1
|
Nana CMM, Tchakounté BDK, Bitye BMZ, Fogang B, Zangue BKT, Seumko’o RMN, Nana BC, Leke RGF, Djontu JC, Argüello RJ, Ayong L, Megnekou R. Phenotypic changes of γδ T cells in Plasmodium falciparum placental malaria and pregnancy outcomes in women at delivery in Cameroon. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1385380. [PMID: 38827744 PMCID: PMC11140112 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1385380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Depending on the microenvironment, γδ T cells may assume characteristics similar to those of Th1, Th2, Th17, regulatory T cells or antigen presenting cells. Despite the wide documentation of the effect of Th1/Th2 balance on pregnancy associated malaria and outcomes, there are no reports on the relationship between γδ T cell phenotype change and Placental Malaria (PM) with pregnancy outcomes. This study sought to investigate the involvement of γδ T cells and its subsets in placental Plasmodium falciparum malaria. Methods In a case-control study conducted in Yaoundé, Cameroon from March 2022 to May 2023, peripheral, placental and cord blood samples were collected from 50 women at delivery (29 PM negative: PM- and 21 PM positive: PM+; as diagnosed by light microscopy). Hemoglobin levels were measured using hemoglobinometer. PBMCs, IVBMCs and CBMCs were isolated using histopaque-1077 and used to characterize total γδ T cell populations and subsets (Vδ1+, Vδ2+, Vδ1-Vδ2-) by flow cytometry. Results Placental Plasmodium falciparum infection was associated with significant increase in the frequency of total γδ T cells in IVBMC and of the Vδ1+ subset in PBMC and IVBMC, but decreased frequency of the Vδ2+ subset in PBMC and IVBMC. The expression of the activation marker: HLA-DR, and the exhaustion markers (PD1 and TIM3) within total γδ T cells and subsets were significantly up-regulated in PM+ compared to PM- group. The frequency of total γδ T cells in IVBMC, TIM-3 expression within total γδ T cells and subsets in IVBMC, as well as HLA-DR expression within total γδ T cells and Vδ2+ subset in IVBMC were negatively associated with maternal hemoglobin levels. Furthermore, the frequency of total γδ T cells in PBMC and PD1 expression within the Vδ2+ subset in CBMC were negatively associated with birth weight contrary to the frequency of Vδ1-Vδ2- subset in PBMC and HLA-DR expression within the Vδ2+ subset in IVBMC which positively associated with maternal hemoglobin level and birth weight, respectively. Conclusion The data indicate up-regulation of activated and exhausted γδ T cells in Plasmodium falciparum placental malaria, with effects on pregnancy outcomes including maternal hemoglobin level and birth weight.
Collapse
MESH Headings
- Humans
- Female
- Pregnancy
- Malaria, Falciparum/immunology
- Malaria, Falciparum/parasitology
- Malaria, Falciparum/blood
- Cameroon
- Adult
- Receptors, Antigen, T-Cell, gamma-delta/metabolism
- Receptors, Antigen, T-Cell, gamma-delta/immunology
- Plasmodium falciparum/immunology
- Pregnancy Complications, Parasitic/immunology
- Case-Control Studies
- Pregnancy Outcome
- Young Adult
- Placenta/immunology
- Placenta/parasitology
- T-Lymphocyte Subsets/immunology
- T-Lymphocyte Subsets/metabolism
- Phenotype
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chris Marco Mbianda Nana
- Department of Animal Biology and Physiology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Yaoundé I, Yaoundé, Cameroon
- Immunology Laboratory of the Biotechnology Center, University of Yaoundé I, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - Bodin Darcisse Kwanou Tchakounté
- Department of Animal Biology and Physiology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Yaoundé I, Yaoundé, Cameroon
- Immunology Laboratory of the Biotechnology Center, University of Yaoundé I, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - Bernard Marie Zambo Bitye
- Department of Animal Biology and Physiology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Yaoundé I, Yaoundé, Cameroon
- Immunology Laboratory of the Biotechnology Center, University of Yaoundé I, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - Balotin Fogang
- Malaria Research Unit, Centre Pasteur du Cameroun, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - Berenice Kenfack Tekougang Zangue
- Department of Animal Biology and Physiology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Yaoundé I, Yaoundé, Cameroon
- Immunology Laboratory of the Biotechnology Center, University of Yaoundé I, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - Reine Medouen Ndeumou Seumko’o
- Department of Animal Biology and Physiology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Yaoundé I, Yaoundé, Cameroon
- Immunology Laboratory of the Biotechnology Center, University of Yaoundé I, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - Benderli Christine Nana
- Department of Animal Biology and Physiology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Yaoundé I, Yaoundé, Cameroon
- Immunology Laboratory of the Biotechnology Center, University of Yaoundé I, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - Rose Gana Fomban Leke
- Department of Animal Biology and Physiology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Yaoundé I, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - Jean Claude Djontu
- Immunology Laboratory of the Biotechnology Center, University of Yaoundé I, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - Rafael José Argüello
- CNRS, INSERM, CIML, Centre d’Immunologie de Marseille, Aix-Marseille University, Marseille, France
| | - Lawrence Ayong
- Malaria Research Unit, Centre Pasteur du Cameroun, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - Rosette Megnekou
- Department of Animal Biology and Physiology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Yaoundé I, Yaoundé, Cameroon
- Immunology Laboratory of the Biotechnology Center, University of Yaoundé I, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Foyle KL, Robertson SA. Gamma delta (γδ) T cells in the female reproductive tract: active participants or indifferent bystanders in reproductive success? DISCOVERY IMMUNOLOGY 2024; 3:kyae004. [PMID: 38863792 PMCID: PMC11165432 DOI: 10.1093/discim/kyae004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2023] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024]
Abstract
The female reproductive tract accommodates and balances the unique immunological challenges of protection from sexually transmitted pathogens and tolerance of the fetus and placenta in pregnancy. Leukocytes in the female reproductive tract actively engage in extensive maternal adaptations that are imperative for embryo implantation, placental development, and fetal growth support. γδ T cells are abundant at many mucosal sites in the body, where they provide protection against pathogens and cancer, and have roles in tissue renewal and homeostasis. In this review, we summarize studies in humans and rodents showing that γδ T cells are prevalent in the female reproductive tract and fluctuate in response to hormone changes across the reproductive cycle. Emerging evidence points to a link between changes in their abundance and molecular repertoire in the uterus and pregnancy disorders including recurrent miscarriage and preterm birth. However, defining the precise functional role of female reproductive tract γδ T cells and understanding their physiological significance in reproduction and pregnancy have remained elusive. Here, we critically analyze whether reproductive tract γδ T cells could be active participants in reproductive events-or whether their principal function is immune defense, in which case they may compromise pregnancy success unless adequately regulated.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kerrie L Foyle
- Robinson Research Institute and School of Biomedicine, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Sarah A Robertson
- Robinson Research Institute and School of Biomedicine, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Nörenberg J, Vida P, Bösmeier I, Forró B, Nörenberg A, Buda Á, Simon D, Erdő-Bonyár S, Jáksó P, Kovács K, Mikó É, Berki T, Mezősi E, Barakonyi A. Decidual γδT cells of early human pregnancy produce angiogenic and immunomodulatory proteins while also possessing cytotoxic potential. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1382424. [PMID: 38601161 PMCID: PMC11004470 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1382424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024] Open
Abstract
During pregnancy, the maternal immune system must allow and support the growth of the developing placenta while maintaining the integrity of the mother's body. The trophoblast's unique HLA signature is a key factor in this physiological process. This study focuses on decidual γδT cell populations and examines their expression of receptors that bind to non-classical HLA molecules, HLA-E and HLA-G. We demonstrate that decidual γδT cell subsets, including Vδ1, Vδ2, and double-negative (DN) Vδ1-/Vδ2- cells express HLA-specific regulatory receptors, such as NKG2C, NKG2A, ILT2, and KIR2DL4, each with varying dominance. Furthermore, decidual γδT cells produce cytokines (G-CSF, FGF2) and cytotoxic mediators (Granulysin, IFN-γ), suggesting functions in placental growth and pathogen defense. However, these processes seem to be controlled by factors other than trophoblast-derived non-classical HLA molecules. These findings indicate that decidual γδT cells have the potential to actively contribute to the maintenance of healthy human pregnancy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jasper Nörenberg
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of Pécs Medical School, Clinical Center, Pécs, Hungary
- National Laboratory on Human Reproduction, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Pécs Medical School, Clinical Center, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Péter Vida
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Pécs Medical School, Clinical Center, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Isabell Bösmeier
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of Pécs Medical School, Clinical Center, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Barbara Forró
- Department of Pathology, University of Pécs Medical School, Clinical Center, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Anna Nörenberg
- National Laboratory on Human Reproduction, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Pécs Medical School, Clinical Center, Pécs, Hungary
- Janos Szentagothai Research Centre, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Ágnes Buda
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Pécs Medical School, Clinical Center, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Diana Simon
- National Laboratory on Human Reproduction, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
- Department of Immunology and Biotechnology, University of Pécs Medical School, Clinical Center, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Szabina Erdő-Bonyár
- National Laboratory on Human Reproduction, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
- Department of Immunology and Biotechnology, University of Pécs Medical School, Clinical Center, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Pál Jáksó
- Department of Pathology, University of Pécs Medical School, Clinical Center, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Kálmán Kovács
- National Laboratory on Human Reproduction, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Pécs Medical School, Clinical Center, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Éva Mikó
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of Pécs Medical School, Clinical Center, Pécs, Hungary
- National Laboratory on Human Reproduction, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
- Janos Szentagothai Research Centre, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Tímea Berki
- National Laboratory on Human Reproduction, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
- Department of Immunology and Biotechnology, University of Pécs Medical School, Clinical Center, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Emese Mezősi
- National Laboratory on Human Reproduction, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
