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Zhai YJ, Feng Y, Ma X, Ma F. Defensins: defenders of human reproductive health. Hum Reprod Update 2022; 29:126-154. [PMID: 36130055 PMCID: PMC9825273 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmac032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2022] [Revised: 07/31/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Reproductive tract infection is an important factor leading to male and female infertility. Among female infertility factors, microbial and viral infections are the main factors affecting female reproductive health and causing tubal infertility, ectopic tubal pregnancy and premature delivery. Among male infertility factors, 13-15% of male infertility is related to infection. Defensins are cationic antibacterial and antiviral peptides, classified into α-defensins, β-defensins and θ-defensins. Humans only have α-defensins and β-defensins. Apart from their direct antimicrobial functions, defensins have an immunomodulatory function and are involved in many physiological processes. Studies have shown that defensins are widely distributed in the female reproductive tract (FRT) and male reproductive tract (MRT), playing a dual role of host defence and fertility protection. However, to our knowledge, the distribution, regulation and function of defensins in the reproductive tract and their relation to reproduction have not been reviewed. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE This review summarizes the expression, distribution and regulation of defensins in the reproductive tracts to reveal the updated research on the dual role of defensins in host defence and the protection of fertility. SEARCH METHODS A systematic search was conducted in PubMed using the related keywords through April 2022. Related data from original researches and reviews were integrated to comprehensively review the current findings and understanding of defensins in the human reproductive system. Meanwhile, female and male transcriptome data in the GEO database were screened to analyze defensins in the human reproductive tracts. OUTCOMES Two transcriptome databases from the GEO database (GSE7307 and GSE150852) combined with existing researches reveal the expression levels and role of the defensins in the reproductive tracts. In the FRT, a high expression level of α-defensin is found, and the expression levels of defensins in the vulva and vagina are higher than those in other organs. The expression of defensins in the endometrium varies with menstrual cycle stages and with microbial invasion. Defensins also participate in the local immune response to regulate the risk of spontaneous preterm birth. In the MRT, a high expression level of β-defensins is also found. It is mainly highly expressed in the epididymal caput and corpus, indicating that defensins play an important role in sperm maturation. The expression of defensins in the MRT varies with androgen levels, age and the status of microbial invasion. They protect the male reproductive system from bacterial infections by neutralizing lipopolysaccharide and downregulating pro-inflammatory cytokines. In addition, animal and clinical studies have shown that defensins play an important role in sperm maturation, motility and fertilization. WIDER IMPLICATIONS As a broad-spectrum antimicrobial peptide without drug resistance, defensin has great potential for developing new natural antimicrobial treatments for reproductive tract infections. However, increasing evidence has shown that defensins can not only inhibit microbial invasion but can also promote the invasion and adhesion of some microorganisms in certain biological environments, such as human immunodeficiency virus. Therefore, the safety of defensins as reproductive tract anti-infective drugs needs more in-depth research. In addition, the modulatory role of defensins in fertility requires more in-depth research since the current conclusions are based on small-size samples. At present, scientists have made many attempts at the clinical transformation of defensins. However, defensins have problems such as poor stability, low bioavailability and difficulties in their synthesis. Therefore, the production of safe, effective and low-cost drugs remains a challenge.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Xue Ma
- Correspondence address. Center for Translational Medicine, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China. E-mail: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7781-821X (F.M.); Department of Pediatric Urology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China. E-mail: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7650-6214 (X.M.)
| | - Fang Ma
- Correspondence address. Center for Translational Medicine, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China. E-mail: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7781-821X (F.M.); Department of Pediatric Urology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China. E-mail: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7650-6214 (X.M.)
