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Jost S, Ahn J, Chen S, Yoder T, Gikundiro KE, Lee E, Gressens SB, Kroll K, Craemer M, Kaynor GC, Lifton M, Tan CS. Upregulation of the NKG2D Ligand ULBP2 by JC Polyomavirus Infection Promotes Immune Recognition by Natural Killer Cells. J Infect Dis 2024; 229:1836-1844. [PMID: 37774496 PMCID: PMC11175686 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiad424] [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: 06/15/2023] [Revised: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND JC polyomavirus (JCPyV) causes progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), a potentially fatal complication of severe immune suppression with no effective treatment. Natural killer (NK) cells play critical roles in defense against viral infections; however, NK-cell response to JCPyV infection remains unexplored. METHODS NK- and T-cell responses against the JCPyV VP1 were compared using intracellular cytokine staining upon stimulation with peptide pools. A novel flow cytometry-based assay was developed to determine NK-cell killing efficiency of JCPyV-infected astrocyte-derived SVG-A cells. Blocking antibodies were used to evaluate the contribution of NK-cell receptors in immune recognition of JCPyV-infected cells. RESULTS In about 40% of healthy donors, we detected robust CD107a upregulation and IFN-γ production by NK cells, extending beyond T-cell responses. Next, using the NK-cell-mediated killing assay, we showed that coculture of NK cells and JCPyV-infected SVG-A cells leads to a 60% reduction in infection, on average. JCPyV-infected cells had enhanced expression of ULBP2-a ligand for the activating NK-cell receptor NKG2D, and addition of NKG2D blocking antibodies decreased NK-cell degranulation. CONCLUSIONS NKG2D-mediated activation of NK cells plays a key role in controlling JCPyV replication and may be a promising immunotherapeutic target to boost NK-cell anti-JCPyV activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Jost
- Division of Innate and Comparative Immunology, Center for Human Systems Immunology, Department of Surgery, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Jenny Ahn
- Center for Virology and Vaccine Research, Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Sarah Chen
- Center for Virology and Vaccine Research, Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Taylor Yoder
- Center for Virology and Vaccine Research, Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Kayitare Eunice Gikundiro
- Center for Virology and Vaccine Research, Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
| | - Esther Lee
- Division of Innate and Comparative Immunology, Center for Human Systems Immunology, Department of Surgery, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Simon B Gressens
- Division of Innate and Comparative Immunology, Center for Human Systems Immunology, Department of Surgery, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Kyle Kroll
- Division of Innate and Comparative Immunology, Center for Human Systems Immunology, Department of Surgery, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Melissa Craemer
- Division of Innate and Comparative Immunology, Center for Human Systems Immunology, Department of Surgery, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | | | - Michelle Lifton
- Center for Virology and Vaccine Research, Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - C Sabrina Tan
- Center for Virology and Vaccine Research, Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Tsukanov VV, Savchenko AA, Cherepnin MA, Kasparov EV, Tikhonova EP, Vasyutin AV, Tonkikh JL, Anisimova AA, Belenyuk VD, Borisov AG. Association of Blood NK Cell Phenotype with the Severity of Liver Fibrosis in Patients with Chronic Viral Hepatitis C with Genotype 1 or 3. Diagnostics (Basel) 2024; 14:472. [PMID: 38472945 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics14050472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2024] [Revised: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND NK cells phenotype and functional state in different genotypes of chronic viral hepatitis C (CVHC), depending on liver fibrosis severity, have not been sufficiently studied, which limits the possibilities for the development of pathology therapy. METHODS The CVHC diagnosis was based on the EASL recommendations (2018). Clinical examination with liver elastometry was performed in 297 patients with genotype 1 and in 231 patients with genotype 3 CVHC. The blood NK cells phenotype was determined by flow cytometry in 74 individuals with genotype 1 and in 69 individuals with genotype 3 CVHC. RESULTS The frequency of METAVIR liver fibrosis stages F3-F4 was 32.5% in individuals with genotype 3, and 20.5% in individuals with genotype 1 CVHC (p = 0.003). In patients with both genotype 1 and genotype 3 CVHC, a decrease in the total number of blood NK cells, CD56brightCD16+ NK cells and an increase in the proportion of CD56dimCD16+ NK cells, CD94+ and CD38 + CD73+ NK cells were registered in patients with fibrosis stage F3-F4 by METAVIR in comparison with persons with METAVIR fibrosis stage F0-F1. CONCLUSIONS In patients with both genotype 1 and genotype 3 CVHC, an imbalance in the ratio between cytokine-producing and cytotoxic NK cells and an increase in the content of NK cells that express inhibitory molecules were determined in patients with severe liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vladislav Vladimirovich Tsukanov
