CD74 is a survival receptor on colon epithelial cells

Oncogenic and microenvironmental signals drive cell type specific apoptosis resistance in juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia

Juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia (JMML) is caused by constitutively activated RAS signaling and characterized by increased proliferation and predominant myelomonocytic differentiation of hematopoietic cells. Using MxCre;Ptpn11D61Y/+ mice, which model human JMML, we show that RAS pathway activation affects apoptosis signaling through cell type-dependent regulation of BCL-2 family members. Apoptosis resistance observed in monocytes and granulocytes was mediated by overexpression of the anti-apoptotic and down-regulation of the pro-apoptotic members of the BCL-2 family. Two anti-apoptotic proteins, BCL-XL and MCL-1, were directly regulated by the oncogenic RAS signaling but, in addition, were influenced by microenvironmental signals. While BCL-XL and BCL-2 were required for the survival of monocytes, MCL-1 was essential for neutrophils. Interestingly, stem and progenitor cells expressing the oncogenic PTPN11 mutant showed no increased apoptosis resistance. BCL-XL inhibition was the most effective in killing myeloid cells in vitro but was insufficient to completely resolve myeloproliferation in vivo.

Machine learning-based model for CD4+ conventional T cell genes to predict survival and immune responses in colorectal cancer

Globally, CRC ranks as a principal cause of mortality, with projections indicating a substantial rise in both incidence and mortality by the year 2040. The immunological responses to cancer heavily rely on the function of CD4Tconv. Despite this critical role, prognostic studies on CRC-related CD4Tconv remain insufficient. In this investigation, transcriptomic and clinical data were sourced from TCGA and GEO. Initially, we pinpointed CD4TGs using single-cell datasets. Prognostic genes were then isolated through univariate Cox regression analysis. Building upon this, 101 machine learning algorithms were employed to devise a novel risk assessment framework, which underwent rigorous validation using Kaplan-Meier survival analysis, univariate and multivariate Cox regression, time-dependent ROC curves, nomograms, and calibration plots. Furthermore, GSEA facilitated the examination of these genes' potential roles. The RS derived from this model was also analyzed for its implications in the TME, and its potential utility in immunotherapy and chemotherapy contexts. A novel prognostic model was developed, utilizing eight CD4TGs that are significantly linked to the outcomes of patients with CRC. This model's RS showcased remarkable predictive reliability for the overall survival rates of CRC patients and strongly correlated with malignancy levels. RS serves as an autonomous prognostic indicator, capable of accurately forecasting patient prognoses. Based on the median value of RS, patients were categorized into subgroups of high and low risk. The subgroup with higher risk demonstrated increased immune infiltration and heightened activity of genes associated with immunity. This investigation's establishment of a CD4TGs risk model introduces novel biomarkers for the clinical evaluation of CRC risks. These biomarkers may enhance therapeutic approaches and, in turn, elevate the clinical outcomes for patients with CRC by facilitating an integrated treatment strategy.

Potential protumor function of CD74 in clear cell renal cell carcinoma

CD74 is a transmembrane protein that functions as a specialized chaperone of HLA class II and CD74 in tumor cells was suggested to be involved in cell proliferation in several kinds of malignant tumors. CD74 is also known to be expressed in macrophages, therefore, we investigated the CD74 expression in clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC). Immunohistochemistry of CD74 indicated that CD74 was expressed not only in cancer cells but also macrophages. CD74 was detected in surface membrane and cytoplasm of cancer cells in 92 of 94 cases (98%) and of 87 of 94 cases (93%). CD74 was expressed both in cancer cells and TAMs in 86 of 94 cases (91%). In vitro studies using cancer cell lines and monocyte-derived macrophages stimulated by anti-CD74 antibodies showed that CD74 signal accelerated cancer cell proliferation and macrophage activation. However, macrophage activation via CD74 signal did not influence macrophage-mediated cancer cell growth. RNA-sequence of macrophages stimulated by anti-CD74 antibodies indicated that CD74 signal was associated to inflammatory responses in macrophages. In conclusion, we examined the expression and functional significance of CD74 in ccRCC using tissue specimens and cell culture studies. The function of CD74 was suggested to be different in cancer cells and in macrophages, and further studies are necessary to clarify the functional significance of CD74 in ccRCC.

Nebulized platelet-derived extracellular vesicles attenuate chronic cigarette smoke-induced murine emphysema

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a prevalent lung disease usually resulting from cigarette smoking (CS). Cigarette smoking induces oxidative stress, which causes inflammation and alveolar epithelial cell apoptosis and represents a compelling therapeutic target for COPD. Purified human platelet-derived exosome product (PEP) is endowed with antioxidant enzymes and immunomodulatory molecules that mediate tissue repair. In this study, a murine model of CS-induced emphysema was used to determine whether nebulized PEP can influence the development of CS-induced emphysema through the mitigation of oxidative stress and inflammation in the lung. Nebulization of PEP effectively delivered the PEP vesicles into the alveolar region, with evidence of their uptake by type I and type II alveolar epithelial cells and macrophages. Lung function testing and morphometric assessment showed a significant attenuation of CS-induced emphysema in mice treated with nebulized PEP thrice weekly for 4 weeks. Whole lung immuno-oncology RNA sequencing analysis revealed that PEP suppressed several CS-induced cell injuries and inflammatory pathways. Validation of inflammatory cytokines and apoptotic protein expression on the lung tissue revealed that mice treated with PEP had significantly lower levels of S100A8/A9 expressing macrophages, higher levels of CD4+/FOXP3+ Treg cells, and reduced NF-κB activation, inflammatory cytokine production, and apoptotic proteins expression. Further validation using in vitro cell culture showed that pretreatment of alveolar epithelial cells with PEP significantly attenuated CS extract-induced apoptotic cell death. These data show that nebulization of exosomes like PEP can effectively deliver exosome cargo into the lung, mitigate CS-induced emphysema in mice, and suppress oxidative lung injury, inflammation, and apoptotic alveolar epithelial cell death.