- First Department of Internal Medicine, University of Pécs Medical School, Clinical Center, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Alíz Barakonyi
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of Pécs Medical School, Clinical Center, Pécs, Hungary
- National Laboratory on Human Reproduction, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
- Janos Szentagothai Research Centre, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Terzieva A, Alexandrova M, Manchorova D, Slavov S, Djerov L, Dimova T. HLA-G Expression/Secretion and T-Cell Cytotoxicity in Missed Abortion in Comparison to Normal Pregnancy. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2643. [PMID: 38473890 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25052643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2023] [Revised: 02/18/2024] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
The main role of HLA-G is to protect the semi-allogeneic embryo from immune rejection by proper interaction with its cognate receptors on the maternal immune cells. Spontaneous abortion is the most common adverse pregnancy outcome, with an incidence rate between 10% and 15%, with immunologic dysregulation being thought to play a role in some of the cases. In this study, we aimed to detect the membrane and soluble HLA-G molecule at the maternal-fetal interface (MFI) and in the serum of women experiencing missed abortion (asymptomatic early pregnancy loss) in comparison to the women experiencing normal early pregnancy. In addition, the proportion of T cells and their cytotoxic profile was evaluated. We observed no difference in the spatial expression of HLA-G at the MFI and in its serum levels between the women with missed abortions and those with normal early pregnancy. In addition, comparable numbers of peripheral blood and decidual total T and γδT cells were found. In addition, as novel data we showed that missed abortion is not associated with altered extravilous invasion into uterine blood vessels and increased cytotoxicity of γδT cells. A strong signal for HLA-G on non-migrating extravilous trophoblast in the full-term normal placental bed was detected. In conclusion, HLA-G production at the MFI or in the blood of the women could not be used as a marker for normal pregnancy or missed abortions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Antonia Terzieva
- Institute of Biology and Immunology of Reproduction "Acad. Kiril Bratanov", Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, 1113 Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Marina Alexandrova
- Institute of Biology and Immunology of Reproduction "Acad. Kiril Bratanov", Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, 1113 Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Diana Manchorova
- Institute of Biology and Immunology of Reproduction "Acad. Kiril Bratanov", Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, 1113 Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Sergei Slavov
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Medical University, University Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital "Maichin Dom", 1431 Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Lyubomir Djerov
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Medical University, University Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital "Maichin Dom", 1431 Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Tanya Dimova
- Institute of Biology and Immunology of Reproduction "Acad. Kiril Bratanov", Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, 1113 Sofia, Bulgaria
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Kang I, Kim Y, Lee HK. Double-edged sword: γδ T cells in mucosal homeostasis and disease. Exp Mol Med 2023; 55:1895-1904. [PMID: 37696894 PMCID: PMC10545763 DOI: 10.1038/s12276-023-00985-3] [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: 12/13/2022] [Revised: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The mucosa is a tissue that covers numerous body surfaces, including the respiratory tract, digestive tract, eye, and urogenital tract. Mucosa is in direct contact with pathogens, and γδ T cells perform various roles in the tissue. γδ T cells efficiently defend the mucosa from various pathogens, such as viruses, bacteria, and fungi. In addition, γδ T cells are necessary for the maintenance of homeostasis because they select specific organisms in the microbiota and perform immunoregulatory functions. Furthermore, γδ T cells directly facilitate pregnancy by producing growth factors. However, γδ T cells can also play detrimental roles in mucosal health by amplifying inflammation, thereby worsening allergic responses. Moreover, these cells can act as major players in autoimmune diseases. Despite their robust roles in the mucosa, the application of γδ T cells in clinical practice is lacking because of factors such as gaps between mice and human cells, insufficient knowledge of the target of γδ T cells, and the small population of γδ T cells. However, γδ T cells may be attractive targets for clinical use due to their effector functions and low risk of inducing graft-versus-host disease. Therefore, robust research on γδ T cells is required to understand the crucial features of these cells and apply these knowledges to clinical practices.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- In Kang
- Graduate School of Medical Science and Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Yumin Kim
- Department of Biological Sciences, KAIST, Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Heung Kyu Lee
- Graduate School of Medical Science and Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea.
- Department of Biological Sciences, KAIST, Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Habel JR, Chua BY, Kedzierski L, Selva KJ, Damelang T, Haycroft ER, Nguyen TH, Koay HF, Nicholson S, McQuilten HA, Jia X, Allen LF, Hensen L, Zhang W, van de Sandt CE, Neil JA, Pragastis K, Lau JS, Jumarang J, Allen EK, Amanant F, Krammer F, Wragg KM, Juno JA, Wheatley AK, Tan HX, Pell G, Walker S, Audsley J, Reynaldi A, Thevarajan I, Denholm JT, Subbarao K, Davenport MP, Hogarth PM, Godfrey DI, Cheng AC, Tong SY, Bond K, Williamson DA, McMahon JH, Thomas PG, Pannaraj PS, James F, Holmes NE, Smibert OC, Trubiano JA, Gordon CL, Chung AW, Whitehead CL, Kent SJ, Lappas M, Rowntree LC, Kedzierska K. Immune profiling of SARS-CoV-2 infection during pregnancy reveals NK cell and γδ T cell perturbations. JCI Insight 2023; 8:e167157. [PMID: 37036008 PMCID: PMC10132165 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.167157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 04/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Pregnancy poses a greater risk for severe COVID-19; however, underlying immunological changes associated with SARS-CoV-2 during pregnancy are poorly understood. We defined immune responses to SARS-CoV-2 in unvaccinated pregnant and nonpregnant women with acute and convalescent COVID-19, quantifying 217 immunological parameters. Humoral responses to SARS-CoV-2 were similar in pregnant and nonpregnant women, although our systems serology approach revealed distinct antibody and FcγR profiles between pregnant and nonpregnant women. Cellular analyses demonstrated marked differences in NK cell and unconventional T cell activation dynamics in pregnant women. Healthy pregnant women displayed preactivated NK cells and γδ T cells when compared with healthy nonpregnant women, which remained unchanged during acute and convalescent COVID-19. Conversely, nonpregnant women had prototypical activation of NK and γδ T cells. Activation of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells and T follicular helper cells was similar in SARS-CoV-2-infected pregnant and nonpregnant women, while antibody-secreting B cells were increased in pregnant women during acute COVID-19. Elevated levels of IL-8, IL-10, and IL-18 were found in pregnant women in their healthy state, and these cytokine levels remained elevated during acute and convalescent COVID-19. Collectively, we demonstrate perturbations in NK cell and γδ T cell activation in unvaccinated pregnant women with COVID-19, which may impact disease progression and severity during pregnancy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer R. Habel
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Melbourne, Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Brendon Y. Chua
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Melbourne, Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Global Institution for Collaborative Research and Education (GI-CoRE), Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Lukasz Kedzierski
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Melbourne, Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Kevin J. Selva
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Melbourne, Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Timon Damelang
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Melbourne, Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Ebene R. Haycroft
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Melbourne, Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Thi H.O. Nguyen
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Melbourne, Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Hui-Fern Koay
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Melbourne, Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Suellen Nicholson
- Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Hayley A. McQuilten
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Melbourne, Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Xiaoxiao Jia
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Melbourne, Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Lilith F. Allen
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Melbourne, Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Luca Hensen
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Melbourne, Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Wuji Zhang
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Melbourne, Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Carolien E. van de Sandt
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Melbourne, Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jessica A. Neil
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Melbourne, Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Katherine Pragastis
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Alfred Health, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jillian S.Y. Lau
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Alfred Health, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Eastern Health, Box Hill, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jaycee Jumarang
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - E. Kaitlynn Allen
- Department of Immunology, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Fatima Amanant
- Department of Microbiology, and
- Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | | | - Kathleen M. Wragg
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Melbourne, Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jennifer A. Juno
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Melbourne, Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Adam K. Wheatley
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Melbourne, Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- ARC Centre of Excellence in Convergent Bio-Nano Science and Technology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Hyon-Xhi Tan
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Melbourne, Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Gabrielle Pell
- Mercy Perinatal Research Centre, Mercy Hospital for Women, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
| | - Susan Walker
- Mercy Perinatal Research Centre, Mercy Hospital for Women, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jennifer Audsley
- Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Melbourne, Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Arnold Reynaldi
- Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Irani Thevarajan
- Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Melbourne, Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Victorian Infectious Diseases Service, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Justin T. Denholm
- Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Melbourne, Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Victorian Infectious Diseases Service, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Kanta Subbarao
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Melbourne, Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Reference and Research on Influenza, Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Miles P. Davenport
- Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - P. Mark Hogarth
- Immune Therapies Laboratory, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Immunology and Pathology, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Clinical Pathology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Dale I. Godfrey
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Melbourne, Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Allen C. Cheng
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Infection Prevention and Healthcare Epidemiology Unit, Alfred Health, and Monash Infectious Diseases, Monash Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Steven Y.C. Tong
- Victorian Infectious Diseases Service, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The University of Melbourne at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Katherine Bond
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Melbourne, Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Microbiology, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Deborah A. Williamson
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Melbourne, Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Microbiology, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - James H. McMahon
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Alfred Health, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Paul G. Thomas
- Department of Immunology, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Pia S. Pannaraj
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Departments of Pediatrics, Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Keck School of Medicine, UCLA, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Fiona James
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Austin Health, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
| | - Natasha E. Holmes
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Austin Health, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Critical Care, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Data Analytics Research and Evaluation Centre, Austin Health, University of Melbourne, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
- Centre for Antibiotic Allergy and Research, Department of Infectious Diseases, Austin Health, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
| | - Olivia C. Smibert
- Departments of Pediatrics, Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Keck School of Medicine, UCLA, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Austin Health, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
- Centre for Antibiotic Allergy and Research, Department of Infectious Diseases, Austin Health, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Infectious Diseases, and
- National Centre for Infections in Cancer, Peter McCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jason A. Trubiano
- Centre for Antibiotic Allergy and Research, Department of Infectious Diseases, Austin Health, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Infectious Diseases, and
- National Centre for Infections in Cancer, Peter McCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Medicine (Austin Health), University of Melbourne, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
| | - Claire L. Gordon
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Melbourne, Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Austin Health, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
| | - Amy W. Chung
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Melbourne, Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Clare L. Whitehead
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Pregnancy Research Centre, Royal Women’s Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Stephen J. Kent
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Melbourne, Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- ARC Centre of Excellence in Convergent Bio-Nano Science and Technology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Infectious Diseases Department, Alfred Health, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Martha Lappas
- Obstetrics, Nutrition and Endocrinology Group, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Louise C. Rowntree
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Melbourne, Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Katherine Kedzierska
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Melbourne, Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Global Institution for Collaborative Research and Education (GI-CoRE), Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Jiang L, Cao D, Yeung WSB, Lee KF. Single-Cell RNA-Sequencing Reveals Interactions between Endometrial Stromal Cells, Epithelial Cells, and Lymphocytes during Mouse Embryo Implantation. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 24:ijms24010213. [PMID: 36613656 PMCID: PMC9820401 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24010213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2022] [Revised: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The decidualization of endometrial stromal cells (ESCs) is an essential process facilitating embryo implantation. However, the roles of non-decidualized and decidualized ESCs in regulating the microenvironment of a receptive endometrium remain unclear. We investigated single-cell transcriptomic changes in the uterus of a CD-1 mouse model at the post-implantation stage. The implantation and inter-implantation sites of the uteruses of pregnant mice at 4.5 and 5.5 days post-coitum were dissected for single-cell RNA sequencing. We identified eight cell types: epithelial cells, stromal cells, endothelial cells, mesothelial cells, lymphocytes, myocytes, myeloids, and pericytes. The ESC transcriptome suggests that the four ESC subtypes are involved in the extracellular remodeling during implantation. The trajectory plot of ESC subtypes indicates embryo implantation that involves a differentiation pathway from undifferentiated ESCs (ESC 1) to decidualized ESCs (DEC ESCs), with distinct signaling pathways between the ESC subtypes. Furthermore, the ligand-receptor analysis suggests that ESCs communicate with epithelial cells and immune cells through nectin and ICAM signaling. Collectively, both decidualized and non-decidualized ESCs may regulate the endometrial microenvironment for optimal endometrial receptivity and immune tolerance. This study provides insights on the molecular and cellular characteristics of mouse ESCs in modulating the epithelial and lymphocyte functions during early embryo implantation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luhan Jiang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Dandan Cao
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Futian District, Shenzhen 518053, China
| | - William S. B. Yeung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Futian District, Shenzhen 518053, China
| | - Kai-Fai Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Futian District, Shenzhen 518053, China
- Correspondence: ; Fax: +852-2816-1947
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Manchorova D, Papadopoulou M, Alexandrova M, Dimitrova V, Djerov L, Zapryanova S, Dimitrova P, Vangelov I, Vermijlen D, Dimova T. Human decidual gamma/delta T cells possess unique effector and TCR repertoire profiles during pregnancy. Cell Immunol 2022; 382:104634. [PMID: 36308817 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellimm.2022.104634] [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] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Revised: 08/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Human γδ T cells are enriched at the maternal-fetal interface (MFI, decidua basalis) showing a highly differentiated phenotype. However, their functional potential is not well-known and it is not clear whether this decidua-enrichment is associated with specific γδ T cell receptors (TCR) as is observed in mice. Here we addressed these open questions by investigating decidual γδ T cells during early and late gestation, in comparison with paired blood samples, with flow cytometry (cytotoxic mediators, cytokines) and TCR high-throughput sequencing. While decidual γδ T cells expressed less perforin than their counterparts in the blood, they expressed significant more granulysin during early pregnancy. Strikingly, this high granulysin expression was limited to early pregnancy, as it was reduced at term pregnancy. In contrast to this granulysin expression pattern, decidual γδ T cells produced reduced levels of IFNγ and TNFα (compared to paired blood) in early pregnancy that then increased by term pregnancy. TCR repertoire analysis indicated that human decidual γδ T cells are not generated early in life as in the mouse. Despite this, a specific enrichment of the Vγ2 chain in the decidua in early pregnancy was observed that disappeared later onwards, reflecting dynamic changes in the decidual γδ TCR repertoire during human gestation. In conclusion, our data indicate that decidual γδ T cells express a specific and dynamic pattern of cytotoxic mediators, Th1 cytokines and TCR repertoire suggesting an important role for these unconventional T cells in assuring a healthy pregnancy in human.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- D Manchorova
- Institute of Biology and Immunology of Reproduction "Acad. K. Bratanov", Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sofia 1113, 73 Tzarigradsko shosse blv, Bulgaria
| | - M Papadopoulou
- Department of Pharmacotherapy and Pharmaceutics, Universite Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), 1050 Brussels, Belgium
| | - M Alexandrova
- Institute of Biology and Immunology of Reproduction "Acad. K. Bratanov", Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sofia 1113, 73 Tzarigradsko shosse blv, Bulgaria
| | - V Dimitrova
- Medical University, University Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital "Maichin Dom", Sofia 1463, 2 Zdrave Str., Bulgaria
| | - L Djerov
- Medical University, University Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital "Maichin Dom", Sofia 1463, 2 Zdrave Str., Bulgaria
| | - S Zapryanova
- Institute of Biology and Immunology of Reproduction "Acad. K. Bratanov", Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sofia 1113, 73 Tzarigradsko shosse blv, Bulgaria
| | - P Dimitrova
- Institute of Microbiology "Acad. St. Angelov", Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sofia 1113, 25 Acad. G. Bonchev str., Bulgaria
| | - I Vangelov
- Institute of Biology and Immunology of Reproduction "Acad. K. Bratanov", Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sofia 1113, 73 Tzarigradsko shosse blv, Bulgaria
| | - D Vermijlen
- Department of Pharmacotherapy and Pharmaceutics, Universite Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), 1050 Brussels, Belgium; Institute for Medical Immunology, Universitȇ Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), 6041 Gosselies, Belgium; ULB Center for Research in Immunology (U-CRI), Universite Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Belgium; Walloon Excellence in Life Sciences and Biotechnology (WELBIO), Wavre, Belgium
| | - T Dimova
