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Abdolmohammadi-Vahid S, Baradaran B, Adcock IM, Mortaz E. Immune checkpoint inhibitors and SARS-CoV2 infection. Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 137:112419. [PMID: 38865755 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2024.112419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2024] [Revised: 05/27/2024] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024]
Abstract
Infection with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‑CoV‑2) triggers coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), which predominantly targets the respiratory tract. SARS-CoV-2 infection, especially severe COVID-19, is associated with dysregulated immune responses against the virus, including exaggerated inflammatory responses known as the cytokine storm, together with lymphocyte and NK cell dysfunction known as immune cell exhaustion. Overexpression of negative immune checkpoints such as PD-1 and CTLA-4 plays a considerable role in the dysfunction of immune cells upon SARS-CoV-2 infection. Blockade of these checkpoints has been suggested to improve the clinical outcome of COVID-19 patients by promoting potent immune responses against the virus. In the current review, we provide an overview of the potential of checkpoint inhibitors to induce potent immune responses against SARS-CoV-2 and improving the clinical outcome of severe COVID-19 patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Behzad Baradaran
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Ian M Adcock
- Respiratory Section, Faculty of Medicine, National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Esmaeil Mortaz
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, USA; Division of Pharmacology, Faculty of Science, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands.
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2
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Martínez-Domínguez SJ, García-Mateo S, Sainz-Arnal P, Martínez-García J, Gallego-Llera B, Lozano-Limones MJ, Hidalgo S, Gargallo-Puyuelo CJ, Latre-Santos M, Nocito-Colon MML, Martínez-Lostao L, Refaie E, Arroyo-Villarino MT, Del Rio-Nechaevsky M, Ramirez-Labrada A, Pardo J, Gomollón F, Baptista PM. Unravelling the cellular response to the SARS-COV-2 vaccine in inflammatory bowel disease patients on biologic drugs. Sci Rep 2023; 13:23061. [PMID: 38155275 PMCID: PMC10754931 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-50537-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Suboptimal vaccine response is a significant concern in patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) receiving biologic drugs. This single-center observational study involved 754 patients with IBD. In Phase I (October 2020-April 2021), 754 IBD participants who had not previously received the SARS-CoV-2 vaccine, underwent blood extraction to assess the seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 infection and IBD-related factors. Phase II (May 2021-October 2021) included a subgroup of 52 IBD participants with confirmed previous SARS-CoV-2 infection, who were studied for humoral and cellular response to the SARS-CoV-2 vaccine. In Phase I, treatment with anti-TNF was associated with lower rates of seroconversion (aOR 0.25 95% CI [0.10-0.61]). In Phase II, a significant increase in post-vaccination IgG levels was observed regardless of biologic treatment. However, patients treated with anti-TNF exhibited significantly lower IgG levels compared to those without IBD therapy (5.32 ± 2.47 vs. 7.99 ± 2.59 U/ml, p = 0.042). Following vaccination, a lymphocyte, monocyte, and NK cell activation pattern was observed, with no significant differences between patients receiving biologic drugs and those without IBD treatment. Despite lower seroprevalence and humoral response to the SARS-CoV-2 vaccine in patients treated with anti-TNF, the cellular response to the vaccine did not differ significantly from that patients without IBD therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel J Martínez-Domínguez
- Digestive Diseases Department, University Hospital "Lozano Blesa", Av. San Juan Bosco, nº 15. PC: 50009, Zaragoza, Spain.
- Aragón Health Research Institute (IIS Aragón), Zaragoza, Spain.
- University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain.
| | - Sandra García-Mateo
- Digestive Diseases Department, University Hospital "Lozano Blesa", Av. San Juan Bosco, nº 15. PC: 50009, Zaragoza, Spain
- Aragón Health Research Institute (IIS Aragón), Zaragoza, Spain
- University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | | | - Javier Martínez-García
- Aragón Health Research Institute (IIS Aragón), Zaragoza, Spain
- University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | | | | | - Sandra Hidalgo
- Aragón Health Research Institute (IIS Aragón), Zaragoza, Spain
- University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Carla J Gargallo-Puyuelo
- Digestive Diseases Department, University Hospital "Lozano Blesa", Av. San Juan Bosco, nº 15. PC: 50009, Zaragoza, Spain
- Aragón Health Research Institute (IIS Aragón), Zaragoza, Spain
- University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Marta Latre-Santos
- Digestive Diseases Department, University Hospital "Lozano Blesa", Av. San Juan Bosco, nº 15. PC: 50009, Zaragoza, Spain
| | | | - Luis Martínez-Lostao
- Aragón Health Research Institute (IIS Aragón), Zaragoza, Spain
- University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
- Immunology Department, University Hospital "Lozano Blesa", Zaragoza, Spain
- Institute of Nanoscience and Material of Aragón (INMA), Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Engy Refaie
- Scuola di Specializzazione in Chirurgia Generale, Università Degli Studi di Pavia Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Maria Teresa Arroyo-Villarino
- Digestive Diseases Department, University Hospital "Lozano Blesa", Av. San Juan Bosco, nº 15. PC: 50009, Zaragoza, Spain
- Aragón Health Research Institute (IIS Aragón), Zaragoza, Spain
- University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Marcela Del Rio-Nechaevsky
- CIBEREnfermedadesRaras (CIBERER), Madrid, Spain
- Biomedical Engineering Department, Universidad Carlos III de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ariel Ramirez-Labrada
- Aragón Health Research Institute (IIS Aragón), Zaragoza, Spain
- University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
- CIBER Enfermedades Infecciosas (CIBERINFEC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Julián Pardo
- Aragón Health Research Institute (IIS Aragón), Zaragoza, Spain
- University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
- CIBER Enfermedades Infecciosas (CIBERINFEC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Fernando Gomollón
- Digestive Diseases Department, University Hospital "Lozano Blesa", Av. San Juan Bosco, nº 15. PC: 50009, Zaragoza, Spain
- Aragón Health Research Institute (IIS Aragón), Zaragoza, Spain
- University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
- CIBER Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBEREHD), Madrid, Spain
| | - Pedro M Baptista
- Aragón Health Research Institute (IIS Aragón), Zaragoza, Spain
- Biomedical Engineering Department, Universidad Carlos III de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- CIBER Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBEREHD), Madrid, Spain
- Fundación ARAID, Zaragoza, Spain
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3
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An H, Yan C, Ma J, Gong J, Gao F, Ning C, Wang F, Zhang M, Li B, Su Y, Liu P, Wei H, Jiang X, Yu Q. Immune inhibitory receptor-mediated immune response, metabolic adaptation, and clinical characterization in patients with COVID-19. Sci Rep 2023; 13:19221. [PMID: 37932287 PMCID: PMC10628246 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-45883-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 11/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Immune inhibitory receptors (IRs) play a critical role in the regulation of immune responses to various respiratory viral infections. However, in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), the roles of these IRs in immune modulation, metabolic reprogramming, and clinical characterization remain to be determined. Through consensus clustering analysis of IR transcription in the peripheral blood of patients with COVID-19, we identified two distinct IR patterns in patients with COVID-19, which were named IR_cluster1 and IR_cluster2. Compared to IR_cluster1 patients, IR_cluster2 patients with lower expressions of immune inhibitory receptors presented with a suppressed immune response, lower nutrient metabolism, and worse clinical manifestations or prognosis. Considering the critical influence of the integrated regulation of multiple IRs on disease severity, we established a scoring system named IRscore, which was based on principal component analysis, to evaluate the combined effect of multiple IRs on the disease status of individual patients with COVID-19. Similar to IR_cluster2 patients, patients with high IRscores had longer hospital-free days at day 45, required ICU admission and mechanical ventilatory support, and presented higher Charlson comorbidity index and SOFA scores. A high IRscore was also linked to acute infection phase and absence of drug intervention. Our investigation comprehensively elucidates the potential role of IR patterns in regulating the immune response, modulating metabolic processes, and shaping clinical manifestations of COVID-19. All of this evidence suggests the essential role of prognostic stratification and biomarker screening based on IR patterns in the clinical management and drug development of future emerging infectious diseases such as COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huaying An
- Institute of Health Service and Transfusion Medicine, Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Congrui Yan
- Institute of Health Service and Transfusion Medicine, Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jun Ma
- Institute of Health Service and Transfusion Medicine, Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jiayuan Gong
- Institute of Health Service and Transfusion Medicine, Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Fenghua Gao
- Institute of Health Service and Transfusion Medicine, Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Changwen Ning
- Institute of Health Service and Transfusion Medicine, Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Fei Wang
- Department of Cardiology, Chinese People's Liberation Army Lanzhou General Hospital Anning Branch, Lanzhou, China
| | - Meng Zhang
- Institute of Health Service and Transfusion Medicine, Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Baoyi Li
- Institute of Health Service and Transfusion Medicine, Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yunqi Su
- Institute of Health Service and Transfusion Medicine, Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Pengyu Liu
- Institute of Health Service and Transfusion Medicine, Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Hanqi Wei
- Institute of Health Service and Transfusion Medicine, Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xingwei Jiang
- Institute of Health Service and Transfusion Medicine, Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Beijing, China.
| | - Qun Yu
- Institute of Health Service and Transfusion Medicine, Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Beijing, China.
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4
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Torki E, Gharezade A, Doroudchi M, Sheikhi S, Mansury D, Sullman MJM, Fouladseresht H. The kinetics of inhibitory immune checkpoints during and post-COVID-19: the knowns and unknowns. Clin Exp Med 2023; 23:3299-3319. [PMID: 37697158 DOI: 10.1007/s10238-023-01188-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/13/2023]
Abstract
The immune system is tightly regulated to prevent immune reactions to self-antigens and to avoid excessive immune responses during and after challenges from non-self-antigens. Inhibitory immune checkpoints (IICPs), as the major regulators of immune system responses, are extremely important for maintaining the homeostasis of cells and tissues. However, the high and sustained co-expression of IICPs in chronic infections, under persistent antigenic stimulations, results in reduced immune cell functioning and more severe and prolonged disease complications. Furthermore, IICPs-mediated interactions can be hijacked by pathogens in order to evade immune induction or effector mechanisms. Therefore, IICPs can be potential targets for the prognosis and treatment of chronic infectious diseases. This is especially the case with regards to the most challenging infectious disease of recent times, coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19), whose long-term complications can persist long after recovery. This article reviews the current knowledge about the kinetics and functioning of the IICPs during and post-COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ensiye Torki
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Arezou Gharezade
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Mehrnoosh Doroudchi
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Shima Sheikhi
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Davood Mansury
- Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Mark J M Sullman
- Department of Life and Health Sciences, University of Nicosia, Nicosia, Cyprus
- Department of Social Sciences, University of Nicosia, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Hamed Fouladseresht
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran.
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5
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Ma H, Ren S, Meng Q, Su B, Wang K, Liu Y, Wang J, Ding D, Li X. Role of Tim-3 in COVID-19: a potential biomarker and therapeutic target. Arch Virol 2023; 168:213. [PMID: 37522944 DOI: 10.1007/s00705-023-05842-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023]
Abstract
T cell immunoglobulin and mucin domain containing protein 3 (Tim-3), an immune checkpoint, is important for maintaining immune tolerance. There is increasing evidence that Tim-3 is aberrantly expressed in patients with COVID-19, indicating that it may play an important role in COVID-19. In this review, we discuss the altered expression and potential role of Tim-3 in COVID-19. The expression of Tim-3 and its soluble form (sTim-3) has been found to be upregulated in COVID-19 patients. The levels of Tim-3 on T cells and circulating sTim-3 have been shown to be associated with the severity of COVID-19, suggesting that this protein could be a potential biomarker of COVID-19. Moreover, this review also highlights the potential of Tim-3 as a therapeutic target of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haodong Ma
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, 450001, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Shengju Ren
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, 450001, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Qingpeng Meng
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, 450001, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Boyuan Su
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, 450001, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Kun Wang
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, 450001, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - YiChen Liu
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, 450001, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Junpeng Wang
- Department of Urology, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, Zhengzhou University People's Hospital, 450003, Zhengzhou, Henan, China.
| | - Degang Ding
- Department of Urology, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, Zhengzhou University People's Hospital, 450003, Zhengzhou, Henan, China.
| | - Xin Li
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, 450001, Zhengzhou, Henan, China.
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Henan Province for Cancer Chemoprevention, Zhengzhou University, 450001, Zhengzhou, Henan, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention and Treatment, Zhengzhou University, 450052, Zhengzhou, Henan, China.
