In vivo Differentiation of Human Monocytes

Transcriptome combined with Mendelian randomization to identify key genes related to polyamine metabolism in childhood obesity and elucidate their molecular regulatory mechanisms

Currently, research has found a close correlation between childhood obesity (CO) and elevated levels of polyamines in the bloodstream. Thus, the identification of key genes associated with polyamines metabolism in CO could offer fresh insights for clinical management of CO. This study utilized two datasets from public databases (GSE205668 and GSE104815) and 59 polyamines metabolism-related genes (PMRGs) to screen for candidate genes. Subsequently, candidate key genes were selected using Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis, and machine learning algorithms were employed to obtain intersecting feature genes based on the MR results. Then key genes were identified through expression validation. Finally, we conducted research on the key genes including gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA), immune infiltration, and transcription factor(TF)-mRNA network. Differential analysis identified 432 candidate genes linked to childhood obesity and polyamine metabolism, with 4 key genes showing causal relationships. Specifically, WWC1, NPL, and LAPTM5 as risk factors [odd ratio (OR) > 1], while GPAT3 (OR < 1) was identified as a protective factor for CO. Machine learning algorithms pinpointed 3 feature genes (WWC1, NPL, and GPAT3) with significant differential expression and consistent trends. GSEA revealed ribosome and lysosome pathways linked to key genes. MITF regulated these genes in the TF-mRNA network. Twelve immune cell types, mostly correlating with key genes, were identified. We identified 3 key genes (WWC1, NPL, and GPAT3) related to polyamine metabolism in CO. Additionally, we investigated their potential biological functions and regulatory mechanisms, aiming to provide new theoretical basis for the treatment and diagnosis of CO.

Single-Cell RNA Sequencing Reveals the Immune Landscape of Granulomatous Mastitis

Granulomatous mastitis (GM) is a form of non-lactational breast inflammation that is closely associated with autoimmune processes, however its underlying pathogenesis remains elusive. In this study, we employed single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) to conduct a comparative analysis of GM lesion tissues versus normal breast tissues, thereby unveiling the immune profile of GM tissues. Our investigation centered on T and NK cells, macrophages, epithelial cells, and endothelial cells. Notably, we observed a substantial infiltration of immune cells in GM tissues, accompanied by immune disorders, an elevation in Th1 cell counts, enrichment of the toll-like receptor (TLR) pathway, and upregulation of various factors including interferon-γ (IFN-γ), C-C motif chemokine ligand 3 (CCL3), CCL4, chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand (CXCL) 13, CD69, signal transducer and activator of transcription 1 (STAT1), and heat shock protein family A member 1A (HSPA1A). Furthermore, the macrophage subpopulations in GM tissues exhibited a transition to a pro-inflammatory phenotype, enriched for pathways such as interferon-γ (IFN-γ), IFN-α, interleukin-6/janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (IL-6/JAK/STAT3), and tumor necrosis factor-α/nuclear factor-κB (TNF-α/NF-κB). Mammary luminal cells demonstrated an impaired estrogenic profile yet displayed upregulation of prolactin downstream signaling pathways, namely the JAK/STAT and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways. Additionally, vascular endothelial cells were found to recruit immune cells and exhibited a prominent angiogenic profile in GM tissues. Cellular interaction analysis unveiled an intricate network of interactions between mesenchymal and immune cells. This study provides a comprehensive immune landscape of granulomatous mastitis and offers some potential therapeutic targets for the disease.

Roles of macrophages and monocytes in resistance to immunotherapy in breast cancers

BACKGROUND

Immunotherapy is increasingly integral to breast cancer treatment, yet a subset develops resistance, partly mediated by macrophages and monocytes in the tumor immune microenvironment. While macrophages play essential roles in phagocytosis and pathogen clearance, their dual role in breast cancer-acting as both barriers to therapy and potential therapeutic targets-complicates treatment efficacy.

STRATEGY

Tumor-associated macrophages, polarized by tumor-derived signals, promote cancer progression and metastasis. Monocytes, subdivided into CD14+CD16- and CD14+CD16+ subsets, exhibit distinct functional profiles in cytokine secretion, antigen presentation, and migration. Modulating monocyte subset dynamics and functionality may enhance immunotherapy responsiveness.

CONCLUSION

A multimodal strategy targeting macrophages, monocytes, and complementary immunotherapies offers promising avenues to overcome resistance. Further research into the heterogeneity and regulatory mechanisms of these cells is critical for developing optimized, safe immunotherapeutic protocols. This review underscores the necessity of combination immunotherapies to improve outcomes in breast cancer.

Immune cells and arrhythmias

Cardiac arrhythmias are a significant cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Emerging evidence has demonstrated that resident and infiltrating cardiac immune cells play direct, mechanistic roles in arrhythmia onset and progression. In this review, we provide a comprehensive summary and expert commentary on the role of each immune cell subtype in the pathogenesis of atrial and ventricular arrhythmias.

Relationships among immune cells, metabolites, and non-small cell lung cancer: a mediation Mendelian randomization study

BACKGROUND

Immune cells and metabolites significantly impact organism health and disease processes. The interaction between non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and metabolites and immune cells remains underexplored.

METHODS

To investigate the causal relationships between immune cells, metabolites, and NSCLC, we used Mendelian randomization (MR). The research design comprehensively embraced the direct correlation and the role that metabolites play as an intermediate in the interaction between NSCLC and immune cells.

RESULTS

MR analysis allowed us to finally identify one immune cell, there was a substantial causal connection between CD64 on CD14⁻CD16⁻ and NSCLC. Furthermore, we discovered four metabolites that showed strong causal links to NSCLC: 1-(1-enyl-stearoyl)-2-arachidonoyl-GPE (p-18:0/20:4) levels, phenyllactate (PLA) levels in elite athletes, the caffeine to paraxanthine ratio and 1-palmitoyl-2-arachidonoyl-GPC (16:0/20:4n6) levels. Finally, through a two-step MR mediation analysis, we found that CD64 on CD14⁻CD16⁻ mediated the occurrence of NSCLC via 1-palmitoleoyl-2-linolenoyl-GPC (16:1/18:3) levels and the caffeine to paraxanthine ratio, with mediation proportions of - 11.89% and 21.69%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Our findings show the complicated link between immune cells, metabolites, and NSCLC. The discovered connections and mediating effects provide important insights.

Do the monocyte-derived dendritic cells exert a pivotal role in the early onset of experimental autoimmune uveitis?

BACKGROUND

Eyes are recognized as immunological privileged site. However, the onset of autoimmune uveitis (AU) prompts an influx of dendritic cells (DCs) into the retinas, tasked with presenting auto-antigens, thereby exacerbating the inflammatory response. Monocyte-derived DCs (moDCs) implicated in various autoimmune disorders, but their specific involvement in AU remains unclear. This study aims to investigate the constitution and dynamics of retinal DCs subsequent to the induction of experimental autoimmune uveitis (EAU).

METHODS

In our study, an EAU model was established in C57BL/6J mice, and prednisolone acetate (PA) eye drops were administrated unilaterally to the right eye from 5 days post-immunization (dpi). The infiltration of Gr-1+CD115+CD11c-MHC-II- cells (monocytes), Gr-1+CD115+CD11c+MHC-II+ cells (moDCs) and Gr-1-CD115-CD11c+MHC-II+ cells (conventional dendritic cells, cDCs) within retina were detected by flow cytometry and immunofluorescence stain at 7, 10, 13, and 16 dpi. Additionally, the protein expression and mRNA expression of pivotal cytokines associated with moDCs and inflammation were analysed by western blotting and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), respectively.

RESULTS

Our findings unveiled a notable rise in moDCs infiltration and differentiation from 7 to 13 dpi. The administration of PA eye drops did not yield a significant variance in either the quantity or the differentiation rate of moDCs. Throughout the initial stages of EAU, the expression of GM-CSF remained consistent, while TGF-β1 exhibited a sustained increase until 13 dpi in the control group and until 10 dpi following PA treatment. Anti-inflammatory cytokines Il-10 and Il-4 displayed no significant increase until 16 dpi after PA administration.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results indicate that moDCs exhibited an earlier and more substantial infiltration into the inflamed retina compared to cDCs. This heightened presence of moDCs appeared to play a dominant role in the presentation of auto-antigens during the initial stages of EAU, consequently contributing to the exaggerated autoimmune response within the ocular milieu. The administration of PA exhibited no discernible impact on either the differentiation or the infiltration of moDCs.