- Federal Research Center "Krasnoyarsk Science Center" of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Scientific Research Institute of Medical Problems of the North, 660022 Krasnoyarsk, Russia
| | - Andrei Anatolyevich Savchenko
- Federal Research Center "Krasnoyarsk Science Center" of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Scientific Research Institute of Medical Problems of the North, 660022 Krasnoyarsk, Russia
| | - Mikhail Aleksandrovich Cherepnin
- Federal Research Center "Krasnoyarsk Science Center" of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Scientific Research Institute of Medical Problems of the North, 660022 Krasnoyarsk, Russia
| | - Eduard Vilyamovich Kasparov
- Federal Research Center "Krasnoyarsk Science Center" of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Scientific Research Institute of Medical Problems of the North, 660022 Krasnoyarsk, Russia
| | - Elena Petrovna Tikhonova
- Krasnoyarsk State Medical University Named after Prof. V.F. Voino-Yasenetsky of the Ministry of Healthcare of Russian Federation, 660022 Krasnoyarsk, Russia
| | - Alexander Viktorovich Vasyutin
- Federal Research Center "Krasnoyarsk Science Center" of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Scientific Research Institute of Medical Problems of the North, 660022 Krasnoyarsk, Russia
| | - Julia Leongardovna Tonkikh
- Federal Research Center "Krasnoyarsk Science Center" of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Scientific Research Institute of Medical Problems of the North, 660022 Krasnoyarsk, Russia
| | - Anna Alexandrovna Anisimova
- Krasnoyarsk State Medical University Named after Prof. V.F. Voino-Yasenetsky of the Ministry of Healthcare of Russian Federation, 660022 Krasnoyarsk, Russia
| | - Vasily Dmitrievich Belenyuk
- Federal Research Center "Krasnoyarsk Science Center" of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Scientific Research Institute of Medical Problems of the North, 660022 Krasnoyarsk, Russia
| | - Alexandr Gennadyevich Borisov
- Federal Research Center "Krasnoyarsk Science Center" of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Scientific Research Institute of Medical Problems of the North, 660022 Krasnoyarsk, Russia
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3
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Lee MJ, Blish CA. Defining the role of natural killer cells in COVID-19. Nat Immunol 2023; 24:1628-1638. [PMID: 37460639 PMCID: PMC10538371 DOI: 10.1038/s41590-023-01560-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/20/2023]
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells are critical effectors of antiviral immunity. Researchers have therefore sought to characterize the NK cell response to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and the virus that causes it, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). The NK cells of patients with severe COVID-19 undergo extensive phenotypic and functional changes. For example, the NK cells from critically ill patients with COVID-19 are highly activated and exhausted, with poor cytotoxic function and cytokine production upon stimulation. The NK cell response to SARS-CoV-2 is also modulated by changes induced in virally infected cells, including the ability of a viral peptide to bind HLA-E, preventing NK cells from receiving inhibitory signals, and the downregulation of major histocompatibility complex class I and ligands for the activating receptor NKG2D. These changes have important implications for the ability of infected cells to escape NK cell killing. The implications of these findings for antibody-dependent NK cell activity in COVID-19 are also reviewed. Despite these advances in the understanding of the NK cell response to SARS-CoV-2, there remain critical gaps in our current understanding and a wealth of avenues for future research on this topic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madeline J Lee
- Stanford Immunology Program, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Catherine A Blish
- Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA.
- Chan Zuckerberg Biohub, San Francisco, CA, USA.
- Stanford Medical Scientist Training Program, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA.