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Saeedifar AM, Ghorban K, Ganji A, Mosayebi G, Gholami M, Dadmanesh M, Rouzbahani NH. Evaluation of Tcell exhaustion based on the expression of EOMES, Tbet and co-inhibitory receptors in severe and non-severe covid-19 patients. GENE REPORTS 2023; 31:101747. [PMID: 36747893 PMCID: PMC9892327 DOI: 10.1016/j.genrep.2023.101747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2022] [Revised: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
During viral infections, especially Covid-19, Tcell exhaustion plays a crucial role in reducing the activity of lymphocytes and the immune system's antiviral activities. This research aimed to investigate the co-inhibitory receptors and transcription factors involved in the Tcell exhaustion process in ICU-admitted (ICUA) compared to non-ICU admitted (non-ICUA) Covid-19 patients. A total of 60 Covid-19 patients (30 patients in the severe group who were admitted in the ICU (ICUA) and 30 patients in the mild group who were admitted in departments other than the ICU (non-ICUA)) and 10 healthy individuals were included in this study. Laboratory tests and the level of gene expressions related to 4 inhibitory co-receptors, including LAG-3, TIM-3, TIGIT, PD-1, and T-bet and Eomes transcription factors involved in the process of Tcell exhaustion in severe and mild patients of Covid-19 were investigated. The results showed lymphopenia and an increase in other hematologic laboratory factors such as NLR, PLR, CRP, ALT, and AST in people with a severe form of the disease (ICUA) compared to mild groups (non-ICUA) (P < 0.001). Furthermore, a significant increase in 3 co-inhibitory receptors, TIM-3, LAG-3, and PD-1, was observed in severe patients compared to mild and healthy people (P < 0.001). An increase in TIGIT gene expression was lesser than the other three mentioned receptors (P < 0.05). Concerning the transcription factors, we observed a significant increase in Eomes in ICUA patients compared to the non-ICUA group (P < 0.001), and this increment in T-bet gene expression was minor compared to Eomes (P < 0.05). In conclusion, Patients with a severe form of acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) represented a higher level of gene expressions in terms of co-inhibitory receptors and transcription factors involved in the T cell exhaustion process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amir Mohammad Saeedifar
- Department of Medical Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Aja University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Khodayar Ghorban
- Department of Medical Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Aja University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran,Infectious Diseases Research Center, Aja University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Ganji
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran,Molecular and Medicine Research Center, Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran
| | - Ghasem Mosayebi
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran
| | - Mohammad Gholami
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Aja University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran,Infectious Diseases Research Center, Aja University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Dadmanesh
- Infectious Diseases Research Center, Aja University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Negin Hosseini Rouzbahani
- Department of Medical Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Aja University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran,Infectious Diseases Research Center, Aja University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran,Corresponding author at: Department of Medical Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Aja University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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SARS-CoV-2 Vaccine-Induced T-Cell Response after Three Doses in People Living with HIV on Antiretroviral Therapy Compared to Seronegative Controls (CTN 328 COVAXHIV Study). Viruses 2023; 15:v15020575. [PMID: 36851789 PMCID: PMC9959053 DOI: 10.3390/v15020575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2023] [Revised: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
People living with HIV (PLWH) may be at risk for poor immunogenicity to certain vaccines, including the ability to develop immunological memory. Here, we assessed T-cell immunogenicity following three SARS-CoV-2 vaccine doses in PLWH versus uninfected controls. Blood was collected from 38 PLWH on antiretroviral therapy and 24 age-matched HIV-negative controls, pre-vaccination and after 1st/2nd/3rd dose of SARS-CoV-2 vaccines, without prior SARS-CoV-2 infection. Flow cytometry was used to assess ex vivo T-cell immunophenotypes and intracellular Tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α/interferon(IFN)-γ/interleukin(IL)-2 following SARS-CoV-2-Spike-peptide stimulation. Comparisons were made using Wilcoxon signed-rank test for paired variables and Mann-Whitney for unpaired. In PLWH, Spike-specific CD4 T-cell frequencies plateaued post-2nd dose, with no significant differences in polyfunctional SARS-CoV-2-specific T-cell proportions between PLWH and uninfected controls post-3rd dose. PLWH had higher frequencies of TNFα+CD4 T-cells and lower frequencies of IFNγ+CD8 T-cells than seronegative participants post-3rd dose. Regardless of HIV status, an increase in naive, regulatory, and PD1+ T-cell frequencies was observed post-3rd dose. In summary, two doses of SARS-CoV-2 vaccine induced a robust T-cell immune response in PLWH, which was maintained after the 3rd dose, with no significant differences in polyfunctional SARS-CoV-2-specific T-cell proportions between PLWH and uninfected controls post-3rd dose.
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Benitez G, Shehadeh F, Mylona EK, Tran QL, Tsikala-Vafea M, Atalla E, Kaczynski M, Mylonakis E. Effect of Thymalfasin (Thymosin-α-1) on Reversing Lymphocytopenia among Patients with COVID-19. Int Immunopharmacol 2023:109831. [PMCID: PMC9902288 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2023.109831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/10/2023]
Abstract
Introduction Thymosin-α-1 (Tα1) elevates lymphocyte counts among patients with COVID-19, but its effect on reversing lymphocytopenia is unknown. Methods 24 patients treated with Tα1 and 100 patients in the control arm were included in this analysis. The incidence rate of reversing lymphocytopenia, overall and stratified by baseline oxygen support, above the threshold for classification of lymphocytopenia (i.e., Total Lymphocyte Count (TLC) < 1.5 x 109/L) and severe lymphocytopenia (i.e., TLC < 1.0 x 109/L) within 3, 5, and 7 days of treatment initiation was calculated, along with incidence rate ratios (IRRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Results Compared with the standard of care, the rate of reversing lymphocytopenia (IRR: 2.38, 95% CI: 0.92 – 5.81) and severe lymphocytopenia (IRR: 1.57, 95% CI: 0.59 – 3.72), especially among patients with severe lymphocytopenia on high flow oxygen support (IRR: 3.64, 95% CI: 0.71 – 23.44), was greater for patients treated with Tα1 within 3 days of treatment initiation, although analyses were not significant. Conclusion Among patients with hypoxemia and lymphocytopenia, Tα1 may reverse lymphocytopenia and severe lymphocytopenia, particularly within 3 days of treatment initiation, faster than the standard of care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregorio Benitez
- Infectious Diseases Division, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Fadi Shehadeh
- Infectious Diseases Division, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, USA,School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, National Technical University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Evangelia K. Mylona
- Infectious Diseases Division, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Quynh-Lam Tran
- Infectious Diseases Division, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, USA,Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, NH, USA
| | - Maria Tsikala-Vafea
- Infectious Diseases Division, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, USA,University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Eleftheria Atalla
- Infectious Diseases Division, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, USA,Jacobi Medical Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Matthew Kaczynski
- Infectious Diseases Division, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Eleftherios Mylonakis
- Infectious Diseases Division, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, USA,Corresponding author at: Eleftherios Mylonakis 593 Eddy Street, POB, 3rd Floor, Suite 328/330, Providence, RI 02903, USA
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9
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Bailly C. Contribution of the TIM-3/Gal-9 immune checkpoint to tropical parasitic diseases. Acta Trop 2023; 238:106792. [PMID: 36509129 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2022.106792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2022] [Revised: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Neglected tropical parasitic diseases (NTD) are prevalent in many countries and cost-effective treatments remain urgently needed. Novel approaches have been proposed to address these diseases through an action on immune co-inhibitory checkpoints which are exploited by parasites to evade the immune system. Among these checkpoints, TIM-3 has been shown to play a key role in antiparasitic immunity via a repression and functional attenuation of CD4+ and/or CD8+ T-cells. The present review discusses the role of the TIM-3/galectin-9 checkpoint in seven major NTD: Chagas disease, leishmaniasis and malaria (3 trypanosomatid infections), schistosomiasis, toxoplasmosis, echinococcosis and filariasis (4 helminth infections). In each case, the role of the checkpoint has been analyzed and the use of anti-TIM-3 antibodies evaluated as a potential therapeutic approach. In general, the parasitic infection is coupled with an upregulation of TIM-3 expressed on T cells, but not necessarily with an exhaustion of those T cells. In several cases, the use of anti-TIM-3 antibodies represent a possible strategy to reinforce the clearance and to reduce the parasite load. Promising data have been reported in cases of leishmaniasis, malaria and schistosomiasis, whereas a similar approach proved much less efficient (if not deleterious) in cases of echinococcosis and the Chagas disease. Nevertheless, the TIM-3 checkpoint warrants further consideration as a potential immune target to combat these pathologies, using antibodies or drugs capable of reducing directly or indirectly the expression and function of the checkpoint, to restore an immune control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Bailly
- OncoWitan, Scientific Consulting Office, Lille (Wasquehal), 59290, France; University of Lille, Institut de Chimie Pharmaceutique Albert Lespagnol (ICPAL), Faculté de Pharmacie, 3 rue du Professeur Laguesse, BP-83, F-59006, Lille, France.
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10
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Cords L, Woost R, Kummer S, Brehm TT, Kluge S, Schmiedel S, Jordan S, Lohse AW, Altfeld M, Addo MM, Schulze Zur Wiesch J, Beisel C. Frequency of IRF5+ dendritic cells is associated with the TLR7-induced inflammatory cytokine response in SARS-CoV-2 infection. Cytokine 2023; 162:156109. [PMID: 36529029 PMCID: PMC9744680 DOI: 10.1016/j.cyto.2022.156109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2022] [Revised: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The SARS-CoV-2 infection leads to enhanced inflammation driven by innate immune responses. Upon TLR7 stimulation, dendritic cells (DC) mediate the production of inflammatory cytokines, and in particular of type I interferons (IFN). Especially in DCs, IRF5 is a key transcription factor that regulates pathogen-induced immune responses via activation of the MyD88-dependent TLR signaling pathway. In the current study, the frequencies of IRF5+ DCs and the association with innate cytokine responses in SARS-CoV-2 infected individuals with different disease courses were investigated. In addition to a decreased number of mDC and pDC subsets, we could show reduced relative IRF5+ frequencies in mDCs of SARS-CoV-2 infected individuals compared with healthy donors. Functionally, mDCs of COVID-19 patients produced lower levels of IL-6 in response to in vitro TLR7 stimulation. IRF5+ mDCs more frequently produced IL-6 and TNF-α compared to their IRF5- counterparts upon TLR7 ligation. The correlation of IRF5+ mDCs with the frequencies of IL-6 and TNF-α producing mDCs were indicators for a role of IRF5 in the regulation of cytokine responses in mDCs. In conclusion, our data provide further insights into the underlying mechanisms of TLR7-dependent immune dysfunction and identify IRF5 as a potential immunomodulatory target in SARS-CoV-2 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leon Cords
- I. Department of Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Robin Woost
- I. Department of Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Silke Kummer
- I. Department of Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Thomas T Brehm
- I. Department of Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany; German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Hamburg - Lübeck - Borstel - Riems, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Stefan Kluge
- Department of Intensive Care Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Stefan Schmiedel
- I. Department of Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Sabine Jordan
- I. Department of Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Ansgar W Lohse
- I. Department of Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Marcus Altfeld
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Hamburg - Lübeck - Borstel - Riems, Hamburg, Germany; Research Department Virus Immunology, Leibniz Institute for Virology (LIV), Hamburg, Germany
| | - Marylyn M Addo
- I. Department of Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany; German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Hamburg - Lübeck - Borstel - Riems, Hamburg, Germany; Institute for Infection Research and Vaccine Development, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Julian Schulze Zur Wiesch
- I. Department of Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany; German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Hamburg - Lübeck - Borstel - Riems, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Claudia Beisel
- I. Department of Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany; German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Hamburg - Lübeck - Borstel - Riems, Hamburg, Germany; Department of Internal Medicine IV, Gastroenterology and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Heidelberg, Germany.