Preparation, Characterization, and Immune Activity of Viola philippica Polysaccharide PLGA Nanoparticles

Recent pharmacological studies have demonstrated that Viola philippica polysaccharide (VPP) exhibits a modulating effect on immune activity. However, its utilization has been hampered by its large particle size and complex spatial structure. Polylactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) copolymer is recognized as an effective drug delivery carrier, exhibiting excellent biochemical properties. In this experiment, VPP was encapsulated with PLGA to form VPP PLGA nanoparticles (VPP-PLGA NPs). The morphological structure and immunomodulatory effects of VPP-PLGA NPs were evaluated. The particle size of VPP-PLGA NPs was reduced compared to VPP, and the optimal preparation conditions were as follows: The ratio of the organic phase to the internal aqueous phase was 8:1, the ratio of the external aqueous phase to the primary emulsion was 7:1, and the concentration of PLGA was 20 mg/mL. Additionally, VPP-PLGA NPs significantly increased the nitric oxide (NO) content, IL-4, and IFN-γ levels in RAW264.7 cells, as well as enhanced their phagocytic activity. Furthermore, VPP-PLGA NPs were found to increase NO content and IFN-γ secretion in bone marrow-derived dendritic cells (BMDCs). These findings suggest that VPP-PLGA NPs could enhance the immune activity and may be utilized as a VPP delivery system for inducing strong immune responses.

The Nexus Between Traditional Chinese Medicine and Immunoporosis: Implications in the Treatment and Management of Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis (OP) is a globally prevalent bone disease characterized by reduced bone mass and heightened fracture risk, posing a significant health and economic challenge to aging societies worldwide. Osteoimmunology-an emerging field of study-investigates the intricate relationship between the skeletal and the immune systems, providing insights into the immune system's impact on bone health and disease progression. Recent research has demonstrated the essential roles played by various immune cells (T cells, B cells, macrophages, dendritic cells, mast cells, granulocytes, and innate lymphoid cells) in regulating bone metabolism, homeostasis, formation, and remodeling through interactions with osteoclasts (OC) and osteoblasts (OB). These findings underscore that osteoimmunology provides an essential theoretical framework for understanding the pathogenesis of various skeletal disorders, including OP. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and its active ingredients have significant clinical value in OP treatment. Unfortunately, despite their striking multieffect pathways in the pharmacological field, current research has not yet summarized them in a comprehensive and detailed manner with respect to their interventional roles in immune bone diseases, especially OP. Consequently, this review addresses recent studies on the mechanisms by which immune cells and their communication molecules contribute to OP development. Additionally, it explores the potential therapeutic benefits of TCM and its active components in treating OP from the perspective of osteoimmunology. The objective is to provide a comprehensive framework that enhances the understanding of the therapeutic mechanisms of TCM in treating immune-related bone diseases and to facilitate the development of novel therapeutic strategies.

Immune pathogenic response landscape of acute posterior multifocal placoid pigment epitheliopathy revealed by scRNA sequencing

Acute posterior multifocal placoid pigment epitheliopathy (APMPPE) is an exceptionally rare inflammatory disorder affecting choroid and retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells. Although recent studies suggest an immune-driven nature, the underlying etiology of APMPPE remains elusive. In this study, we conducted a comprehensive investigation on the peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) profile of an APMPPE patient using single-cell RNA sequencing. Our analysis revealed striking transcriptional alterations in monocytes within the PBMCs, identifying five distinct subpopulations: S100A12, CD16, pro-inflammatory, megakaryocyte-like, and NK-like monocyte subsets. Employing pseudotime inference, we observed a shift in APMPPE monocytes towards differentiation into inflammation-associated pro-inflammatory monocytes and a CD16 monocyte trajectory. Furthermore, we identified IFITM3 as a key player in the immune response driving the pathogenesis of APMPPE. Notably, two disease-relevant subgroups of monocytes, pro-inflammatory and CD16 monocytes, were implicated in APMPPE. CD16 monocytes, in particular, were involved in melanogenesis, suggesting that the abnormal expression of melanin in monocytes might result from autoimmune responses against pigment-enriched RPE cells. This study provided a comprehensive view of immune landscape in APMPPE, shedding light on the previously unrecognized contributions of pro-inflammatory and CD16 monocytes to this autoimmune condition.

Single-cell RNA sequencing reveals potential therapeutic targets in the tumor microenvironment of lung squamous cell carcinoma

Lung squamous cell carcinoma (LUSC), accounting for 30% of lung cancer cases, lacks adequate research due to limited understanding of its molecular abnormalities. Our study analyzed public LUSC datasets to explore the tumor microenvironment (TME) composition using scRNA-seq from two cohorts. Applying non-negative matrix factorization, we identified unique malignant cell phenotypes, or meta-programs (MPs), based on gene expression patterns. Survival analysis revealed the clinical relevance of these MPs. Findings illuminated a TME landscape enriched with immune cells-CD8 + T, exhausted T, CD4 + T, and naive T cells-and suggested roles for myeloid cells, like cDC1 and pDCs, in LUSC progression. Different MPs highlighted the heterogeneity of malignant cells and their clinical implications. Targeting MP-specific genes may enable personalized therapy, especially for early-stage LUSC. This study offers insights into immune cell function in tumor dynamics, identifies MPs, and paves the way for novel LUSC strategies, enhancing early intervention, personalized treatment, and prognosis, ultimately improving patient outcomes.

Guardians of the Lung: The Multifaceted Roles of Macrophages in Cancer and Infectious Disease

The lung as an organ that is fully exposed to the external environment for extended periods, comes into contact with numerous inhaled microorganisms. Lung macrophages are crucial for maintaining lung immunity and operate primarily through signaling pathways such as toll-like receptor 4 and nuclear factor-κB pathways. These macrophages constitute a diverse population with significant plasticity, exhibiting different phenotypes and functions on the basis of their origin, tissue residence, and environmental factors. During lung homeostasis, they are involved in the clearance of inhaled particles, cellular remnants, and even participate in metabolic processes. In disease states, lung macrophages transition from the inflammatory M1 phenotype to the anti-inflammatory M2 phenotype. These distinct phenotypes have varying transcriptional profiles and serve different functions, from combating pathogens to repairing inflammation-induced damage. However, macrophages can also exacerbate lung injury during prolonged inflammation or exposure to antigens. In this review, we delve into the diverse roles of pulmonary macrophages the realms in homeostasis, pneumonia, tuberculosis, and lung tumors.

Monocyte-derived Langerhans cells express Delta-like 4 induced by peptidoglycan and interleukin-4 mediated suppression

T cells contribute to immunotherapy and autoimmune pathogenesis and Langerhans cells (LCs) have a substantial ability to activate T cells. In vitro-generated monocyte-derived LCs (Mo-LCs) are useful models to study LC function in autoimmune diseases and to test future LC-based immunotherapies. Although dendritic cells (DCs) expressing high levels of Delta-like 4 (DLL4+ DCs), which is a member of the Notch ligand family, have greater ability than DLL4- DCs to activate T cells, the induction method of human DLL4+ DCs has yet to be determined. The aim of this study is to establish whether Mo-LCs express DLL4 and establish the induction method of antigen presenting cells, which most potently activate T cells, similar to our previously established induction method of human Mo-LCs. We compared the ratios of DLL4 expression and T cell activation via flow cytometry among monocyte-derived cells, which have a greater ability than the resident cells to activate T cells. Here, we discovered that Mo-LCs expressed DLL4, which most potently activated T cells among monocyte-derived cells, and that Mo-LCs and DLL4 expression were induced by DLL4, granulocyte macrophage colony-stimulating factor, and transforming growth factor-β1. Additionally, peptidoglycan was required for DLL4 expression, whereas interleukin-4 repressed it. These findings provide insights into the roles of DLL4-expressing cells such as DLL4+ Mo-LCs in human diseases, which will assist with the development of more effective therapeutic strategies in the future.

Cerebrospinal fluid and serum cytokine profiles in severe viral encephalitis with implications for refractory status epilepticus: a retrospective observational study

Background

To identify new intervention targets, we explored the correlation between cytokines and the development of refractory status epilepticus (RSE) in patients with severe viral encephalitis (SVE).

Methods

We examined the characteristics of 14 cytokines in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and serum, analyzing their correlation with acute symptomatic seizures and prognosis. Furthermore, we conducted a dynamic analysis of differences and correlations in the expression of cytokines among patients with SVE without seizures, those with controlled seizures, and those with RSE.

Results

We included 161 patients with SVE; the incidence of seizures was 55.2%, and the mortality rate was 5.5%. Notably, 18.9% of these patients developed RSE, with a mortality rate of 20%. During the early stage of SVE, CSF interleukin (IL)-6 and IL-8 levels were significantly higher, declining over time and affecting the prognosis. CSF IL-6 and IL-8 levels were significantly elevated in the RSE group compared to patients without seizures and with controlled seizures, decreasing gradually and independently of serum cytokine levels. CSF IL-8 and age were independent risk factors for RSE, with clinical utility.