Prosurvival Pathway Protects From Clostridioides difficile Toxin-Mediated Cell Death

There is an urgent need for new nonantibiotic-based treatment strategies for Clostridioides difficile infection. C. difficile toxin B (TcdB) is a virulent factor that is essential for causing disease. Here, we investigated whether a survival-signaling pathway could protect against TcdB. We found significant increase in caspase-3 apoptotic activity in intestinal epithelial cells of mice exposed to TcdB. Subsequently, activation of the MIF-CD74-Akt prosurvival signaling pathway blocked TcdB-induced caspase-3 activity and intestinal epithelial cell death. This brief report provides proof-of-concept that targeting prosurvival pathways may represent a unique antibiotic-independent strategy for protecting against C. difficile toxin-mediated cell death.

Exploring the tumor micro-environment in primary and metastatic tumors of different ovarian cancer histotypes

Ovarian cancer is a highly heterogeneous disease consisting of at least five different histological subtypes with varying clinical features, cells of origin, molecular composition, risk factors, and treatments. While most single-cell studies have focused on High grade serous ovarian cancer, a comprehensive landscape of the constituent cell types and their interactions within the tumor microenvironment are yet to be established in the different ovarian cancer histotypes. Further characterization of tumor progression, metastasis, and various histotypes are also needed to connect molecular signatures to pathological grading for personalized diagnosis and tailored treatment. In this study, we leveraged high-resolution single-cell RNA sequencing technology to elucidate the cellular compositions on 21 solid tumor samples collected from 12 patients with six ovarian cancer histotypes and both primary (ovaries) and metastatic (omentum, rectum) sites. The diverse collection allowed us to deconstruct the histotypes and tumor site-specific expression patterns of cells in the tumor, and identify key marker genes and ligand-receptor pairs that are active in the ovarian tumor microenvironment. Our findings can be used in improving precision disease stratification and optimizing treatment options.

Transplant of microbiota from Crohn's disease patients to germ-free mice results in colitis

Although the role of the intestinal microbiota in the pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is beyond debate, attempts to verify the causative role of IBD-associated dysbiosis have been limited to reports of promoting the disease in genetically susceptible mice or in chemically induced colitis. We aimed to further test the host response to fecal microbiome transplantation (FMT) from Crohn's disease patients on mucosal homeostasis in ex-germ-free (xGF) mice. We characterized and transferred fecal microbiota from healthy patients and patients with defined Crohn's ileocolitis (CD_L3) to germ-free mice and analyzed the resulting microbial and mucosal homeostasis by 16S profiling, shotgun metagenomics, histology, immunofluorescence (IF) and RNAseq analysis. We observed a markedly reduced engraftment of CD_L3 microbiome compared to healthy control microbiota. FMT from CD_L3 patients did not lead to ileitis but resulted in colitis with features consistent with CD: a discontinued pattern of colitis, more proximal colonic localization, enlarged isolated lymphoid follicles and/or tertiary lymphoid organ neogenesis, and a transcriptomic pattern consistent with epithelial reprograming and promotion of the Paneth cell-like signature in the proximal colon and immune dysregulation characteristic of CD. The observed inflammatory response was associated with persistently increased abundance of Ruminococcus gnavus, Erysipelatoclostridium ramosum, Faecalimonas umbilicate, Blautia hominis, Clostridium butyricum, and C. paraputrificum and unexpected growth of toxigenic C. difficile, which was below the detection level in the community used for inoculation. Our study provides the first evidence that the transfer of a dysbiotic community from CD patients can lead to spontaneous inflammatory changes in the colon of xGF mice and identifies a signature microbial community capable of promoting colonization of pathogenic and conditionally pathogenic bacteria.

Multi-omics profiling reveals cellular pathways and functions regulated by ALDH1B1 in colon cancer cells

Colon cancer is the third leading cause of cancer death globally. Although early screenings and advances in treatments have reduced mortality since 1970, identification of novel targets for therapeutic intervention is needed to address tumor heterogeneity and recurrence. Previous work identified aldehyde dehydrogenase 1B1 (ALDH1B1) as a critical factor in colon tumorigenesis. To investigate further, we utilized a human colon adenocarcinoma cell line (SW480) in which the ALDH1B1 protein expression has been knocked down by 80% via shRNA. Through multi-omics (transcriptomics, proteomics, and untargeted metabolomics) analysis, we identified the impact of ALDH1B1 knocking down (KD) on molecular signatures in colon cancer cells. Suppression of ALDH1B1 expression resulted in 357 differentially expressed genes (DEGs), 191 differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) and 891 differentially altered metabolites (DAMs). Functional annotation and enrichment analyses revealed that: (1) DEGs were enriched in integrin-linked kinase (ILK) signaling and growth and development pathways; (2) DEPs were mainly involved in apoptosis signaling and cellular stress response pathways; and (3) DAMs were associated with biosynthesis, intercellular and second messenger signaling. Collectively, the present study provides new molecular information associated with the cellular functions of ALDH1B1, which helps to direct future investigation of colon cancer.

CXCR4 and CD74 together enhance cell survival in response to macrophage migration-inhibitory factor in chronic lymphocytic leukemia

Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is characterized by the accumulation of small, mature CD5⁺ B lymphocytes in the blood, marrow, and lymphoid organs. Cell survival depends on interaction with the leukemic microenvironment. However, the mechanisms controlling CLL cell survival are still incompletely understood. Macrophage migration-inhibitory factor (MIF), a pro-inflammatory and immunoregulatory chemokine-like cytokine, interacts with CXCR4, a major chemokine receptor, as well as with CD74/invariant chain, a single-pass type II receptor. In this study, we analyzed the roles of CXCR4, CD74, and MIF in CLL. Mononuclear cells from patients with hematological malignancies were analyzed for coexpression of CXCR4 and CD74 by flow cytometry. Strong co- and overexpression of CXCR4 and CD74 were observed on B cells of CLL patients (n = 10). Survival and chemotaxis assays indicated that CXCR4 and CD74 work together to enhance the survival and migration of malignant cells in CLL. Blockade of the receptors, either individually or in combination, promoted cell death and led to an abrogation of MIF-driven migration responses in murine and human CLL cells, suggesting that joint activation of both receptors is crucial for CLL cell survival and mobility. These findings indicate that the MIF/CXCR4/CD74 axis represents a novel therapeutic target in CLL.