- Institute of Biology and Immunology of Reproduction "Acad. K. Bratanov", Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sofia 1113, 73 Tzarigradsko shosse blv, Bulgaria.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Neuwirth T, Knapp K, Stary G. (Not) Home alone: Antigen presenting cell - T Cell communication in barrier tissues. Front Immunol 2022; 13:984356. [PMID: 36248804 PMCID: PMC9556809 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.984356] [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: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Priming of T cells by antigen presenting cells (APCs) is essential for T cell fate decisions, enabling T cells to migrate to specific tissues to exert their effector functions. Previously, these interactions were mainly explored using blood-derived cells or animal models. With great advances in single cell RNA-sequencing techniques enabling analysis of tissue-derived cells, it has become clear that subsets of APCs are responsible for priming and modulating heterogeneous T cell effector responses in different tissues. This composition of APCs and T cells in tissues is essential for maintaining homeostasis and is known to be skewed in infection and inflammation, leading to pathological T cell responses. This review highlights the commonalities and differences of T cell priming and subsequent effector function in multiple barrier tissues such as the skin, intestine and female reproductive tract. Further, we provide an overview of how this process is altered during tissue-specific infections which are known to cause chronic inflammation and how this knowledge could be harnessed to modify T cell responses in barrier tissue.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Teresa Neuwirth
- Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria,CeMM Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences, Vienna, Austria
| | - Katja Knapp
- Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria,CeMM Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences, Vienna, Austria
| | - Georg Stary
- Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria,CeMM Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences, Vienna, Austria,Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Rare and Undiagnosed Diseases, Vienna, Austria,*Correspondence: Georg Stary,
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Cervantes O, Talavera IC, Every E, Coler B, Li M, Li A, Li H, Adams Waldorf K. Role of hormones in the pregnancy and sex-specific outcomes to infections with respiratory viruses. Immunol Rev 2022; 308:123-148. [PMID: 35373371 PMCID: PMC9189035 DOI: 10.1111/imr.13078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Accepted: 03/04/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Pregnant women infected with pathogenic respiratory viruses, such as influenza A viruses (IAV) and coronaviruses, are at higher risk for mortality, hospitalization, preterm birth, and stillbirth. Several factors are likely to contribute to the susceptibility of pregnant individuals to severe lung disease including changes in pulmonary physiology, immune defenses, and effector functions of some immune cells. Pregnancy is also a physiologic state characterized by higher levels of multiple hormones that may impact the effector functions of immune cells, such as progesterone, estrogen, human chorionic gonadotropin, prolactin, and relaxin. Each of these hormones acts to support a tolerogenic immune state of pregnancy, which helps prevent fetal rejection, but may also contribute to an impaired antiviral response. In this review, we address the unique role of adaptive and innate immune cells in the control of pathogenic respiratory viruses and how pregnancy and specific hormones can impact their effector actions. We highlight viruses with sex-specific differences in infection outcomes and why pregnancy hormones may contribute to fetal protection but aid the virus at the expense of the mother's health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Orlando Cervantes
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Irene Cruz Talavera
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Emma Every
- University of Washington School of Medicine, Spokane, Washington, United States of America
| | - Brahm Coler
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine, Washington State University, Spokane, Washington, United States of America
| | - Miranda Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- Department of Biological Sciences, Columbia University, New York City, New York, United States of America
| | - Amanda Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- Case Western Reserve, Cleveland, Ohio, United States of America
| | - Hanning Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Kristina Adams Waldorf
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Yang S, Feng T, Ma C, Wang T, Chen H, Li L, Liu Y, Zhou B, Zhou R, Li H. Early Pregnancy Human Decidua Gamma/Delta T Cells Exhibit Tissue Resident and Specific Functional Characteristics. Mol Hum Reprod 2022; 28:6618535. [PMID: 35758607 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaac023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2021] [Revised: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
A successful pregnancy is a complicated process that builds upon two aspects of the maternal immune system that need to be balanced. As one of the indispensable groups of immune cell at the maternal-fetal interface, the decidual gamma/delta (γδ) T cells have attracted research attention in normal pregnancy and miscarriage. However, the role of γδ T cells in fetal growth remains poorly understood. Here we found that the γδ T cell population resident in decidua during early pregnancy was enriched and secreted growth factors including growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF15) and bone morphogenetic protein 1 (BMP1). A diminution in such growth factors may impair fetal development and result in fetal growth restriction. We also observed that early decidual γδ T cells exhibited stronger cytokine-secretion characteristics, but that their cytotoxic actions against A549 cells were weaker, compared with γδ T cells in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). In addition, the functional abilities of early decidual γδ T cells in promoting trophoblast cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and tube formation were also significantly more robust than in γδ T cells of PBMCs. These findings highlight the importance of γδ T cells in fetal growth and maternal immunotolerance during pregnancy, and show that they differ from γδ T cells in PBMCs. We thus recommend additional investigation in this research area to further elucidate a role for γδ T cells in pregnancy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shuo Yang
- Center of Translational Medicine, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Ting Feng
- Center of Translational Medicine, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - ChengYong Ma
- West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Tiehao Wang
- West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Hongqin Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital,Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Liman Li
- Center of Translational Medicine, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yuan Liu
- Center of Translational Medicine, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Bin Zhou
- Center of Translational Medicine, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Rong Zhou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital,Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Hong Li
- Center of Translational Medicine, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Alexandrova M, Manchorova D, Dimova T. Immunity at maternal-fetal interface: KIR/HLA (Allo)recognition. Immunol Rev 2022; 308:55-76. [PMID: 35610960 DOI: 10.1111/imr.13087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2021] [Revised: 04/28/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Both KIR and HLA are the most variable gene families in the human genome. The recognition of the semi-allogeneic embryo-derived trophoblasts by maternal decidual NK (dNK) cells is essential for the establishment of the functional placenta. This recognition is based on the KIR-HLA interactions and trophoblast expresses a specific HLA profile that constitutes classical polymorphic HLA-C and non-classical oligomorphic HLA-E, HLA-F, and HLA-G molecules. This review highlights some features of the KIR/HLA-C (allo)recognition by decidual NK (dNK) cells as a main immune cell population specifically enriched at maternal-fetal interface during human early pregnancy. How KIR/HLA-C axis operates in pregnancy disorders and in the context of transplacental infections is discussed as well. We summarized old and new data on dNK-cell functional plasticity, their selective expression of KIR and fetal maternal/paternal HLA-C haplotypes present. Results showed that KIR-HLA-C combinations and the corresponding axis operate differently in each pregnancy, determined by the variability of both maternal KIR haplotypes and fetus' maternal/paternal HLA-C allotype combinations. Moreover, the maturation of NK cells strongly depends on if or not HLA allotypes for certain KIR are present. We suggest that the unique KIR/HLA combinations reached in each pregnancy (normal and pathological) should be studied according to well-defined guidelines and unified methodologies to have comparable results ease to interpret and use in clinics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marina Alexandrova
- Institute of Biology and Immunology of Reproduction, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Diana Manchorova
- Institute of Biology and Immunology of Reproduction, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Tanya Dimova
- Institute of Biology and Immunology of Reproduction, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sofia, Bulgaria
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Guo R, Jiang S, Zhang J, Yang Q, Gao L, Xia W, Tong L, Feng P, Xu Y, Zhang T, Cheng H, Liu C, Zhang X, Yin Z, Zhang H. PD-1 mediates decidual γδ T cells cytotoxicity during recurrent pregnancy loss. Am J Reprod Immunol 2022; 88:e13562. [PMID: 35567369 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Revised: 04/15/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM Recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) is one of the big challenges of normal pregnancy. Immune dysregulation has been proposed for the key underline mechanisms of RPL. However, the essential roles of T cells, especially γδ T cells, have not been defined. METHOD OF STUDY Decidua were obtained from normal pregnancy women or recurrent pregnancy loss patients and the surface molecules of γδ T cells in decidua were evaluated via flow cytometric analysis. The expression of PD-1 in clinical samples was analyzed by immunohistochemistry assay. The intracellular cytokines of decidual PD-1+ and PD-1- γδ T cells were evaluated by flow cytometric analysis. The cytotoxicity of PD-1- γδ T cells were confirmed via an in vitro co-culture experiment. The specific inhibitors for Erk, p38 and JNK against the MAPK pathway were added to the co-culture media to evaluate the functions of the Erk, p38 and JNK. RESULTS We demonstrated that PD-1 was significantly decreased on decidual tissue γδ T cells of patients with RPL, resulting in the enhanced cytotoxicity of γδ T cells against trophoblasts. We further elucidated an Erk-dependent TNF-α production mediates the γδ T cell cytotoxicity against the trophoblast cells. Finally, the reduced expression of PD-L1 in the villi tissues of patients with RPL might be the cause of the reduction of PD-1 on the tissue γδ T cells. CONCLUSION Our study uncovers an important role of PD-1 expression on decidual γδ T cells in maintaining the normal pregnancy, and may provide a new strategy for immune therapy against RPL.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rong Guo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, Jiangxi, China
| | - Silin Jiang
- National Center for International Research of Bio-targeting Theranostics, Guangxi Key Laboratory of Bio-targeting Theranostics, Collaborative Innovation Center for Targeting Tumor Diagnosis and Therapy, Guangxi Talent Highland of Bio-targeting Theranostics, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Jianliang Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Quanli Yang
- The Biomedical Translational Research Institute, Faculty of Medical Science, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.,Zhuhai Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhuhai People's Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University, Jinan University, Zhuhai, Guangdong, China
| | - Liang Gao
- The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, China
| | - Wei Xia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Lingxia Tong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Peiran Feng