Conclusions

Patients with SVE exhibit intrathecal cytokine storms, primarily characterized by elevated levels of IL-6 and IL-8, which influence prognosis. The strong and persistent hyperinflammation underscored by CSF IL-6 and IL-8 is associated with the occurrence and development of RSE; thus, CSF IL-8 and age are independent risk factors for SVE with RSE, indicating potential anti-inflammatory intervention targets.

Human Monocyte-Derived Macrophages Demonstrate Distinct Responses to Ambient Particulate Matter in a Polarization State- and Particle Seasonality-Specific Manner

Macrophages are professional phagocytic immune cells that, following activation, polarize on a spectrum between the proinflammatory M1 and the proresolution M2 states. Macrophages have further been demonstrated to retain plasticity, allowing for the reprogramming of their polarization states following exposure to new stimuli. Particulate matter (PM) has been repeatedly shown to modify macrophage function and polarization while also inducing worsening respiratory infection morbidity and mortality. However, limited work has considered the impact of the initial macrophage polarization state on subsequent responses to PM exposure. PM composition can demonstrate seasonality-specific compositional changes based on differences in seasonal weather patterns and energy needs, introducing the need to consider the seasonality-specific effects of airborne PM when investigating its impact on human health. This study sought to determine the impact of airborne PM collected during different seasons of the year in Xinxiang, China, on macrophage function in a polarization state-dependent manner. Macrophages were differentiated using the macrophage colony-stimulating factor (M-CSF) on CD14+CD16- monocytes isolated from the blood of healthy human volunteers. The resulting macrophages were polarized into indicated states using well-characterized polarization methods and assessed for phagocytic function, bioenergetic properties, and secretory profile following exposure to PM collected during a single day during each season of the year. Macrophages demonstrated clear polarization state-dependent phagocytic, bioenergetic, and secretory properties at the baseline and following PM exposure. Specific PM seasonality had a minimal impact on phagocytic function and a minor effect on bioenergetic properties but had clear impacts on the secretory profile as demonstrated by the enriched secretion of well-characterized mediator clusters by particle season. Together, these data suggest that both particle seasonality and macrophage polarization state must be considered when investigating the impact of PM on macrophage function. These factors may contribute to the negative outcomes linked to PM exposure during respiratory infections.

How do immune cells shape type 1 diabetes? Insights from Mendelian randomization

Objective

The role of immune cells in type 1 diabetes (T1D) is unclear. The aim of this study was to assess the causal effect of different immune cells on T1D using Mendelian randomization (MR).

Methods

A dataset of immune cell phenotypes (numbered from GCST0001391 to GCST0002121) was obtained from the European Bioinformatics Institute, while a T1D dataset (numbered finngen_R10_T1D) was obtained from FinnGen. Single nucleotide polymorphisms meeting the conditions were screened stepwise according to the assumptions of association, independence, and exclusivity. Inverse variance weighted was used as the main method for the MR analysis. MR-Egger was used to assess the horizontal pleiotropy of the results. Cochran's Q and the leave-one-out method were respectively used for the heterogeneity analysis and the sensitivity analysis of the results.

Results

MR analysis showed that effector memory (EM) double-negative (DN) (CD4-CD8-) %T cells [odds ratio (OR) = 1.157, 95% confidence interval (95% CI) = 1.016-1.318, p = 0.028, false discovery rate (FDR) = 0.899], EM CD8br %T cells (OR = 1.049, 95% CI = 1.003-1.098, p = 0.037, FDR = 0.902), CD28 on CD28+CD45RA+CD8br (OR = 1.334, 95% CI = 1.132-1.571, p = 0.001, FDR = 0.044), IgD+CD38dim %lymphocytes (OR = 1.045, 95% CI = 1.002-1.089, p = 0.039, FDR = 0.902), CD80 on monocytes (OR = 1.084, 95% CI = 1.013-1.161, p = 0.020, FDR = 0.834), SSC-A on plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs) (OR = 1.174, 95% CI = 1.004-1.372, p = 0.044, FDR = 0.902), and FSC-A on pDCs (OR = 1.182, 95% CI = 1.011-1.382, p = 0.036, FDR = 0.902) were associated with an increased genetic susceptibility to T1D. Cochran's Q showed that there was heterogeneity for CD28 on the CD28+CD45RA+CD8br results (p = 0.043), whereas there was no heterogeneity for the other results (p ≥ 0.05). The sensitivity analysis showed that the MR analysis results were robust.

Conclusion

The MR analysis demonstrated that seven immune cell phenotypes were associated with an increased genetic susceptibility to T1D. These findings provide a new direction for the pathogenesis of and the drug development for T1D.

Regulating lipid metabolism in osteoarthritis: a complex area with important future therapeutic potential

BACKGROUND

Osteoarthritis (OA), which is characterized by pain, inflammation and pathological changes, is associated with abnormal lipid metabolism. Extensive studies have been conducted on the potential functions of lipids including cholesterol, fatty acids (FAs) and adipokines.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

By searching and screening the literature included in the PubMed and Web of Science databases from 1 January 2019 to 1 January 2024, providing an overview of research conducted on lipid metabolism and OA in the last 5 years.

RESULTS

In addition to adiponectin, several studies on the effects of lipid metabolism on OA have been consistent and complementary. Total cholesterol, triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, adipsin, leptin, resistin, saturated FAs, monounsaturated FAs, FA-binding protein 4 and the ratios of the FAs hexadecenoylcarnitine (C16:1) to dodecanoylcarnitine and C16:1 to tetradecanoylcarnitine induced mostly deleterious effects, whereas high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and apolipoprotein A/B/D had a positive impact on the health of joints. The situation for polyunsaturated FAs may be more complicated, as omega-3 increases the genetic susceptibility to OA, whereas omega-6 does the opposite.

Alterations in lipid or adipokine levels and the resulting pathological changes in cartilage and other tissues (such as bone and synovium) ultimately affect joint pain, inflammation and cartilage degradation. Lipid or adipokine regulation has potential as a future direction for the treatment of OA, this potential avenue of OA treatment requires high-quality randomized controlled trials of combined lipid regulation therapy, and more in-depth in vivo and in vitro studies to confirm the underlying mechanism.

The role of SEC14L4 in esophageal squamous cell cancer: insights into clinical relevance and molecular pathways

Background

Esophageal squamous cell cancer (ESCC) is the most common type of esophageal cancer. This study aimed to elucidate the role of Saccharomyces cerevisiae-like 4 (SEC14L4) in ESCC.

Methods

To elucidate the role of SEC14L4 in ESCC, this study analyzed the clinical data, gene sequencing data, and other relevant data retrieved from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) of the National Center for Biotechnology Information. The methodology involved several analytical approaches, including nomogram model analysis, co-expression analysis, gene set enrichment and variation analysis, weighted correlation network analysis, drug susceptibility analysis, and single-cell analysis. These methods were employed to evaluate the significance of SEC14L4 in ESCC. The expression of SEC14L4 was evaluated via quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR).

Results

SEC14L4 expression (P<0.001) was significantly elevated in those with ESCC, especially in patients with locally advanced disease (P=0.005), and indicated a poor prognosis (P=0.045). Findings from the nomogram model analysis identified the contribution of clinical indicators to survival prediction with good efficacy. Subsequently, the single-nucleotide polymorphisms and co-expressed genes of SEC14L4 were identified. Furthermore, pathways associated with SEC14L4, including DNA metabolic process, transcription factor binding, apoptosis, and others, were examined. Notably, SEC14L4 expression was predominantly observed in monocytes. Drug sensitivity analysis indicated the association of SEC14L4 expression with sensitivity of ESCC to the common chemotherapy drugs AICAR, BMS.708163, GNF.2, Nutlin.3a, PD.0325901, and RDEA119. Verification of the high expression of SEC14L4 in KYSE520 and KYSE150 was conducted, thereby confirming the study's findings.

Conclusions

High expression of SEC14L4 is associated with poorer clinical outcomes, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic target and suggesting its involvement in the molecular mechanisms underlying ESCC.

Human genital dendritic cell heterogeneity confers differential rapid response to HIV-1 exposure

Dendritic cells (DCs) play critical roles in HIV pathogenesis and require further investigation in the female genital tract, a main portal of entry for HIV infection. Here we characterized genital DC populations at the single cell level and how DC subsets respond to HIV immediately following exposure. We found that the genital CD11c+HLA-DR+ myeloid population contains three DC subsets (CD1c+ DC2s, CD14+ monocyte-derived DCs and CD14+CD1c+ DC3s) and two monocyte/macrophage populations with distinct functional and phenotypic properties during homeostasis. Following HIV exposure, the antiviral response was dominated by DCs' rapid secretory response, activation of non-classical inflammatory pathways and host restriction factors. Further, we uncovered subset-specific differences in anti-HIV responses. CD14+ DCs were the main population activated by HIV and mediated the secretory antimicrobial response, while CD1c+ DC2s activated inflammasome pathways and IFN responses. Identification of subset-specific responses to HIV immediately after exposure could aid targeted strategies to prevent HIV infection.