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2
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Coya JM, Fraile-Ágreda V, de Tapia L, García-Fojeda B, Sáenz A, Bengoechea JA, Kronqvist N, Johansson J, Casals C. Cooperative action of SP-A and its trimeric recombinant fragment with polymyxins against Gram-negative respiratory bacteria. Front Immunol 2022; 13:927017. [PMID: 36159837 PMCID: PMC9493720 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.927017] [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: 04/23/2022] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The exploration of therapies combining antimicrobial lung proteins and conventional antibiotics is important due to the growing problem of multidrug-resistant bacteria. The aim of this study was to investigate whether human SP-A and a recombinant trimeric fragment (rfhSP-A) have cooperative antimicrobial activity with antibiotics against pathogenic Gram-negative bacteria. We found that SP-A bound the cationic peptide polymyxin B (PMB) with an apparent dissociation constant (K D) of 0.32 ± 0.04 µM. SP-A showed synergistic microbicidal activity with polymyxin B and E, but not with other antibiotics, against three SP-A-resistant pathogenic bacteria: Klebsiella pneumoniae, non-typable Haemophilus influenzae (NTHi), and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. SP-A was not able to bind to K. pneumoniae, NTHi, or to mutant strains thereof expressing long-chain lipopolysaccharides (or lipooligosaccharides) and/or polysaccharide capsules. In the presence of PMB, SP-A induced the formation of SP-A/PMB aggregates that enhance PMB-induced bacterial membrane permeabilization. Furthermore, SP-A bound to a molecular derivative of PMB lacking the acyl chain (PMBN) with a K D of 0.26 ± 0.02 μM, forming SP-A/PMBN aggregates. PMBN has no bactericidal activity but can bind to the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria. Surprisingly, SP-A and PMBN showed synergistic bactericidal activity against Gram-negative bacteria. Unlike native supratrimeric SP-A, the trimeric rfhSP-A fragment had small but significant direct bactericidal activity against K. pneumoniae, NTHi, and P. aeruginosa. rfhSP-A did not bind to PMB under physiological conditions but acted additively with PMB and other antibiotics against these pathogenic bacteria. In summary, our results significantly improve our understanding of the antimicrobial actions of SP-A and its synergistic action with PMB. A peptide based on SP-A may aid the therapeutic use of PMB, a relatively cytotoxic antibiotic that is currently being reintroduced into clinics due to the global problem of antibiotic resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Manuel Coya
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Víctor Fraile-Ágreda
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Lidia de Tapia
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Belén García-Fojeda
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Alejandra Sáenz
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - José A. Bengoechea
- Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast, United Kingdom
| | - Nina Kronqvist
- Department of Biosciences and Nutrition, Neo, Karolinska Institutet, Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Jan Johansson
- Department of Biosciences and Nutrition, Neo, Karolinska Institutet, Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Cristina Casals
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
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3
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Smith KJ, Gwyer Findlay E. Expression of antimicrobial host defence peptides in the central nervous system during health and disease. DISCOVERY IMMUNOLOGY 2022; 1:kyac003. [PMID: 38566904 PMCID: PMC10917193 DOI: 10.1093/discim/kyac003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2022] [Revised: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Antimicrobial host defence peptides (HDP) are critical for the first line of defence against bacterial, viral, and fungal pathogens. Over the past decade we have become more aware that, in addition to their antimicrobial roles, they also possess the potent immunomodulatory capacity. This includes chemoattracting immune cells, activating dendritic cells and macrophages, and altering T-cell differentiation. Most examinations of their immunomodulatory roles have focused on tissues in which they are very abundant, such as the intestine and the inflamed skin. However, HDP have now been detected in the brain and the spinal cord during a number of conditions. We propose that their presence in the central nervous system (CNS) during homeostasis, infection, and neurodegenerative disease has the potential to contribute to immunosurveillance, alter host responses and skew developing immunity. Here, we review the evidence for HDP expression and function in the CNS in health and disease. We describe how a wide range of HDP are expressed in the CNS of humans, rodents, birds, and fish, suggesting a conserved role in protecting the brain from pathogens, with evidence of production by resident CNS cells. We highlight differences in methodology used and how this may have resulted in the immunomodulatory roles of HDP being overlooked. Finally, we discuss what HDP expression may mean for CNS immune responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katie J Smith
- Centre for Inflammation Research, University of Edinburgh, 47 Little France Crescent, EH16 4TJ, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Emily Gwyer Findlay
- Centre for Inflammation Research, University of Edinburgh, 47 Little France Crescent, EH16 4TJ, Edinburgh, UK
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4