- The Biomedical Translational Research Institute, Faculty of Medical Science, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yan Xu
- The Biomedical Translational Research Institute, Faculty of Medical Science, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Tao Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Weifang Traditional Chinese Hospital, Weifang, Shandong, China
| | - Hao Cheng
- Center for Cancer Immunology Research, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China.,Department of Rheumatism and Immunology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - CuiPing Liu
- Jiangsu Institute of Clinical Immunology & Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Clinical Immunology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Xueguang Zhang
- Jiangsu Institute of Clinical Immunology & Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Clinical Immunology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Zhinan Yin
- National Center for International Research of Bio-targeting Theranostics, Guangxi Key Laboratory of Bio-targeting Theranostics, Collaborative Innovation Center for Targeting Tumor Diagnosis and Therapy, Guangxi Talent Highland of Bio-targeting Theranostics, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China.,The Biomedical Translational Research Institute, Faculty of Medical Science, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.,Zhuhai Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhuhai People's Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University, Jinan University, Zhuhai, Guangdong, China
| | - Hong Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China.,Jiangsu Institute of Clinical Immunology & Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Clinical Immunology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Rutigliano HM, Leppo KA, Morgado KP. Changes in mononuclear immune cells during bovine pregnancy. Reprod Fertil Dev 2022; 34:608-618. [PMID: 35440362 DOI: 10.1071/rd21161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2021] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to determine the differences in gene expression between mononuclear cells derived from peripheral blood and endometrium during pregnancy in cattle and to determine the proportion of mononuclear cells in the endometrium of pregnant and diestrous cows. Endometrial tissue and peripheral blood were collected from Day 34±2 pregnant cows, and mononuclear cell populations were quantified and sorted (n =5). The relative mRNA levels of inflammatory mediators was assessed by quantitative real time polymerase chain reaction. During pregnancy, the proportion of CD8+ , CD4+ , CD4+ CD25- and CD4+ CD25dim cells among mononuclear cells was greater in blood than endometrium, and cells positive for CD14 and CD68 expressed greater mRNA amounts of interleukin (IL ) 6 , CXCL8 and IL10 in endometrium compared with blood. Cells positive for γ/δ-T cell receptor expressed greater amounts of IL1A transcript in the endometrium than in blood of diestrous cows, CD4+ CD25bright cells expressed more CTLA4 mRNA in the endometrium compared with blood of diestrous cows, and endometrial natural killer cells expressed greater CXCL8 mRNA compared with blood of pregnant and diestrous cows. The percentages of CD21+ , NCR1+ , CD8+ , FoxP3+ , CD3+ and CD68+ cells were greater in the endometrium of Day 35 pregnant cows compared with diestrous cows.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Heloisa M Rutigliano
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Utah State University, Logan, UT 84322, USA; and Department of Animal, Dairy and Veterinary Sciences, Utah State University, 4815 Old Main Hill, Logan, UT 84322, USA
| | - Kelsy A Leppo
- Department of Animal, Dairy and Veterinary Sciences, Utah State University, 4815 Old Main Hill, Logan, UT 84322, USA
| | - Kira P Morgado
- Department of Animal, Dairy and Veterinary Sciences, Utah State University, 4815 Old Main Hill, Logan, UT 84322, USA
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Gershater M, Romero R, Arenas-Hernandez M, Galaz J, Motomura K, Tao L, Xu Y, Miller D, Pique-Regi R, Martinez G, Liu Y, Jung E, Para R, Gomez-Lopez N. IL-22 Plays a Dual Role in the Amniotic Cavity: Tissue Injury and Host Defense against Microbes in Preterm Labor. JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY (BALTIMORE, MD. : 1950) 2022; 208:1595-1615. [PMID: 35304419 PMCID: PMC8976826 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.2100439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2021] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
IL-22 is a multifaceted cytokine with both pro- and anti-inflammatory functions that is implicated in multiple pathologies. However, the role of IL-22 in maternal-fetal immunity in late gestation is poorly understood. In this study, we first showed that IL-22+ T cells coexpressing retinoic acid-related orphan receptor γt (ROR-γt) are enriched at the human maternal-fetal interface of women with preterm labor and birth, which was confirmed by in silico analysis of single-cell RNA sequencing data. T cell activation leading to preterm birth in mice was preceded by a surge in IL-22 in the maternal circulation and amniotic cavity; however, systemic administration of IL-22 in mice did not induce adverse perinatal outcomes. Next, using an ex vivo human system, we showed that IL-22 can cross from the choriodecidua to the intra-amniotic space, where its receptors (Il22ra1, Il10rb, and Il22ra2) are highly expressed by murine gestational and fetal tissues in late pregnancy. Importantly, amniotic fluid concentrations of IL-22 were elevated in women with sterile or microbial intra-amniotic inflammation, suggesting a dual role for this cytokine. The intra-amniotic administration of IL-22 alone shortened gestation and caused neonatal death in mice, with the latter outcome involving lung maturation and inflammation. IL-22 plays a role in host response by participating in the intra-amniotic inflammatory milieu preceding Ureaplasma parvum-induced preterm birth in mice, which was rescued by the deficiency of IL-22. Collectively, these data show that IL-22 alone is capable of causing fetal injury leading to neonatal death and can participate in host defense against microbial invasion of the amniotic cavity leading to preterm labor and birth.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Meyer Gershater
- Perinatology Research Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI
| | - Roberto Romero
- Perinatology Research Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI
- Center for Molecular Obstetrics and Genetics, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI
- Detroit Medical Center, Detroit, MI; and
| | - Marcia Arenas-Hernandez
- Perinatology Research Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI
| | - Jose Galaz
- Perinatology Research Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI
| | - Kenichiro Motomura
- Perinatology Research Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI
| | - Li Tao
- Perinatology Research Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI
| | - Yi Xu
- Perinatology Research Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI
| | - Derek Miller
- Perinatology Research Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI
| | - Roger Pique-Regi
- Perinatology Research Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI
- Center for Molecular Obstetrics and Genetics, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI
| | - Gregorio Martinez
- Perinatology Research Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI
| | - Yesong Liu
- Perinatology Research Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI
| | - Eunjung Jung
- Perinatology Research Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI
| | - Robert Para
- Perinatology Research Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI
| | - Nardhy Gomez-Lopez
- Perinatology Research Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI;
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology, and Immunology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Wang L, Yao C, Chen J, Ge Y, Wang C, Wang Y, Wang F, Sun Y, Dai M, Lin Y, Yao S. γδ T Cell in Cerebral Ischemic Stroke: Characteristic, Immunity-Inflammatory Role, and Therapy. Front Neurol 2022; 13:842212. [PMID: 35432162 PMCID: PMC9008352 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2022.842212] [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: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Gamma-delta (γδ) T cells are a small subset of T cells that are reported to have a proinflammatory role in the pathophysiology of cerebral ischemia stroke (CIS). Upon activation by interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), IL-23 and IL-18, γδ T cells are stimulated to secrete various cytokines, such as IL-17a, IL-21, IL-22, and interferon-gamma (IFN-γ). In addition, they all play a pivotal role in the inflammatory and immune responses in ischemia. Nevertheless, the exact mechanisms responsible for γδ T cell proinflammatory functions remain poorly understood, and more effective therapies targeting at γδ T cells and cytokines they release remain to be explored, particularly in the context of CIS. CIS is the second most common cause of death and the major cause of permanent disability in adults worldwide. In this review, we focus on the neuroinflammatory and immune functions of γδ T cells and related cytokines, intending to understand their roles in CIS, which may be crucial for the development of novel effective clinical applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Li Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Chengye Yao
- Department of Neurology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jiayi Chen
- Department of Anesthesiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yangyang Ge
- Department of Anesthesiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Chenchen Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yu Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Fuquan Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yan Sun
- Department of Anesthesiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Maosha Dai
- Department of Anesthesiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yun Lin
- Department of Anesthesiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- *Correspondence: Yun Lin
| | - Shanglong Yao
- Department of Anesthesiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Shanglong Yao
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Tissue-resident immunity in the female and male reproductive tract. Semin Immunopathol 2022; 44:785-799. [PMID: 35488095 PMCID: PMC9053558 DOI: 10.1007/s00281-022-00934-8] [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: 02/08/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The conception of how the immune system is organized has been significantly challenged over the last years. It became evident that not all lymphocytes are mobile and recirculate through secondary lymphoid organs. Instead, subsets of immune cells continuously reside in tissues until being reactivated, e.g., by a recurring pathogen or other stimuli. Consequently, the concept of tissue-resident immunity has emerged, and substantial evidence is now available to support its pivotal function in maintaining tissue homeostasis, sensing challenges and providing antimicrobial protection. Surprisingly, insights on tissue-resident immunity in the barrier tissues of the female reproductive tract are sparse and only slowly emerging. The need for protection from vaginal and amniotic infections, the uniqueness of periodic tissue shedding and renewal of the endometrial barrier tissue, and the demand for a tailored decidual immune adaptation during pregnancy highlight that tissue-resident immunity may play a crucial role in distinct compartments of the female reproductive tract. This review accentuates the characteristics of tissue-resident immune cells in the vagina, endometrium, and the decidua during pregnancy and discusses their functional role in modulating the risk for infertility, pregnancy complications, infections, or cancer. We here also review data published to date on tissue-resident immunity in the male reproductive organs, which is still a largely uncharted territory.