Advances in macrophage-myofibroblast transformation in fibrotic diseases

Macrophage-myofibroblast transformation (MMT) has emerged as a discovery in the field of fibrotic disease research. MMT is the process by which macrophages differentiate into myofibroblasts, leading to organ fibrosis following organ damage and playing an important role in fibrosis formation and progression. Recently, many new advances have been made in studying the mechanisms of MMT occurrence in fibrotic diseases. This article reviews some critical recent findings on MMT, including the origin of MMT in myofibroblasts, the specific mechanisms by which MMT develops, and the mechanisms and effects of MMT in the kidneys, lungs, heart, retina, and other fibrosis. By summarizing the latest research related to MMT, this paper provides a theoretical basis for elucidating the mechanisms of fibrosis in various organs and developing effective therapeutic targets for fibrotic diseases.

The role of macrophages in fibrosis of chronic kidney disease

Macrophages are widely distributed throughout various tissues of the body, and mounting evidence suggests their involvement in regulating the tissue microenvironment, thereby influencing disease onset and progression through direct or indirect actions. In chronic kidney disease (CKD), disturbances in renal functional homeostasis lead to inflammatory cell infiltration, tubular expansion, glomerular atrophy, and subsequent renal fibrosis. Macrophages play a pivotal role in this pathological process. Therefore, understanding their role is imperative for investigating CKD progression, mitigating its advancement, and offering novel research perspectives for fibrosis treatment from an immunological standpoint. This review primarily delves into the intrinsic characteristics of macrophages, their origins, diverse subtypes, and their associations with renal fibrosis. Particular emphasis is placed on the transition between M1 and M2 phenotypes. In late-stage CKD, there is a shift from the M1 to the M2 phenotype, accompanied by an increased prevalence of M2 macrophages. This transition is governed by the activation of the TGF-β1/SMAD3 and JAK/STAT pathways, which facilitate macrophage-to-myofibroblast transition (MMT). The tyrosine kinase Src is involved in both signaling cascades. By thoroughly elucidating macrophage functions and comprehending the modes and molecular mechanisms of macrophage-fibroblast interaction in the kidney, novel, tailored therapeutic strategies for preventing or attenuating the progression of CKD can be developed.

Impaired reprogramming of the autophagy flux in maturing dendritic cells from crohn disease patients with core autophagy gene-related polymorphisms

Crohn disease (CD) is an inflammatory bowel disease whose pathogenesis involves inappropriate immune responses toward gut microbiota on genetically predisposed backgrounds. Notably, CD is associated with single-nucleotide polymorphisms affecting several genes involved in macroautophagy/autophagy, the catabolic process that ensures the degradation and recycling of cytosolic components and microorganisms. In a clinical translation perspective, monitoring the autophagic activity of CD patients will require some knowledge on the intrinsic functional status of autophagy. Here, we focused on monocyte-derived dendritic cells (DCs) to characterize the intrinsic quantitative features of the autophagy flux. Starting with DCs from healthy donors, we documented a reprogramming of the steady state flux during the transition from the immature to mature status: both the autophagosome pool size and the flux were diminished at the mature stage while the autophagosome turnover remained stable. At the cohort level, DCs from CD patients were comparable to control in term of autophagy flux reprogramming capacity. However, the homozygous presence of ATG16L1 rs2241880 A>G (T300A) and ULK1 rs12303764 (G/T) polymorphisms abolished the capacity of CD patient DCs to reprogram their autophagy flux during maturation. This effect was not seen in the case of CD patients heterozygous for these polymorphisms, revealing a gene dose dependency effect. In contrast, the NOD2 rs2066844 c.2104C>T (R702W) polymorphism did not alter the flux reprogramming capacity of DCs. The data, opening new clinical translation perspectives, indicate that polymorphisms affecting autophagy-related genes can differentially influence the capacity of DCs to reprogram their steady state autophagy flux when exposed to proinflammatory challenges.Abbreviation: BAFA1: bafilomycin A1, CD: Crohn disease; DC: dendritic cells; HD: healthy donor; iDCs: immature DCs; IL: interleukin; J: autophagosome flux; LPS: lipopolysaccharide; MHC: major histocompatibility complex; nA: autophagosome pool size; SNPs: single-nucleotide polymorphisms; PCA: principal component analysis; TLR: toll like receptor; τ: transition time; TNF: tumor necrosis factor.

Immunological Effects of Diesel Particles in a Murine Model of Healthy Mice

Introduction: Exposure to environmental pollutants such as diesel exhaust particles (DEP) increases the risk of respiratory disease exacerbation. However, the possible effects of these particles on the general population remain poorly understood. The present study aimed to assess the immunomodulatory and inflammatory effects of the inhalation of DEP in a model of healthy mice undergoing short-, mid- and long-term exposure. Materials and Methods: BALB/c ByJ mice were randomly divided into five experimental groups. The control group received three intranasal instillations of saline over 8 days while the other four groups received intranasal instillations of 150 µg of DEP 3 days per week for 8, 17, 26, and 53 days. Lung function assessment and flow cytometry were performed. Results: In lung tissue, intranasal exposure to DEP decreased total monocytes (p < 0.015 in all groups). At 26 days, a reduction in inflammatory monocytes and an increase in resident monocytes were observed, p = 0.001 and 0.0001, respectively. Eosinophils and neutrophils decreased at 26 days (p = 0.017 and p = 0.041, respectively). The intranasal challenges of DEP increased the total population of dendritic cells (DC) at 26 and 53 days (p = 0.017 and p = 0.022, respectively) and decreased the total and alveolar populations of macrophages (p < 0.003 for all groups compared to control), while interstitial macrophage populations increased over the time period (p = 0.0001 for all groups compared to control). Conclusions: Continuous DEP exposure triggers immune mechanisms that predispose healthy individuals to a pro-inflammatory and hyper-reactive microenvironment. This mouse model provides evidence of the capacity of DEP to increase DC, interstitial macrophages, and resident monocytes.

ICOS-ICOSL pathway enhances NKT-like cell antiviral function in pregnant women with COVID-19

Objective: The immune response initiated by SARS-CoV-2 infection in pregnancy is poorly elucidated. We aimed to access and compare the antiviral cellular responses and lymphocytes activation between healthy pregnancies and pregnant women infected with SARS-CoV-2. Methods: We detected the immunological changes of lymphocytes in peripheral blood of healthy non-pregnant women, non-pregnant women with COVID-19, healthy pregnant women, pregnant women with COVID-19 and convalescent group by flow cytometry. In vitro blockade was used to identify NKT-like cell activation through ICOS-ICOSL pathway. Results: We found that CD3+CD56+ NKT-like cells decreased significantly in COVID-19 positive pregnant women compared to healthy pregnant women. NKT-like cells of pregnant women expressed higher level of activating receptors CD69 and NKp46 after SARS-CoV-2 infection. Particularly, they also increased the expression of the co-stimulatory molecule ICOS. NKT-like cells of pregnant women with COVID-19 up-regulated the expression of IFN-γ, CD107a and Ki67. Meanwhile, we found that ICOSL expression was significantly increased on pDCs in pregnant women with COVID-19. Blocking ICOS in vitro significantly decreased the antiviral activity of NKT-like cells in COVID-19 positive pregnant women, suggesting that ICOS-ICOSL may play an important role in the virus clearance by NKT-like cells. Conclusions: During SARS-CoV-2 infection, NKT-like cells of pregnant women activated through ICOS-ICOSL pathway and played an important role in the antiviral response.

Building a human lung from pluripotent stem cells to model respiratory viral infections

To protect against the constant threat of inhaled pathogens, the lung is equipped with cellular defenders. In coordination with resident and recruited immune cells, this defence is initiated by the airway and alveolar epithelium following their infection with respiratory viruses. Further support for viral clearance and infection resolution is provided by adjacent endothelial and stromal cells. However, even with these defence mechanisms, respiratory viral infections are a significant global health concern, causing substantial morbidity, socioeconomic losses, and mortality, underlining the need to develop effective vaccines and antiviral medications. In turn, the identification of new treatment options for respiratory infections is critically dependent on the availability of tractable in vitro experimental models that faithfully recapitulate key aspects of lung physiology. For such models to be informative, it is important these models incorporate human-derived, physiologically relevant versions of all cell types that normally form part of the lungs anti-viral response. This review proposes a guideline using human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) to create all the disease-relevant cell types. iPSCs can be differentiated into lung epithelium, innate immune cells, endothelial cells, and fibroblasts at a large scale, recapitulating in vivo functions and providing genetic tractability. We advocate for building comprehensive iPSC-derived in vitro models of both proximal and distal lung regions to better understand and model respiratory infections, including interactions with chronic lung diseases.

