μM) didn't significantly affect the viability of BEAS-2B cells with or without IL-4 plus TNF-stimulation. Berberine significantly inhibited the secretion of IL-6 and CCL11 from pro-inflammatory cytokine-activated BEAS-2B cells. NF-κB and MAP kinase pathways were seemingly unaffected in BEAS-2B cells with berberine treatment. Significant reduction of nuclear STAT6 protein expression in activated BEAS-2B cells with berberine treatment was observed. Current study reveals that berberine has inhibitory effect in pro-inflammatory cytokine-activated BEAS-2B cells through reducing IL-6 and CCL11 production, which is possibly modulated by suppressing STAT6 signaling pathway.

Expression of eosinophil β chain-signaling cytokines receptors, outer-membrane integrins, and type 2 inflammation biomarkers in severe non-allergic eosinophilic asthma

Background

Severe non-allergic eosinophilic asthma (SNEA) is a rare asthma phenotype associated with severe clinical course, frequent exacerbations, and resistance to therapy, including high steroid doses. The key feature is type 2 inflammation with predominant airway eosinophilia. Eosinophil maturation, activation, survivability, and recruitment are mainly induced by interleukin (IL)-3, IL-5 and granulocyte–macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) through their receptors on eosinophil surface and related with integrins activation states. The aim of the study was to estimate the expression of eosinophil β chain-signaling cytokines receptors, outer-membrane integrins, and serum-derived type 2 inflammation biomarkers in SNEA.

Methods

We examined 8 stable SNEA patients with high inhaled steroid doses, 12 steroid-free patients with non-severe allergic asthma (AA), 12 healthy subjects (HS). Blood eosinophils were isolated using Ficol gradient centrifugation and magnetic separation. Eosinophils were lysed, and mRNA was isolated. Gene expressions of IL-5Rα, IL-3Rα, GM-CSFRα, and α4β1, αMβ2 integrins were analyzed using quantitative real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. Type 2 inflammation activity was evaluated measuring exhaled nitric oxide concentration (FeNO) collected with the electrochemical sensing device. Serum IL-5, IL-3, GM-CSF, periostin, chemokine ligand (CCL) 17 and eotaxin concentrations were assessed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.

Results

Eosinophils from SNEA patients demonstrated significantly increased gene expression of IL-3Rα, IL-5Rα and GM-CSFRα as well as α4, β1 and αM integrin subunits compared with the AA group. The highest IL-5 serum concentration was in the SNEA group; it significantly differed compared with AA and HS. GM-CSF serum levels were similar in the SNEA and AA groups and were significantly lower in the HS group. No differences in serum IL-3 concentration were found among all groups. Furthermore, serum levels of eotaxin, CCL17 and FeNO, but not periostin, differed in all groups, with the highest levels in SNEA patients.

Conclusions

Eosinophil demonstrated higher expression of IL-3, IL-5, GM-CSF α-chain receptors and α4, β1, αM integrins subunits in SNEA compared with the AA group. Additionally, SNEA patients had increased serum levels of IL-5, eotaxin and CCL-17.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier NCT03388359.

Circulating factors in young blood as potential therapeutic agents for age-related neurodegenerative and neurovascular diseases

Recent animal studies on heterochronic parabiosis (a technique combining the blood circulation of two animals) have revealed that young blood has a powerful rejuvenating effect on brain aging. Circulating factors, especially growth differentiation factor 11 (GDF11) and C-C motif chemokine 11 (CCL11), may play a key role in this effect, which inspires hope for novel approaches to treating age-related cerebral diseases in humans, such as neurodegenerative and neurovascular diseases. Recently, attempts have begun to translate these astonishing and exciting findings from mice to humans and from bench to bedside. However, increasing reports have shown contradictory data, questioning the capacity of these circulating factors to reverse age-related brain dysfunction. In this review, we summarize the current research on the role of young blood, as well as the circulating factors GDF11 and CCL11, in the aging brain and age-related cerebral diseases. We highlight recent controversies, discuss related challenges and provide a future outlook.