Multi-Omics Uncover Neonatal Cecal Cell Development Potentials

Although, the cecum plays vital roles in absorption of water, electrolytes, and other small molecules, and harbors trillions of commensal bacteria to shape large intestine immune functions, it is unknown the cecum development potentials at single cell level during the very crucial neonatal developmental period. Using singe cell RNA-seq and proteomics, we have characterized six major types of cecal cells: undifferentiated cells; immune cells (Ims); cecumocytes (CCs); goblet, Paneth like cells (PLCs), and enteroendocrine cells (EECs) with specific markers. CCs mature with a gradual decrease in proportion of cells; however, Ims develop with a continuing increase in proportion of cells. Meanwhile, goblet and EEC cells reduced in proportion of cells from do to d14 or d21; PLCs increased in proportion of cells from d0 to d7 then decreased at d14 and d21. The cells exhibit specific development and maturation trends controlled by transcriptional factors, ligand-receptor pairs, and other factors. As piglets grow, cecal content and mucosal microbial diversity increases dramatically with population of beneficial microbiota, such as lactobacillus. Moreover, cecal mucosal-associated and cecal content microbiota are positively correlated and both show significant correlation with different types of cecal cells and plasma metabolites. This is the first presentation of neonatal cecal cell development and maturation naturally at single cell level with transcript, protein, microbiota and metabolism perspectives. Furthermore, this study provides an important tool for the determination of novel interventions in cecal drug delivery and metabolism studies.

HLA Class II Histocompatibility Antigen γ Chain (CD74) Expression Is Associated with Immune Cell Infiltration and Favorable Outcome in Breast Cancer

Simple Summary

CD74 is a transmembrane protein normally expressed in immune cells, and aberrantly expressed in cancer cells. Although CD74 overexpression is mostly associated with hematologic malignancies, some studies have also reported CD74 expression in breast cancer especially associated to the triple negative subtype and metastatic breast cancer. The triple-negative breast cancer is generally more aggressive and with a poorer prognosis than the other subtypes. Immunotherapy holds great promise in clinical management of breast cancer, and CD74 may play a regulatory role in immune system responses. Our results showed that CD74 is associated with expression of programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD-L1), which in turn is involved in preventing anticancer immune responses. Overall, our results indicate that CD74 may be a therapeutic target for the treatment of breast cancer patients, in particular in triple negative breast cancer and metastatic breast cancers, where CD74 is commonly overexpressed.

Abstract

The triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) subtype, defined as negative for ER, PgR, and HER2, is biologically more aggressive and with a poorer prognosis than the other subtypes, in part due to the lack of suitable targeted therapies. Consequently, identification of any potential novel therapeutic option, predictive and/or prognostic biomarker, or any other relevant information that may impact the clinical management of this group of patients is valuable. The HLA class II histocompatibility antigen γ chain, or cluster of differentiation 74 (CD74), has been associated with TNBCs, and poorer survival. However, discordant results have been reported for immunohistochemical studies of CD74 expression in breast cancer. Here we report validation studies for use of a novel CD74 antibody, UMAb231. We used this antibody to stain a TMA including 640 human breast cancer samples, and found no association with the TNBC subtype, but did find a positive correlation with outcome. We also found associations between CD74 expression and immune cell infiltration, and expression of programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1). Given that CD74 may play a role in innate immune system responses and the potential of immunotherapy as a viable treatment strategy for TNBCs, CD74 expression may have predictive value for immune checkpoint therapies.

Single-Cell Transcriptome Sequencing and Proteomics Reveal Neonatal Ileum Dynamic Developmental Potentials

The neonatal period is a crucial time during development of the mammalian small intestine. Moreover, neonatal development and maturation of the small intestine are exceptionally important for early growth, successful weaning, and postweaning growth and development, in order to achieve species-specific milestones. Although several publications recently characterized intestinal epithelial cell diversity at the single-cell level, it remains unclear how differentiation and molecular interactions take place between types and subtypes of epithelial cells during the neonatal period. A single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) survey of 40,186 ileal epithelial cells and proteomics analysis of ileal samples at 6 time points in the swine neonatal period were performed. The results revealed previously unknown developmental changes: specific increases in undifferentiated cells, unique enterocyte differentiation, and time-dependent reduction in secretory cells. Moreover, we observed specific transcriptional factors, ligand-receptor pairs, G protein-coupled receptors, transforming growth factor β, bone morphogenetic protein signaling pathways, and gut mucosal microbiota playing vital roles in ileal development during the neonatal window. This work offers new comprehensive information regarding ileal development throughout the neonatal period. Reference to this data set may assist in the creation of novel interventions for inflammation-, metabolism-, and proliferation-related gut pathologies. IMPORTANCE We found previously unknown neonatal ileum developmental potentials: specific increases in undifferentiated cells, unique enterocyte differentiation, and time dependent reduction in secretory cells. Specific transcriptional factors (TFs), ligand-receptor pairs, G protein-coupled receptors, transforming growth factor β, bone morphogenetic protein signaling pathways, and the gut mucosal microbiota are involved in this process. Our results may assist in the creation of novel interventions for inflammation-, metabolism-, and proliferation-related gut pathologies.

Therapeutic applications of the selective high affinity ligand drug SH7139 extend beyond non-Hodgkin's lymphoma to many other types of solid cancers

SH7139, the first of a series of selective high affinity ligand (SHAL) oncology drug candidates designed to target and bind to the HLA-DR proteins overexpressed by B-cell lymphomas, has demonstrated exceptional efficacy in the treatment of Burkitt lymphoma xenografts in mice and a safety profile that may prove to be unprecedented for an oncology drug. The aim of this study was to determine how frequently the HLA-DRs targeted by SH7139 are expressed by different subtypes of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma and by other solid cancers that have been reported to express HLA-DR. Binding studies conducted with SH7129, a biotinylated analog of SH7139, reveal that more than half of the biopsy sections obtained from patients with different types of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma express the HLA-DRs targeted by SH7139. Similar analyses of tumor biopsy tissue obtained from patients diagnosed with eighteen other solid cancers show the majority of these tumors also express the HLA-DRs targeted by SH7139. Cervical, ovarian, colorectal and prostate cancers expressed the most HLA-DR. Only a few esophageal and head and neck tumors bound the diagnostic. Within an individual’s tumor, cell to cell differences in HLA-DR target expression varied by only 2 to 3-fold while the expression levels in tumors obtained from different patients varied as much as 10 to 100-fold. The high frequency with which SH7129 was observed to bind to these cancers suggests that many patients diagnosed with B-cell lymphomas, myelomas, and other non-hematological cancers should be considered potential candidates for new therapies such as SH7139 that target HLA-DR-expressing tumors.