Collapse
|
18
|
Zhuang B, Shang J, Yao Y. HLA-G: An Important Mediator of Maternal-Fetal Immune-Tolerance. Front Immunol 2021; 12:744324. [PMID: 34777357 PMCID: PMC8586502 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.744324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2021] [Accepted: 10/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Maternal-fetal immune-tolerance occurs throughout the whole gestational trimester, thus a mother can accept a genetically distinct fetus without immunological aggressive behavior. HLA-G, one of the non-classical HLA class I molecules, is restricted-expression at extravillous trophoblast. It can concordantly interact with various kinds of receptors mounted on maternally immune cells residing in the uterus (e.g. CD4+ T cells, CD8+ T cells, natural killer cells, macrophages, and dendritic cells) for maintaining immune homeostasis of the maternal-fetus interface. HLA-G is widely regarded as the pivotal protective factor for successful pregnancies. In the past 20 years, researches associated with HLA-G have been continually published. Indeed, HLA-G plays a mysterious role in the mechanism of maternal-fetal immune-tolerance. It can also be ectopically expressed on tumor cells, infected sites and other pathologic microenvironments to confer a significant local tolerance. Understanding the characteristics of HLA-G in immunologic tolerance is not only beneficial for pathological pregnancy, but also helpful to the therapy of other immune-related diseases, such as organ transplant rejection, tumor migration, and autoimmune disease. In this review, we describe the biological properties of HLA-G, then summarize our understanding of the mechanisms of fetomaternal immunologic tolerance and the difference from transplant tolerance. Furthermore, we will discuss how HLA-G contributes to the tolerogenic microenvironment during pregnancy. Finally, we hope to find some new aspects of HLA-G in fundamental research or clinical application for the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Baimei Zhuang
- Medical School of Chinese People's Liberation Army, Chinese People's Liberation Army General Hospital, Beijing, China.,Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jin Shang
- Medical School of Chinese People's Liberation Army, Chinese People's Liberation Army General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yuanqing Yao
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Medical Centre, Chinese People's Liberation Army General Hospital, Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Li WX, Xu XH, Jin LP. Regulation of the innate immune cells during pregnancy: An immune checkpoint perspective. J Cell Mol Med 2021; 25:10362-10375. [PMID: 34708495 PMCID: PMC8581333 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.17022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2021] [Revised: 09/03/2021] [Accepted: 10/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The foetus can be regarded as a half‐allograft implanted into the maternal body. In a successful pregnancy, the mother does not reject the foetus because of the immune tolerance mechanism at the maternal‐foetal interface. The innate immune cells are a large part of the decidual leukocytes contributing significantly to a successful pregnancy. Although the contributions have been recognized, their role in human pregnancy has not been completely elucidated. Additionally, the accumulated evidence demonstrates that the immune checkpoint molecules expressed on the immune cells are co‐inhibitory receptors regulating their activation and biological function. Therefore, it is critical to understand the immune microenvironment and explore the function of the innate immune cells during pregnancy. This review summarizes the classic immune checkpoints such as PD‐1, CTLA‐4 and some novel molecules recently identified, including TIM‐3, CD200, TIGIT and the Siglecs family on the decidual and peripheral innate immune cells during pregnancy. Furthermore, it emphasizes the role of the immune checkpoint molecules in pregnancy‐associated complications and reproductive immunotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Xuan Li
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Clinical and Translational Research Center, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiang-Hong Xu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Clinical and Translational Research Center, Department of Biobank, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Li-Ping Jin
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Clinical and Translational Research Center, Department of Biobank, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Yu L, Zhang Y, Xiong J, Liu J, Zha Y, Kang Q, Zhi P, Wang Q, Wang H, Zeng W, Huang Y. Activated γδ T Cells With Higher CD107a Expression and Inflammatory Potential During Early Pregnancy in Patients With Recurrent Spontaneous Abortion. Front Immunol 2021; 12:724662. [PMID: 34484234 PMCID: PMC8416064 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.724662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2021] [Accepted: 07/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Previous studies have reported the involvement of γδ T cells in recurrent spontaneous abortion (RSA); however, both pathogenic and protective effects were suggested. To interrogate the role of γδ T cells in RSA, peripheral blood from RSA patients and healthy women with or without pregnancy were analyzed for γδ T cells by flow cytometry (n = 9–11 for each group). Moreover, the decidua from pregnant RSA patients and healthy controls (RSA-P and HC-P group, respectively) was simultaneously stained for γδ T cells by immunohistochemistry (IHC) and bulk sequenced for gene expression. Our results demonstrated that the frequencies of peripheral γδ T cells and their subpopulations in RSA patients were comparable to that in healthy subjects, but the PD1 expression on Vδ2+ cells was increased in pregnant patients. Furthermore, peripheral Vδ2+ cells in RSA-P patients demonstrated significantly increased expression of CD107a, as compared to that in pregnant healthy controls. In addition, RSA-P patients had higher proportion of IL-17A-secreting but not IL-4-secreting Vδ2+ cells compared to the control groups. In decidua, an inflammatory microenvironment was also evident in RSA-P patients, in which CCL8 expression and the infiltration of certain immune cells were higher than that in the HC-P group, as revealed by transcriptional analysis. Finally, although the presence of γδ T cells in decidua could be detected during pregnancy in both RSA patients and healthy subjects by multicolor IHC analysis, the expression of CD107a on γδ T cells was markedly higher in the RSA-P group. Collectively, our results indicated that the increased activation, cytotoxicity, and inflammatory potential of peripheral and/or local γδ T cells might be responsible for the pathogenesis of RSA. These findings could provide a better understanding of the role of γδ T cells in RSA and shed light on novel treatment strategies by targeting γδ T cells for RSA patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Long Yu
- Department of Immunology, Medical College, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,Department of Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yang Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Hospital of Chaoyang City, Chaoyang, China
| | - Jinfeng Xiong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jianjun Liu
- Department of Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Ying Zha
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Qi Kang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Pan Zhi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Qiang Wang
- Department of Immunology, Medical College, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Hui Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Wanjiang Zeng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yafei Huang
- Department of Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Xu QH, Liu H, Wang LL, Zhu Q, Zhang YJ, Muyayalo KP, Liao AH. Roles of γδT cells in pregnancy and pregnancy-related complications. Am J Reprod Immunol 2021; 86:e13487. [PMID: 34331364 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2021] [Revised: 07/21/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
A successful pregnancy is a complex and unique process comprised of discrete events, including embryo implantation, placentation, and parturition. To maintain the balance between maternal-fetal immune tolerance and resistance to infections, the maternal immune system must have a high degree of stage-dependent plasticity throughout the period of pregnancy. Innate immunity is the frontline force for the establishment of early anti-infection and tolerance mechanisms in mammals. Belonging to the innate immune system, a subset of T cells called γδT cells (based on γδT cell receptors) are the main participants in immune surveillance and immune defense. Unlike traditional αβT cells, γδT cells are regarded as a bridge between innate immunity and acquired immunity. In this review, we summarize current knowledge on the functional plasticity of γδT cells during pregnancy. Furthermore, we discuss the roles of γδT cells in pathological pregnancies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qian-Han Xu
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Hong Liu
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Li-Ling Wang
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Qian Zhu
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yu-Jing Zhang
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Kahindo P Muyayalo
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Ai-Hua Liao
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Moström MJ, Scheef EA, Sprehe LM, Szeltner D, Tran D, Hennebold JD, Roberts VHJ, Maness NJ, Fahlberg M, Kaur A. Immune Profile of the Normal Maternal-Fetal Interface in Rhesus Macaques and Its Alteration Following Zika Virus Infection. Front Immunol 2021; 12:719810. [PMID: 34394129 PMCID: PMC8358803 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.719810] [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: 06/03/2021] [Accepted: 07/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The maternal decidua is an immunologically complex environment that balances maintenance of immune tolerance to fetal paternal antigens with protection of the fetus against vertical transmission of maternal pathogens. To better understand host immune determinants of congenital infection at the maternal-fetal tissue interface, we performed a comparative analysis of innate and adaptive immune cell subsets in the peripheral blood and decidua of healthy rhesus macaque pregnancies across all trimesters of gestation and determined changes after Zika virus (ZIKV) infection. Using one 28-color and one 18-color polychromatic flow cytometry panel we simultaneously analyzed the frequency, phenotype, activation status and trafficking properties of αβ T, γδ T, iNKT, regulatory T (Treg), NK cells, B lymphocytes, monocytes, macrophages, and dendritic cells (DC). Decidual leukocytes showed a striking enrichment of activated effector memory and tissue-resident memory CD4+ and CD8+ T lymphocytes, CD4+ Tregs, CD56+ NK cells, CD14+CD16+ monocytes, CD206+ tissue-resident macrophages, and a paucity of B lymphocytes when compared to peripheral blood. t-distributed stochastic neighbor embedding (tSNE) revealed unique populations of decidual NK, T, DC and monocyte/macrophage subsets. Principal component analysis showed distinct spatial localization of decidual and circulating leukocytes contributed by NK and CD8+ T lymphocytes, and separation of decidua based on gestational age contributed by memory CD4+ and CD8+ T lymphocytes. Decidua from 10 ZIKV-infected dams obtained 16-56 days post infection at third (n=9) or second (n=1) trimester showed a significant reduction in frequency of activated, CXCR3+, and/or Granzyme B+ memory CD4+ and CD8+ T lymphocytes and γδ T compared to normal decidua. These data suggest that ZIKV induces local immunosuppression with reduced immune recruitment and impaired cytotoxicity. Our study adds to the immune characterization of the maternal-fetal interface in a translational nonhuman primate model of congenital infection and provides novel insight in to putative mechanisms of vertical transmission.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Matilda J Moström