Increased peripheral levels of TARC/CCL17 in first episode psychosis patients

BACKGROUND

Evidence for a link between the pathophysiology of schizophrenia and the immune system is mounting. Altered levels of chemokines in plasma have previously been reported in patients with schizophrenia under antipsychotic medication. Here we aimed to study both peripheral and central chemokine levels in drug-naïve or short-time medicated first episode psychosis (FEP) patients.

METHOD

We analyzed nine chemokines in plasma and CSF from 41 FEP patients and 22 healthy controls using electrochemiluminescence assay.

RESULTS

In plasma four chemokines; TARC/CCL17, eotaxin/CCL11, MDC/CCL22, IP-10/CXCL10 and in CSF one chemokine; IP-10/CXCL10 showed reliable detection in >50% of the cases. FEP patients displayed increased levels of TARC/CCL17 in plasma compared to healthy controls, 89.6 (IQR 66.2-125.8) pg/mL compared to 48.6 (IQR 28.0-71.7) pg/mL (p = 0.001). The difference was not attributed to confounding factors. Plasma TARC/CCL17 was not associated with PANSS, CGI or GAF scores, neither with cognitive functions. The chemokines eotaxin/CCL11, MDC/CCL22, IP-10/CXCL10 in plasma and IP-10/CXCL10 in CSF did not differ between FEP patients and controls.

CONCLUSION

In line with a previous study showing that chronic patients with schizophrenia display increased plasma TARC/CCL17 levels, we here found an elevation in FEP patients suggesting a role of TARC/CCL17 in early stages of schizophrenia. The exact mechanism of this involvement is still unknown and future longitudinal studies as well as studies of central and peripheral chemokine levels would be of great interest.

CCR10+ ILC2s with ILC1-like properties exhibit a protective function in severe allergic asthma

BACKGROUND

We previously showed that patients with severe allergic asthma have high numbers of circulating ILC2s expressing CCR10.

METHOD

Herein, CCR10⁺ ILC2s were further analyzed in the blood of healthy individuals or patients with allergic and non-allergic asthma. Characteristics of human CCR10⁺ and CCR10^- ILC2s were assessed by flow cytometry as well as single-cell multiplex RT-qPCR. The role of CCR10⁺ ILC2s in asthma pathophysiology was studied in allergen-treated mice.

RESULTS

When compared to healthy controls, CCR10⁺ ILC2s are enriched in the blood of both allergic and non-allergic severe asthmatic patients, and these cells are recruited to the lungs. Plasma concentrations of the CCR10 ligand CCL27 are significantly increased in severe asthmatics when compared to non-asthmatic patients. CCR10⁺ ILC2s secrete little T_H 2 cytokines, but exhibit ILC1-like properties, including a capacity to produce IFN-γ. Also, single-cell analysis reveals that the CCR10⁺ ILC2 subset is enriched in cells expressing amphiregulin. CCR10⁺ ILC2 depletion, as well as blocking of IFN-γ activity, exacerbates airway hyperreactivity in allergen-challenged mice, providing evidence for a protective role of these cells in allergic inflammation.

CONCLUSIONS

Frequencies of circulating CCR10⁺ ILC2s and CCL27 plasma concentrations represent candidate markers of asthma severity. The characterization of CCR10⁺ ILC2s in human samples and in mouse asthma models suggests that these cells downregulate allergic inflammation through IFN-γ production.

Plasma cytokines as potential biomarkers of kidney damage in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus

Background

Systemic lupus erythematosus is a heterogeneous chronic inflammatory autoimmune disorder characterized by an exacerbated expression of cytokines and chemokines in different tissues and organs. Renal involvement is a significant contributor to the morbidity and mortality of systemic lupus erythematosus, and its diagnosis is based on renal biopsy, an invasive procedure with a high risk of complications. Therefore, the development of alternative, non-invasive diagnostic tests for kidney disease in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus is a priority.