Knockdown of CD-74 in the Proliferative and Apoptotic Activity of Breast Cancer Cells

BACKGROUND

The cluster of differentiation (CD) 74 is known for its immunological functions and its elevated level was reported in various cancer cells.

AIM

The aim of the present study was to investigate the expression and potential roles of CD74 in the proliferative and apoptotic activity of breast cancer.

METHODS

Expression of CD74, macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) and CD44 was assayed in CAMA-1 and MDA-MB-231 cell lines using flow cytometry. CD74 was knocked down using CD74 siRNA-transfection in CAMA-1, and MDA-MB-231 cells and proliferation and apoptosis were determined in the transfected breast cancer cells.

RESULTS

The data showed that CD74, MIF and CD44 were expressed in breast cancer cell lines and were associated with cell proliferation and apoptosis. Correlation analysis revealed that CD74 was positively correlated and colocalised with MIF on the cell-surface of CAMA-1 and MDA-MB-231. The knockdown of CD74 significantly reduced CAMA-1 and MDA-MB-231 cell proliferation and increased the level of apoptotic cells.

CONCLUSION

We concluded that the interactions of CD74 with MIF and CD74 with CD44 could be a potential tumour marker for breast cancer cells. Moreover, the level of co-expression of MIF and CD74 or CD44 could be a surrogate marker for the efficacy of anti-angiogenic drugs, particularly in breast cancer tumours. In short, the study revealed the potential roles of CD74 in the proliferation and apoptosis of breast cancer which may serve as a potential therapeutic target for breast cancer.

Interaction between parasite-encoded JAB1/CSN5 and macrophage migration inhibitory factor proteins attenuates its proinflammatory function

Multiple protozoans produce homologs of the cytokine MIF which play a role in immune evasion, invasion and pathogenesis. However, how parasite-encoded MIF activity is controlled remains poorly understood. Cytokine activity can be inhibited by intracellular binding partners that are released in the extracellular space during cell death. We investigated the presence of an endogenous parasite protein that was capable of interacting and interfering with MIF activity. A screen for protein-protein interaction was performed using immunoaffinity purification of amebic cell lysate with specific anti-Entamoeba histolytica MIF (EhMIF) antibody followed by mass spectrometry analysis, which revealed an E. histolytica-produced JAB1 protein (EhJAB1) as a potential binding partner. JAB1 was found to be highly conserved in protozoans. Direct interaction between the EhMIF and EhJAB1 was confirmed by several independent approaches with GST pull-down, co-immunoprecipitation, and Biolayer interferometry (BLI) assays. Furthermore, the C-terminal region outside the functional JAMM deneddylase motif was required for EhMIF binding, which was consistent with the top in silico predictions. In addition, EhJAB1 binding blocked EhMIF-induced IL-8 production by human epithelial cells. We report the initial characterization of a parasite-encoded JAB1 and uncover a new binding partner for a protozoan-produced MIF protein, acting as a possible negative regulator of EhMIF.

The Role of Macrophage Migration Inhibitory Factor in the Function of Intestinal Barrier

Macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) is a multifunctional protein that is involved in the development of gut-related inflammation. To investigate the role of MIF in the function of the intestinal barrier, we have explored intestinal permeability and gut-associated immune response in MIF-deficient (MIF-KO) mice. The absence of MIF provoked impairment of tight and adherens epithelial junctions in the colon through the disturbance of E-cadherin, zonula occludens-1, occludin and claudin-2 expression, which lead to the increase of intestinal barrier permeability. In these circumstances the diversity and content of gut microbiota in MIF-KO mice was considerably different compared to wild type mice. This change in microbiota was accompanied by an increased intestinal IgA concentration and a higher production of pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF and IFN-γ in mesenteric lymph nodes of MIF-KO mice. The forced changes of microbiota executed by antibiotics prevented the "leakage" of the barrier in MIF-KO mice, probably through up-regulation of occludin expression and normalization of cellular pore diameters. In addition, cytokine secretion was normalized after the treatment with antibiotics. These results suggest that MIF participates in the maintenance of physiological microbiota diversity and immunosurveillance, which in turn enables the proper intestinal barrier function.

Macrophage Migration Inhibitory Factor Receptor, CD74, is Overexpressed in Human and Baboon ( Papio Anubis) Endometriotic Lesions and Modulates Endometriotic Epithelial Cell Survival and Interleukin 8 Expression

CD74 is the primary receptor for macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF). Although expression of MIF has been described in endometriotic lesions, the cellular localization and function of the MIF receptor, CD74, are poorly understood. To further explore the role of CD74 in the pathophysiology of endometriosis, we utilized specimens from women with diagnostically confirmed endometriosis, women with no signs or symptoms of endometriosis (controls), and 8 baboons with experimentally induced endometriosis. Compared to eutopic endometrium from women with endometriosis, CD74 transcript expression was significantly increased in endometriotic lesion tissue. Similarly, cellular expression of CD74 was significantly greater in ectopic lesion tissue compared to paired eutopic endometrium, which both expressed greater CD74 expression compared to eutopic endometrium from control patients. Localization of CD74 was predominant to epithelial cells of ectopic and matched eutopic endometrium and was not influenced by the stage of the menstrual cycle. Eutopic endometrium from control patients did not express detectable levels of CD74 protein by immunohistochemistry. This pattern of expression and CD74 protein localization could be recapitulated in endometriotic lesion tissue from baboons with experimentally induced disease. Transfection of the endometriotic epithelial cell lines, 12Z with CD74 short hairpin RNA (shRNA), resulted in a significant decrease in CD74 protein expression, which was associated with a significant reduction in cellular proliferation as well as the expression of the prosurvival cytokine interleukin 8. Together, these data support the hypothesis that CD74 is elevated in endometriotic lesion tissue and may contribute to the pathogenesis of endometriosis by promoting cell survival.