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4
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Ivanov SM, Tarasova OA, Poroikov VV. Transcriptome-based analysis of human peripheral blood reveals regulators of immune response in different viral infections. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1199482. [PMID: 37795081 PMCID: PMC10546413 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1199482] [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: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction There are difficulties in creating direct antiviral drugs for all viruses, including new, suddenly arising infections, such as COVID-19. Therefore, pathogenesis-directed therapy is often necessary to treat severe viral infections and comorbidities associated with them. Despite significant differences in the etiopathogenesis of viral diseases, in general, they are associated with significant dysfunction of the immune system. Study of common mechanisms of immune dysfunction caused by different viral infections can help develop novel therapeutic strategies to combat infections and associated comorbidities. Methods To identify common mechanisms of immune functions disruption during infection by nine different viruses (cytomegalovirus, Ebstein-Barr virus, human T-cell leukemia virus type 1, Hepatitis B and C viruses, human immunodeficiency virus, Dengue virus, SARS-CoV, and SARS-CoV-2), we analyzed the corresponding transcription profiles from peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) using the originally developed pipeline that include transcriptome data collection, processing, normalization, analysis and search for master regulators of several viral infections. The ten datasets containing transcription data from patients infected by nine viruses and healthy people were obtained from Gene Expression Omnibus. The analysis of the data was performed by Genome Enhancer pipeline. Results We revealed common pathways, cellular processes, and master regulators for studied viral infections. We found that all nine viral infections cause immune activation, exhaustion, cell proliferation disruption, and increased susceptibility to apoptosis. Using network analysis, we identified PBMC receptors, representing proteins at the top of signaling pathways that may be responsible for the observed transcriptional changes and maintain the current functional state of cells. Discussion The identified relationships between some of them and virus-induced alteration of immune functions are new and have not been found earlier, e.g., receptors for autocrine motility factor, insulin, prolactin, angiotensin II, and immunoglobulin epsilon. Modulation of the identified receptors can be investigated as one of therapeutic strategies for the treatment of severe viral infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergey M. Ivanov
- Department of Bioinformatics, Institute of Biomedical Chemistry, Moscow, Russia
- Department of Bioinformatics, Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Olga A. Tarasova
- Department of Bioinformatics, Institute of Biomedical Chemistry, Moscow, Russia
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Wang Q, Li X, Chen Y, Gong J, Hu B. Classification and survival prediction in early-stage cirrhosis by gene expression profiling. J Viral Hepat 2023; 30:116-128. [PMID: 36355440 DOI: 10.1111/jvh.13769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2022] [Revised: 10/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Liver cirrhosis has been increasingly diagnosed at an early stage owing to the non-invasive diagnostic techniques. However, it is difficult to identify patients at high risk of disease progression. Screening cirrhotic patients with poor prognosis who are most in need of surveillance is still challenging. Gene expression data GSE15654 and GSE14520 were downloaded for performing unsupervised clustering analysis. The prognostic differences between the different clusters were explored by Cox regression. Integrative analysis of gene expression signature, immune cell enrichments and clinical characterization was performed for different clusters. Two distinctive subclasses were identified in HCV-related GSE15654, and Kaplan-Meier analysis indicated that subtype 2 had lower survival rates than subtype 1 (p = 0.0399). Further analysis revealed subtype 2 had a higher density of follicular T helper cells, resting natural killer cells and M0, M2 macrophages while subtype 1 with a higher fraction of naive B cells, memory B cells, resting memory CD 4 T cells, activated natural killer cells and monocytes. 226 differentially expressed genes were identified between the two subtypes, and Reactome analysis showed the mainly enriched pathways were biological oxidations and fatty acid metabolism. Five hub genes (AKT1, RPS16, CDC42, CCND1 and PCBP2) and three significant modules were extracted from the PPI network. The results were validated in HBV-related GSE14520 cohort. We identified two subtypes of patients with different prognosis for hepatitis C-related early-stage liver cirrhosis. Bioinformatics analysis of the gene expression and immune cell profile may provide fresh insight into understanding the prognosis difference.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingliang Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaojie Li
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yaqiong Chen
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiao Gong
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Bo Hu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
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6