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11
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Zsichla L, Müller V. Risk Factors of Severe COVID-19: A Review of Host, Viral and Environmental Factors. Viruses 2023; 15:175. [PMID: 36680215 PMCID: PMC9863423 DOI: 10.3390/v15010175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2022] [Revised: 01/04/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
The clinical course and outcome of COVID-19 are highly variable, ranging from asymptomatic infections to severe disease and death. Understanding the risk factors of severe COVID-19 is relevant both in the clinical setting and at the epidemiological level. Here, we provide an overview of host, viral and environmental factors that have been shown or (in some cases) hypothesized to be associated with severe clinical outcomes. The factors considered in detail include the age and frailty, genetic polymorphisms, biological sex (and pregnancy), co- and superinfections, non-communicable comorbidities, immunological history, microbiota, and lifestyle of the patient; viral genetic variation and infecting dose; socioeconomic factors; and air pollution. For each category, we compile (sometimes conflicting) evidence for the association of the factor with COVID-19 outcomes (including the strength of the effect) and outline possible action mechanisms. We also discuss the complex interactions between the various risk factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Levente Zsichla
- Institute of Biology, Eötvös Loránd University, 1117 Budapest, Hungary
- National Laboratory for Health Security, Eötvös Loránd University, 1117 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Viktor Müller
- Institute of Biology, Eötvös Loránd University, 1117 Budapest, Hungary
- National Laboratory for Health Security, Eötvös Loránd University, 1117 Budapest, Hungary
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12
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Rodríguez-Guilarte L, Ramírez MA, Andrade CA, Kalergis AM. LAG-3 Contribution to T Cell Downmodulation during Acute Respiratory Viral Infections. Viruses 2023; 15:147. [PMID: 36680187 PMCID: PMC9865459 DOI: 10.3390/v15010147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2022] [Revised: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
LAG-3 is a type I transmembrane protein expressed on immune cells, such as activated T cells, and binds to MHC class II with high affinity. LAG-3 is an inhibitory receptor, and its multiple biological activities on T cell activation and effector functions play a regulatory role in the immune response. Immunotherapies directed at immune checkpoints, including LAG-3, have become a promising strategy for controlling malignant tumors and chronic viral diseases. Several studies have suggested an association between the expression of LAG-3 with an inadequate immune response during respiratory viral infections and the susceptibility to reinfections, which might be a consequence of the inhibition of T cell effector functions. However, important information relative to therapeutic potential during acute viral lower respiratory tract infections and the mechanism of action of the LAG-3 checkpoint remains to be characterized. In this article, we discuss the contribution of LAG-3 to the impairment of T cells during viral respiratory infections. Understanding the host immune response to respiratory infections is crucial for developing effective vaccines and therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linmar Rodríguez-Guilarte
- Millennium Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, Departamento de Genética Molecular y Microbiología, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8331150, Chile
| | - Mario A. Ramírez
- Millennium Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, Departamento de Genética Molecular y Microbiología, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8331150, Chile
| | - Catalina A. Andrade
- Millennium Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, Departamento de Genética Molecular y Microbiología, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8331150, Chile
| | - Alexis M. Kalergis
- Millennium Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, Departamento de Genética Molecular y Microbiología, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8331150, Chile
- Departamento de Endocrinología, Facultad de Medicina, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8331150, Chile
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13
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Siewiera J, Brodaczewska K, Jermakow N, Lubas A, Kłos K, Majewska A, Kot J. Effectiveness of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy in SARS-CoV-2 Pneumonia: The Primary Results of a Randomised Clinical Trial. J Clin Med 2022; 12:jcm12010008. [PMID: 36614808 PMCID: PMC9820955 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12010008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Revised: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Mortality in COVID-19 is mainly associated with respiratory failure, cytokine storm, and macrophage activation. Oxygenation and anti-inflammatory effects of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) suggest that it is a promising adjunct treatment for COVID-19. Repeated sessions of HBO with standard COVID-19 therapy were used to reduce the inflammation and increase oxygenation. We evaluated the safety and efficacy of HBOT in avoiding the replacement ventilation and/or ECMO and its effect on the inflammatory process. Twenty-eight moderate-to-severe COVID-19 patients were randomized into control or HBOT group. HBOT patients participated in 5 hyperbaric sessions (60 min). Before and after each session blood gas levels and vital parameters were monitored. Blood samples were collected for extended biochemical tests, blood morphology and immunological assays. There were 3 deaths in the control, no deaths in the HBOT group. No adverse events leading to discontinuation of HBOT were observed and patients receiving HBOT required lower oxygen delivery. We observed decrease in CRP, ferritin and LDH and increase in CD3 in HBOT group compared to control. This study confirmed the feasibility and safety of HBOT in patients with COVID-19 and indicated HBOT can lead to alleviation of inflammation and partial restoration of T cell responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacek Siewiera
- Department of Hyperbaric Medicine, Military Institute of Medicine—National Research Institute, 04-141 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Klaudia Brodaczewska
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology and Innovative Therapies, Military Institute of Medicine—National Research Institute, 04-141 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Natalia Jermakow
- Department of Hyperbaric Medicine, Military Institute of Medicine—National Research Institute, 04-141 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Arkadiusz Lubas
- Department of Internal Diseases Nephrology and Dialysis, Military Institute of Medicine—National Research Institute, 04-141 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Krzysztof Kłos
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Allergology, Military Institute of Medicine—National Research Institute, 04-141 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Aleksandra Majewska
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology and Innovative Therapies, Military Institute of Medicine—National Research Institute, 04-141 Warsaw, Poland
- Postgraduate School of Molecular Medicine (SMM), Warsaw Medical University, 02-091 Warsaw, Poland
- Correspondence:
| | - Jacek Kot
- National Centre for Hyperbaric Medicine, Institute of Maritime and Tropical Medicine, Medical University of Gdansk, 81-519 Gdynia, Poland
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14
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Biological and Exploitable Crossroads for the Immune Response in Cancer and COVID-19. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10102628. [PMID: 36289890 PMCID: PMC9599827 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10102628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2022] [Revised: 10/05/2022] [Accepted: 10/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The outbreak of novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has exacted a disproportionate toll on cancer patients. The effects of anticancer treatments and cancer patients’ characteristics shared significant responsibilities for this dismal outcome; however, the underlying immunopathological mechanisms are far from being completely understood. Indeed, despite their different etiologies, SARS-CoV-2 infection and cancer unexpectedly share relevant immunobiological connections. In the pathogenesis and natural history of both conditions, there emerges the centrality of the immune response, orchestrating the timed appearance, functional and dysfunctional roles of multiple effectors in acute and chronic phases. A significant number (more than 600) of observational and interventional studies have explored the interconnections between COVID-19 and cancer, focusing on aspects as diverse as psychological implications and prognostic factors, with more than 4000 manuscripts published so far. In this review, we reported and discussed the dynamic behavior of the main cytokines and immune system signaling pathways involved in acute vs. early, and chronic vs. advanced stages of SARS-CoV-2 infection and cancer. We highlighted the biological similarities and active connections within these dynamic disease scenarios, exploring and speculating on possible therapeutic crossroads from one setting to the other.
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15
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Wang Q, Deng J, Sun J, Zhang H, Liu D, Gao C, Qiu J, Liu W, Qu G, Wen D, Du J, Zhang A, Zeng L, Jiang J. PDGFR kinase inhibitor protects against septic death via regulation of BTLA. SCIENCE CHINA. LIFE SCIENCES 2022; 65:1917-1928. [PMID: 35918604 PMCID: PMC9345782 DOI: 10.1007/s11427-021-2136-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2022] [Accepted: 06/01/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Sepsis, defined as life-threatening organ failure caused by a dysregulated host response to severe infection, is a major cause of death among intensive care unit patients. Therapies targeting on immunomodulatory is a new research field in sepsis treatment. B- and T-lymphocyte attenuator (BTLA) is an inhibitory costimulatory factor molecule of B and T lymphocytes. Studies have shown that elevated expression of BTLA in lymphocytes can reduce mortality in sepsis, but its regulatory compounds and the underlying mechanism remains to be elucidated. Here, we show that treatment with CP-673451 significantly decreases mortality of septic mouse. CP-673451 is a PDGFR kinase inhibitor which can promote the expression of BTLA, inhibit the release of chemokines such as CXCL13, and reduce first the chemotaxis of B cells to the peripheral blood and vital organs. CP-673451 also inhibits both the release of cytokines and chemokines such as IL-1β, IL-6, IL-10, TNF-α, CCL1, CCL2 and CCL7 and reduces both the chemotactic ability of T cells. This suggests that CP-673451 may prevent septic death by inhibiting lymphocyte chemotaxis and alleviating "cytokine storm". In conclusion, our study provides a new therapeutic target and an effective compound for sepsis treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiang Wang
- Department of Trauma Medical Center, Daping Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 400042, China
- Department of Emergency, the Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550001, China
| | - Jin Deng
- Department of Emergency, the Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550001, China
| | - Jianhui Sun
- Department of Trauma Medical Center, Daping Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 400042, China
| | - Huacai Zhang
- Department of Trauma Medical Center, Daping Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 400042, China
| | - Di Liu
- Department of Trauma Medical Center, Daping Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 400042, China
| | - Chu Gao
- Department of Trauma Medical Center, Daping Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 400042, China
| | - Jinchao Qiu
- Department of Trauma Medical Center, Daping Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 400042, China
- Department of Emergency, the Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550001, China
| | - Wenyi Liu
- Department of Trauma Medical Center, Daping Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 400042, China
| | - Guoxin Qu
- Department of Trauma Medical Center, Daping Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 400042, China
- Department of Emergency, the Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550001, China
| | - Dalin Wen
- Department of Trauma Medical Center, Daping Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 400042, China
| | - Juan Du
- Department of Trauma Medical Center, Daping Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 400042, China
| | - Anqiang Zhang
- Department of Trauma Medical Center, Daping Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 400042, China
| | - Ling Zeng
- Department of Trauma Medical Center, Daping Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 400042, China.
| | - Jianxin Jiang
- Department of Trauma Medical Center, Daping Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 400042, China.
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16
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Immune checkpoint alterations and their blockade in COVID-19 patients. BLOOD SCIENCE 2022; 4:192-198. [PMID: 36311817 PMCID: PMC9592141 DOI: 10.1097/bs9.0000000000000132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a highly contagious disease that seriously affects people's lives. Immune dysfunction, which is characterized by abnormal expression of multiple immune checkpoint proteins (ICs) on immune cells, is associated with progression and poor prognosis for tumors and chronic infections. Immunotherapy targeting ICs has been well established in modulating immune function and improving clinical outcome for solid tumors and hematological malignancies. The role of ICs in different populations or COVID-19 stages and the impact of IC blockade remains unclear. In this review, we summarized current studies of alterations in ICs in COVID-19 to better understand immune changes and provide strategies for treating COVID-19 patients, particularly those with cancer.
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17
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Khare K, Pandey R. Cellular heterogeneity in disease severity and clinical outcome: Granular understanding of immune response is key. Front Immunol 2022; 13:973070. [PMID: 36072602 PMCID: PMC9441806 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.973070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
During an infectious disease progression, it is crucial to understand the cellular heterogeneity underlying the differential immune response landscape that will augment the precise information of the disease severity modulators, leading to differential clinical outcome. Patients with COVID-19 display a complex yet regulated immune profile with a heterogeneous array of clinical manifestation that delineates disease severity sub-phenotypes and worst clinical outcomes. Therefore, it is necessary to elucidate/understand/enumerate the role of cellular heterogeneity during COVID-19 disease to understand the underlying immunological mechanisms regulating the disease severity. This article aims to comprehend the current findings regarding dysregulation and impairment of immune response in COVID-19 disease severity sub-phenotypes and relate them to a wide array of heterogeneous populations of immune cells. On the basis of the findings, it suggests a possible functional correlation between cellular heterogeneity and the COVID-19 disease severity. It highlights the plausible modulators of age, gender, comorbidities, and hosts' genetics that may be considered relevant in regulating the host response and subsequently the COVID-19 disease severity. Finally, it aims to highlight challenges in COVID-19 disease that can be achieved by the application of single-cell genomics, which may aid in delineating the heterogeneity with more granular understanding. This will augment our future pandemic preparedness with possibility to identify the subset of patients with increased diseased severity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kriti Khare
- Immunology and Infectious Disease Biology, INtegrative GENomics of HOst-PathogEn (INGEN-HOPE) laboratory, CSIR-Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology (CSIR-IGIB), Delhi, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, India
| | - Rajesh Pandey
- Immunology and Infectious Disease Biology, INtegrative GENomics of HOst-PathogEn (INGEN-HOPE) laboratory, CSIR-Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology (CSIR-IGIB), Delhi, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, India
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18
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Csordas BG, de Sousa Palmeira PH, Peixoto RF, Comberlang FCQDDS, de Medeiros IA, Azevedo FLAAD, Veras RC, Janebro DI, Amaral IPG, Barbosa-Filho JM, Keesen TSL. Is IFN expression by NK cells a hallmark of severe COVID-19? Cytokine 2022; 157:155971. [PMID: 35908408 PMCID: PMC9304336 DOI: 10.1016/j.cyto.2022.155971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2022] [Revised: 07/11/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Natural Killer cells (NK) are crucial in host defense against viruses. There are many unanswered questions about the immune system in COVID-19, especially the mechanisms that contribute to the development of mild or severe forms of the disease. Although NK cells may have an essential role in the pathogenesis of COVID-19, the mechanisms involved in this process are not yet fully elucidated. Here, we demonstrate that CD3-CD56+ NK cells frequency in the volunteers who recovered from mild COVID-19 (Mild CoV) presented a significant increase compared to the healthy control (HC) and individuals recovering from severe COVID-19 (Severe CoV) groups. Furthermore, distinct IFN profiles in recovered COVID-19 patients with mild or severe clinical forms of the disease were observed in the total NK cells (CD3-CD56+). In the first group, NK cells express increased levels of IFN-α compared to the severe CoV, while higher production of IFN-γ in severe CoV was found. Moreover, NK cells in mild CoV express more cytolytic granules depicted by granzyme B and perforin. Compared to HC, PBMCs from mild CoV presented higher Ki-67 and TIM-3 production after Pool CoV-2 and Pool Spike CoV-2 peptides stimulus. In addition, non-stimulated PBMCs in the mild CoV group had higher NK TIM-3+ frequency than severe CoV. In the mild CoV group, Pool Spike CoV-2 and Pool CoV-2 peptides stimuli elicited higher granzyme B and perforin coexpression and IFN-α production by PBMCs. However, in severe CoV, Pool Spike CoV-2 reduced the coexpression of granzyme B, perforin, and CD107a suggesting a decrease in the cytotoxic activity of NK cells. Therefore, our study shows that NK cells may have a crucial role in COVID-19 with the involvement of IFN-α and cytotoxic properties that aid in developing qualified immune responses. Furthermore, the data suggest that higher amounts of IFN-γ may be linked to the severity of this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bárbara Guimarães Csordas
- Postgraduate Program in Natural and Synthetic Bioactive Products, Immunology Laboratory of Infectious Diseases, Federal University of Paraiba, João Pessoa, Paraíba 58051-900, Brazil
| | - Pedro Henrique de Sousa Palmeira
- Postgraduate Program in Physiology Science, Immunology Laboratory of Infectious Diseases, Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Paraiba, João Pessoa, Paraíba 58051-900, Brazil
| | - Rephany Fonseca Peixoto
- Postgraduate Program in Physiology Science, Immunology Laboratory of Infectious Diseases, Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Paraiba, João Pessoa, Paraíba 58051-900, Brazil
| | | | - Isac Almeida de Medeiros
- Research Institute for Drugs and Medicines, Federal University of Paraiba, João Pessoa, Paraíba 58051-900, Brazil
| | | | - Robson Cavalcante Veras
- Research Institute for Drugs and Medicines, Federal University of Paraiba, João Pessoa, Paraíba 58051-900, Brazil
| | - Daniele Idalino Janebro
- Research Institute for Drugs and Medicines, Federal University of Paraiba, João Pessoa, Paraíba 58051-900, Brazil
| | - Ian P G Amaral
- Biotechnology Graduation Program, Immunology Laboratory of Infectious Diseases, Federal University of Paraiba, João Pessoa, Paraíba 58051-900, Brazil
| | - José Maria Barbosa-Filho
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Department, Federal University of Paraiba, João Pessoa, Paraíba 58051-900, Brazil
| | - Tatjana Souza Lima Keesen
- Immunology Laboratory of Infectious Diseases, Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Paraiba, João Pessoa, Paraíba 58051-900, Brazil.