Aim

To evaluate the plasma levels of a panel of cytokines and chemokines using multiplex xMAP technology in a cohort of Colombian patients with active and inactive systemic lupus erythematosus, and to evaluate their potential as biomarkers of renal involvement.

Results

Plasma from 40 systemic lupus erythematosus non-nephritis patients and 80 lupus nephritis patients with different levels of renal involvement were analyzed for 39 cytokines using Luminex xMAP technology. Lupus nephritis patients had significantly increased plasma eotaxin, TNF-α, interleukin-17-α, interleukin-10, and interleukin-15 as compared to the systemic lupus erythematosus non-nephritis group. Macrophage-derived chemokine, growth regulated oncogene alpha, and epidermal growth factor were significantly elevated in systemic lupus erythematosus non-nephritis patients when compared to lupus nephritis individuals. Plasma eotaxin levels allowed a discrimination between systemic lupus erythematosus non-nephritis and lupus nephritis patients, for which we performed a receiver operating characteristic curve to confirm. We observed a correlation of eotaxin levels with active nephritis (Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Index). Our data indicate that circulating cytokines and chemokines could be considered good predictors of renal involvement in individuals with systemic lupus erythematosus.

Serum CCL11 level is associated with radiographic spinal damage in patients with ankylosing spondylitis

The clinical significance of C-C motif chemokine11 (CCL11) in bone metabolism in ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is not clearly elucidated. Thus, this cross-sectional study aimed to compare serum levels of CCL11 between patients with AS and healthy controls and to investigate the relationship between serum levels of CCL11 and radiographic spinal damage in patients with AS. We consecutively recruited 55 male patients with AS and 26 age- and sex-matched healthy controls. Serum levels of CCL11, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-17, and Dickkopf-1 (DKK-1) were measured with commercially available enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kits. Radiographs were scored according to the modified Stoke ankylosing spondylitis spine score (mSASSS), and syndesmophytes were defined as mSASSS ≥ 2. The serum levels of CCL11 in AS patients with syndesmophytes were significantly higher than those in AS patients without syndesmophytes (p = 0.007) and healthy controls (p = 0.006). In AS patients, the serum levels of CCL11 were significantly and positively correlated with mSASSS (p = 0.006), number of syndesmophytes (p = 0.029). After adjusting for confounding factors, elevated serum levels of CCL11 were associated with increased mSASSS (β = 0.007, p = 0.03) and higher risk for the presence of syndesmophytes (OR 2.34 per 50 pg/ml increase, p = 0.012) in AS patients. We found that the serum level of CCL11 was associated with structural damage in patients with AS, suggesting that CCL11 may serve as a promising biomarker for new bone formation in AS.

Urinary polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon metabolites and adult asthma: a case-control study

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) exposure was reported to be associated with childhood asthma. However, the quantitative relationship between PAHs exposure and adult asthma and possible inflammatory pathways are less clear. We aimed to investigate potential associations between urinary PAHs metabolites and adult asthma. We enrolled 507 adult asthma cases and 536 matched controls. The concentrations of 12 urinary PAHs metabolites and plasma cytokines of interleukin (IL)-9 and eotaxin were measured. Potential associations between urinary PAHs metabolites and adult asthma were analyzed by logistic regression. The relationships between urinary PAHs metabolites and plasma cytokines were determined by generalized linear regression. After adjusted for covariates, each 1-unit-increase in natural log-transformed concentrations of 2-hydroxyfluorene (2-OHFLU), 4- hydroxyphenanthrene (4-OHPHE), 1-OHPHE, 2-OHPHE, 1-Hydroxypyrene (1-OHPYR) and ∑OH-PAHs were significantly associated with elevated risk of adult asthma with odds ratios of 2.04, 2.38, 2.04, 1.26, 2.35 and 1.34, respectively. And the associations were more pronounced in the subjects who were female, younger than 45 years, smoker and had history of occupational dust exposure. No associations were observed between urinary PAHs metabolites levels and expressions of IL-9 and eotaxin. Our results demonstrated that elevated urinary PAHs metabolites levels were associated with increased risk of asthma in adults.