Monocyte distribution width as a promising biomarker for differential diagnosis of chronic hepatitis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma

Objective

We aimed to investigate the association and diagnostic value of monocyte distribution width (MDW) for chronic hepatitis B (CHB), liver cirrhosis (LC), and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

Methods

MDW levels were measured in 483 individuals (103 CHB, 77 LC, 153 HCC, and 150 controls). MDW was detected using UniCel Dx900 for specific cell volume parameters and the distribution of cell volumes.

Results

Our findings revealed a dynamic upward change in MDW levels across different stages of chronic liver disease, from CHB to LC and HCC. In CHB, MDW levels were highest among HBeAg-positive CHB patients and exhibited a negative correlation with HBV markers while positively correlating with ALT levels. In LC, MDW showed a positive association with the pathological progression of LC, demonstrating consistency with CP scores. MDW proved to be equally effective as traditional detection for diagnosing LC. In HCC, MDW was positively correlated with HCC occurrence and development, with higher levels observed in the high MDW group, which also exhibited elevated AFP levels, MELD scores, and 90-day mortality rates. MDW surpassed predictive models in its effectiveness for diagnosing HCC, as well as CHB and LC, with respective areas under the curve of 0.882, 0.978, and 0.973. Furthermore, MDW emerged as an independent predictor of HCC.

Conclusion

MDW holds significant diagnostic efficacy in identifying CHB, LC, and HCC. These findings suggest that MDW could serve as a promising biomarker for predicting the severity of liver diseases and aid in rational clinical treatment strategies.

MXRA7 is involved in monocyte-to-macrophage differentiation

Macrophages are critical in mediating immune and inflammatory responses, while monocyte-to-macrophage differentiation is one of the main macrophage resources that involves various matrix proteins. Matrix remodeling associated 7 (MXRA7) was recently discovered to affect a variety of physiological and pathological processes related to matrix biology. In the present study, we investigated the role of MXRA7 in monocyte-to-macrophage differentiation in vitro. We found that knockdown of MXRA7 inhibited the proliferation of THP-1 human monocytic cells. Knockdown of MXRA7 increased the adhesion ability of THP-1 cells through upregulation the expression of adhesion molecules VCAM-1 and ICAM1. Knockdown of MXRA7 alone could promoted the differentiation of THP-1 cells to macrophages. Furthermore, the MXRA7-knockdown THP-1 cells produced a more significant upregulation pattern with M1-type cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6) than with those M2-type molecules (TGF-β1 and IL-1RA) upon PMA stimulation, indicating that knockdown of MXRA7 facilitated THP-1 cells differentiation toward M1 macrophages. RNA sequencing analysis revealed the potential biological roles of MXRA7 in cell adhesion, macrophage and monocyte differentiation. Moreover, MXRA7 knockdown promoted the expression of NF-κB p52/p100, while PMA stimulation could increase the expression of NF-κB p52/p100 and activating MAPK signaling pathways in MXRA7 knockdown cells. In conclusion, MXRA7 affected the differentiation of THP-1 cells toward macrophages possibly through NF-κB signaling pathways.

CSF3R as a potential prognostic biomarker and immunotherapy target in glioma

Introduction

Gliomas are the most common malignant brain tumors, with complicated etiology and poor prognosis. However, there is still a lack of specific biomarkers for the diagnosis, treatment and prognosis assessment for glioma patients. Hence, the purpose of this study was to screen biomarkers for prognostic assessment and therapeutic interventions in gliomas.

Material and methods

We utilized The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Chinese Glioma Genome Atlas (CGGA) databases to investigate the role of colony-stimulating factor 3 receptor (CSF3R) in glioma. Data analysis was conducted using R, GEPIA 2, TISCH and DepMap.

Results

CSF3R was up-regulated in glioma and associated with the clinical pathological features of the patients. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis indicated a significant association between the expression of CSF3R and prognosis in patients. Univariate and multivariate Cox analyses revealed that patients with high expression of CSF3R have a worse prognosis, and the expression of CSF3R was an independent prognostic factor in gliomas. The nomogram constructed based on the expression of CSF3R demonstrated lower 1-, 3-, and 5-year overall survival (OS) in patients with high CSF3R expression. The biological functional analysis of CSF3R demonstrated its association with various immune regulatory signals. Furthermore, CSF3R was linked to the expression of immune checkpoints and resistance to immunotherapy. Notably, CSF3R was predominantly detected in monocytes/macrophages.

Conclusions

Our study suggested that CSF3R might potentially function as an independent prognostic factor for glioma and hold promise as a biomarker and target for immunotherapy in glioma.

Heterogeneity of myeloid cells in common cancers: Single cell insights and targeting strategies

Tumor microenvironment (TME), is characterized by a complex and heterogenous composition involving a substantial population of immune cells. Myeloid cells comprising over half of the solid tumor mass, are undoubtedly one of the most prominent cell populations associated with tumors. Studies have unambiguously established that myeloid cells play a key role in tumor development, including immune suppression, pro-inflammation, promote tumor metastasis and angiogenesis, for example, tumor-associated macrophages promote tumor progression in a variety of common tumors, including lung cancer, through direct or indirect interactions with the TME. However, due to previous technological constraints, research on myeloid cells often tended to be conducted as studies with low throughput and limited resolution. For example, the conventional categorization of macrophages into M1-like and M2-like subsets based solely on their anti-tumor and pro-tumor roles has disregarded their continuum of states, resulting in an inadequate analysis of the high heterogeneity characterizing myeloid cells. The widespread adoption of single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) in tumor immunology has propelled researchers into a new realm of understanding, leading to the establishment of novel subsets and targets. In this review, the origin of myeloid cells in high-incidence cancers, the functions of myeloid cell subsets examined through traditional and single-cell perspectives, as well as specific targeting strategies, are comprehensively outlined. As a result of this endeavor, we will gain a better understanding of myeloid cell heterogeneity, as well as contribute to the development of new therapeutic approaches.

Dynamic immune status analysis of peripheral blood mononuclear cells in patients with Klebsiella pneumoniae bloodstream infection sepsis using single-cell RNA sequencing

Background

Klebsiella pneumoniae is a common Gram-negative bacterium. Blood infection caused by K. pneumoniae is one of the most common causes of human sepsis, which seriously threatens the life of patients. The immune status of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) based on single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) in acute stage and recovery stage of sepsis caused by K. pneumoniae bloodstream infection has not been studied.

Methods

A total of 13 subjects were included in this study, 3 healthy controls, 7 patients with K. pneumoniae bloodstream infection in the acute stage (4 patients died), and 3 patients in the recovery stage. Peripheral blood of all patients was collected and PBMCs were isolated for scRNA-seq analysis. We studied the changes of PBMCs components, signaling pathways, differential genes, and cytokines in acute and recovery stages.

Results

During K. pneumoniae acute infection we observed a decrease in the proportion of T cells, most probably due to apoptosis and the function of T cell subtypes was disorder. The proportion of monocytes increased in acute stage. Although genes related to their phagocytosis function were upregulated, their antigen presentation capacity-associated genes were downregulated. The expression of IL-1β, IL-18, IFNGR1 and IFNGR2 genes was also increased in monocytes. The proportion of DCs was depleted during the acute stage and did not recover during sepsis recovery. DCs antigen presentation was weakened during the acute stage but recovered fast during the recovery stage. pDCs response to MCP-1 chemokine was weakened, they recovered it quickly during the recovery stage. B cells showed apoptosis both in the acute stage and recovery stage. Their response to complement was weakened, but their antigen presentation function was enhanced. The proportion of NK cells stable during all disease's stages, and the expression of IFN-γ gene was upregulated.

Conclusion

The proportion of PBMCs and their immune functions undergo variations throughout the course of the disease, spanning from the acute stage to recovery. These findings provide new insights into the mechanism of PBMCs immune function during K. pneumoniae bloodstream infection sepsis and recovery and sets the basis for further understanding and treatment.

Harnessing IL-10 induced anti-inflammatory response in maturing macrophages in presence of electrospun dexamethasone-loaded PLLA scaffold

The ultimate goal of tissue engineering is to repair and regenerate damaged tissue or organ. Achieving this goal requires blood vessel networks to supply oxygen and nutrients to new forming tissues. Macrophages are part of the immune system whose behavior plays a significant role in angiogenesis and blood vessel formation. On the other hand, macrophages are versatile cells that change their behavior in response to environmental stimuli. Given that implantation of a biomaterial is followed by inflammation; therefore, we reasoned that this inflammatory condition in tissue spaces modulates the final phenotype of macrophages. Also, we hypothesized that anti-inflammatory glucocorticoid dexamethasone improves modulating macrophages behavior. To check these concepts, we investigated the macrophages that had matured in an inflammatory media. Furthermore, we examined macrophages' behavior after maturation on a dexamethasone-containing scaffold and analyzed how the behavioral change of maturing macrophages stimulates other macrophages in the same environment. In this study, the expression of pro-inflammatory markers TNFa and NFκB1 along with pro-healing markers IL-10 and CD163 were investigated to study the behavior of macrophages. Our results showed that macrophages that were matured in the inflammatory media in vitro increase expression of IL-10, which in turn decreased the expression of pro-inflammatory markers TNFa and NFκB in maturing macrophages. Also, macrophages that were matured on dexamethasone-containing scaffolds decreased the expression of IL-10, TNFa, and NFκB and increase the expression of CD163 compared to the control group. Moreover, the modulation of anti-inflammatory response in maturing macrophages on dexamethasone-containing scaffold resulted in increased expression of TNFa and CD163 by other macrophages in the same media. The results obtained in this study, proposing strategies to improve healing through controlling the behavior of maturing macrophages and present a promising perspective for inflammation control using tissue engineering scaffolds.