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Yue P, Zhou W, Huang G, Lei F, Chen Y, Ma Z, Chen L, Yang M. Nanocrystals based pulmonary inhalation delivery system: advance and challenge. Drug Deliv 2022; 29:637-651. [PMID: 35188021 PMCID: PMC8865109 DOI: 10.1080/10717544.2022.2039809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Pulmonary inhalation administration is an ideal approach to locally treat lung disease and to achieve systemic administration for other diseases. However, the complex nature of the structural characteristics of the lungs often results in the difficulty in the development of lung inhalation preparations. Nanocrystals technology provides a potential formulation strategy for the pulmonary delivery of poorly soluble drugs, owing to the decreased particle size of drug, which is a potential approach to overcome the physiological barrier existing in the lungs and significantly increased bioavailability of drugs. The pulmonary inhalation administration has attracted considerable attentions in recent years. This review discusses the barriers for pulmonary drug delivery and the recent advance of the nanocrystals in pulmonary inhalation delivery. The presence of nanocrystals opens up new prospects for the development of novel pulmonary delivery system. The particle size control, physical instability, potential cytotoxicity, and clearance mechanism of inhaled nanocrystals based formulations are the major considerations in formulation development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pengfei Yue
- Key Lab of Modern Preparation of TCM, Ministry of Education, Jiangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanchang, People's Republic of China
| | - Weicheng Zhou
- Key Lab of Modern Preparation of TCM, Ministry of Education, Jiangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanchang, People's Republic of China
| | - Guiting Huang
- Key Lab of Modern Preparation of TCM, Ministry of Education, Jiangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanchang, People's Republic of China
| | - Fangfang Lei
- Key Lab of Modern Preparation of TCM, Ministry of Education, Jiangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanchang, People's Republic of China
| | - Yingchong Chen
- Key Lab of Modern Preparation of TCM, Ministry of Education, Jiangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanchang, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhilin Ma
- Langka Biotechnology (Shanghai) Co., Ltd, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Liru Chen
- Beijing Hospital, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Ming Yang
- Key Lab of Modern Preparation of TCM, Ministry of Education, Jiangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanchang, People's Republic of China
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Salazar F, Bignell E, Brown GD, Cook PC, Warris A. Pathogenesis of Respiratory Viral and Fungal Coinfections. Clin Microbiol Rev 2022; 35:e0009421. [PMID: 34788127 PMCID: PMC8597983 DOI: 10.1128/cmr.00094-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Individuals suffering from severe viral respiratory tract infections have recently emerged as "at risk" groups for developing invasive fungal infections. Influenza virus is one of the most common causes of acute lower respiratory tract infections worldwide. Fungal infections complicating influenza pneumonia are associated with increased disease severity and mortality, with invasive pulmonary aspergillosis being the most common manifestation. Strikingly, similar observations have been made during the current coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. The copathogenesis of respiratory viral and fungal coinfections is complex and involves a dynamic interplay between the host immune defenses and the virulence of the microbes involved that often results in failure to return to homeostasis. In this review, we discuss the main mechanisms underlying susceptibility to invasive fungal disease following respiratory viral infections. A comprehensive understanding of these interactions will aid the development of therapeutic modalities against newly identified targets to prevent and treat these emerging coinfections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabián Salazar
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Elaine Bignell
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Gordon D. Brown
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Peter C. Cook
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Adilia Warris
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
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6
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Okada M, Akimoto T, Ishihara A, Yamauchi K. Expanded collectin family in bullfrog (Rana catesbeiana): Identification and characterization of plasma collectins. DEVELOPMENTAL AND COMPARATIVE IMMUNOLOGY 2021; 122:104108. [PMID: 33909995 DOI: 10.1016/j.dci.2021.104108] [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: 03/05/2021] [Revised: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
BLAST searches against databases for the bullfrog (Rana catesbeiana), using the collectin sequence previously identified in tadpoles, revealed the presence of at least 20 members of the collectin gene family. Phylogenetic analysis demonstrated that the bullfrog possesses expanded gene subfamilies encoding mannose-binding lectin (MBL) and pulmonary surfactant-associated protein D (PSAPD). Two collectins, of 20 kDa (PSAPD1) and 25 kDa (PSAPD6), were purified as a mixture from adult bullfrog plasma using affinity chromatography. These collectins were present as an oligomer of ~400 kDa in their native state, and showed Ca2+-dependent carbohydrate binding with different sugar preferences. Affinity-purified collectins showed weak E. coli agglutination and bactericidal activities, compared with those of plasma. Although both PSAPD1 and PSAPD6 genes were predominantly expressed in the liver, PSAPD1 transcripts were abundant in adults whereas PSAPD6 transcripts were abundant in tadpoles. The findings indicate that two gene subfamilies in the collectin family have diverged structurally, functionally and transcriptionally in the bullfrog. Rapid expansion of the collectin family in bullfrogs may reflect the onset of sub-functionalization of the prototype MBL gene towards tetrapod MBL and PSAPDs, and may be one means of natural adaptation in the innate immune system to various pathogens in both aquatic and terrestrial environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masako Okada
- Department of Biological Science, Faculty of Science, Shizuoka University, Shizuoka, 422-8529, Japan.
| | - Takanori Akimoto
- Department of Biological Science, Faculty of Science, Shizuoka University, Shizuoka, 422-8529, Japan.
| | - Akinori Ishihara
- Department of Biological Science, Faculty of Science, Shizuoka University, Shizuoka, 422-8529, Japan.
| | - Kiyoshi Yamauchi
- Department of Biological Science, Faculty of Science, Shizuoka University, Shizuoka, 422-8529, Japan.