Characteristics of Proinflammatory Cytokines and Chemokines in Airways of Asthmatics: Relationships with Disease Severity and Infiltration of Inflammatory Cells

BACKGROUND

Increased proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines might contribute to infiltration of inflammatory cells and remodeling in airways of asthma. Although these molecules may be associated with asthma, there is lack of systemic evidence showing which and how important these events are in the disease. We aimed to analyze the concentrations of these molecules in the airways and relationships with disease severity and with airway infiltration of inflammatory cells in a large cohort of asthmatics (n = 70, including 37 mild and 33 moderate/severe asthmatics) compared with controls (n = 30).

METHODS

Meso scale discovery system and commercial ELISA kits were used to measure the concentrations of proinflammatory cytokines interleukin (IL)-1β; tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α); IL-6; and IL-17 and CC and CXC chemokines CCL2, CCL4, CCL11, CCL13, CCL17, CCL22, and CCL26 and CXCL8, CXCL9, CXCL10, and CXCL11 in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid of asthmatics and controls.

RESULTS

The concentrations of IL-1, TNF-α, IL-6, CXCL8 and CXCL10, and CCL4, CCL11, CCL17, and CCL22 were significantly elevated in asthmatics compared with controls (P < 0.05). The concentrations of TNF-α and CXCL8, but not others, were negatively correlated with severity of disease (lung function forced expiratory volume in 1 s) (TNF-α vs. total: r = -0.359, P= 0.002 vs. moderate/severe: r= -0.541, P= 0.001; CXCL8 vs. total: r = -0.327, P= 0.006 vs. moderate/severe: r = -0.625, P= 0.0001, respectively). In addition, concentrations of these two molecules were also correlated with the absolute numbers of infiltrating eosinophils and neutrophils in asthmatic airways.

CONCLUSIONS

Increased concentrations of TNF-α and CXCL8 are associated with pathogenesis of asthma. Targeting these molecules might provide an alternative therapeutic for this disease.

Severe bronchial asthma in children: a review of novel biomarkers used as predictors of the disease

Severe asthma or therapy-resistant asthma in children is a heterogeneous disease that affects all age-groups. Given its heterogeneity, precision in diagnosis and treatment has become imperative, in order to achieve better outcomes. If one is thus able to identify specific patient phenotypes and endotypes using the appropriate biomarkers, it will assist in providing the patient with more personalized and appropriate treatment. However, there appears to be a huge diagnostic gap in severe asthma, as there is no single test yet that accurately determines disease phenotype. In this paper, we review the published literature on some of these biomarkers and their possible role in bridging this diagnostic gap. We also highlight the cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in severe asthma, in order to show the basis for the novel biomarkers. Some markers useful for monitoring therapy and assessing airway remodeling in the disease are also discussed. A review of the literature was conducted with PubMed to gather baseline data on the subject. The literature search extended to articles published within the last 40 years. Although biomarkers specific to different severe asthma phenotypes have been identified, progress in their utility remains slow, because of several disease mechanisms, the variation of biomarkers at different levels of inflammation, changes in relying on one test over time (eg, from sputum eosinophilia to blood eosinophilia), and the degree of invasive tests required to collect biomarkers, which limits their applicability in clinical settings. In conclusion, several biomarkers remain useful in recognizing various asthma phenotypes. However, due to disease heterogeneity, identification and utilization of ideal and defined biomarkers in severe asthma are still inconclusive. The development of novel serum/sputum-based biomarker panels with enhanced sensitivity and specificity may lead to prompt diagnosis of the disease in the future.