Transient caspase-mediated activation of caspase-activated DNase causes DNA damage required for phagocytic macrophage differentiation

Phagocytic macrophages are crucial for innate immunity and tissue homeostasis. Most tissue-resident macrophages develop from embryonic precursors that populate every organ before birth to lifelong self-renew. However, the mechanisms for versatile macrophage differentiation remain unknown. Here, we use in vivo genetic and cell biological analysis of the Drosophila larval hematopoietic organ, the lymph gland that produces macrophages. We show that the developmentally regulated transient activation of caspase-activated DNase (CAD)-mediated DNA strand breaks in intermediate progenitors is essential for macrophage differentiation. Insulin receptor-mediated PI3K/Akt signaling regulates the apoptosis signal-regulating kinase 1 (Ask1)/c-Jun kinase (JNK) axis to control sublethal levels of caspase activation, causing DNA strand breaks during macrophage development. Furthermore, caspase activity is also required for embryonic-origin macrophage development and efficient phagocytosis. Our study provides insights into developmental signaling and CAD-mediated DNA strand breaks associated with multifunctional and heterogeneous macrophage differentiation.

A model approach to show that monocytes can enter microporous β-TCP ceramics

β-TCP ceramics are versatile bone substitute materials and show many interactions with cells of the monocyte-macrophage-lineage. The possibility of monocytes entering microporous β-TCP ceramics has however not yet been researched. In this study, we used a model approach to investigate whether monocytes might enter β-TCP, providing a possible explanation for the origin of CD68-positive osteoclast-like giant cells found in earlier works.We used flow chambers to unidirectionally load BC, PRP, or PPP into slice models of either 2 mm or 6 mm β-TCP. Immunofluorescence for CD68 and live/dead staining was performed after the loading process.Our results show that monocytes were present in a relevant number of PRP and BC slices representing the inside of our 2 mm slice model and also present on the actual inside of our 6 mm model. For PPP, monocytes were not found beyond the surface in either model.Our results indicate the possibility of a new and so far neglected constituent in β-TCP degradation, perhaps causing the process of ceramic degradation also starting from inside the ceramics as opposed to the current understanding. We also demonstrated flow chambers as a possible new in vitro model for interactions between blood and β-TCP.

A novel disulfide death-related genes prognostic signature identifies the role of IPO4 in glioma progression

BACKGROUND

"Disulfide death," a form of cellular demise, is triggered by the abnormal accumulation of intracellular disulfides under conditions of glucose deprivation. However, its role in the prognosis of glioma remains undetermined. Therefore, the main objective of this study is to establish prognostic signature based on disulfide death-related genes (DDRGs) and to provide new solutions in choosing the effective treatment of glioma.

METHODS

The RNA transcriptome, clinical information, and mutation data of glioma samples were sourced from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and the Chinese Glioma Genome Atlas (CGGA), while normal samples were obtained from the Genotype-Tissue Expression (GTEx). DDRGs were compiled from previous studies and selected through differential analysis and univariate Cox regression analysis. The molecular subtypes were determined through consensus clustering analysis. Further, LASSO analysis was employed to select characteristic genes, and subsequently, a risk model comprising seven DDRGs was constructed based on multivariable Cox analysis. Kaplan-Meier survival curves were employed to assess survival differences between high and low-risk groups. Additionally, functional analyses (GO, KEGG, GSEA) were conducted to explore the potential biological functions and signaling pathways of genes associated with the model. The study also explored immune checkpoint (ICP) genes, immune cell infiltration levels, and immune stromal scores. Finally, the effect of Importin-4(IPO4) on glioma has been further confirmed through RT-qPCR, Western blot, and cell functional experiments.

RESULTS

7 genes associated with disulfide death were obtained and two subgroups of patients with different prognosis and clinical characteristics were identified. Risk signature was subsequently developed and proved to serve as an prognostic predictor. Notably, the high-risk group exhibited an immunosuppressive microenvironment characterized by a high concentration of M2 macrophages and regulatory T cells (Tregs). In contrast, the low-risk group showed lower half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) values. Therefore, patients in the high-risk group may benefit more from immunotherapy, while patients in the low-risk group may benefit more from chemotherapy. In addition, in vitro experiments have shown that inhibition of the expression of IPO4 leads to a significant reduction in the proliferation, migration, and invasion of glioma cells.

CONCLUSION

This study identified two glioma subtypes and constructed a prognostic signature based on DDRGs. The signature has the potential to optimize the selection of patients for immune- and chemotherapy and provided a potential therapeutic target for glioma.

Monocytes and macrophages: Origin, homing, differentiation, and functionality during inflammation

Monocytes and macrophages are essential components of innate immune system and have versatile roles in homeostasis and immunity. These phenotypically distinguishable mononuclear phagocytes play distinct roles in different stages, contributing to the pathophysiology in various forms making them a potentially attractive therapeutic target in inflammatory conditions. Several pieces of evidence have supported the role of different cell surface receptors expressed on these cells and their downstream signaling molecules in initiating and perpetuating the inflammatory response. In this review, we discuss the current understanding of the monocyte and macrophage biology in inflammation, highlighting the role of chemoattractants, inflammasomes, and integrins in the function of monocytes and macrophages during events of inflammation. This review also covers the recent therapeutic interventions targeting these mononuclear phagocytes at the cellular and molecular levels.

Correlating transcription and protein expression profiles of immune biomarkers following lipopolysaccharide exposure in lung epithelial cells

Universal and early recognition of pathogens occurs through recognition of evolutionarily conserved pathogen associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) by innate immune receptors and the consequent secretion of cytokines and chemokines. The intrinsic complexity of innate immune signaling and associated signal transduction challenges our ability to obtain physiologically relevant, reproducible and accurate data from experimental systems. One of the reasons for the discrepancy in observed data is the choice of measurement strategy. Immune signaling is regulated by the interplay between pathogen-derived molecules with host cells resulting in cellular expression changes. However, these cellular processes are often studied by the independent assessment of either the transcriptome or the proteome. Correlation between transcription and protein analysis is lacking in a variety of studies. In order to methodically evaluate the correlation between transcription and protein expression profiles associated with innate immune signaling, we measured cytokine and chemokine levels following exposure of human cells to the PAMP lipopolysaccharide (LPS) from the Gram-negative pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Expression of 84 messenger RNA (mRNA) transcripts and 69 proteins, including 35 overlapping targets, were measured in human lung epithelial cells. We evaluated 50 biological replicates to determine reproducibility of outcomes. Following pairwise normalization, 16 mRNA transcripts and 6 proteins were significantly upregulated following LPS exposure, while only five (CCL2, CSF3, CXCL5, CXCL8/IL8, and IL6) were upregulated in both transcriptomic and proteomic analysis. This lack of correlation between transcription and protein expression data may contribute to the discrepancy in the immune profiles reported in various studies. The use of multiomic assessments to achieve a systems-level understanding of immune signaling processes can result in the identification of host biomarker profiles for a variety of infectious diseases and facilitate countermeasure design and development.

NET-related gene signature for predicting AML prognosis

Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) is a malignant blood cancer with a high mortality rate. Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) influence various tumor outcomes. However, NET-related genes (NRGs) in AML had not yet received much attention. This study focuses on the role of NRGs in AML and their interaction with the immunological microenvironment. The gene expression and clinical data of patients with AML were downloaded from the TCGA-LAML and GEO cohorts. We identified 148 NRGs through the published article. Univariate Cox regression was used to analyze the association of NRGs with overall survival (OS). The least absolute shrinkage and selection operator were utilized to assess the predictive efficacy of NRGs. Kaplan-Meier plots visualized survival estimates. ROC curves assessed the prognostic value of NRG-based features. A nomogram, integrating clinical information and prognostic scores of patients, was constructed using multivariate logistic regression and Cox proportional hazards regression models. Twenty-seven NRGs were found to significantly impact patient OS. Six NRGs-CFTR, ENO1, PARVB, DDIT4, MPO, LDLR-were notable for their strong predictive ability regarding patient survival. The ROC values for 1-, 3-, and 5-year survival rates were 0.794, 0.781, and 0.911, respectively. In the training set (TCGA-LAML), patients in the high NRG risk group showed a poorer prognosis (p < 0.001), which was validated in two external datasets (GSE71014 and GSE106291). The 6-NRG signature and corresponding nomograms exhibit superior predictive accuracy, offering insights for pre-immune response evaluation and guiding future immuno-oncology treatments and drug selection for AML patients.