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19
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RNA Viruses, Pregnancy and Vaccination: Emerging Lessons from COVID-19 and Ebola Virus Disease. Pathogens 2022; 11:pathogens11070800. [PMID: 35890044 PMCID: PMC9322689 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11070800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2022] [Revised: 07/10/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Pathogenic viruses with an RNA genome represent a challenge for global human health since they have the tremendous potential to develop into devastating pandemics/epidemics. The management of the recent COVID-19 pandemic was possible to a certain extent only because of the strong foundations laid by the research on previous viral outbreaks, especially Ebola Virus Disease (EVD). A clear understanding of the mechanisms of the host immune response generated upon viral infections is a prime requisite for the development of new therapeutic strategies. Hence, we present here a comparative study of alterations in immune response upon SARS-CoV-2 and Ebola virus infections that illustrate many common features. Vaccination and pregnancy are two important aspects that need to be studied from an immunological perspective. So, we summarize the outcomes and immune responses in vaccinated and pregnant individuals in the context of COVID-19 and EVD. Considering the significance of immunomodulatory approaches in combating both these diseases, we have also presented the state of the art of such therapeutics and prophylactics. Currently, several vaccines against these viruses have been approved or are under clinical trials in various parts of the world. Therefore, we also recapitulate the latest developments in these which would inspire researchers to look for possibilities of developing vaccines against many other RNA viruses. We hope that the similar aspects in COVID-19 and EVD open up new avenues for the development of pan-viral therapies.
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20
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Brandi J, Riehn M, Hadjilaou A, Jacobs T. Increased Expression of Multiple Co-Inhibitory Molecules on Malaria-Induced CD8 + T Cells Are Associated With Increased Function Instead of Exhaustion. Front Immunol 2022; 13:878320. [PMID: 35874786 PMCID: PMC9301332 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.878320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2022] [Accepted: 06/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Activated cytotoxic CD8+ T cells can selectively kill target cells in an antigen-specific manner. However, their prolonged activation often has detrimental effects on tissue homeostasis and function. Indeed, overwhelming cytotoxic activity of CD8+ T cells can drive immunopathology, and therefore, the extent and duration of CD8+ T cell effector function needs to be tightly regulated. One way to regulate CD8+ T cell function is their suppression through engagement of co-inhibitory molecules to their cognate ligands (e.g., LAG-3, PD-1, TIM-3, TIGIT and CTLA-4). During chronic antigen exposure, the expression of co-inhibitory molecules is associated with a loss of T cell function, termed T cell exhaustion and blockade of co-inhibitory pathways often restores T cell function. We addressed the effect of co-inhibitory molecule expression on CD8+ T cell function during acute antigen exposure using experimental malaria. To this end, we infected OT-I mice with a transgenic P. berghei ANKA strain that expresses ovalbumin (PbTG), which enables the characterization of antigen-specific CD8+ T cell responses. We then compared antigen-specific CD8+ T cell populations expressing different levels of the co-inhibitory molecules. High expression of LAG-3 correlated with high expression of PD-1, TIGIT, TIM-3 and CTLA-4. Contrary to what has been described during chronic antigen exposure, antigen-specific CD8+ T cells with the highest expression of LAG-3 appeared to be fully functional during acute malaria. We evaluated this by measuring IFN-γ, Granzyme B and Perforin production and confirmed the results by employing a newly developed T cell cytotoxicity assay. We found that LAG-3high CD8+ T cells are more cytotoxic than LAG-3low or activated but LAG-3neg CD8+ T cells. In conclusion, our data imply that expression of co-inhibitory molecules in acute malaria is not necessarily associated with functional exhaustion but may be associated with an overwhelming T cell activation. Taken together, our findings shed new light on the induction of co-inhibitory molecules during acute T cell activation with ramifications for immunomodulatory therapies targeting these molecules in acute infectious diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johannes Brandi
- Protozoa Immunology, Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Mathias Riehn
- Protozoa Immunology, Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Alexandros Hadjilaou
- Protozoa Immunology, Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine, Hamburg, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research Deutsches Zentrum für Infektionsforschung (DZIF), Partner Site Hamburg-Lübeck-Borstel-Riems, Hamburg, Germany
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Neurologie, Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- Institut für Neuroimmunologie und Multiple Sklerose, Zentrum für Molekulare Neurobiologie Hamburg, Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Thomas Jacobs
- Protozoa Immunology, Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine, Hamburg, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research Deutsches Zentrum für Infektionsforschung (DZIF), Partner Site Hamburg-Lübeck-Borstel-Riems, Hamburg, Germany
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21
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Cords L, Knapp M, Woost R, Schulte S, Kummer S, Ackermann C, Beisel C, Peine S, Johansson AM, Kwok WWH, Günther T, Fischer N, Wittner M, Addo MM, Huber S, Schulze zur Wiesch J. High and Sustained Ex Vivo Frequency but Altered Phenotype of SARS-CoV-2-Specific CD4 + T-Cells in an Anti-CD20-Treated Patient with Prolonged COVID-19. Viruses 2022; 14:v14061265. [PMID: 35746736 PMCID: PMC9228841 DOI: 10.3390/v14061265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2022] [Revised: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Here, we longitudinally assessed the ex vivo frequency and phenotype of SARS-CoV-2 membrane protein (aa145-164) epitope-specific CD4+ T-cells of an anti-CD20-treated patient with prolonged viral positivity in direct comparison to an immunocompetent patient through an MHC class II DRB1*11:01 Tetramer analysis. We detected a high and stable SARS-CoV-2 membrane-specific CD4+ T-cell response in both patients, with higher frequencies of virus-specific CD4+ T-cells in the B-cell-depleted patient. However, we found an altered virus-specific CD4+ T-cell memory phenotype in the B-cell-depleted patient that was skewed towards late differentiated memory T-cells, as well as reduced frequencies of SARS-CoV-2-specific CD4+ T-cells with CD45RA- CXCR5+ PD-1+ circulating T follicular helper cell (cTFH) phenotype. Furthermore, we observed a delayed contraction of CD127- virus-specific effector cells. The expression of the co-inhibitory receptors TIGIT and LAG-3 fluctuated on the virus-specific CD4+ T-cells of the patient, but were associated with the inflammation markers IL-6 and CRP. Our findings indicate that, despite B-cell depletion and a lack of B-cell-T-cell interaction, a robust virus-specific CD4+ T-cell response can be primed that helps to control the viral replication, but which is not sufficient to fully abrogate the infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leon Cords
- Infectious Diseases Unit I, Department of Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20246 Hamburg, Germany; (L.C.); (M.K.); (R.W.); (S.S.); (S.K.); (C.A.); (C.B.); (M.W.); (M.M.A.); (S.H.)
| | - Maximilian Knapp
- Infectious Diseases Unit I, Department of Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20246 Hamburg, Germany; (L.C.); (M.K.); (R.W.); (S.S.); (S.K.); (C.A.); (C.B.); (M.W.); (M.M.A.); (S.H.)
| | - Robin Woost
- Infectious Diseases Unit I, Department of Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20246 Hamburg, Germany; (L.C.); (M.K.); (R.W.); (S.S.); (S.K.); (C.A.); (C.B.); (M.W.); (M.M.A.); (S.H.)
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Hamburg-Lübeck-Borstel-Riems, 20246 Hamburg, Germany;
| | - Sophia Schulte
- Infectious Diseases Unit I, Department of Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20246 Hamburg, Germany; (L.C.); (M.K.); (R.W.); (S.S.); (S.K.); (C.A.); (C.B.); (M.W.); (M.M.A.); (S.H.)
| | - Silke Kummer
- Infectious Diseases Unit I, Department of Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20246 Hamburg, Germany; (L.C.); (M.K.); (R.W.); (S.S.); (S.K.); (C.A.); (C.B.); (M.W.); (M.M.A.); (S.H.)
| | - Christin Ackermann
- Infectious Diseases Unit I, Department of Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20246 Hamburg, Germany; (L.C.); (M.K.); (R.W.); (S.S.); (S.K.); (C.A.); (C.B.); (M.W.); (M.M.A.); (S.H.)
| | - Claudia Beisel
- Infectious Diseases Unit I, Department of Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20246 Hamburg, Germany; (L.C.); (M.K.); (R.W.); (S.S.); (S.K.); (C.A.); (C.B.); (M.W.); (M.M.A.); (S.H.)
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Hamburg-Lübeck-Borstel-Riems, 20246 Hamburg, Germany;
| | - Sven Peine
- Institute of Transfusion Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20246 Hamburg, Germany;
| | | | - William Wai-Hung Kwok
- Benaroya Research Institute at Virginia Mason, Seattle, WA 98101, USA; (A.M.J.); (W.W.-H.K.)
| | - Thomas Günther
- Leibniz Institute for Experimental Virology (HPI), 20251 Hamburg, Germany;
| | - Nicole Fischer
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Hamburg-Lübeck-Borstel-Riems, 20246 Hamburg, Germany;
- Leibniz Institute for Experimental Virology (HPI), 20251 Hamburg, Germany;
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, Virology and Hygiene, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20246 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Melanie Wittner
- Infectious Diseases Unit I, Department of Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20246 Hamburg, Germany; (L.C.); (M.K.); (R.W.); (S.S.); (S.K.); (C.A.); (C.B.); (M.W.); (M.M.A.); (S.H.)
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Hamburg-Lübeck-Borstel-Riems, 20246 Hamburg, Germany;
| | - Marylyn Martina Addo
- Infectious Diseases Unit I, Department of Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20246 Hamburg, Germany; (L.C.); (M.K.); (R.W.); (S.S.); (S.K.); (C.A.); (C.B.); (M.W.); (M.M.A.); (S.H.)
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Hamburg-Lübeck-Borstel-Riems, 20246 Hamburg, Germany;
| | - Samuel Huber
- Infectious Diseases Unit I, Department of Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20246 Hamburg, Germany; (L.C.); (M.K.); (R.W.); (S.S.); (S.K.); (C.A.); (C.B.); (M.W.); (M.M.A.); (S.H.)
| | - Julian Schulze zur Wiesch
- Infectious Diseases Unit I, Department of Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20246 Hamburg, Germany; (L.C.); (M.K.); (R.W.); (S.S.); (S.K.); (C.A.); (C.B.); (M.W.); (M.M.A.); (S.H.)