Design, Synthesis, and Biological Activity of New N-(Phenylmethyl)-benzoxazol-2-thiones as Macrophage Migration Inhibitory Factor (MIF) Antagonists: Efficacies in Experimental Pulmonary Hypertension

Macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) is a key pleiotropic mediator and a promising therapeutic target in cancer as well as in several inflammatory and cardiovascular diseases including pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). Here, a novel series of N-(phenylmethyl)-benzoxazol-2-thiones 5-32 designed to target the MIF tautomerase active site was synthesized and evaluated for its effects on cell survival. Investigation of structure-activity relationship (SAR) particularly at the 5-position of the benzoxazole core led to the identification of 31 that potently inhibits cell survival in DU-145 prostate cancer cells and pulmonary endothelial cells derived from patients with idiopathic PAH (iPAH-ECs), two cell lines for which survival is MIF-dependent. Molecular docking studies helped to interpret initial SAR related to MIF tautomerase inhibition and propose preferred binding mode for 31 within the MIF tautomerase active site. Interestingly, daily treatment with 31 started 2 weeks after a subcutaneous monocrotaline injection regressed established pulmonary hypertension in rats.

CD74 regulates complexity of tumor cell HLA class II peptidome in brain metastasis and is a positive prognostic marker for patient survival

Despite multidisciplinary local and systemic therapeutic approaches, the prognosis for most patients with brain metastases is still dismal. The role of adaptive and innate anti-tumor response including the Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) machinery of antigen presentation is still unclear. We present data on the HLA class II-chaperone molecule CD74 in brain metastases and its impact on the HLA peptidome complexity.We analyzed CD74 and HLA class II expression on tumor cells in a subset of 236 human brain metastases, primary tumors and peripheral metastases of different entities in association with clinical data including overall survival. Additionally, we assessed whole DNA methylome profiles including CD74 promoter methylation and differential methylation in 21 brain metastases. We analyzed the effects of a siRNA mediated CD74 knockdown on HLA-expression and HLA peptidome composition in a brain metastatic melanoma cell line.We observed that CD74 expression on tumor cells is a strong positive prognostic marker in brain metastasis patients and positively associated with tumor-infiltrating T-lymphocytes (TILs). Whole DNA methylome analysis suggested that CD74 tumor cell expression might be regulated epigenetically via CD74 promoter methylation. CD74high and TILhigh tumors displayed a differential DNA methylation pattern with highest enrichment scores for antigen processing and presentation. Furthermore, CD74 knockdown in vitro lead to a reduction of HLA class II peptidome complexity, while HLA class I peptidome remained unaffected.In summary, our results demonstrate that a functional HLA class II processing machinery in brain metastatic tumor cells, reflected by a high expression of CD74 and a complex tumor cell HLA peptidome, seems to be crucial for better patient prognosis.

GSK-3β-mediated fatty acid synthesis enhances epithelial to mesenchymal transition of TLR4-activated colorectal cancer cells through regulation of TAp63

Glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK-3β) in cancer cells is a critical regulatory component of both cellular metabolism and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) processes via regulation of the β-catenin/E-cadherin and phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/AKT signaling pathway. Lipogenesis of cancer cells also plays a critical role in survival and metastasis. We investigated the role of GSK-3β-mediated intracellular fatty acid synthesis to control EMT in TLR4-activated colorectal cancer cells and the underlying regulatory mechanism. Engagement of TLR4 with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in colon cancer cells promoted the induction of phosphorylated GSK-3β and related lipogenic enzymes as well as the expression of CD74, CD44 and macrophage inhibitory factor (MIF), but decreased expression of transcriptionally active p63 (TAp63). In addition, targeted inhibition of GSK-3β using SB216763 was accompanied by decreased intracellular fatty acid synthesis and blockage of CD74 and CD44 expression, whereas it reversed the level of TAp63. Although TAp63 overexpression had no effect on the expression of CD74 and CD44 in LPS-treated colon cancer cells, GSK-3β-dependent fatty acid synthesis and invasive activity were significantly suppressed. Notably, inhibition of CD44 or CD74 by siRNA not only attenuated de novo lipogenesis and migratory activity but also restored the expression of TAp63 in LPS-activated colon cancer cells. These results suggest that TAp63-mediated GSK-3β activation induced by TLR4 stimulation triggers migration and invasion of colon cancer cells through the regulation of lipid synthesis and GSK-3β-mediated CD74/CD44 expression could be a target to control fatty acid-related EMT process through the modulation of TAp63 expression.

Expression of cluster of differentiation 74 in gallbladder carcinoma and the correlation with epithelial growth factor receptor levels

Cluster of differentiation 74 (CD74), a transmembrane glycoprotein, has been previously reported to be important in the pathogenesis of several cancers, including hematological malignancies and solid tumors. The present study analyzed the significance of CD74 in gallbladder carcinomas (GBCs) and indicated the correlation of CD74 expression with epithelial growth factor receptor levels. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) was used to examine the expression of CD74 in GBC and normal gallbladder tissues, and western blotting was used to investigate whether CD74 expression varied in well-, moderately- and poorly-differentiated tumors. The correlation between the expression of CD74 and epithelial growth factor receptor levels was studied using the Spearman's rank correlation coefficient. The results of the IHC analysis revealed that CD74 was not expressed in the normal gallbladder tissues, and the mean integrated optical density value of CD74 in the poorly-differentiated tissues was increased compared with that in the well- and moderately-differentiated tissues. The results of the western blotting were consistent with the results of the IHC. The expression of CD74 was positively correlated with epithelial growth factor receptor levels (r=0.607; P<0.05). These results indicate that CD74 may be important in the progression of GBC.