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Machata S, Müller MM, Lehmann R, Sieber P, Panagiotou G, Carvalho A, Cunha C, Lagrou K, Maertens J, Slevogt H, Jacobsen ID. Proteome analysis of bronchoalveolar lavage fluids reveals host and fungal proteins highly expressed during invasive pulmonary aspergillosis in mice and humans. Virulence 2021; 11:1337-1351. [PMID: 33043780 PMCID: PMC7549978 DOI: 10.1080/21505594.2020.1824960] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Invasive pulmonary aspergillosis (IPA) is a severe infection that is difficult to diagnose due to the ubiquitous presence of fungal spores, the underlying diseases of risk patients, and limitations of currently available markers. In this study, we performed a comprehensive liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS)-based identification of host and fungal proteins expressed during IPA in mice and humans. The proteomic analysis of bronchoalveolar lavage samples of individual IPA and control cases allowed the description of common host factors that had significantly increased abundance in both infected animals and IPA patients compared to their controls. Although increased levels of these individual host proteins might not be sufficient to distinguish bacterial from fungal infection, a combination of these markers might be beneficial to improve diagnosis. We also identified 16 fungal proteins that were specifically detected during infection and may be valuable candidates for biomarker evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silke Machata
- Microbial Immunology, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology - Hans Knoell Institute , Jena, Germany
| | - Mario M Müller
- Septomics Research Centre, Jena University Hospital , Jena, Germany
| | - Roland Lehmann
- Septomics Research Centre, Jena University Hospital , Jena, Germany
| | - Patricia Sieber
- Systems Biology and Bioinformatics, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology - Hans Knoell Institute , Jena, Germany
| | - Gianni Panagiotou
- Systems Biology and Bioinformatics, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology - Hans Knoell Institute , Jena, Germany.,School of the Biological Sciences, Faculty of Sciences, The University of Hong Kong , Hong Kong, China.,Department of Microbiology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong , Hong Kong, China
| | - Agostinho Carvalho
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho , Braga, Portugal.,ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory , Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Cristina Cunha
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho , Braga, Portugal.,ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory , Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Katrien Lagrou
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, KU Leuven , Leuven, Belgium.,Clinical Department of Laboratory Medicine and National Reference Center for Mycosis, University Hospitals Leuven , Leuven, Belgium
| | - Johan Maertens
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, KU Leuven , Leuven, Belgium.,Department of Hematology, University Hospitals Leuven , Leuven, Belgium
| | - Hortense Slevogt
- Septomics Research Centre, Jena University Hospital , Jena, Germany
| | - Ilse D Jacobsen
- Microbial Immunology, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology - Hans Knoell Institute , Jena, Germany.,Institute for Microbiology, Friedrich-Schiller-University Jena , Jena, Germany
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8
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Sharma D, Bisht GS. Recent Updates on Antifungal Peptides. Mini Rev Med Chem 2020; 20:260-268. [PMID: 31556857 DOI: 10.2174/1389557519666190926112423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2018] [Revised: 07/17/2018] [Accepted: 09/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The current trend of increment in the frequency of antifungal resistance has brought research into an era where new antifungal compounds with novel mechanisms of action are required. Natural antimicrobial peptides, which are ubiquitous components of innate immunity, represent their candidature for novel antifungal peptides. Various antifungal peptides have been isolated from different species ranging from small marine organisms to insects and from various other living species. Based on these peptides, various mimetics of antifungal peptides have also been synthesized using non-natural amino acids. Utilization of these antifungal peptides is somehow limited due to their toxic and unstable nature. This review discusses recent updates and future directions of antifungal peptides, for taking them to the shelf from the bench.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deepika Sharma
- Department of Pharmacy, Jaypee University of Information Technology, Waknaghat, Solan, Himachal Pradesh, 173234, India
| | - Gopal Singh Bisht
- Department of Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Jaypee University of Information Technology, Waknaghat, Solan, Himachal Pradesh, 173234, India
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Nørregaard KS, Krigslund O, Behrendt N, Engelholm LH, Jürgensen HJ. The collagen receptor uPARAP/Endo180 regulates collectins through unique structural elements in its FNII domain. J Biol Chem 2020; 295:9157-9170. [PMID: 32424040 PMCID: PMC7335807 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.ra120.013710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2020] [Revised: 05/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