- Division of Immunology, Tulane National Primate Research Center, Covington, LA, United States.,Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Tulane School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA, United States
| | - Elizabeth A Scheef
- Division of Immunology, Tulane National Primate Research Center, Covington, LA, United States
| | - Lesli M Sprehe
- Division of Immunology, Tulane National Primate Research Center, Covington, LA, United States
| | - Dawn Szeltner
- Division of Immunology, Tulane National Primate Research Center, Covington, LA, United States
| | - Dollnovan Tran
- Division of Immunology, Tulane National Primate Research Center, Covington, LA, United States
| | - Jon D Hennebold
- Division of Reproductive and Developmental Sciences, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Beaverton, OR, United States
| | - Victoria H J Roberts
- Division of Reproductive and Developmental Sciences, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Beaverton, OR, United States
| | - Nicholas J Maness
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Tulane School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA, United States.,Division of Microbiology, Tulane National Primate Research Center, Covington, LA, United States
| | - Marissa Fahlberg
- Division of Immunology, Tulane National Primate Research Center, Covington, LA, United States
| | - Amitinder Kaur
- Division of Immunology, Tulane National Primate Research Center, Covington, LA, United States.,Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Tulane School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Bai K, Li X, Zhong J, Ng EHY, Yeung WSB, Lee CL, Chiu PCN. Placenta-Derived Exosomes as a Modulator in Maternal Immune Tolerance During Pregnancy. Front Immunol 2021; 12:671093. [PMID: 34046039 PMCID: PMC8144714 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.671093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Exosomes are a subset of extracellular vesicles with an average diameter of ~100nm. Exosomes are released by all cells through an endosome-dependent pathway and carry nucleic acids, proteins, lipids, cytokines and metabolites, mirroring the state of the originating cells. The function of exosomes has been implicated in various reproduction processes, such as embryo development, implantation, decidualization and placentation. Placenta-derived exosomes (pEXO) can be detected in the maternal blood as early as 6 weeks after conception and their levels increase with gestational age. Importantly, alternations in the molecular signatures of pEXO are observed in pregnancy-related complications. Thus, these differentially expressed molecules could be the potential biomarkers for diagnosis of the pregnancy-associated diseases. Recent studies have demonstrated that pEXO play a key role in the establishment of maternal immune tolerance, which is critical for a successful pregnancy. To gain a better understanding of the underlying mechanism, we highlighted the advanced studies of pEXO on immune cells in pregnancy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kunfeng Bai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing (LKS) Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong.,The University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xintong Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing (LKS) Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Jiangming Zhong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing (LKS) Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Ernest H Y Ng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing (LKS) Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong.,The University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - William S B Yeung
- The University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Cheuk-Lun Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing (LKS) Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong.,The University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Philip C N Chiu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing (LKS) Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong.,The University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Papadopoulou M, Sanchez Sanchez G, Vermijlen D. Innate and adaptive γδ T cells: How, when, and why. Immunol Rev 2020; 298:99-116. [PMID: 33146423 DOI: 10.1111/imr.12926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2020] [Accepted: 09/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
γδ T cells comprise the third cell lineage of lymphocytes that use, like αβ T cells and B cells, V(D)J gene rearrangement with the potential to generate a highly diverse T cell receptor (TCR) repertoire. There is no obvious conservation of γδ T cell subsets (based on TCR repertoire and/or function) between mice and human, leading to the notion that human and mouse γδ T cells are highly different. In this review, we focus on human γδ T cells, building on recent studies using high-throughput sequencing to analyze the TCR repertoire in various settings. We make then the comparison with mouse γδ T cell subsets highlighting the similarities and differences and describe the remarkable changes during lifespan of innate and adaptive γδ T cells. Finally, we propose mechanisms contributing to the generation of innate versus adaptive γδ T cells. We conclude that key elements related to the generation of the γδ TCR repertoire and γδ T cell activation/development are conserved between human and mice, highlighting the similarities between these two species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maria Papadopoulou
- Department of Pharmacotherapy and Pharmaceutics, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Brussels, Belgium.,Institute for Medical Immunology (IMI), Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Gosselies, Belgium.,ULB Center for Research in Immunology (U-CRI), Belgium
| | - Guillem Sanchez Sanchez
- Department of Pharmacotherapy and Pharmaceutics, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Brussels, Belgium.,Institute for Medical Immunology (IMI), Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Gosselies, Belgium.,ULB Center for Research in Immunology (U-CRI), Belgium
| | - David Vermijlen
- Department of Pharmacotherapy and Pharmaceutics, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Brussels, Belgium.,Institute for Medical Immunology (IMI), Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Gosselies, Belgium.,ULB Center for Research in Immunology (U-CRI), Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Akoto C, Chan CYS, Ravi K, Zhang W, Vatish M, Norris SA, Hemelaar J. γδ T cell frequencies are altered in HIV positive pregnant South African women and are associated with preterm birth. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0235162. [PMID: 32584913 PMCID: PMC7316337 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0235162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2019] [Accepted: 06/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Preterm birth is the leading cause of neonatal and child mortality worldwide. Maternal HIV infection and antiretroviral treatment (ART) increase the rate of preterm birth, but the underlying mechanisms remain unknown, limiting progress in prediction, prevention and treatment. While overall γδ T cell levels remain constant, acute HIV infection is associated with a depletion of the Vδ2 subset and an increase in the Vδ1 subset, which do not return to baseline with ART. γδ T cells have also been implicated in adverse pregnancy outcomes and we therefore investigated the potential association between maternal HIV infection, peripheral γδ T cell frequencies and preterm birth. Methods Study participants were HIV positive (n = 47) and HIV negative (n = 45) women enrolled in a prospective pregnancy cohort study at Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital in Soweto, South Africa. Women were enrolled in early pregnancy and gestational age was accurately determined by first trimester ultrasound scan. Peripheral blood samples were collected in each trimester and peripheral blood mononuclear cells isolated. Frequencies of γδ T cells, Vδ1+ and Vδ2+ γδ T cell subsets, and CCR6 chemokine receptor expression were determined by flow cytometry. Results Total γδ T cell levels were similar between HIV positive and HIV negative women throughout pregnancy. However, in each trimester maternal HIV infection was associated with reduced levels of the Vδ2+ subset and increased levels of the Vδ1+ subset, leading to a reversal of the Vδ1/Vδ2 ratio. Timing of ART initiation among HIV positive women did not affect levels of γδ T cells, the Vδ1+ and Vδ2+ subsets, or the Vδ1/Vδ2 ratio. Importantly, preterm birth was associated with lower total γδ T cell levels in early pregnancy and γδ T cell frequencies were lowest in HIV positive women who delivered preterm. Moreover, in the first trimester the proportion of Vδ1+ T cells that were CCR6+ was significantly reduced in HIV+ women and women who delivered preterm, resulting in the lowest proportion of CCR6+ Vδ1 T cells in HIV positive women who delivered preterm. Conclusions Our findings suggest that altered γδ T cell frequencies may link maternal HIV infection and preterm birth. γδ T cell frequencies in early pregnancy may serve as predictive biomarkers to identify women at risk of delivering preterm.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Charlene Akoto
- Nuffield Department of Women’s & Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, The Women’s Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Christina Y. S. Chan
- Nuffield Department of Women’s & Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, The Women’s Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Krithi Ravi
- Nuffield Department of Women’s & Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, The Women’s Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Wei Zhang
- Nuffield Department of Women’s & Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, The Women’s Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Manu Vatish