Prognostic value of several biomarkers for the patients with malignant pleural mesothelioma

Malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) is a highly aggressive tumor of the pleura closely related to asbestos exposure. Rare as it is, the incidence of MPM is predicted to increase mainly as a result of a lengthy latency period from the initial asbestos exposure, making it a public health concern for the next decades. Moreover, the patients with MPM have an extremely poor prognosis due to its high resistance to conventional oncologic treatments and delayed diagnosis. Although the result of current therapeutic modalities based on patient features and clinical stages is very frustrating, great advances have been shown in the knowledge of molecular biology of MPM in recent years. This is accompanied by dozens of putative prognostic biomarkers that are actively involved in tumor biological activities. These prognostic candidates can offer us a new insight into the biological characteristics of MPM, contributing to development of individualized therapeutic strategies directed against oncogenesis and tumor progression. Thus, personalized approaches based on the molecular biology of the patient's tissue or body fluid will potentially improve the present disappointing outcome, bringing new hope for patients with MPM. This article reviews the principal and several novel biomarkers that can have an influence on prognosis, in the hope that they can provide us with a more profound understanding of the biology of this lethal disease.

Macrophage migration inhibitory factor: a key cytokine and therapeutic target in colon cancer

Macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) was one of the first cytokines to be discovered, over 40 years ago. Since that time a burgeoning interest has developed in the role that MIF plays in both the regulation of normal physiology and the response to pathology. MIF is a pleotropic cytokine that functions to promote inflammation, drive cellular proliferation, inhibit apoptosis and regulate the migration and activation state of immune cells. These functions are particularly relevant for the development of cancer and it is notable that various solid tumours over express MIF. This includes tumours of the gastrointestinal tract and MIF appears to play a particularly prominent role in the development and progression of colonic adenocarcinoma. Here we review the role that MIF plays in colonic carcinogenesis through the promotion of colonic inflammation, as well as the progression of primary and metastatic colon cancer. The recent development of various antagonists and antibodies that inhibit MIF activity indicates that we may soon be able to classify MIF as a therapeutic target in colon cancer patients.

Intestinal dendritic cells change in number in fulminant hepatic failure

AIM: To investigate the change in intestinal dendritic cell (DC) number in fulminant hepatic failure (FHF).

METHODS: An animal model of FHF was created. Intestinal CD11b/c was detected by immunohistochemistry and Western blot. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used to detect intestinal integrin-α mRNA expression. Intestinal CD83, CD86, CD74, CD3 and AKT were detected by immunohistochemistry, Western blot and PCR. Phosphorylated-AKT (p-AKT) was detected by immunohistochemistry and Western blot.

RESULTS: In the FHF group [D-galactosamine (D-Galn) + lipopolysaccharide (LPS) group], the mice began to die after 6 h; conversely, in the D-Galn and LPS groups, the activity of mice was poor, but there were no deaths. Immunohistochemistry results showed that in FHF, the expression of CD11b/c (7988400 ± 385941 vs 1102400 ± 132273, P < 0.05), CD83 (13875000 ± 467493 vs 9257600 ± 400364, P < 0.05), CD86 (7988400 ± 385941 vs 1102400 ± 13227, P < 0.05) and CD74 (11056000 ± 431427 vs 4633400 ± 267903, P < 0.05) was significantly increased compared with the normal saline (NS) group. Compared with the NS group, the protein expression of CD11b/c (5.4817 ± 0.77 vs 1.4073 ± 0.37, P < 0.05) and CD86 (4.2673 ± 0.69 vs 1.1379 ± 0.42, P < 0.05) was significantly increased. Itg-α (1.1224 ± 0.3 vs 0.4907 ± 0.19, P < 0.05), CD83 (3.6986 ± 0.40 vs 1.0762 ± 0.22, P < 0.05) and CD86 (1.5801 ± 0.32 vs 0.8846 ± 0.10, P < 0.05) mRNA expression was increased significantly in the FHF group. At the protein level, expression of CD74 in the FHF group (2.3513 ± 0.52) was significantly increased compared with the NS group (1.1298 ± 0.33), whereas in the LPS group (2.3891 ± 0.47), the level of CD74 was the highest (P < 0.05). At the gene level, the relative expression of CD74 mRNA in the FHF group (1.5383 ± 0.26) was also significantly increased in comparison to the NS group (0.7648 ± 0.22; P < 0.05). CD3 expression was the highest in the FHF group (P < 0.05). In the FHF, LPS and D-Galn groups, the expression of AKT at the protein and mRNA levels was elevated compared with the NS group, but there was no statistical significance (P > 0.05). The p-AKT protein expression in the FHF (1.54 ± 0.06), LPS (1.56 ± 0.05) and D-Galn (1.29 ± 0.03) groups was higher than that in the NS group (1.07 ± 0.03) (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION: In FHF, a large number of DCs mature, express CD86, and activate MHC class II molecular pathways to induce a T cell response, and the AKT pathway is activated.

Midkine as a regulator of B cell survival in health and disease

In healthy individuals, the pool of peripheral lymphocytes is constant in size. The control of lymphoid homeostasis is the result of a very fine balance between lymphocyte production, survival and proliferation. Survival factors have been shown to play a critical role in maintaining the correct size of lymphocyte populations. Midkine, a heparin-binding cytokine was recently shown to be involved in cell proliferation, differentiation and apoptosis in various cell types including normal and malignant B cells. This review focuses on the role of midkine in the regulation of peripheral B cell survival in health and disease.

LINKED ARTICLES

This article is part of a themed section on Midkine. To view the other articles in this section visit http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/bph.2014.171.issue-4.

Signal relay by CC chemokine receptor 2 (CCR2) and formylpeptide receptor 2 (Fpr2) in the recruitment of monocyte-derived dendritic cells in allergic airway inflammation

Chemoattractant receptors regulate leukocyte accumulation at sites of inflammation. In allergic airway inflammation, although a chemokine receptor CCR2 was implicated in mediating monocyte-derived dendritic cell (DC) recruitment into the lung, we previously also discovered reduced accumulation of DCs in the inflamed lung in mice deficient in formylpeptide receptor Fpr2 (Fpr2(-/-)). We therefore investigated the role of Fpr2 in the trafficking of monocyte-derived DCs in allergic airway inflammation in cooperation with CCR2. We report that in allergic airway inflammation, CCR2 mediated the recruitment of monocyte-derived DCs to the perivascular region, and Fpr2 was required for further migration of the cells into the bronchiolar area. We additionally found that the bronchoalveolar lavage liquid from mice with airway inflammation contained both the CCR2 ligand CCL2 and an Fpr2 agonist CRAMP. Furthermore, similar to Fpr2(-/-) mice, in the inflamed airway of CRAMP(-/-) mice, DC trafficking into the peribronchiolar areas was diminished. Our study demonstrates that the interaction of CCR2 and Fpr2 with their endogenous ligands sequentially mediates the trafficking of DCs within the inflamed lung.