Revisiting the Role of Eotaxin-1/CCL11 in Psychiatric Disorders

Eotaxin-1/CCL11 is a chemokine originally implicated in the selective recruitment of eosinophils into inflammatory sites during allergic reactions, being thoroughly investigated in asthma, allergic rhinitis, and other eosinophil-related conditions. Eotaxin-1/CCL11 is also involved with a skewed immune response toward a type-2 (Th2) profile. In addition to its role in immune response, recent studies have shown that eotaxin-1/CCL11 is associated with aging, neurogenesis and neurodegeneration, being able to influence neural progenitor cells, and microglia. Increased circulating levels of eotaxin-1/CCL11 have been described in major psychiatric disorders (schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, major depression), sometimes correlating with the severity of psychopathological and cognitive parameters. As similar findings have been reported in neurodegenerative conditions such as Alzheimer's disease, it has been hypothesized that mechanisms involving eotaxin-1/CCL11 signaling may underlie the "accelerated aging" profile commonly linked to psychiatric disorders. Future studies must determine whether eotaxin-1/CCL11 can be regarded as a prognostic biomarker and/or as therapeutic target for resistant/progressive cases.

Characterization of the acute inflammatory profile and resolution of airway inflammation after Igf1r-gene targeting in a murine model of HDM-induced asthma

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by bronchial hyperresponsiveness, mucus overproduction and airway remodeling. Notably, we have recently demonstrated that insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF1R) deficiency in mice attenuates airway hyperresponsiveness and mucus secretion after chronic house dust mite (HDM) exposure. On this basis, inbred C57BL/6 and Igf1r-deficient mice were given HDM extract to study the acute inflammatory profile and implication of Igf1r in acute asthma pathobiology. Additionally, Igf1r-deficiency was therapeutically induced in mice to evaluate the resolution of HDM-induced inflammation. Acute HDM exposure in inbred C57BL/6 mice led to a progressive increase in inflammation, airway remodeling and associated molecular indicators. Preventively-induced Igf1r-deficiency showed reduced neutrophil and eosinophil numbers in BALF and bone marrow, a significant reduction of airway remodeling and decreased levels of related markers. In addition, therapeutic targeting of Igf1r promoted the resolution of HDM-induced-inflammation. Our results demonstrate for the first time that Igf1r is important in acute asthma pathobiology and resolution of HDM-induced inflammation. Thus, IGF1R is suggested to be a promising candidate for future therapeutic approaches for the treatment and prevention of asthma.

Associations between Th17-related inflammatory cytokines and asthma in adults: A Case-Control Study

Chronic airway inflammation is recognized as an essential process in the pathogenesis of asthma. Cytokine profiles derived from immune and inflammation cells such as T-helper (Th) cells, eosinophilia and neutrophilia are not limited to the Th2 type in asthma. However, little is understood about associations between Th2-low inflammatory cytokine profiles and risk of asthma in adults. A case-control study of 910 adult asthma and 881 healthy controls was conducted. Inflammatory cytokines screening was undertaken by high-throughput protein microarray technology, and Th17-related inflammatory cytokines (IL17A, IL-9, adipsin and CCL11) were finally selected. Associations between these four cytokines and adult asthma risk were analyzed by multivariate logistic regression models. We observed that plasma IL-17A and IL-9 levels were significantly increased in asthmatics when compared with controls. However, the plasma expressions of adipsin and CCL11 in asthmatics were significantly lower than that in health controls. The adjusted ORs (95%CI) of association between IL-17A, IL-9, adipsin and CCL11 expressions and adult asthma were 3.08 (1.91, 4.97), 1.93 (1.41, 2.64), 10.02 (6.99, 14.37) and 3.29 (2.36, 4.59), respectively (all P _trend < 0.0001). Our results suggested that elevated IL-17A and IL-9 expressions and decreased levels of adipsin and CCL11 were positively associated with adult asthma.