REXO2 up-regulation is positively correlated with poor prognosis and tumor immune infiltration in hepatocellular carcinoma

BACKGROUND

As a homologous counterpart to the prokaryotic oligonuclease found in the cellular cytoplasm and mitochondrion, REXO2 assumes a pivotal role in the maintenance of mitochondrial homeostasis. Nevertheless, the precise functions and mechanisms by which REXO2 operates within the context of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) have hitherto remained unexamined.

METHODS

The expression levels of REXO2 in HCC tissues were evaluated through the utilization of the immunohistochemical (IHC) method, and subsequently, the association between REXO2 expression and the clinicopathological characteristics of HCC patients was scrutinized employing the χ2 test. A battery of experimental assays, encompassing CCK8 viability assessment, cell colony formation, wound healing, and transwell assays, were conducted with the aim of elucidating the biological role of REXO2 within HCC cells. Complementary bioinformatics analyses were undertaken to discern potential correlations between REXO2 and immune infiltration in tumor tissues.

RESULTS

Our IHC findings have unveiled a notable up-regulation of REXO2 within HCC tissues, and this heightened expression bears the status of an independent prognostic factor, portending an adverse outcome for HCC patients (P < 0.05). Upon the attenuation of REXO2 expression, a discernible reduction in the rates of proliferation, invasion and migration of HCC cells ensued (P < 0.05). Furthermore, transcriptome sequencing analysis has provided insights into the putative influence of REXO2 on the development of HCC through the modulation of TNF and NF-κB signaling pathways. Additionally, our bioinformatics analyses have demonstrated a positive correlation between REXO2 and tumor immune cell infiltration, as well as immune checkpoint CTLA-4.

CONCLUSIONS

In summation, our results posit an association between the up-regulation of REXO2 and adverse prognostic outcomes, alongside the involvement of immune-related signaling pathways and tumor immune infiltration within the realm of HCC.

Disulfiram Inhibits Opsonin-Independent Phagocytosis and Migration of Human Long-Lived In Vitro Cultured Phagocytes from Multiple Inflammatory Diseases

Disulfiram (DSF), an anti-alcoholism medicine, exerts treatment effects in patients suffering from persistent Borreliosis and also exhibits anti-cancer effects through its copper chelating derivatives and induction of oxidative stress in mitochondria. Since chronic/persistent borreliosis is characterized by increased amounts of pro-inflammatory macrophages, this study investigated opsonin-independent phagocytosis, migration, and surface marker expression of in vivo activated and in vitro cultured human monocyte-derived phagocytes (macrophages and dendritic cells) with and without DSF treatment. Phagocytosis of non-opsonized Dynabeads® M-450 and migration of macrophages and dendritic cells were monitored using live cell analyzer Juli™ Br for 24 h, imaging every 3.5 min. To simultaneously monitor phagocyte function, results were analyzed by a newly developed software based on the differential phase contrast images of cells before and after ingestion of Dynabeads. DSF decreased the phagocytic capacities exhibited by in vitro enriched and long-lived phagocytes. Although no chemotactic gradient was applied to the test system, vigorous spontaneous migration was observed. We therefore set up an algorithm to monitor and quantify both phagocytosis and migration simultaneously. DSF not only reduced phagocytosis in a majority of these long-lived phagocytes but also impaired their migration. Despite these selective effects by DSF, we found that DSF reduced the expression densities of surface antigens CD45 and CD14 in all of our long-lived phagocytes. In cells with a high metabolic activity and high mitochondrial contents, DSF led to cell death corresponding to mitochondrial oxidative stress, whereas metabolically inactive phagocytes survived our DSF treatment protocol. In conclusion, DSF affects the viability of metabolically active phagocytes by inducing mitochondrial stress and secondly attenuates phagocytosis and migration in some long-lived phagocytes.

Metabolism-driven glycosylation represents therapeutic opportunities in interstitial lung diseases

Metabolic changes are coupled with alteration in protein glycosylation. In this review, we will focus on macrophages that are pivotal in the pathogenesis of pulmonary fibrosis and sarcoidosis and thanks to their adaptable metabolism are an attractive therapeutic target. Examples presented in this review demonstrate that protein glycosylation regulates metabolism-driven immune responses in macrophages, with implications for fibrotic processes and granuloma formation. Targeting proteins that regulate glycosylation, such as fucosyltransferases, neuraminidase 1 and chitinase 1 could effectively block immunometabolic changes driving inflammation and fibrosis, providing novel avenues for therapeutic interventions.

Development and validation of a nomogram to predict non-response to 5-aminosalicylic acid in patients with ulcerative colitis

BACKGROUND

there are some patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) who have non-response (NR) to 5-aminosalicylic acid (5-ASA). To promote individualized treatment in UC patients, it is crucial to identify valid predictors to estimate NR to 5-ASA. Therefore, this study aimed to identify the predictive value of clinical and biochemical markers and to construct a nomogram model predicting NR to 5-ASA in patients with UC.

METHODS

data of patients diagnosed with UC in the First Hospital of China Medical University between January 2012 and December 2020 were retrospectively analyzed. Primary outcome was the proportion of NR to 5-ASA. Multivariable logistic regression was used to construct prediction models. Area under the curve (AUC), calibration and decision curve analyses (DCA) were assessed in the validation cohort.

RESULTS

of 284 UC patients who were treatment-naive, 86 (30.3 %) had NR to 5-ASA. Univariate regression analysis showed that disease classification (DC) (p = 0.008), monocytes (MONO) (p = 0.041), platelet distribution width (PDW) (p = 0.027), serum total cholesterol (TC) (p = 0.031) and α1 globulin (p < 0.001) were strongly associated with NR to 5-ASA. Receiver operating characteristics (ROC) analysis indicated the AUC was 0.852, it showed that this model has a good degree of discrimination. The DCA curve showed that the predicted probability is 0.0-96.0 %.

CONCLUSION

this study developed a predictive model with good discrimination and calibration, and high clinical validity, which can effectively estimate the risk of NR to 5-ASA. DC, MONO, PDW, TC and α1 globulin can be used as predictors for NR to 5-ASA in UC patients.

Therapeutic approaches of cell therapy based on stem cells and terminally differentiated cells: Potential and effectiveness

Cell-based therapy, as a promising regenerative medicine approach, has been a promising and effective strategy to treat or even cure various kinds of diseases and conditions. Generally, two types of cells are used in cell therapy, the first is the stem cell, and the other is a fully differentiated cell. Initially, all cells in the body are derived from stem cells. Based on the capacity, potency and differentiation potential of stem cells, there are four types: totipotent (produces all somatic cells plus perinatal tissues), pluripotent (produces all somatic cells), multipotent (produces many types of cells), and unipotent (produces a particular type of cells). All non-totipotent stem cells can be used for cell therapy, depending on their potency and/or disease state/conditions. Adult fully differentiated cell is another cell type for cell therapy that is isolated from adult tissues or obtained following the differentiation of stem cells. The cells can then be transplanted back into the patient to replace damaged or malfunctioning cells, promote tissue repair, or enhance the targeted organ's overall function. With increasing science and knowledge in biology and medicine, different types of techniques have been developed to obtain efficient cells to use for therapeutic approaches. In this study, the potential and opportunity of use of all cell types, both stem cells and fully differentiated cells, are reviewed.

Single-cell RNA sequencing in juvenile idiopathic arthritis

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is one of the most common chronic inflammatory rheumatic diseases in children, with onset before age 16 and lasting for more than 6 weeks. JIA is a highly heterogeneous condition with various consequences for health and quality of life. For some JIA patients, early detection and intervention remain challenging. As a result, further investigation of the complex and unknown mechanisms underlying JIA is required. Advances in technology now allow us to describe the biological heterogeneity and function of individual cell populations in JIA. Through this review, we hope to provide novel ideas and potential targets for the diagnosis and treatment of JIA by summarizing the current findings of single-cell RNA sequencing studies and understanding how the major cell subsets drive JIA pathogenesis.