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Hamburg-Lübeck-Borstel-Riems, 20246 Hamburg, Germany;
- Correspondence:
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22
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Hosseini A, Badri T, Esmaeili Gouvarchin Ghaleh H, Hassanpour K, Alishiri G, Akbariqomi M, Farnoosh G. Melatonin as a complementary and prophylactic agent against COVID‐19 in high‐risk populations: A narrative review of recent findings from clinical and preclinical studies. Fundam Clin Pharmacol 2022; 36:918-929. [DOI: 10.1111/fcp.12805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Revised: 03/23/2022] [Accepted: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Abdolkarim Hosseini
- Department of Animal Sciences and Biotechnology, Faculty of Life Sciences and Biotechnology Shahid Beheshti University Tehran Iran
| | - Taleb Badri
- Neuroscience Research Center Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences Tehran Iran
| | | | - Kazem Hassanpour
- Department of Pediatric, School of Medicine Sabzevar University of Medical Sciences Sabzevar Iran
| | - Gholamhossein Alishiri
- Chemical Injuries Research Center, Systems Biology and Poisonings Institute Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences Tehran Iran
| | - Mostafa Akbariqomi
- Applied Biotechnology Research Center Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences Tehran Iran
| | - Gholamreza Farnoosh
- Applied Biotechnology Research Center Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences Tehran Iran
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23
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Khalifehzadeh-Esfahani Z, Fattahi S, Heidari Haratemeh Z, Jafarinia M. The Role of Immune Regulatory Molecules in COVID-19. Viral Immunol 2022; 35:359-364. [PMID: 35443826 DOI: 10.1089/vim.2021.0211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
As the fifth pandemic in the 21st century, coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has become the most prominent global concern in the last 2 years. Variable manifestations characterize SARS-CoV-2 infection. Despite the design and production of effective vaccines and their considerable effect on reducing the COVID-19 prevalence and mortality rate, no definitive cure for the disease has yet been found. Mutations may also affect the effectiveness of vaccines. The host immune response to the pathogen has a critical role in the course of the disease. Positive and negative signals often balance the immune system. Immune regulatory molecules, also known as immune checkpoint receptors, balance the immune responses. These molecules mainly have inhibitory functions and prevent hyperactivation of immune cells or trigger adverse signaling pathways. For a decade, the immune checkpoint blockade, as a therapeutic target for cancer immunotherapy, has been utilized. Some of the inhibitory receptors are recognized as exhaustion markers on T cells. The signaling pathway of these markers restricts the function of T cells against viral infection. Dysregulation of T cells was observed in SARS-CoV-2 infection and can modify proliferation, differentiation, cytokine production, and type of response. The pivotal role of immune inhibitory receptors in the function of acquired, cell-mediated, immune defense T cells makes them a fascinating subject to study. This review article summarized recent findings on immune regulatory molecules and their role in SARS-CoV-2 infection, hoping to find a way to design novel treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Soheila Fattahi
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Basic Health Sciences Institute, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran
| | | | - Morteza Jafarinia
- Shiraz Neuroscience Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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24
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Struble LR, Smith AL, Lutz WE, Grubbs G, Sagar S, Bayles KW, Radhakrishnan P, Khurana S, El‐Gamal D, Borgstahl GEO. Insect cell expression and purification of recombinant
SARS‐COV
‐2 spike proteins that demonstrate
ACE2
binding. Protein Sci 2022; 31:e4300. [PMID: 35481636 PMCID: PMC8996471 DOI: 10.1002/pro.4300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2021] [Revised: 03/10/2022] [Accepted: 03/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The COVID‐19 pandemic caused by SARS‐CoV‐2 infection has led to socio‐economic shutdowns and the loss of over 5 million lives worldwide. There is a need for the identification of therapeutic targets to treat COVID‐19. SARS‐CoV‐2 spike is a target of interest for the development of therapeutic targets. We developed a robust SARS‐CoV‐2 S spike expression and purification protocol from insect cells and studied four recombinant SARS‐CoV‐2 spike protein constructs based on the original SARS‐CoV‐2 sequence using a baculovirus expression system: a spike protein receptor‐binding domain that includes the SD1 domain (RBD) coupled to a fluorescent tag (S‐RBD‐eGFP), spike ectodomain coupled to a fluorescent tag (S‐Ecto‐eGFP), spike ectodomain with six proline mutations and a foldon domain (S‐Ecto‐HexaPro(+F)), and spike ectodomain with six proline mutations without the foldon domain (S‐Ecto‐HexaPro(‐F)). We tested the yield of purified protein expressed from the insect cell lines Spodoptera frugiperda (Sf9) and Trichoplusia ni (Tni) and compared it to previous research using mammalian cell lines to determine changes in protein yield. We demonstrated quick and inexpensive production of functional glycosylated spike protein of high purity capable of recognizing and binding to the angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor. To further confirm functionality, we demonstrate binding of eGFP fused construct of the spike ectodomain (S‐Ecto‐eGFP) to surface ACE2 receptors on lung epithelial cells by flow cytometry analysis and show that it can be decreased by means of receptor manipulation (blockade or downregulation).
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucas R. Struble
- Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases University of Nebraska Media Center Omaha Nebraska USA
| | - Audrey L. Smith
- Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases University of Nebraska Media Center Omaha Nebraska USA
| | - William E. Lutz
- Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases University of Nebraska Media Center Omaha Nebraska USA
| | - Gabrielle Grubbs
- Division of Viral Products, Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research (CBER) FDA Silver Spring Maryland USA
| | - Satish Sagar
- Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases University of Nebraska Media Center Omaha Nebraska USA
| | - Kenneth W. Bayles
- Department of Pathology and Microbiology University of Nebraska Medical Center Omaha Nebraska USA
| | - Prakash Radhakrishnan
- Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases University of Nebraska Media Center Omaha Nebraska USA
- Department of Pathology and Microbiology University of Nebraska Medical Center Omaha Nebraska USA
- Fred and Pamela Buffet Cancer Center University of Nebraska Medical Center Omaha Nebraska USA
- Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Anatomy University of Nebraska Medical Center Omaha Nebraska USA
| | - Surender Khurana
- Division of Viral Products, Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research (CBER) FDA Silver Spring Maryland USA
| | - Dalia El‐Gamal
- Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases University of Nebraska Media Center Omaha Nebraska USA
- Fred and Pamela Buffet Cancer Center University of Nebraska Medical Center Omaha Nebraska USA
| | - Gloria E. O. Borgstahl
- Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases University of Nebraska Media Center Omaha Nebraska USA
- Fred and Pamela Buffet Cancer Center University of Nebraska Medical Center Omaha Nebraska USA
- Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Anatomy University of Nebraska Medical Center Omaha Nebraska USA
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25
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Mortezaee K, Majidpoor J. CD8 + T Cells in SARS-CoV-2 Induced Disease and Cancer-Clinical Perspectives. Front Immunol 2022; 13:864298. [PMID: 35432340 PMCID: PMC9010719 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.864298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Dysregulated innate and adaptive immunity is a sign of SARS-CoV-2-induced disease and cancer. CD8+ T cells are important cells of the immune system. The cells belong to the adaptive immunity and take a front-line defense against viral infections and cancer. Extreme CD8+ T-cell activities in the lung of patients with a SARS-CoV-2-induced disease and within the tumor microenvironment (TME) will change their functionality into exhausted state and undergo apoptosis. Such diminished immunity will put cancer cases at a high-risk group for SARS-CoV-2-induced disease, rendering viral sepsis and a more severe condition which will finally cause a higher rate of mortality. Recovering responses from CD8+ T cells is a purpose of vaccination against SARS-CoV-2. The aim of this review is to discuss the CD8+ T cellular state in SARS-CoV-2-induced disease and in cancer and to present some strategies for recovering the functionality of these critical cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keywan Mortezaee
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj, Iran
| | - Jamal Majidpoor
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Infectious Diseases Research Center, Gonabad University of Medical Sciences, Gonabad, Iran
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26
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Al-Mterin MA, Alsalman A, Elkord E. Inhibitory Immune Checkpoint Receptors and Ligands as Prognostic Biomarkers in COVID-19 Patients. Front Immunol 2022; 13:870283. [PMID: 35432324 PMCID: PMC9008255 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.870283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2022] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is caused by SARS-CoV-2. During T-cell activation, the immune system uses different checkpoint pathways to maintain co-inhibitory and co-stimulatory signals. In COVID-19, expression of immune checkpoints (ICs) is one of the most important manifestations, in addition to lymphopenia and inflammatory cytokines, contributing to worse clinical outcomes. There is a controversy whether upregulation of ICs in COVID-19 patients might lead to T-cell exhaustion or activation. This review summarizes the available studies that investigated IC receptors and ligands in COVID-19 patients, as well as their effect on T-cell function. Several IC receptors and ligands, including CTLA-4, BTLA, TIM-3, VISTA, LAG-3, TIGIT, PD-1, CD160, 2B4, NKG2A, Galectin-9, Galectin-3, PD-L1, PD-L2, LSECtin, and CD112, were upregulated in COVID-19 patients. Based on the available studies, there is a possible relationship between disease severity and increased expression of IC receptors and ligands. Overall, the upregulation of some ICs could be used as a prognostic biomarker for disease severity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alhasan Alsalman
- Natural and Medical Sciences Research Center, University of Nizwa, Nizwa, Oman
| | - Eyad Elkord
- Natural and Medical Sciences Research Center, University of Nizwa, Nizwa, Oman
- Biomedical Research Center, School of Science, Engineering and Environment, University of Salford, Manchester, United Kingdom
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27
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Bobcakova A, Barnova M, Vysehradsky R, Petriskova J, Kocan I, Diamant Z, Jesenak M. Activated CD8+CD38+ Cells Are Associated With Worse Clinical Outcome in Hospitalized COVID-19 Patients. Front Immunol 2022; 13:861666. [PMID: 35392095 PMCID: PMC8982066 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.861666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 02/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), that spread around the world during the past 2 years, has infected more than 260 million people worldwide and has imposed an important burden on the healthcare system. Several risk factors associated with unfavorable outcome were identified, including elderly age, selected comorbidities, immune suppression as well as laboratory markers. The role of immune system in the pathophysiology of SARS-CoV-2 infection is indisputable: while an appropriate function of the immune system is important for a rapid clearance of the virus, progression to the severe and critical phases of the disease is related to an exaggerated immune response associated with a cytokine storm. We analyzed differences and longitudinal changes in selected immune parameters in 823 adult COVID-19 patients hospitalized in the Martin University Hospital, Martin, Slovakia. Examined parameters included the differential blood cell counts, various parameters of cellular and humoral immunity (serum concentration of immunoglobulins, C4 and C3), lymphocyte subsets (CD3+, CD4+, CD8+, CD19+, NK cells, CD4+CD45RO+), expression of activation (HLA-DR, CD38) and inhibition markers (CD159/NKG2A). Besides already known changes in the differential blood cell counts and basic lymphocyte subsets, we found significantly higher proportion of CD8+CD38+ cells and significantly lower proportion of CD8+NKG2A+ and NK NKG2A+ cells on admission in non-survivors, compared to survivors; recovery in survivors was associated with a significant increase in the expression of HLA-DR and with a significant decrease of the proportion of CD8+CD38+cells. Furthermore, patients with fatal outcome had significantly lower concentrations of C3 and IgM on admission. However, none of the examined parameters had sufficient sensitivity or specificity to be considered a biomarker of fatal outcome. Understanding the dynamic changes in immune profile of COVID-19 patients may help us to better understand the pathophysiology of the disease, potentially improve management of hospitalized patients and enable proper timing and selection of immunomodulator drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Bobcakova
- Centre for Primary Immunodeficiencies, Clinic of Pneumology and Phthisiology, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University in Bratislava, Martin University Hospital, Martin, Slovakia
| | - Martina Barnova
- Department of Clinical Immunology and Allergology, Martin University Hospital, Martin, Slovakia
- *Correspondence: Milos Jesenak, ; Martina Barnova,
| | - Robert Vysehradsky
- Centre for Primary Immunodeficiencies, Clinic of Pneumology and Phthisiology, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University in Bratislava, Martin University Hospital, Martin, Slovakia
| | - Jela Petriskova
- Department of Clinical Immunology and Allergology, Martin University Hospital, Martin, Slovakia
| | - Ivan Kocan
- Centre for Primary Immunodeficiencies, Clinic of Pneumology and Phthisiology, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University in Bratislava, Martin University Hospital, Martin, Slovakia
| | - Zuzana Diamant
- Department of Respiratory Medicine and Allergology, Institute for Clinical Science, Skane University Hospital, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
- Department of Microbiology Immunology and Transplantation, KU Leuven, Catholic University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and Thomayer Hospital, Prague, Czechia
| | - Milos Jesenak
- Centre for Primary Immunodeficiencies, Clinic of Pneumology and Phthisiology, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University in Bratislava, Martin University Hospital, Martin, Slovakia
- Department of Clinical Immunology and Allergology, Martin University Hospital, Martin, Slovakia
- Centre for Primary Immunodeficiencies, Clinic of Pediatrics, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University in Bratislava, Martin University Hospital, Martin, Slovakia
- *Correspondence: Milos Jesenak, ; Martina Barnova,
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28
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Immunomodulatory Potential of Non-Classical HLA-G in Infections including COVID-19 and Parasitic Diseases. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12020257. [PMID: 35204759 PMCID: PMC8961671 DOI: 10.3390/biom12020257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2021] [Revised: 01/23/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Human Leukocyte Antigen-G (HLA-G), a polymorphic non-classical HLA (HLA-Ib) with immune-regulatory properties in cancers and infectious diseases, presents both membrane-bound and soluble (sHLA-G) isoforms. Polymorphism has implications in host responses to pathogen infections and in pathogenesis. Differential expression patterns of HLA-G/sHLA-G or its polymorphism seem to be related to different pathological conditions, potentially acting as a disease progression biomarker. Pathogen antigens might be involved in the regulation of both membrane-bound and sHLA-G levels and impact immune responses during co-infections. The upregulation of HLA-G in viral and bacterial infections induce tolerance to infection. Recently, sHLA-G was found useful to identify the prognosis of Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) among patients and it was observed that the high levels of sHLA-G are associated with worse prognosis. The use of pathogens, such as Plasmodium falciparum, as immune modulators for other infections could be extended for the modulation of membrane-bound HLA-G in COVID-19-infected tissues. Overall, such information might open new avenues concerning the effect of some pathogens such as parasites in decreasing the expression level of HLA-G to restrict pathogenesis in some infections or to influence the immune responses after vaccination among others.
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29
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Osei SA, Biney RP, Anning AS, Nortey LN, Ghartey-Kwansah G. Low incidence of COVID-19 case severity and mortality in Africa; Could malaria co-infection provide the missing link? BMC Infect Dis 2022; 22:78. [PMID: 35065613 PMCID: PMC8783581 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-022-07064-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2021] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Despite reports of malaria and coronavirus diseases 2019 (COVID-19) co-infection, malaria-endemic regions have so far recorded fewer cases of COVID-19 and deaths from COVID-19, indicating a probable protection from the poor outcome of COVID-19 by malaria. On the contrary, other evidence suggests that malaria might contribute to the death caused by COVID-19. Hence, this paper reviewed existing evidence hypothesizing poor outcome or protection of COVID-19 patients when co-infected with malaria. Methods PRISMA guidelines for systematic review were employed in this study. Published articles from December 2019 to May 2021on COVID-19 and malaria co-infection and outcome were systematically searched in relevant and accessible databases following a pre-defined strategy. Studies involving human, in vivo animal studies, and in vitro studies were included. Results Twenty three (23) studies were included in the review out of the 3866 records identified in the selected scientific databases. Nine (9) papers reported on co-infection of COVID-19 and malaria. Five (5) papers provided information about synergism of malaria and COVID-19 poor prognosis, 2 papers reported on syndemic of COVID-19 and malaria intervention, and 7 studies indicated that malaria protects individuals from COVID-19. Conclusions Low incidence of COVID-19 in malaria-endemic regions supports the hypothesis that COVID-19 poor prognosis is prevented by malaria. Although further studies are required to ascertain this hypothesis, cross-immunity and common immunodominant isotopes provide strong evidence to support this hypothesis. Also, increase in co-inhibitory receptors and atypical memory B cells indicate synergy between COVID-19 and malaria outcome, though, more studies are required to make a definite conclusion. Low incidence and mortality rate of COVID-19 in malaria endemic regions There have been reports of malaria and COVID-19 co-infection Malaria could be the link for the reported low incidence of COVID-19 in Africa Cross immunity and common immunodominant epitopes between Malaria and COVID-19, and antimalaria drugs could be the reason for observed low fatality and incidence rate of COVID-19 in malaria endemic regions. Malaria infection and deaths could increase amid the COVID-19 pandemic due to interrupted malaria control interventions.