C-type lectins that contain collagen-like domains are known as collectins. These proteins are present both in the circulation and in extravascular compartments and are central players of the innate immune system, contributing to first-line defenses against viral, bacterial, and fungal pathogens. The collectins mannose-binding lectin (MBL) and surfactant protein D (SP-D) are regulated by tissue fibroblasts at extravascular sites via an endocytic mechanism governed by urokinase plasminogen activator receptor-associated protein (uPARAP or Endo180), which is also a collagen receptor. Here, we investigated the molecular mechanisms that drive the uPARAP-mediated cellular uptake of MBL and SP-D. We found that the uptake depends on residues within a protruding loop in the fibronectin type-II (FNII) domain of uPARAP that are also critical for collagen uptake. Importantly, however, we also identified FNII domain residues having an exclusive role in collectin uptake. We noted that these residues are absent in the related collagen receptor, the mannose receptor (MR or CD206), which consistently does not interact with collectins. We also show that the second C-type lectin-like domain (CTLD2) is critical for the uptake of SP-D, but not MBL, indicating an additional level of complexity in the interactions between collectins and uPARAP. Finally, we demonstrate that the same molecular mechanisms enable uPARAP to engage MBL immobilized on the surface of pathogens, thereby expanding the potential biological implications of this interaction. Our study reveals molecular details of the receptor-mediated cellular regulation of collectins and offers critical clues for future investigations into collectin biology and pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirstine Sandal Nørregaard
- Finsen Laboratory, Rigshospitalet/Biotech Research and Innovation Center, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen N, Denmark
| | - Oliver Krigslund
- Finsen Laboratory, Rigshospitalet/Biotech Research and Innovation Center, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen N, Denmark
| | - Niels Behrendt
- Finsen Laboratory, Rigshospitalet/Biotech Research and Innovation Center, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen N, Denmark
| | - Lars H Engelholm
- Finsen Laboratory, Rigshospitalet/Biotech Research and Innovation Center, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen N, Denmark
| | - Henrik Jessen Jürgensen
- Finsen Laboratory, Rigshospitalet/Biotech Research and Innovation Center, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen N, Denmark.
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Lipid-Protein and Protein-Protein Interactions in the Pulmonary Surfactant System and Their Role in Lung Homeostasis. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21103708. [PMID: 32466119 PMCID: PMC7279303 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21103708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2020] [Revised: 05/22/2020] [Accepted: 05/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Pulmonary surfactant is a lipid/protein complex synthesized by the alveolar epithelium and secreted into the airspaces, where it coats and protects the large respiratory air–liquid interface. Surfactant, assembled as a complex network of membranous structures, integrates elements in charge of reducing surface tension to a minimum along the breathing cycle, thus maintaining a large surface open to gas exchange and also protecting the lung and the body from the entrance of a myriad of potentially pathogenic entities. Different molecules in the surfactant establish a multivalent crosstalk with the epithelium, the immune system and the lung microbiota, constituting a crucial platform to sustain homeostasis, under health and disease. This review summarizes some of the most important molecules and interactions within lung surfactant and how multiple lipid–protein and protein–protein interactions contribute to the proper maintenance of an operative respiratory surface.
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11
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Ballard E, Yucel R, Melchers WJG, Brown AJP, Verweij PE, Warris A. Antifungal Activity of Antimicrobial Peptides and Proteins against Aspergillus fumigatus. J Fungi (Basel) 2020; 6:jof6020065. [PMID: 32443413 PMCID: PMC7345740 DOI: 10.3390/jof6020065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2020] [Revised: 05/12/2020] [Accepted: 05/15/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Antimicrobial peptides and proteins (AMPs) provide an important line of defence against invading microorganisms. However, the activity of AMPs against the human fungal pathogen Aspergillus fumigatus remains poorly understood. Therefore, the aim of this study was to characterise the anti-Aspergillus activity of specific human AMPs, and to determine whether A. fumigatus can possess resistance to specific AMPs, as a result of in-host adaptation. AMPs were tested against a wide range of clinical isolates of various origins (including cystic fibrosis patients, as well as patients with chronic and acute aspergillosis). We also tested a series of isogenic A. fumigatus isolates obtained from a single patient over a period of 2 years. A range of environmental isolates, obtained from soil in Scotland, was also included. Firstly, the activity of specific peptides was assessed against hyphae using a measure of fungal metabolic activity. Secondly, the activity of specific peptides was assessed against germinating conidia, using imaging flow cytometry as a measure of hyphal growth. We showed that lysozyme and histones inhibited hyphal metabolic activity in all the A. fumigatus isolates tested in a dose-dependent fashion. In addition, imaging flow cytometry revealed that histones, β-defensin-1 and lactoferrin inhibited the germination of A. fumigatus conidia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eloise Ballard
- Aberdeen Fungal Group, Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen AB25 2ZD, UK;
| | - Raif Yucel
- Iain Fraser Cytometry Centre (IFCC), Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen AB25 2ZD, UK
- Cytomics Centre, Geoffrey Pope Building, University of Exeter, Exeter EX4 4QD, UK;
| | - Willem J. G. Melchers
- Centre for Expertise in Mycology and Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboud University Medical Centre, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands; (W.J.G.M.); (P.E.V.)