CCL11, a novel mediator of inflammatory bone resorption

Normal bone homeostasis, which is regulated by bone-resorbing osteoclasts and bone-forming osteoblasts is perturbed by inflammation. In chronic inflammatory disease with disturbed bone remodelling, e.g. rheumatoid arthritis, patients show increased serum levels of the chemokine eotaxin-1 (CCL11). Herein, we demonstrate an inflammatory driven expression of CCL11 in bone tissue and a novel role of CCL11 in osteoclast migration and resorption. Using an inflammatory bone lesion model and primary cell cultures, we discovered that osteoblasts express CCL11 in vivo and in vitro and that expression increased during inflammatory conditions. Osteoclasts did not express CCL11, but the high affinity receptor CCR3 was significantly upregulated during osteoclast differentiation and found to colocalise with CCL11. Exogenous CCL11 was internalised in osteoclast and stimulated the migration of pre-osteoclast and concomitant increase in bone resorption. Our data pinpoints that the CCL11/CCR3 pathway could be a new target for treatment of inflammatory bone resorption.

Bronchial hyperreactivity in perimenstrual asthma is associated with increased Th-2 response in lower airways

BACKGROUND

Perimenstrual asthma (PMA) is a commonly observed, usually difficult-to-treat asthma phenotype. The mechanisms underlying this phenomenon remain unexplained. The aim of the study was to assess the degree of airway hyperresponsiveness and its relationship to proinflammatory cytokines concentration in lower airways of PMA compared to non-PMA patients.

METHODS

Premenopausal women with regular menstrual cycles diagnosed as: PMA (n=12), non-PMA asthmatics (n=9), and healthy controls (n=10) were prospectively followed for 10 weeks over two consecutive menstrual cycles. The bronchial responsiveness (BR) test to methacholine was performed in each subject prior to the study. The serum for total immunoglobulin E (IgE) concentrations was taken and sputum was induced in the 26th day of each of the two cycles. Sputum concentration of eotaxin, IL-4 and IL-10 were measured by ELISA.

RESULTS

Levels of BR to metacholine as well, as total blood IgE concentrations in PMA subjects were significantly higher than in non-PMA asthmatics and healthy controls (P=0.001, P=0.022 respectively) and correlated with each other (P=0.030; r =-0.65). Sputum eotaxin and IL-4 concentrations in luteal phase were increased in PMA patients when compared with non-PMA asthmatics (P=0.016; P=0.041, respectively) and healthy subjects (P<0.001 both cytokines). No differences for the sputum levels of IL-10 among studied groups were seen.

CONCLUSIONS

BR level in perimenstrual asthma is higher than in non-PMA asthmatics and correlates with increased total IgE serum concentration. The increased level of BR in PMA patients is associated with a shift in the type-1/type-2 cytokine balance toward a type-2 response.

Can serum cytokine profile discriminate irritant-induced and allergen-induced symptoms? A cross-sectional study in workers mostly exposed to laboratory animals

BACKGROUND

In workers exposed mostly to laboratory animals (LA), symptoms may be due to irritants or allergens. Correct aetiological diagnosis is important for health surveillance.

OBJECTIVES

This study aims to test whether work-related (WR) allergen-induced symptoms are associated with a cytokine profile distinct from that due to irritants.

METHODS

In a cross-sectional study (n=114), WR respiratory and/or skin symptoms were assessed through a standardised clinical examination and sensitisation to rat and/or mouse allergen determined by serum immunoglobulin E. Serum cytokine concentrations were measured by multiplex assays. The predefined cytokine profiles 'sensitiser' (interleukin (IL)-4, IL-5, IL-13, eotaxin-1) and 'irritation' (IL-8, IL-17A, IL-17F, IL-22) were considered positive, when ≥3 concentrations exceeded the 95th percentile of the asymptomatic non-sensitised group. Results were examined by hierarchical clustering analyses (HCA) and multiple linear regression. Explorative analyses were carried out for nine additional cytokines. Exposure to allergens and endotoxin was assessed in a subpopulation.