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30
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Barnova M, Bobcakova A, Urdova V, Kosturiak R, Kapustova L, Dobrota D, Jesenak M. Inhibitory immune checkpoint molecules and exhaustion of T cells in COVID-19. Physiol Res 2021; 70:S227-S247. [PMID: 34913354 DOI: 10.33549/physiolres.934757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
COVID-19 (Coronavirus Disease) is an infectious disease caused by the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 (Severe acute respiratory syndrome Coronavirus 2), which belongs to the genus Betacoronavirus. It was first identified in patients with severe respiratory disease in December 2019 in Wuhan, China. It mainly affects the respiratory system, and in severe cases causes serious lung infection or pneumonia, which can lead to the death of the patient. Clinical studies show that SARS-CoV-2 infection in critical cases causes acute tissue damage due to a pathological immune response. The immune response to a new coronavirus is complex and involves many processes of specific and non-specific immunity. Analysis of available studies has shown various changes, especially in the area of specific cellular immunity, including lymphopenia, decreased T cells (CD3+, CD4+ and CD8+), changes in the T cell compartment associated with symptom progression, deterioration of the condition and development of lung damage. We provide a detailed review of the analyses of immune checkpoint molecules PD-1, TIM-3, LAG-3 CTLA-4, TIGIT, BTLA, CD223, IDO-1 and VISTA on exhausted T cells in patients with asymptomatic to symptomatic stages of COVID-19 infection. Furthermore, this review may help to better understand the pathological T cell immune response and improve the design of therapeutic strategies for patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Barnova
- Clinic of Pneumology and Phthisiology, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine in Martin, Comenius University in Bratislava, University Teaching Hospital in Martin, Martin, Slovak Republic. and Clinic of Pneumology and Phthisiology, Clinic of Paediatrics, Department of Clinical Immunology and Allergology, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine in Martin, Comenius University in Bratislava, University Teaching Hospital in Martin, Martin, Slovak Republic.
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Schulte S, Heide J, Ackermann C, Peine S, Ramharter M, Mackroth MS, Woost R, Jacobs T, Schulze zur Wiesch J. Deciphering the Plasmodium falciparum malaria-specific CD4+ T-cell response: ex vivo detection of high frequencies of PD-1+TIGIT+ EXP1-specific CD4+ T cells using a novel HLA-DR11-restricted MHC class II tetramer. Clin Exp Immunol 2021; 207:227-236. [PMID: 35020841 PMCID: PMC8982981 DOI: 10.1093/cei/uxab027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2021] [Revised: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 12/03/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Relatively little is known about the ex vivo frequency and phenotype of the Plasmodium falciparum-specific CD4+ T-cell response in humans. The exported protein 1 (EXP1) is expressed by plasmodia at both, the liver stage and blood stage, of infection making it a potential target for CD4+ and CD8+ effector T cells. Here, a fluorochrome-labelled HLA-DRB1∗11:01-restriced MHC class II tetramer derived from the P. falciparum EXP1 (aa62-74) was established for ex vivo tetramer analysis and magnetic bead enrichment in 10 patients with acute malaria. EXP1-specific CD4+ T cells were detectable in 9 out of 10 (90%) malaria patients expressing the HLA-DRB1∗11 molecule with an average ex vivo frequency of 0.11% (0-0.22%) of total CD4+ T cells. The phenotype of EXP1-specific CD4+ T cells was further assessed using co-staining with activation (CD38, HLA-DR, CD26), differentiation (CD45RO, CCR7, KLRG1, CD127), senescence (CD57), and co-inhibitory (PD-1, TIGIT, LAG-3, TIM-3) markers as well as the ectonucleotidases CD39 and CD73. EXP1-specific tetramer+ CD4+ T cells had a distinct phenotype compared to bulk CD4+ T cells and displayed a highly activated effector memory phenotype with elevated levels of co-inhibitory receptors and activation markers: EXP1-specific CD4+ T cells universally expressed the co-inhibitory receptors PD-1 and TIGIT as well as the activation marker CD38 and showed elevated frequencies of CD39. These results demonstrate that MHC class II tetramer enrichment is a sensitive approach to investigate ex vivo antigen-specific CD4+ T cells in malaria patients that will aid further analysis of the role of CD4+ T cells during malaria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophia Schulte
- Infectious Diseases Unit, I. Department of Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Janna Heide
- Infectious Diseases Unit, I. Department of Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany,German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Hamburg-Lübeck-Borstel-Riems, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Christin Ackermann
- Infectious Diseases Unit, I. Department of Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Sven Peine
- Department of Transfusion Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Michael Ramharter
- Infectious Diseases Unit, I. Department of Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany,German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Hamburg-Lübeck-Borstel-Riems, Hamburg, Germany,Department of Tropical Medicine, Bernhard-Nocht-Institute for Tropical Medicine (BNITM), Hamburg, Germany
| | - Maria Sophia Mackroth
- Infectious Diseases Unit, I. Department of Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany,German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Hamburg-Lübeck-Borstel-Riems, Hamburg, Germany,Department of Tropical Medicine, Bernhard-Nocht-Institute for Tropical Medicine (BNITM), Hamburg, Germany,Protozoa Immunology, Bernhard-Nocht-Institute for Tropical Medicine (BNITM), Hamburg, Germany
| | - Robin Woost
- Infectious Diseases Unit, I. Department of Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany,German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Hamburg-Lübeck-Borstel-Riems, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Thomas Jacobs
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Hamburg-Lübeck-Borstel-Riems, Hamburg, Germany,Protozoa Immunology, Bernhard-Nocht-Institute for Tropical Medicine (BNITM), Hamburg, Germany
| | - Julian Schulze zur Wiesch
- Infectious Diseases Unit, I. Department of Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany,German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Hamburg-Lübeck-Borstel-Riems, Hamburg, Germany,Correspondence: Julian Schulze zur Wiesch, Department of Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistr. 52, 20246 Hamburg, Germany.
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32
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Aging whole blood transcriptome reveals candidate genes for SARS-CoV-2-related vascular and immune alterations. J Mol Med (Berl) 2021; 100:285-301. [PMID: 34741638 PMCID: PMC8571664 DOI: 10.1007/s00109-021-02161-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2021] [Revised: 10/08/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Abstract The risk of severe COVID-19 increases with age as older patients are at highest risk. Thus, there is an urgent need to identify how severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) interacts with blood components during aging. We investigated the whole blood transcriptome from the Genotype-Tissue Expression (GTEx) database to explore differentially expressed genes (DEGs) translated into proteins interacting with viral proteins during aging. From 22 DEGs in aged blood, FASLG, CTSW, CTSE, VCAM1, and BAG3 were associated with immune response, inflammation, cell component and adhesion, and platelet activation/aggregation. Males and females older than 50 years old overexpress FASLG, possibly inducing a hyperinflammatory cascade. The expression of cathepsins (CTSW and CTSE) and the anti-apoptotic co-chaperone molecule BAG3 also increased throughout aging in both genders. By exploring single-cell RNA-sequencing data from peripheral blood of SARS-CoV-2-infected patients, we found FASLG and CTSW expressed in natural killer cells and CD8 + T lymphocytes, whereas BAG3 was expressed mainly in CD4 + T cells, naive T cells, and CD14 + monocytes. In addition, T cell exhaustion was associated with increased expression of CCL4L2 and DUSP4 over blood aging. LAG3, PDCD1, TIGIT, VCAM1, HLA-DRA, and TOX also increased in individuals aged 60–69 years old; conversely, the RGS2 gene decreased with aging. We further identified a distinct gene expression profile associated with type I interferon signaling following blood aging. These results revealed changes in blood molecules potentially related to SARS-CoV-2 infection throughout aging, emphasizing them as therapeutic candidates for aggressive clinical manifestation of COVID-19. Key messages • Prediction of host-viral interactions in the whole blood transcriptome during aging. • Expression levels of FASLG, CTSW, CTSE, VCAM1, and BAG3 increase in aged blood. • Blood interactome reveals targets involved with immune response, inflammation, and blood clots. • SARS-CoV-2-infected patients with high viral load showed FASLG overexpression. • Gene expression profile associated with T cell exhaustion and type I interferon signaling were affected with blood aging. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s00109-021-02161-4.
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Heide J, Schulte S, Kohsar M, Brehm TT, Herrmann M, Karsten H, Marget M, Peine S, Johansson AM, Sette A, Lütgehetmann M, Kwok WW, Sidney J, Schulze zur Wiesch J. Broadly directed SARS-CoV-2-specific CD4+ T cell response includes frequently detected peptide specificities within the membrane and nucleoprotein in patients with acute and resolved COVID-19. PLoS Pathog 2021; 17:e1009842. [PMID: 34529740 PMCID: PMC8445433 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1009842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2021] [Accepted: 07/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to define the breadth and specificity of dominant SARS-CoV-2-specific T cell epitopes using a comprehensive set of 135 overlapping 15-mer peptides covering the SARS-CoV-2 envelope (E), membrane (M) and nucleoprotein (N) in a cohort of 34 individuals with acute (n = 10) and resolved (n = 24) COVID-19. Following short-term virus-specific in vitro cultivation, the single peptide-specific CD4+ T cell response of each patient was screened using enzyme linked immuno spot assay (ELISpot) and confirmed by single-peptide intracellular cytokine staining (ICS) for interferon-γ (IFN-γ) production. 97% (n = 33) of patients elicited one or more N, M or E-specific CD4+ T cell responses and each patient targeted on average 21.7 (range 0-79) peptide specificities. Overall, we identified 10 N, M or E-specific peptides that showed a response frequency of more than 36% and five of them showed high binding affinity to multiple HLA class II binders in subsequent in vitro HLA binding assays. Three peptides elicited CD4+ T cell responses in more than 55% of all patients, namely Mem_P30 (aa146-160), Mem_P36 (aa176-190), both located within the M protein, and Ncl_P18 (aa86-100) located within the N protein. These peptides were further defined in terms of length and HLA restriction. Based on this epitope and restriction data we developed a novel DRB*11 tetramer (Mem_aa145-164) and examined the ex vivo phenotype of SARS-CoV-2-specific CD4+ T cells in one patient. This detailed characterization of single T cell peptide responses demonstrates that SARS-CoV-2 infection universally primes a broad T cell response directed against multiple specificities located within the N, M and E structural protein.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janna Heide
- Infectious Diseases Unit, I. Department of Medicine, University Medical Center, Hamburg-Eppendorf, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site, Hamburg-Lübeck-Borstel-Riems, Germany
| | - Sophia Schulte
- Infectious Diseases Unit, I. Department of Medicine, University Medical Center, Hamburg-Eppendorf, Germany
| | - Matin Kohsar
- Infectious Diseases Unit, I. Department of Medicine, University Medical Center, Hamburg-Eppendorf, Germany
| | - Thomas Theo Brehm
- Infectious Diseases Unit, I. Department of Medicine, University Medical Center, Hamburg-Eppendorf, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site, Hamburg-Lübeck-Borstel-Riems, Germany
| | - Marissa Herrmann
- Infectious Diseases Unit, I. Department of Medicine, University Medical Center, Hamburg-Eppendorf, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site, Hamburg-Lübeck-Borstel-Riems, Germany
| | - Hendrik Karsten
- Infectious Diseases Unit, I. Department of Medicine, University Medical Center, Hamburg-Eppendorf, Germany
| | - Matthias Marget
- Department of Transfusion Medicine, University Medical Center, Hamburg-Eppendorf, Germany
| | - Sven Peine
- Department of Transfusion Medicine, University Medical Center, Hamburg-Eppendorf, Germany
| | - Alexandra M. Johansson
- Benaroya Research Institute at Virginia Mason, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Alessandro Sette
- Center for Infectious Disease and Vaccine Research, La Jolla Institute for Immunology (LJI), La Jolla, California, United States of America
| | - Marc Lütgehetmann
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, Virology and Hygiene, University Medical Center, Hamburg-Eppendorf, Germany
| | - William W. Kwok
- Benaroya Research Institute at Virginia Mason, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - John Sidney
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, University of California, San Diego (UCSD), La Jolla, California, United States of America
| | - Julian Schulze zur Wiesch
- Infectious Diseases Unit, I. Department of Medicine, University Medical Center, Hamburg-Eppendorf, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site, Hamburg-Lübeck-Borstel-Riems, Germany
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Woo MS, Haag F, Nierhaus A, Jarczak D, Roedl K, Mayer C, Brehm TT, van der Meirschen M, Hennigs A, Christopeit M, Fiedler W, Karagiannis P, Burdelski C, Schultze A, Huber S, Addo MM, Schmiedel S, Friese MA, Kluge S, Schulze zur Wiesch J. Multi-dimensional and longitudinal systems profiling reveals predictive pattern of severe COVID-19. iScience 2021; 24:102752. [PMID: 34179733 PMCID: PMC8213514 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2021.102752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2021] [Revised: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 06/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
COVID-19 is a respiratory tract infection that can affect multiple organ systems. Predicting the severity and clinical outcome of individual patients is a major unmet clinical need that remains challenging due to intra- and inter-patient variability. Here, we longitudinally profiled and integrated more than 150 clinical, laboratory, and immunological parameters of 173 patients with mild to fatal COVID-19. Using systems biology, we detected progressive dysregulation of multiple parameters indicative of organ damage that correlated with disease severity, particularly affecting kidneys, hepatobiliary system, and immune landscape. By performing unsupervised clustering and trajectory analysis, we identified T and B cell depletion as early indicators of a complicated disease course. In addition, markers of hepatobiliary damage emerged as robust predictor of lethal outcome in critically ill patients. This allowed us to propose a novel clinical COVID-19 SeveriTy (COST) score that distinguishes complicated disease trajectories and predicts lethal outcome in critically ill patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcel S. Woo