| | - Alistair J. P. Brown
- Aberdeen Fungal Group, Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen AB25 2ZD, UK;
- MRC Centre for Medical Mycology at the University of Exeter, Exeter 4EX 4QD, UK;
| | - Paul E. Verweij
- Centre for Expertise in Mycology and Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboud University Medical Centre, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands; (W.J.G.M.); (P.E.V.)
| | - Adilia Warris
- Aberdeen Fungal Group, Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen AB25 2ZD, UK;
- MRC Centre for Medical Mycology at the University of Exeter, Exeter 4EX 4QD, UK;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +44-1392-727-593
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Abstract
Defensins are a major family of host defense peptides expressed predominantly in neutrophils and epithelial cells. Their broad antimicrobial activities and multifaceted immunomodulatory functions have been extensively studied, cementing their role in innate immunity as a core host-protective component against bacterial, viral and fungal infections. More recent studies, however, paint defensins in a bad light such that they are "alleged" to promote viral and bacterial infections in certain biological settings. This mini review summarizes the latest findings on the potential pathogenic properties of defensins against the backdrop of their protective roles in antiviral and antibacterial immunity. Further, a succinct description of both tumor-proliferative and -suppressive activities of defensins is also given to highlight their functional and mechanistic complexity in antitumor immunity. We posit that given an enabling environment defensins, widely heralded as the "Swiss army knife," can function as a "double-edged sword" in host immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Xu
- Institute of Mitochondrial Biology and Medicine, Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering of the Ministry of Education, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
| | - Wuyuan Lu
- Institute of Human Virology and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
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13
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van Eijk M, Hillaire MLB, Rimmelzwaan GF, Rynkiewicz MJ, White MR, Hartshorn KL, Hessing M, Koolmees PA, Tersteeg MH, van Es MH, Meijerhof T, Huckriede A, Haagsman HP. Enhanced Antiviral Activity of Human Surfactant Protein D by Site-Specific Engineering of the Carbohydrate Recognition Domain. Front Immunol 2019; 10:2476. [PMID: 31749796 PMCID: PMC6842947 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.02476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2019] [Accepted: 10/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Innate immunity is critical in the early containment of influenza A virus (IAV) infection and surfactant protein D (SP-D) plays a crucial role in innate defense against IAV in the lungs. Multivalent lectin-mediated interactions of SP-D with IAVs result in viral aggregation, reduced epithelial infection, and enhanced IAV clearance by phagocytic cells. Previous studies showed that porcine SP-D (pSP-D) exhibits distinct antiviral activity against IAV as compared to human SP-D (hSP-D), mainly due to key residues in the lectin domain of pSP-D that contribute to its profound neutralizing activity. These observations provided the basis for the design of a full-length recombinant mutant form of hSP-D, designated as “improved SP-D” (iSP-D). Inspired by pSP-D, the lectin domain of iSP-D has 5 amino acids replaced (Asp324Asn, Asp330Asn, Val251Glu, Lys287Gln, Glu289Lys) and 3 amino acids inserted (326Gly-Ser-Ser). Characterization of iSP-D revealed no major differences in protein assembly and saccharide binding selectivity as compared to hSP-D. However, hemagglutination inhibition measurements showed that iSP-D expressed strongly enhanced activity compared to hSP-D against 31 different IAV strains tested, including (pandemic) IAVs that were resistant for neutralization by hSP-D. Furthermore, iSP-D showed increased viral aggregation and enhanced protection of MDCK cells against infection by IAV. Importantly, prophylactic or therapeutic application of iSP-D decreased weight loss and reduced viral lung titers in a murine model of IAV infection using a clinical isolate of H1N1pdm09 virus. These studies demonstrate the potential of iSP-D as a novel human-based antiviral inhalation drug that may provide immediate protection against or recovery from respiratory (pandemic) IAV infections in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin van Eijk
- Division of Molecular Host Defence, Department of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | | | - Guus F Rimmelzwaan
- Research Center for Emerging Infections and Zoonoses, University of Veterinary Medicine, Hanover, Germany
| | - Michael J Rynkiewicz
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Mitchell R White
- Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Kevan L Hartshorn
- Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Martin Hessing
- U-Protein Express B.V., Life Science Incubator, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Peter A Koolmees
- Division of Veterinary Public Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Monique H Tersteeg
- Division of Veterinary Public Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | | | - Tjarko Meijerhof
- Department of Medical Microbiology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Anke Huckriede
- Department of Medical Microbiology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Henk P Haagsman
- Division of Molecular Host Defence, Department of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
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14
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Abstract
Since its description nearly 130 years ago, hundreds of studies have deepened our understanding of coccidioidomycosis, also known as valley fever (VF), and provided useful diagnostic tests and treatments for the disease caused by the dimorphic fungi Coccidioides spp. In general, most of the literature has addressed well-established infections and has described patients who have experienced major complications. In contrast, little attention has been given to the earliest consequences of the pathogen-host interaction and its implications for disease manifestation, progression, and resolution. The purpose of this review is to highlight published studies on early coccidioidomycosis, identify gaps in our knowledge, and suggest new or former research areas that might be or remain fertile ground for insight into the early stages of this invasive fungal disease.