Epigenetic modulation of myeloid cell functions in HIV and SARS-CoV-2 infection

Myeloid cells play a vital role in innate immune responses as they recognize and phagocytose pathogens like viruses, present antigens, produce cytokines, recruit other immune cells to combat infections, and contribute to the attenuation of immune responses to restore homeostasis. Signal integration by pathogen recognition receptors enables myeloid cells to adapt their functions by a network of transcription factors and chromatin remodelers. This review provides a brief overview of the subtypes of myeloid cells and the main epigenetic regulation mechanisms. Special focus is placed on the epigenomic alterations in viral nucleic acids of HIV and SARS-CoV-2 along with the epigenetic changes in the host's myeloid cell compartment. These changes are important as they lead to immune suppression and promote the progression of the disease. Finally, we highlight some promising examples of 'epidrugs' that modulate the epigenome of immune cells and could be used as therapeutics for viral infections.

Monocyte alteration in elderly hip fracture healing: monocyte promising role in bone regeneration

Individual aged with various change in cell and cellular microenvironments and the skeletal system undergoes physiological changes that affect the process of bone fracture healing. These changes are accompanied by alterations in regulating critical genes involved in this healing process. Unfortunately, the elderly are particularly susceptible to hip bone fractures, which pose a significant burden associated with higher morbidity and mortality rates. A notable change in older adults is the increased expression of activation, adhesion, and migration markers in circulating monocytes. However, there is a decrease in the expression of co-inhibitory molecules. Recently, research evidence has shown that the migration of specific monocyte subsets to the site of hip fracture plays a crucial role in bone resorption and remodeling, especially concerning age-related factors. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge about uniqueness characteristics of monocytes, and their potential regulation and moderation to enhance the healing process of hip fractures. This breakthrough could significantly contribute to the comprehension of aging process at a fundamental aging mechanism through this initiative would represent a crucial stride for diagnosing and treating age related hip fracture.

OPN promotes pro-inflammatory cytokine expression via ERK/JNK pathway and M1 macrophage polarization in Rosacea

Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory dermatosis that involves dysregulation of innate and adaptive immune systems. Osteopontin (OPN) is a phosphorylated glycoprotein produced by a broad range of immune cells such as macrophages, keratinocytes, and T cells. However, the role of OPN in rosacea remains to be elucidated. In this study, it was found that OPN expression was significantly upregulated in rosacea patients and LL37-induced rosacea-like skin inflammation. Transcriptome sequencing results indicated that OPN regulated pro-inflammatory cytokines and promoted macrophage polarization towards M1 phenotype in rosacea-like skin inflammation. In vitro, it was demonstrated that intracellular OPN (iOPN) promoted LL37-induced IL1B production through ERK1/2 and JNK pathways in keratinocytes. Moreover, secreted OPN (sOPN) played an important role in keratinocyte-macrophage crosstalk. In conclusion, sOPN and iOPN were identified as key regulators of the innate immune system and played different roles in the pathogenesis of rosacea.

Diesel exhaust particles induce polarization state-dependent functional and transcriptional changes in human monocyte-derived macrophages

Macrophage populations exist on a spectrum between the proinflammatory M1 and proresolution M2 states and have demonstrated the ability to reprogram between them after exposure to opposing polarization stimuli. Particulate matter (PM) has been repeatedly linked to worsening morbidity and mortality following respiratory infections and has been demonstrated to modify macrophage function and polarization. The purpose of this study was to determine whether diesel exhaust particles (DEP), a key component of airborne PM, would demonstrate polarization state-dependent effects on human monocyte-derived macrophages (hMDMs) and whether DEP would modify macrophage reprogramming. CD14+CD16- monocytes were isolated from the blood of healthy human volunteers and differentiated into macrophages with macrophage colony-stimulating factor (M-CSF). Resulting macrophages were left unpolarized or polarized into the proresolution M2 state before being exposed to DEP, M1-polarizing conditions (IFN-γ and LPS), or both and tested for phagocytic function, secretory profile, gene expression patterns, and bioenergetic properties. Contrary to previous reports, we observed a mixed M1/M2 phenotype in reprogrammed M2 cells when considering the broader range of functional readouts. In addition, we determined that DEP exposure dampens phagocytic function in all polarization states while modifying bioenergetic properties in M1 macrophages preferentially. Together, these data suggest that DEP exposure of reprogrammed M2 macrophages results in a highly inflammatory, highly energetic subpopulation of macrophages that may contribute to the poor health outcomes following PM exposure during respiratory infections.NEW & NOTEWORTHY We determined that reprogramming M2 macrophages in the presence of diesel exhaust particles (DEP) results in a highly inflammatory mixed M1/M2 phenotype. We also demonstrated that M1 macrophages are particularly vulnerable to particulate matter (PM) exposure as seen by dampened phagocytic function and modified bioenergetics. Our study suggests that PM causes reprogrammed M2 macrophages to become a highly energetic, highly secretory subpopulation of macrophages that may contribute to negative health outcomes observed in humans after PM exposure.

Single-cell Transcriptomics Reveals Activation of Macrophages in All-trans Retinoic Acid (atRA)-induced Cleft Palate

Cleft palate is among the most common birth defects with an impact on swallowing and speaking and is difficult to diagnose with ultrasound during pregnancy. In this study, we systematically capture the cellular composition of all-trans retinoic acid (atRA)-exposed and normal embryonic gestation 16.5 days mouse palate by the single-cell RNA sequencing technique. The authors identified 14 major cell types with the largest proportion of fibroblasts. The proportion of myeloid cells in atRA-exposed palate was markedly higher than those in the normal palate tissue, especially M1-like macrophages and monocytes. The upregulated genes of the different expression genes between atRA-exposed palate and normal palate tissue were linked to the biological processes of leukocyte chemotaxis and migration. Protein TLR2, CXCR4, THBS1, MRC1, transcription factor encoding genes Cebpb, Fos, Jun, Rela, and signaling pathway IL-17 and phagosome were found to be significantly involved in these processes. Subsequently, cellular communication network analysis suggested that myeloid-centered cell interactions SELL, SELPLG, MIF, CXCL, ANNEXIN, THBS, and NECTIN were significantly more activated in atRA-exposed palate. Overall, we delineate the single-cell landscape of atRA-induced cleft palate, revealing the effects of overexposure to atRA during palate tissue development and providing insights for the diagnosis of cleft palate.

Monocyte differentiation within tissues: a renewed outlook

When recruited to mammalian tissues, monocytes differentiate into macrophages or dendritic cells (DCs). In the past few years, the existence of monocyte-derived DCs (moDCs) was questioned by the discovery of new DC populations with overlapping phenotypes. Here, we critically review the evidence for monocyte differentiation into DCs in tissues and highlight their specific functions. Recent studies have shown that monocyte-derived macrophages (moMacs) with distinct life cycles coexist in tissues, both at steady state and upon inflammation. Integrating studies in mice and humans, we highlight specific features of moMacs during inflammation and tissue repair. We also discuss the notion of monocyte differentiation occurring via a binary fate decision. Deciphering monocyte-derived cell properties is essential for understanding their role in nonresolving inflammation and how they might be targeted for therapies.

Monocytes subsets altered distribution and dysregulated plasma hsa-miR-21-5p and hsa-miR-155-5p in HCV-linked liver cirrhosis progression to hepatocellular carcinoma

PURPOSE

The authors aim to investigate the altered monocytes subsets distribution in liver cirrhosis (LC) and subsequent hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in association with the expression level of plasma Homo sapiens (has)-miR-21-5p and hsa-miR-155-5p. A step toward non-protein coding (nc) RNA precision medicine based on the immune perturbation manifested as altered monocytes distribution, on top of LC and HCC.

METHODS

Seventy-nine patients diagnosed with chronic hepatitis C virus (CHCV) infection with LC were enrolled in the current study. Patients were sub-classified into LC group without HCC (n = 40), LC with HCC (n = 39), and 15 apparently healthy controls. Monocyte subsets frequencies were assessed by flow cytometry. Real-time quantitative PCR was used to measure plasma hsa-miR-21-5p and hsa-miR-155-5p expression.

RESULTS

Hsa-miR-21-5p correlated with intermediate monocytes (r = 0.30, p = 0.007), while hsa-miR-155-5p negatively correlated with non-classical monocytes (r = - 0.316, p = 0.005). ROC curve analysis revealed that combining intermediate monocytes frequency and hsa-miR-21 yielded sensitivity = 79.5%, specificity = 75%, and AUC = 0.84. In comparison, AFP yielded a lower sensitivity = 69% and 100% specificity with AUC = 0.85. Logistic regression analysis proved that up-regulation of intermediate monocytes frequency and hsa-miR-21-5p were independent risk factors for LC progression to HCC, after adjustment for co-founders.

CONCLUSION

Monocyte subsets differentiation in HCC was linked to hsa-miR-21-5p and hsa-miR-155-5p. Combined up-regulation of intermediate monocytes frequency and hsa-miR-21-5p expression could be considered a sensitive indicator of LC progression to HCC. Circulating intermediate monocytes and hsa-miR-21-5p were independent risk factors for HCC evolution, clinically and in silico proved.