High CD74 expression correlates with ZAP70 expression in B cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia patients

Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is the most common leukemia in adults in Western countries. It is characterized by heterogeneous clinical course of the disease and new prognostic factors are still needed. CD74 plays an important role in signal transduction in B cell proliferation and survival pathway. CD74 expression has been shown in solid tumors and has been connected with poor prognosis and tumor progression. The aim of the study was to evaluate the expression of CD74 in chronic lymphocytic leukemia patients with combination with other known prognostic factors. Expression of CD74 was determined in 90 patients and 28 healthy controls. CD74 expression was significantly higher in CLL group than in controls. There was positive correlation between CD74 and ZAP70 expression (p = 0.008). High expression of CD74 was positively correlated with more advanced stage of the disease (p = 0.02). No correlation was shown between CD74 and sex, mutational status IgVH and time to first treatment.

Formylpeptide receptor-2 contributes to colonic epithelial homeostasis, inflammation, and tumorigenesis

Commensal bacteria and their products provide beneficial effects to the mammalian gut by stimulating epithelial cell turnover and enhancing wound healing, without activating overt inflammation. We hypothesized that N-formylpeptide receptors, which bind bacterial N-formylpeptides and are expressed by intestinal epithelial cells, may contribute to these processes. Here we report that formylpeptide receptor-2 (FPR2), which we show is expressed on the apical and lateral membranes of colonic crypt epithelial cells, mediates N-formylpeptide-dependent epithelial cell proliferation and renewal. Colonic epithelial cells in FPR2-deficient mice displayed defects in commensal bacterium-dependent homeostasis as shown by the absence of responses to N-formylpeptide stimulation, shortened colonic crypts, reduced acute inflammatory responses to dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) challenge, delayed mucosal restoration after injury, and increased azoxymethane-induced tumorigenesis. These results indicate that FPR2 is critical in mediating homeostasis, inflammation, and epithelial repair processes in the colon.

Role of macrophage migration inhibitory factor in the regulatory T cell response of tumor-bearing mice

Macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) is involved in tumorigenesis by facilitating tumor proliferation and evasion of apoptosis; however, its role in tumor immunity is unclear. In this study, we investigated the effect of MIF on the progression of the syngenic, CT26 colon carcinoma and the generation of tumor regulatory T cells (Tregs). The results showed that the tumor growth rate was significantly lower in MIF knockout (MIF(-/-)) mice than in wild-type (MIF(+/+)) mice. Flow cytometric analysis of both spleen and tumor cells revealed that MIF(-/-) mice had significantly lower levels of tumor-associated CD4(+)Tregs than MIF(+/+) mice. The splenic cells of MIF(-/-) mice also showed a decrease in CD8(+)Tregs, which was accompanied by an increase in CD8-induced tumor cytotoxicity. Interestingly, the inducible Treg response in spleen cells to anti-CD3/CD28 plus IL-2 plus TGF-β was greater in MIF(-/-) mice than in MIF(+/+) mice. Spleen cells of MIF(-/-) mice, stimulated with anti-CD3/CD28, produced lower levels of IL-2, but not TGF-β, than those of MIF(+/+) mice, which was recovered by the addition of recombinant MIF. Conversely, a neutralizing anti-MIF Ab blocked anti-CD3-induced IL-2 production by splenocytes of MIF(+/+) mice and suppressed the inducible Treg generation. Moreover, the administration of IL-2 into tumor-bearing MIF(-/-) mice restored the generation of Tregs and tumor growth. Taken together, our data suggest that MIF promotes tumor growth by increasing Treg generation through the modulation of IL-2 production. Thus, anti-MIF treatment might be useful in enhancing the adaptive immune response to colon cancers.

Cytokines as regulators of proliferation and survival of healthy and malignant peripheral B cells

Adaptive immunity depends on the production and maintenance of a pool of mature peripheral lymphocytes throughout life. The signals regulating the survival of mature splenic B cells have become a major focus in recent studies of B cell immunology. Lasting B cell persistence in the periphery is dependent on survival signals that are transduced by cell surface receptors. Cytokines have been shown to play a critical role in maintaining lymphocyte homeostasis. This review focuses on the role of cytokines and their receptors in the regulation of peripheral B cell survival, with an emphasis on those that have received relatively less attention in the literature.

CD74 and macrophage migration inhibitory factor as therapeutic targets in gastric cancer

AIM

To investigate the relationship and molecular features of CD74/macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF)/Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) in gastric cancer.

METHODS

CD74, MIF and TLR4 expression in the paraffin-embedded sections of gastric cancer from 120 patients were detected by immunohistochemical staining. Knock down of CD74 expression in gastric cancer cell line MKN-45 was performed by lentivirus transduction and detected by Western blotting. MKN-45 cell proliferation assay under the stimulants was measured by the cell counting kit 8 (CCK8) assay and MIF concentration in the culture medium was detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Surface staining of CD74 in the MKN-45 cell line under the stimulation of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) was measured by flow cytometry. MIF, CD74 and TLR4 co-localization in the MKN-45 cell line was performed by the immunoprecipitation.