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15
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Casals C, García-Fojeda B, Minutti CM. Soluble defense collagens: Sweeping up immune threats. Mol Immunol 2019; 112:291-304. [DOI: 10.1016/j.molimm.2019.06.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2019] [Revised: 06/12/2019] [Accepted: 06/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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16
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Abstract
Respiratory fungal infection is a severe clinical problem, especially in patients with compromised immune functions. Aspergillus, Cryptococcus, Pneumocystis, and endemic fungi are major pulmonary fungal pathogens that are able to result in life-threatening invasive diseases. Growing data being reported have indicated that multiple cells and molecules orchestrate the host's response to a fungal infection in the lung. Upon fungal challenge, innate myeloid cells including macrophages, dendritic cells (DC), and recruited neutrophils establish the first line of defense through the phagocytosis and secretion of cytokines. Natural killer cells control the fungal expansion in the lung via the direct and indirect killing of invading organisms. Adaptive immune cells including Th1 and Th17 cells confer anti-fungal activity by producing their signature cytokines, interferon-γ, and IL-17. In addition, lung epithelial cells (LEC) also participate in the resistance against fungal infection by internalization, inflammatory cytokine production, or antimicrobial peptide secretion. In the host cells mentioned above, various molecules with distinct functions modulate the immune defense signaling: Pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) such as dectin-1 expressed on the cell surface are involved in fungal recognition; adaptor proteins such as MyD88 and TRAF6 are required for transduction of signals to the nucleus for transcriptional regulation; inflammasomes also play crucial roles in the host's defense against a fungal infection in the lung. Furthermore, transcriptional factors modulate the transcriptions of a series of genes, especially those encoding cytokines and chemokines, which are predominant regulators in the infectious microenvironment, mediating the cellular and molecular immune responses against a fungal infection in the lung.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhi Li
- The Joint Center for Infection and Immunity, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Institute of Pediatrics, Guangzhou, China
- The Joint Center for Infection and Immunity, Institute Pasteur of Shanghai, Chinese Academy of Science, Shanghai, China
| | - Gen Lu
- The Joint Center for Infection and Immunity, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Institute of Pediatrics, Guangzhou, China
| | - Guangxun Meng
- The Joint Center for Infection and Immunity, Institute Pasteur of Shanghai, Chinese Academy of Science, Shanghai, China
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17
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Jiang L, Fang M, Tao R, Yong X, Wu T. Recombinant human interleukin 17A enhances the anti-Candida effect of human oral mucosal epithelial cells by inhibiting Candida albicans growth and inducing antimicrobial peptides secretion. J Oral Pathol Med 2019; 49:320-327. [PMID: 31145494 DOI: 10.1111/jop.12889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2019] [Revised: 05/20/2019] [Accepted: 05/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Candida albicans (C albicans) is the most common fungal pathogen causing opportunistic infections. IL17 (IL17A) is a vital mediator of antifungal immunity. The aim of the study was to investigate the effect of recombinant human interleukin 17A (rhIL17A) on human oral mucosal epithelial cells (hOMECs) defending against C albicans infection. METHODS Human oral mucosal epithelial cells were divided into four groups: C albicans+ (MOI = 0.1), rhIL17A+ (100 μg/L), rhIL17A + C albicans+ (MOI = 0.1, rhIL17A:100 μg/L) and blank control. Then, C albicans growth was observed after 24 hours. Human beta-2 defensin (hBD-2), S100A8 and LL-37 in supernatants and their mRNAs in cells were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction, respectively. RESULTS In C albicans+ group, C albicans hyphae formation and the death of infected hOMECs were observed. However, in the rhIL17A + C albicans+ group, IL17 inhibited both hypha formation, and C albicans from infecting hOMECs and its further growth. There was no statistical significance in adhesion rates of C albicans to hOMECs. Compared with the control group, the level of hBD-2 mRNA has increased, while hBD-2 and hBD-2 mRNA levels in the rhIL17A + C albicans+ group were the highest. Both hBD-2 and hBD-2 mRNA levels were higher in the rhIL17A+ group than in the C albicans+ group. S100A8 and LL-37 mRNAs have similar trend, and both upregulated after treatment with rhIL17A; however, protein levels were undetectable. CONCLUSION Recombinant human interleukin 17A may inhibit C albicans from infecting hOMECs by affecting the growth and reproduction of C albicans as well as the formation of hyphae. Besides, rhIL17A might induce hBD-2, S100A8 and LL-37 secretion from hOMECs to strengthen their anti-infective ability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lanlan Jiang