- Nuffield Department of Women’s & Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, The Women’s Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Shane A. Norris
- Nuffield Department of Women’s & Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, The Women’s Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Department of Paediatrics, South African Medical Research Council Developmental Pathways for Health Research Unit, School of Clinical Medicine, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Joris Hemelaar
- Nuffield Department of Women’s & Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, The Women’s Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Department of Paediatrics, South African Medical Research Council Developmental Pathways for Health Research Unit, School of Clinical Medicine, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Krop J, Heidt S, Claas FHJ, Eikmans M. Regulatory T Cells in Pregnancy: It Is Not All About FoxP3. Front Immunol 2020; 11:1182. [PMID: 32655556 PMCID: PMC7324675 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.01182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2020] [Accepted: 05/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
In pregnancy, the semi-allogeneic fetus needs to be tolerated by the mother's immune system. Regulatory T cells (Tregs) play a prominent role in this process. Novel technologies allow for in-depth phenotyping of previously unidentified immune cell subsets, which has resulted in the appreciation of a vast heterogeneity of Treg subsets. Similar to other immunological events, there appears to be great diversity within the Treg population during pregnancy, both at the maternal-fetal interface as in the peripheral blood. Different Treg subsets have distinct phenotypes and various ways of functioning. Furthermore, the frequency of individual Treg subsets varies throughout gestation and is altered in aberrant pregnancies. This suggests that distinct Treg subsets play a role at different time points of gestation and that their role in maintaining healthy pregnancy is crucial, as reflected for instance by their reduced frequency in women with recurrent pregnancy loss. Since pregnancy is essential for the existence of mankind, multiple immune regulatory mechanisms and cell types are likely at play to assure successful pregnancy. Therefore, it is important to understand the complete microenvironment of the decidua, preferably in the context of the whole immune cell repertoire of the pregnant woman. So far, most studies have focused on a single mechanism or cell type, which often is the FoxP3 positive regulatory T cell when studying immune regulation. In this review, we instead focus on the contribution of FoxP3 negative Treg subsets to the decidual microenvironment and their possible role in pregnancy complications. Their phenotype, function, and effect in pregnancy are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Juliette Krop
- Department of Immunohematology and Blood Transfusion, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Sebastiaan Heidt
- Department of Immunohematology and Blood Transfusion, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Frans H J Claas
- Department of Immunohematology and Blood Transfusion, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Michael Eikmans
- Department of Immunohematology and Blood Transfusion, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Maternal and fetal T cells in term pregnancy and preterm labor. Cell Mol Immunol 2020; 17:693-704. [PMID: 32467619 DOI: 10.1038/s41423-020-0471-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2020] [Revised: 05/11/2020] [Accepted: 05/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Pregnancy is a state of immunological balance during which the mother and the developing fetus must tolerate each other while maintaining sufficient immunocompetence to ward off potential threats. The site of closest contact between the mother and fetus is the decidua, which represents the maternal-fetal interface. Many of the immune cell subsets present at the maternal-fetal interface have been well described; however, the importance of the maternal T cells in this compartment during late gestation and its complications, such as preterm labor and birth, has only recently been established. Moreover, pioneer and recent studies have indicated that fetal T cells are activated in different subsets of preterm labor and may elicit distinct inflammatory responses in the amniotic cavity, leading to preterm birth. In this review, we describe the established and proposed roles for maternal T cells at the maternal-fetal interface in normal term parturition, as well as the demonstrated contributions of such cells to the pathological process of preterm labor and birth. We also summarize the current knowledge of and proposed roles for fetal T cells in the pathophysiology of the preterm labor syndrome. It is our hope that this review provides a solid conceptual framework highlighting the importance of maternal and fetal T cells in late gestation and catalyzes new research questions that can further scientific understanding of these cells and their role in preterm labor and birth, the leading cause of neonatal mortality and morbidity worldwide.
Collapse
|
28
|
Immunological adaptations in pregnancy that modulate rheumatoid arthritis disease activity. Nat Rev Rheumatol 2020; 16:113-122. [PMID: 31932747 DOI: 10.1038/s41584-019-0351-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/28/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
During pregnancy, the fetus that grows within the maternal uterus is not rejected by the maternal immune system. To enable both tolerance towards the fetus and defence against pathogens, modifications of the maternal immune system occur during gestation. These modifications are able to bring about a natural improvement in disease activity of some autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Various mechanisms of the immune system contribute to the phenomenon of pregnancy-related improvement of RA, and the cessation of these immunomodulatory mechanisms after delivery correlates with postpartum disease flare. HLA disparity between mother and fetus, glycosylation of IgG, immunoregulatory pathways, and alterations in innate and adaptive immune cells and their cytokines have important roles in pregnancy and in pregnancy-related amelioration of RA.
Collapse
|
29
|
De Luccia TPB, Pendeloski KPT, Ono E, Mattar R, Pares DBS, Yazaki Sun S, Daher S. Unveiling the pathophysiology of gestational diabetes: Studies on local and peripheral immune cells. Scand J Immunol 2020; 91:e12860. [PMID: 31849072 DOI: 10.1111/sji.12860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2019] [Revised: 10/10/2019] [Accepted: 12/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) has been associated with impaired maternal immune response. Our aim was to review the available literature linking immune cells profile to GDM, in order to comprehend the role that different subpopulations play in the development of this pathology. We searched in PubMed for studies published in the last decade on circulating levels and placenta expression of immune cells on GDM. We identified 18 studies with several differences regarding the study design, clinical characteristics, number of participants, cell subpopulation and type of sample. Most studies assessed only one subpopulation either in peripheral blood or placenta and did not analyse functional properties of the cells. The most frequently evaluated immune cells were T lymphocytes, especially regulatory T (Tregs), and natural killer (NK) cells in the peripheral blood, and placental macrophages. No studies analysing B cells were identified, and only one study each evaluating γδT cells, dendritic cell (DC) and monocytes was found. Although there are controversies, at least one study reported positive association between GDM and CD4+ (activated), Tregs, Th17 and γδT cells; neutrophil/lymphocyte; NK cell (cytotoxic); macrophages; and monocytes. The number of studies is still small, so caution should be exercised in interpreting the data, and further research is required to validate these findings and establish the role of adaptive and innate immune cells in GDM pathophysiology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thiago P B De Luccia
- Department of Obstetrics, Paulista School of Medicine, Federal University of São Paulo (EPM-UNIFESP), São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Karen P T Pendeloski
- Department of Obstetrics, Paulista School of Medicine, Federal University of São Paulo (EPM-UNIFESP), São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Erika Ono
- Department of Obstetrics, Paulista School of Medicine, Federal University of São Paulo (EPM-UNIFESP), São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Rosiane Mattar
- Department of Obstetrics, Paulista School of Medicine, Federal University of São Paulo (EPM-UNIFESP), São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - David B S Pares
- Department of Obstetrics, Paulista School of Medicine, Federal University of São Paulo (EPM-UNIFESP), São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Sue Yazaki Sun
- Department of Obstetrics, Paulista School of Medicine, Federal University of São Paulo (EPM-UNIFESP), São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Silvia Daher
- Department of Obstetrics, Paulista School of Medicine, Federal University of São Paulo (EPM-UNIFESP), São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Monin L, Whettlock EM, Male V. Immune responses in the human female reproductive tract. Immunology 2019; 160:106-115. [PMID: 31630394 DOI: 10.1111/imm.13136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2019] [Revised: 10/15/2019] [Accepted: 10/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Mucosal surfaces are key interfaces between the host and its environment, but also constitute ports of entry for numerous pathogens. The gut and lung mucosae act as points of nutrient and gas exchange, respectively, but the physiological purpose of the female reproductive tract (FRT) is to allow implantation and development of the fetus. Our understanding of immune responses in the FRT has traditionally lagged behind our grasp of the situation at other mucosal sites, but recently reproductive immunologists have begun to make rapid progress in this challenging area. Here, we review current knowledge of immune responses in the human FRT and their heterogeneity within and between compartments. In the commensal-rich vagina, the immune system must allow the growth of beneficial microbes, whereas the key challenge in the uterus is allowing the growth of the semi-allogeneic fetus. In both compartments, these objectives must be balanced with the need to eliminate pathogens. Our developing understanding of immune responses in the FRT will help us develop interventions to prevent the spread of sexually transmitted diseases and to improve outcomes of pregnancy for mothers and babies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Leticia Monin
- Immunosurveillance Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London, UK
| | - Emily M Whettlock
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Victoria Male
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|