- Institute of Neuroimmunology and Multiple Sclerosis (INIMS), Center for Molecular Neurobiology Hamburg (ZMNH), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg 20246, Germany
| | - Friedrich Haag
- Department of Immunology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg 20246, Germany
| | - Axel Nierhaus
- Department of Intensive Care Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg 20246, Germany
| | - Dominik Jarczak
- Department of Intensive Care Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg 20246, Germany
| | - Kevin Roedl
- Department of Intensive Care Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg 20246, Germany
| | - Christina Mayer
- Institute of Neuroimmunology and Multiple Sclerosis (INIMS), Center for Molecular Neurobiology Hamburg (ZMNH), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg 20246, Germany
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg 20246, Germany
| | - Thomas T. Brehm
- I. Department of Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg 20246, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Lübeck - Borstel - Riems, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Marc van der Meirschen
- I. Department of Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg 20246, Germany
| | - Annette Hennigs
- I. Department of Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg 20246, Germany
| | - Maximilian Christopeit
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg 20246, Germany
| | - Walter Fiedler
- Department of Oncology, Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation with Section Pneumology, II. Department of Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg 20246, Germany
| | - Panagiotis Karagiannis
- Department of Oncology, Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation with Section Pneumology, II. Department of Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg 20246, Germany
| | - Christoph Burdelski
- Department of Intensive Care Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg 20246, Germany
| | - Alexander Schultze
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg 20246, Germany
| | - Samuel Huber
- I. Department of Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg 20246, Germany
| | - Marylyn M. Addo
- I. Department of Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg 20246, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Lübeck - Borstel - Riems, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Stefan Schmiedel
- I. Department of Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg 20246, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Lübeck - Borstel - Riems, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Manuel A. Friese
- Institute of Neuroimmunology and Multiple Sclerosis (INIMS), Center for Molecular Neurobiology Hamburg (ZMNH), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg 20246, Germany
| | - Stefan Kluge
- Department of Intensive Care Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg 20246, Germany
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Niedźwiedzka-Rystwej P, Grywalska E, Hrynkiewicz R, Bębnowska D, Wołącewicz M, Majchrzak A, Parczewski M. Interplay between Neutrophils, NETs and T-Cells in SARS-CoV-2 Infection-A Missing Piece of the Puzzle in the COVID-19 Pathogenesis? Cells 2021; 10:1817. [PMID: 34359987 PMCID: PMC8304299 DOI: 10.3390/cells10071817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2021] [Revised: 07/15/2021] [Accepted: 07/16/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Since the end of 2019, a new, dangerous virus has caused the deaths of more than 3 million people. Efforts to fight the disease remain multifaceted and include prophylactic strategies (vaccines), the development of antiviral drugs targeting replication, and the mitigation of the damage associated with exacerbated immune responses (e.g., interleukin-6-receptor inhibitors). However, numerous uncertainties remain, making it difficult to lower the mortality rate, especially among critically ill patients. While looking for a new means of understanding the pathomechanisms of the disease, we asked a question-is our immunity key to resolving these uncertainties? In this review, we attempt to answer this question, and summarize, interpret, and discuss the available knowledge concerning the interplay between neutrophils, neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs), and T-cells in COVID-19. These are considered to be the first line of defense against pathogens and, thus, we chose to emphasize their role in SARS-CoV-2 infection. Although immunologic alterations are the subject of constant research, they are poorly understood and often underestimated. This review provides background information for the expansion of research on the novel, immunity-oriented approach to diagnostic and treatment possibilities.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ewelina Grywalska
- Department of Clinical Immunology and Immunotherapy, Medical University of Lublin, 20-093 Lublin, Poland;
| | - Rafał Hrynkiewicz
- Institute of Biology, University of Szczecin, 71-412 Szczecin, Poland; (R.H.); (D.B.)
| | - Dominika Bębnowska
- Institute of Biology, University of Szczecin, 71-412 Szczecin, Poland; (R.H.); (D.B.)
| | - Mikołaj Wołącewicz
- Department of Environmental Microbiology and Biotechnology, University of Warsaw, 02-096 Warsaw, Poland;
| | - Adam Majchrzak
- Department of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Independent Public Regional Hospital in Szczecin, 71-455 Szczecin, Poland;
| | - Miłosz Parczewski
- Department of Infectious, Tropical Diseases and Immune Deficiency, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, 71-455 Szczecin, Poland;
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Seman S, Dražilov SS, Ilić V, Tešić M, Stojiljković S, Arena R, Popović D. Physical activity and exercise as an essential medical strategy for the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond. Exp Biol Med (Maywood) 2021; 246:2324-2331. [PMID: 34233523 DOI: 10.1177/15353702211028543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
COVID-19 disease has been a problem in today's society, which has worldwide effects on different areas, especially on the economy; also, from a health perspective, the disease affects the daily life quality. Physical activity is one major positive factor with regard to enhancing life quality, as it can improve the whole psychological, social, and physical health conditions. Current measures such as social distancing are focused on preventing the viral spread. However, the consequences on other areas are yet to be investigated. Elderly, people with chronic diseases, obese, and others benefit largely from exercise from the perspective of improved health, and preventive measures can drastically improve daily living. In this article, we elaborate the effects of exercise on the immune system and the possible strategies that can be implemented toward greater preventive potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Seman
- Faculty of Sport and Physical Education, University of Belgrade, Belgrade 11000, Serbia.,Healthy Living for Pandemic Event Protection (HL - PIVOT) Network, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | | | - Vladimir Ilić
- Faculty of Sport and Physical Education, University of Belgrade, Belgrade 11000, Serbia
| | - Milorad Tešić
- Division of Cardiology, Clinical Center of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Belgrade 11000, Serbia
| | - Stanimir Stojiljković
- Faculty of Sport and Physical Education, University of Belgrade, Belgrade 11000, Serbia
| | - Ross Arena
- Healthy Living for Pandemic Event Protection (HL - PIVOT) Network, Chicago, IL 60612, USA.,Department of Physical Therapy, College of Applied Science, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Dejana Popović
- Healthy Living for Pandemic Event Protection (HL - PIVOT) Network, Chicago, IL 60612, USA.,Division of Cardiology, Clinical Center of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Belgrade 11000, Serbia.,Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Belgrade, Belgrade 11000, Serbia
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37
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Deng Z, Zheng Y, Cai P, Zheng Z. The Role of B and T Lymphocyte Attenuator in Respiratory System Diseases. Front Immunol 2021; 12:635623. [PMID: 34163466 PMCID: PMC8215117 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.635623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2020] [Accepted: 05/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
B and T lymphocyte attenuator (BTLA), an immunomodulatory molecule widely expressed on the surface of immune cells, can influence various signaling pathways and negatively regulate the activation and proliferation of immune cells by binding to its ligand herpes virus entry mediator (HVEM). BTLA plays an important role in immunoregulation and is involved in the pathogenesis of various respiratory diseases, including airway inflammation, asthma, infection, pneumonia, acute respiratory distress syndrome and lung cancer. In recent years, some studies have found that BTLA also has played a positive regulatory effect on immunity system in the occurrence and development of respiratory diseases. Since severe pulmonary infection is a risk factor for sepsis, this review also summarized the new findings on the role of BTLA in sepsis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheng Deng
- General Department, Hunan Institute for Tuberculosis Control, Changsha, China.,General Department, Hunan Chest Hospital, Changsha, China
| | - Yi Zheng
- Department of Pharmacy, Hunan Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Changsha, China
| | - Pei Cai
- Department of Pharmacy, Hunan Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Changsha, China
| | - Zheng Zheng
- General Department, Hunan Institute for Tuberculosis Control, Changsha, China.,General Department, Hunan Chest Hospital, Changsha, China
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Hosseini A, Esmaeili Gouvarchin Ghaleh H, Aghamollaei H, Fasihi Ramandi M, Alishiri G, Shahriary A, Hassanpour K, Tat M, Farnoosh G. Evaluation of Th1 and Th2 mediated cellular and humoral immunity in patients with COVID-19 following the use of melatonin as an adjunctive treatment. Eur J Pharmacol 2021; 904:174193. [PMID: 34015316 PMCID: PMC8127523 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2021.174193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2021] [Revised: 04/30/2021] [Accepted: 05/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) is spreading rapidly in the world and is still taking a heavy toll. Studies show that cytokine storms and imbalances in T-helper (Th)1/Th2 play a significant role in most acute cases of the disease. A number of medications have been suggested to treat or control the disease but have been discontinued due to their side effects. Melatonin, as an intrinsic molecule, possesses pharmacological anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that decreases in concentration with age; as a result, older people are more prone to various diseases. In this study, patients who were hospitalized with a diagnosis of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) were given a melatonin adjuvant (9 mg daily, orally) for fourteen days. In order to measure markers of Th1 and Th2 inflammatory cytokines (such as interleukin (IL)-2, IL-4, and interferon (IFN)-γ) as well as the expression of Th1 and Th2 regulatory genes (signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT)4, STAT6, GATA binding protein 3 (GATA3), and T-box expressed in T cell (T-bet)), blood samples were taken from patients at the beginning and end of the treatment. Adjuvant therapy with melatonin controlled and reduced inflammatory cytokines in patients with COVID-19. Melatonin also controlled and modulated the dysregulated genes that regulate the humoral and cellular immune systems mediated by Th1 and Th2. In this study, it was shown for the first time that melatonin can be used as a medicinal adjuvant with anti-inflammatory mechanism to reduce and control inflammatory cytokines by regulating the expression of Th1 and Th2 regulatory genes in patients with COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdolkarim Hosseini
- Applied Biotechnology Research Centre, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | | | - Hossein Aghamollaei
- Chemical Injuries Research Center, Systems Biology and Poisonings Institute, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Mahdi Fasihi Ramandi
- Molecular Biology Research Center, Systems Biology and Poisonings Institute, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Gholamhossein Alishiri
- Chemical Injuries Research Center, Systems Biology and Poisonings Institute, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Alireza Shahriary
- Chemical Injuries Research Center, Systems Biology and Poisonings Institute, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Kazem Hassanpour
- Sabzevar University of Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, Sabzevar, Iran.
| | - Mahdi Tat
- Applied Biotechnology Research Centre, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Gholamreza Farnoosh
- Applied Biotechnology Research Centre, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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39
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Valdez-Cruz NA, García-Hernández E, Espitia C, Cobos-Marín L, Altamirano C, Bando-Campos CG, Cofas-Vargas LF, Coronado-Aceves EW, González-Hernández RA, Hernández-Peralta P, Juárez-López D, Ortega-Portilla PA, Restrepo-Pineda S, Zelada-Cordero P, Trujillo-Roldán MA. Integrative overview of antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 and their possible applications in COVID-19 prophylaxis and treatment. Microb Cell Fact 2021; 20:88. [PMID: 33888152 PMCID: PMC8061467 DOI: 10.1186/s12934-021-01576-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2021] [Accepted: 04/03/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 is a novel β-coronavirus that caused the COVID-19 pandemic disease, which spread rapidly, infecting more than 134 million people, and killing almost 2.9 million thus far. Based on the urgent need for therapeutic and prophylactic strategies, the identification and characterization of antibodies has been accelerated, since they have been fundamental in treating other viral diseases. Here, we summarized in an integrative manner the present understanding of the immune response and physiopathology caused by SARS-CoV-2, including the activation of the humoral immune response in SARS-CoV-2 infection and therefore, the synthesis of antibodies. Furthermore, we also discussed about the antibodies that can be generated in COVID-19 convalescent sera and their associated clinical studies, including a detailed characterization of a variety of human antibodies and identification of antibodies from other sources, which have powerful neutralizing capacities. Accordingly, the development of effective treatments to mitigate COVID-19 is expected. Finally, we reviewed the challenges faced in producing potential therapeutic antibodies and nanobodies by cell factories at an industrial level while ensuring their quality, efficacy, and safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Norma A Valdez-Cruz
- Programa de Investigación de Producción de Biomoléculas, Departamento de Biología Molecular y Biotecnología, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad Universitaria, 04510, Ciudad de México, México.