- Department of Periodontics and Oral Medicine, College of Stomatology, Guangxi Medical University Nanning, Nanning, China.,Guangxi Key Laboratory of Oral and Maxillofacial Rehabilitation and Reconstruction, Guangxi, China.,Guangxi Clinical Research Center for Craniofacial Deformity, Guangxi, China.,Guangxi Key Laboratory of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Disease Treatment, Guangxi, China
| | - Meifei Fang
- Department of Periodontics and Oral Medicine, College of Stomatology, Guangxi Medical University Nanning, Nanning, China
| | - Renchuan Tao
- Department of Periodontics and Oral Medicine, College of Stomatology, Guangxi Medical University Nanning, Nanning, China.,Guangxi Key Laboratory of Oral and Maxillofacial Rehabilitation and Reconstruction, Guangxi, China.,Guangxi Clinical Research Center for Craniofacial Deformity, Guangxi, China.,Guangxi Key Laboratory of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Disease Treatment, Guangxi, China
| | - Xiangzhi Yong
- Department of Periodontics and Oral Medicine, College of Stomatology, Guangxi Medical University Nanning, Nanning, China
| | - Tiantian Wu
- Department of Periodontics and Oral Medicine, College of Stomatology, Guangxi Medical University Nanning, Nanning, China
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18
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Casals C, Campanero-Rhodes MA, García-Fojeda B, Solís D. The Role of Collectins and Galectins in Lung Innate Immune Defense. Front Immunol 2018; 9:1998. [PMID: 30233589 PMCID: PMC6131309 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.01998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2018] [Accepted: 08/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Different families of endogenous lectins use complementary defense strategies against pathogens. They may recognize non-self glycans typically found on pathogens and/or host glycans. The collectin and galectin families are prominent examples of these two lectin categories. Collectins are C-type lectins that contain a carbohydrate recognition domain and a collagen-like domain. Members of this group include surfactant protein A (SP-A) and D (SP-D), secreted by the alveolar epithelium to the alveolar fluid. Lung collectins bind to several microorganisms, which results in pathogen aggregation and/or killing, and enhances phagocytosis of pathogens by alveolar macrophages. Moreover, SP-A and SP-D influence macrophage responses, contributing to resolution of inflammation, and SP-A is essential for tissue-repair functions of macrophages. Galectins also function by interacting directly with pathogens or by modulating the immune system in response to the infection. Direct binding may result in enhanced or impaired infection of target cells, or can have microbicidal effects. Immunomodulatory effects of galectins include recruitment of immune cells to the site of infection, promotion of neutrophil function, and stimulation of the bactericidal activity of infected macrophages. Moreover, intracellular galectins can serve as danger receptors, promoting autophagy of the invading pathogen. This review will focus on the role of collectins and galectins in pathogen clearance and immune response activation in infectious diseases of the respiratory system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Casals
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Respiratorias (CIBERES), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain.,Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - María A Campanero-Rhodes
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Respiratorias (CIBERES), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain.,Instituto de Química Física Rocasolano, CSIC, Madrid, Spain
| | - Belén García-Fojeda
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Respiratorias (CIBERES), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain.,Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Dolores Solís
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Respiratorias (CIBERES), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain.,Instituto de Química Física Rocasolano, CSIC, Madrid, Spain
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