RESULTS

CD74, MIF and TLR4 were found to be expressed in gastric cancer and increased significantly in the advanced stage, and were also associated with lymph node metastasis. Correlation analysis revealed that CD74 was positively correlated with MIF (r = 0.2367, P < 0.01) and both proteins were also associated with TLR4 (r = 0.4414, r = 0.5001, respectively, P < 0.01). LPS can significantly promote MKN-45 cell proliferation (3.027 ± 0.388 vs 4.201 ± 0.092, P < 0.05), induce MIF production (54.333 ± 2.906 pg/mL vs 29.667 ± 3.180 pg/mL, P < 0.01) and cell surface expression of CD74 (75.6% ± 4.046% vs 9.4% ± 0.964%, P < 0.01) at LPS concentration of 1 μg/mL compared to medium control. Knockdown of CD74 or using anti-CD74 and MIF antagonist ISO-1 significantly reduced LPS-induced MKN-45 cell proliferation (4.201 ± 0.092 vs 3.337 ± 0.087, 4.534 ± 0.222 vs 3.368 ± 0.290, 4.058 ± 0.292 vs 2.934 ± 0.197, respectively, P < 0.01). MIF, CD74 and TLR4 could co-localize in the MKN-45 cell line.

CONCLUSION

Upregulation of MIF, CD74 and TLR4 are associated with increasing clinical stage and provide an opportunity as novel gastric cancer chemoprevention and/or treatment strategy.

Characterization of a secreted macrophage migration inhibitory factor homologue of the parasitic nematode Strongyloides acting at the parasite-host cell interface

Strongyloidiasis is a tropical parasitosis characterized by an alternation between free-living and parasitic stages, and by long-term infection via autoinfection. Since invasion and evasion processes of helminth parasites are substantially attained by the involvement of excretory-secretory products, we identified and characterized the 13.5 kDa macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF)-like protein in Strongyloides ratti. Sra-MIF is mainly secreted from the infective stage larvae (iL3), while the transcript was found at lower levels in parasitic and free-living females. Sequence analysis of the full-length cDNA showed the highest homology to the human pathogen Strongyloides stercoralis, and both are related to the MIF type-2. Unlike other mif genes, the Sra-mif includes no intron. The protein was recombinantly expressed in Escherichia coli and purified. Sra-MIF exhibited no in vitro tautomerase activity. The exposure of Sra-MIF to the host immune system is confirmed by high IgG reactivities found in the hosts' sera following infection or immunization. Flow cytometric analysis indicated the binding of Sra-MIF to the monocytes/macrophage lineage but not to peripheral lymphocytes. After exposure to Sra-MIF, monocytes released IL-10 but not TNF-alpha suggesting the involvement of the secreted parasite MIF in host immune responses.

Macrophage migration inhibitory factor activates cyclooxygenase 2-prostaglandin E2 in cultured spinal microglia

In our previous study, peripheral inflammatory stimulation evoked production of macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) in the spinal cord and found spinal microglia are the major source of MIF in this context. Given the contribution of the activated-microglia to the inflammatory neuropathy plus the role for upregulated COX 2 expression and PGE(2) production in the severity of clinical manifestations of these neuroinflammatory conditions, we herein tested the hypothesis that in vitro MIF stimulation to spinal microglia could result in an activation of COX 2-PGE(2) system by MIF-CD74 interaction. We found MIF played roles in evoking COX 2 mRNA and protein expression in a dose-dependent manner correspondingly in changes in PGE(2) level in the cultured rat microglia, but these changes could be inhibited by genetic deletion of CD74. Finally, MIF-induced COX 2-PGE(2) activation could be blocked by selective inhibitors of p44/p42 and p38 MAPKs. These data highlight MIF/CD74 interaction induces upregulation of COX 2 expression and PGE(2) secretion in primary rodent microglia, and further this effect is associated with downstream activation of p38 and p44/p42 signaling cascades, and favors the role of MIF as a novel pathway for microglia-associated neuroinflammation.

The secret second life of an innocent chaperone: the story of CD74 and B cell/chronic lymphocytic leukemia cell survival

This review deals with the cytokine macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) and its receptor, CD74. MIF and CD74 have been shown to regulate peripheral B cell survival and were associated with tumor progression and metastasis. CD74 expression has been suggested to serve as a prognostic factor in many cancers, with higher relative expression of CD74 behaving as a marker of tumor progression. In chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) cells, binding of MIF to CD74 induces nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) activation and up-regulation of TAp63 expression, resulting in the secretion of interleukin 8 (IL-8), which in turn promotes cell survival. In addition, TAp63 expression elevates expression of the integrin VLA-4, particularly during the advanced stage of the disease. Blocking of CD74, TAp63, or VLA-4 inhibits the in vivo homing of CLL cells to the BM. Thus, CD74 and its target genes, TAp63 and VLA-4, facilitate migration of CLL cells back to the BM, where they interact with the supportive BM environment that helps rescue them from apoptosis. These results are expected to pave the way toward novel therapeutic strategies aimed at interrupting this survival pathway. One such agent, the monocolonal antibody milatuzumab directed at CD74, is already being studied in early clinical trials.

Enhanced expression of CD74 in gastrointestinal cancers and benign tissues

CD74, a transmembrane glycoprotein that associates with MHC II, is an important chaperone that regulates antigen presentation for immune response. In addition, CD74 is the receptor for macrophage migration-inhibitory factor which, when bound to CD74, initiates survival pathways and cell proliferation. Formalin fixed, paraffin embedded clinical specimens were evaluated by immunohistochemical procedures for expression of CD74. Overall, expression of CD74 within gastrointestinal carcinomas showed a statistically greater expression than in the normal tissue counterparts (P<0.001 or better). CD74 expression was observed in 95% of pancreatic carcinomas with the majority of cases presenting a mostly intense, diffuse labeling pattern. The results suggested a trend towards greater expression within the higher grade carcinomas (P=0.06). Colorectal and gastric carcinomas gave similar results with 60% and 86%, respectively, positive for CD74 with an intense, diffuse staining pattern. We hypothesized that precursor lesions would express levels of CD74 as high, or higher, than their respective carcinomas, since activation of survival pathways would be of particular importance at the early stages of neoplastic development. For PanIN lesions there was greater expression of CD74 within higher grade, PanIN-3 lesions, whereas the colonic adenomas showed no such trend, but overall, a higher frequency and intensity of CD74 labeling than was observed within the colon carcinomas. These findings are supportive of a role for CD74 in the development and maintenance of gastrointestinal neo-plasia, and provide a rationale for development of therapeutic agents that are able to block CD74 function, specifically within the tumor cell.