RESULTS

The prevalence of the profile 'irritation' was comparable in 28 symptomatic non-sensitised workers and 71 asymptomatic non-sensitised workers. HCA showed that nearly all symptomatic non-sensitised workers were gathered in two subclusters, characterised by high IL-17A levels, but different IL-8 levels. Multiple linear regression identified drug consumption and current complaints as confounders. Sensitised subjects were too few (n=14) for testing the profile 'sensitiser'.

CONCLUSIONS

In this unselected population of LA workers, the profile 'irritation' did not prove to be a valuable health surveillance tool. Low power precluded assessment of the profile 'sensitiser'. The increased IL-17A concentration may originate from irritative constituents of organic dust.

Alzheimer's disease as an inflammatory disease

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative condition characterized by the formation of amyloid-β plaques, aggregated and hyperphosphorylated tau protein, activated microglia and neuronal cell death, ultimately leading to progressive dementia. In this short review, we focus on neuroinflammation in AD. Specifically, we describe the participation of microglia, as well as other factors that may contribute to inflammation, in neurodegeneration.

The Flavonoid 7,4'-Dihydroxyflavone Prevents Dexamethasone Paradoxical Adverse Effect on Eotaxin Production by Human Fibroblasts

Eotaxin/CCL-11 is a major chemoattractant that contributes to eosinophilic inflammation in asthma. Glucocorticoids inhibit inflammation, but long-time exposure may cause paradoxical adverse effects by augmenting eotaxin/CCL-11production. The aim of this study was to determine if 7,4'-dihydroxyflavone (7,4'-DHF), the eotaxin/CCL11 inhibitor isolated from Glycyrrhiza uralensis, reduces in vitro eotaxin production induced by long-time dexamethasone (Dex) exposure, and if so, to elucidate the mechanisms of this inhibition. Human lung fibroblast-1 cells were used to identify the potency of 7,4'-DHF compared with other compounds from G. uralensis, to compare 7,4'-DHF with Dex on eotaxin production following 24-h short-time culture and 72-h longer-time (LT) culture, and to determine the effects of the 7,4'-DHF on Dex LT culture augmented eotaxin production and molecule mechanisms. 7,4'-DHF was the most potent eotaxin/CCL-11 inhibitor among the ten compounds and provided continued suppression. In contrast to short-time culture, Dex LT culture increased constitutively, and IL-4/TNF-α stimulated eotaxin/CCL11 production by human lung fibroblast-1 cells. This adverse effect was abrogated by 7,4'-DHF co-culture. 7,4'-DHF significantly inhibited Dex LT culture augmentation of p-STAT6 and impaired HDAC2 expression. This study demonstrated that 7,4'-DHF has the ability to consistently suppress eotaxin production and prevent Dex-paradoxical adverse effects on eotaxin production. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Severe Asthma: Have We Made Progress?

Tremendous efforts have been invested in research to (1) discover risk factors, biomarkers, and clinical characteristics; (2) understand the pathophysiology and treatment response variability in severe asthma; and (3) design new therapies. However, to combat severe asthma, many questions concerning the pathogenesis of severe asthma, including its natural history, genetic and environmental risk factors, and disease mechanisms, must be answered. In this article we highlight some of the major discoveries concerning the pathogenesis of severe asthma and its therapeutic development. We conclude that discoveries on numerous fronts of severe asthma, from disease heterogeneity, features of airway remodeling, cytokine mediators and signaling pathways underlying disease pathogenesis, disease mechanisms, potential biomarkers, to new therapeutic targets, demonstrate that progress has been made in understanding and developing more effective treatments for this difficult-to-treat disease.

Personalized Medicine in Allergy

Allergic disease is among the most common pathologies worldwide and its prevalence has constantly increased up to the present days, even if according to the most recent data it seems to be slightly slowing down. Allergic disease has not only a high rate of misdiagnosis and therapeutic inefficacy, but represents an enormous, resource-absorbing black hole in respiratory and general medicine. The aim of this paper is to summarize principal therapeutic innovations in atopic disease management befallen in the recent years in terms of personalized/precision medicine.