| | - Enrique García-Hernández
- Instituto de Química, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad Universitaria, 04510, Ciudad de México, México
| | - Clara Espitia
- Departamento de Inmunología, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad Universitaria, 04510, Ciudad de México, México
| | - Laura Cobos-Marín
- Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria Y Zootecnia, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad Universitaria, 04510, Ciudad de México, México
| | - Claudia Altamirano
- Escuela de Ingeniería Bioquímica, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Valparaíso, Av. Brasil N° 2950, Valparaíso, Chile
| | - Carlos G Bando-Campos
- Programa de Investigación de Producción de Biomoléculas, Departamento de Biología Molecular y Biotecnología, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad Universitaria, 04510, Ciudad de México, México
| | - Luis F Cofas-Vargas
- Instituto de Química, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad Universitaria, 04510, Ciudad de México, México
| | - Enrique W Coronado-Aceves
- Departamento de Inmunología, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad Universitaria, 04510, Ciudad de México, México
| | - Ricardo A González-Hernández
- Programa de Investigación de Producción de Biomoléculas, Departamento de Biología Molecular y Biotecnología, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad Universitaria, 04510, Ciudad de México, México
| | - Pablo Hernández-Peralta
- Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria Y Zootecnia, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad Universitaria, 04510, Ciudad de México, México
| | - Daniel Juárez-López
- Programa de Investigación de Producción de Biomoléculas, Departamento de Biología Molecular y Biotecnología, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad Universitaria, 04510, Ciudad de México, México
| | - Paola A Ortega-Portilla
- Departamento de Inmunología, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad Universitaria, 04510, Ciudad de México, México
| | - Sara Restrepo-Pineda
- Programa de Investigación de Producción de Biomoléculas, Departamento de Biología Molecular y Biotecnología, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad Universitaria, 04510, Ciudad de México, México
| | - Patricio Zelada-Cordero
- Programa de Investigación de Producción de Biomoléculas, Departamento de Biología Molecular y Biotecnología, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad Universitaria, 04510, Ciudad de México, México
| | - Mauricio A Trujillo-Roldán
- Programa de Investigación de Producción de Biomoléculas, Departamento de Biología Molecular y Biotecnología, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad Universitaria, 04510, Ciudad de México, México.
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Bobcakova A, Petriskova J, Vysehradsky R, Kocan I, Kapustova L, Barnova M, Diamant Z, Jesenak M. Immune Profile in Patients With COVID-19: Lymphocytes Exhaustion Markers in Relationship to Clinical Outcome. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2021; 11:646688. [PMID: 33937096 PMCID: PMC8082075 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2021.646688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2020] [Accepted: 03/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The velocity of the COVID-19 pandemic spread and the variable severity of the disease course has forced scientists to search for potential predictors of the disease outcome. We examined various immune parameters including the markers of immune cells exhaustion and activation in 21 patients with COVID-19 disease hospitalised in our hospital during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in Slovakia. The results showed significant progressive lymphopenia and depletion of lymphocyte subsets (CD3+, CD4+, CD8+ and CD19+) in correlation to the disease severity. Clinical recovery was associated with significant increase in CD3+ and CD3+CD4+ T-cells. Most of our patients had eosinopenia on admission, although no significant differences were seen among groups with different disease severity. Non-survivors, when compared to survivors, had significantly increased expression of PD-1 on CD4+ and CD8+ cells, but no significant difference in Tim-3 expression was observed, what suggests possible reversibility of immune paralysis in the most severe group of patients. During recovery, the expression of Tim-3 on both CD3+CD4+ and CD3+CD8+ cells significantly decreased. Moreover, patients with fatal outcome had significantly higher proportion of CD38+CD8+ cells and lower proportion of CD38+HLA-DR+CD8+ cells on admission. Clinical recovery was associated with significant decrease of proportion of CD38+CD8+ cells. The highest AUC values within univariate and multivariate logistic regression were achieved for expression of CD38 on CD8+ cells and expression of PD1 on CD4+ cells alone or combined, what suggests, that these parameters could be used as potential biomarkers of poor outcome. The assessment of immune markers could help in predicting outcome and disease severity in COVID-19 patients. Our observations suggest, that apart from the degree of depletion of total lymphocytes and lymphocytes subsets, increased expression of CD38 on CD3+CD8+ cells alone or combined with increased expression of PD-1 on CD3+CD4+ cells, should be regarded as a risk factor of an unfavourable outcome in COVID-19 patients. Increased expression of PD-1 in the absence of an increased expression of Tim-3 on CD3+CD4+ and CD3+CD8+ cells suggests potential reversibility of ongoing immune paralysis in patients with the most severe course of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Bobcakova
- Centre for Primary Immunodeficiencies, Clinic of Pneumology and Phthisiology, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University in Bratislava, Martin University Hospital, Martin, Slovakia
| | - Jela Petriskova
- Department of Clinical Immunology and Allergology, Martin University Hospital, Martin, Slovakia
| | - Robert Vysehradsky
- Centre for Primary Immunodeficiencies, Clinic of Pneumology and Phthisiology, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University in Bratislava, Martin University Hospital, Martin, Slovakia
| | - Ivan Kocan
- Centre for Primary Immunodeficiencies, Clinic of Pneumology and Phthisiology, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University in Bratislava, Martin University Hospital, Martin, Slovakia
| | - Lenka Kapustova
- Centre for Primary Immunodeficiencies, Clinic of Pediatrics, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University in Bratislava, Martin University Hospital, Martin, Slovakia
| | - Martina Barnova
- Department of Clinical Immunology and Allergology, Martin University Hospital, Martin, Slovakia
| | - Zuzana Diamant
- Department of Respiratory Medicine and Allergology, Institute for Clinical Science, Skane University Hospital, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and Thomayer Hospital, Prague, Czechia
| | - Milos Jesenak
- Centre for Primary Immunodeficiencies, Clinic of Pneumology and Phthisiology, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University in Bratislava, Martin University Hospital, Martin, Slovakia
- Department of Clinical Immunology and Allergology, Martin University Hospital, Martin, Slovakia
- Centre for Primary Immunodeficiencies, Clinic of Pediatrics, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University in Bratislava, Martin University Hospital, Martin, Slovakia
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41
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Peddapalli A, Gehani M, Kalle AM, Peddapalli SR, Peter AE, Sharad S. Demystifying Excess Immune Response in COVID-19 to Reposition an Orphan Drug for Down-Regulation of NF-κB: A Systematic Review. Viruses 2021; 13:378. [PMID: 33673529 PMCID: PMC7997247 DOI: 10.3390/v13030378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2021] [Revised: 02/12/2021] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The immunological findings from autopsies, biopsies, and various studies in COVID-19 patients show that the major cause of morbidity and mortality in COVID-19 is excess immune response resulting in hyper-inflammation. With the objective to review various mechanisms of excess immune response in adult COVID-19 patients, Pubmed was searched for free full articles not related to therapeutics or co-morbid sub-groups, published in English until 27.10.2020, irrespective of type of article, country, or region. Joanna Briggs Institute's design-specific checklists were used to assess the risk of bias. Out of 122 records screened for eligibility, 42 articles were included in the final review. The review found that eventually, most mechanisms result in cytokine excess and up-regulation of Nuclear Factor-κB (NF-κB) signaling as a common pathway of excess immune response. Molecules blocking NF-κB or targeting downstream effectors like Tumour Necrosis Factor α (TNFα) are either undergoing clinical trials or lack specificity and cause unwanted side effects. Neutralization of upstream histamine by histamine-conjugated normal human immunoglobulin has been demonstrated to inhibit the nuclear translocation of NF-κB, thereby preventing the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines Interleukin (IL) 1β, TNF-α, and IL-6 and IL-10 in a safer manner. The authors recommend repositioning it in COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Apparao Peddapalli
- Department of Microbiology, King George Hospital, Visakhapatnam 531011, Andhra Pradesh, India;
| | - Manish Gehani
- Department of Biological Sciences, Birla Institute of Technology and Science, Pilani-Hyderabad Campus, Hyderabad 500078, Telangana, India;
| | - Arunasree M. Kalle
- Department of Animal Biology, School of Life Sciences, University of Hyderabad, Hyderabad 500046, Telangana, India;
| | - Siva R. Peddapalli
- Department of Biological Sciences-Biotechnology, Florida Institute of Technology, Melbourne, FL 32901, USA;
| | - Angela E. Peter
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Science & Technology, Andhra University, Visakhapatnam 530003, Andhra Pradesh, India;
| | - Shashwat Sharad
- Center for Prostate Disease Research, John P. Murtha Cancer Center Research Program, Department of Surgery, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences and the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, MD 20817, USA
- Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Bethesda, MD 20817, USA
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42
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Zarandi PK, Zinatizadeh MR, Zinatizadeh M, Yousefi MH, Rezaei N. SARS-CoV-2: From the pathogenesis to potential anti-viral treatments. Biomed Pharmacother 2021; 137:111352. [PMID: 33550050 PMCID: PMC7969672 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2021.111352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2020] [Revised: 01/26/2021] [Accepted: 01/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction The world is witnessing the spread of one of the members of Coronaviruses (CoVs) family, called severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) in the 21st century. Considering the short time spent after its prevalence, limited information is known about the effect of the virus mechanism on different organs of the body; meanwhile the lack of specific treatment and vaccine for this virus has exposed millions of people to a big challenge. Areas covered The review article aims to describe the general and particular characteristics of CoVs, their classification, genome structure, host cell infection, cytokine storm, anti-viral treatments, and inhibition of COVID-19-related ER-mitochondrial stress. In addition, it refers to drugs such as Chloroquine/Hydroxychloroquine, Lopinavir/Ritonavir, darunavir, ribavirin, remdesivir, and favipiravir, which have undergone clinical trials for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) treatment. This analysis was derived from an extensive scientific literature search including Pubmed, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar performed. Expert opinion The effectiveness rate and complications of these drugs can reveal new insights into the potential therapeutic goals for the disease. Moreover, lifestyle change can effectively prevent SARS-CoV-2 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peyman Kheirandish Zarandi
- Department of Biology, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran; Cancer Biology Signaling Pathway Interest Group (CBSPIG), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Reza Zinatizadeh
- Department of Biology, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran; Cancer Biology Signaling Pathway Interest Group (CBSPIG), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran.
| | - Maryam Zinatizadeh
- Department of Anesthesiology, Semnan Branch, Islamic Azad University, Shahrood, Iran
| | - Mohammad Hadi Yousefi
- Department of Mycobacteriology and Pulmonary Research, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran; Department of Mycobacteriology and Pulmonary Research, Microbiology Research Center (MRC), Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Nima Rezaei
- Research Center for Immunodeficiencies, Children's Medical Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Network of Immunity in Infection, Malignancy and Autoimmunity (NIIMA), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran.
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43
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Wildner NH, Ahmadi P, Schulte S, Brauneck F, Kohsar M, Lütgehetmann M, Beisel C, Addo MM, Haag F, Schulze Zur Wiesch J. B cell analysis in SARS-CoV-2 versus malaria: Increased frequencies of plasmablasts and atypical memory B cells in COVID-19. J Leukoc Biol 2020; 109:77-90. [PMID: 33617048 DOI: 10.1002/jlb.5cova0620-370rr] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2020] [Revised: 11/02/2020] [Accepted: 11/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
B cells play a central role in antiviral and antiparasitic immunity, not only as producers of antibodies, but also as APCs and mediators of inflammation. In this study, we used 16-color flow cytometry analysis to investigate the frequency, differentiation, and activation status of peripheral B cells of patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection or acute Plasmodium falciparum malaria compared with the healthy individuals. As a main result, we observed an increase of the frequency of (CD27-, CD21-) atypical memory B cells and (CD19+, CD27+, CD38+) plasmablasts in malaria and COVID-19 patients. Additionally, CD86, PD-1, CXCR3, and CD39 expression was up-regulated, whereas CD73 was down-regulated on plasmablasts of COVID-19 and malaria patients compared with the bulk B cell population. In particular, there was a more pronounced loss of CD73+ B cells in malaria. The frequency of plasmablasts positively correlated with serum levels of CRP, IL-6, and LDH of COVID-19 patients. In the longitudinal course of COVID-19, a rapid normalization of the frequency of atypical memory B cells was observed. The role and function of plasmablasts and atypical memory B cells in COVID-19 and other acute infections remain to be further investigated. The role of B cells as either "driver or passenger" of hyperinflammation during COVID-19 needs to be clarified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nils H Wildner
- Department of Medicine, Section Infectious Diseases, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Parimah Ahmadi
- Department of Medicine, Section Infectious Diseases, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Sophia Schulte
- Department of Medicine, Section Infectious Diseases, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Franziska Brauneck
- Department of Medicine, Center for Oncology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Matin Kohsar
- Department of Medicine, Section Infectious Diseases, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Marc Lütgehetmann
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, Virology and Hygiene, Center for Diagnostics, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Claudia Beisel
- Department of Medicine, Section Infectious Diseases, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.,German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Hamburg-Lübeck-Borstel-Riems, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Marylyn M Addo
- Department of Medicine, Section Infectious Diseases, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.,German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Hamburg-Lübeck-Borstel-Riems, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Friedrich Haag
- Institute of Immunology, Center for Diagnostics, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Julian Schulze Zur Wiesch
- Department of Medicine, Section Infectious Diseases, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.,German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Hamburg-Lübeck-Borstel-Riems, Hamburg, Germany
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