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Tang X, Gan P, Huang S, Pan X, Wang R, Wang P, Xia H, Zeng X, Ren W, Shi L, Zhou X, Linghu E. The scientific progress and prospects of hepatitis C research from 2013 to 2022. Am J Transl Res 2022; 14:7806-7819. [PMID: 36505327 PMCID: PMC9730086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2022] [Accepted: 10/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE Hepatitis C (HC) is a global health issue, with an estimated 350,000 people dying annually from this liver-related disease. This study determined the development trends and research hotspots regarding HC by investigating the related articles within the past ten years. METHODS Publications on HC were retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC) on June 6, 2022. Bibliometric visualization was conducted through VOSviewer and CiteSpace. Original articles and reviews served as the foundation for this analytical research. RESULTS Of the total 17,773 records of HC research published from 2013 to 2022, the top 1,000 articles were retrieved and distributed among 78 countries and 270 journals. The US, where 7 of the top 10 institutions were located, mainly contributed to the study (51.9%). Johns Hopkins University distributed the most related articles (45 articles). Hepatology (IF 2021 = 17.298) ranked first, with 109 articles in the top 10 journals. Dore GJ was the most productive author (40 articles). The keywords of sustained virologic response, therapy, sofosbuvir, cirrhosis, ledipasvir, and hepatocellular carcinoma offered hints regarding research hotspots. The burst keywords regarding the virus, like HCV, HIV, and care and intervention showed as research frontiers. CONCLUSIONS Treatment has been a trending topic in HC research, and future research may focus more on HCV and HIV co-infection, treatment, and elimination of HC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaowei Tang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Medical Center of Chinese PLA General HospitalBeijing, China,Department of Gastroenterology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical UniversityLuzhou, Sichuan, China,Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory of Sichuan ProvinceLuzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Peiling Gan
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical UniversityLuzhou, Sichuan, China,Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory of Sichuan ProvinceLuzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Shu Huang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The People’s Hospital of LianshuiHuaian, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xiao Pan
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical UniversityLuzhou, Sichuan, China,Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory of Sichuan ProvinceLuzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Ruiyu Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical UniversityLuzhou, Sichuan, China,Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory of Sichuan ProvinceLuzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Ping Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical UniversityLuzhou, Sichuan, China,Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory of Sichuan ProvinceLuzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Huifang Xia
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical UniversityLuzhou, Sichuan, China,Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory of Sichuan ProvinceLuzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Xinyi Zeng
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical UniversityLuzhou, Sichuan, China,Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory of Sichuan ProvinceLuzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Wensen Ren
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical UniversityLuzhou, Sichuan, China,Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory of Sichuan ProvinceLuzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Lei Shi
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical UniversityLuzhou, Sichuan, China,Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory of Sichuan ProvinceLuzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Xian Zhou
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical UniversityLuzhou, Sichuan, China,Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory of Sichuan ProvinceLuzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Enqiang Linghu
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Medical Center of Chinese PLA General HospitalBeijing, China
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7
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Zientarska A, Mikuła-Pietrasik J, Kaczmarek M, Witkowska A, Rozpłochowski B, Kowala-Piaskowska A, Książek K, Żeromski J, Mozer-Lisewska I. Gender as a factor affecting NK cell activity in patients successfully treated for chronic hepatitis C with direct-acting antivirals. Cent Eur J Immunol 2021; 46:481-491. [PMID: 35125947 PMCID: PMC8808305 DOI: 10.5114/ceji.2021.109846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2021] [Accepted: 07/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic hepatitis C (CHC) affects the activity of natural killer (NK) cells, but successful interferon- free treatment partially restores it. The goal of this study was to assess whether gender influences NK functionality. We examined 21 post-menopausal women and 24 men with CHC who were treated with direct-acting antivirals (DAA) and 33 healthy volunteers. Using flow cytometry, we analysed KIR2DS4, NKG2D, NKp30, KIR2DL2/DL3, NKG2A and TRAIL on the surface of NK cells. Intracellular granzyme B was also assessed and serum CXCL10 was quantified via ELISA. Overall, patients with CHC had higher expression of KIR2DS4, NKG2A, and NKp30 relative to the control group. Further, CHC patients had a lower percentage of NK cells among lymphocytes relative to the control group. After treatment, KIR2DS4, KIR2DL2/DL, NKG2A, TRAIL and NKp30 on NK cells were decreased whilst the percentage of NK cells and the expression of granzyme B and NKG2D increased. Prior to treatment, serum CXCL10 was elevated, but it was inhibited post-treatment. We observed gender-specific differences in the expression of KIR2DL2/DL3 (higher in women) and NKp30 (elevated in men) compared to CHC/control groups. After treatment, KIR2DL2/DL3, NKp30 and CXCL10 dropped only in the female group while granzyme B increased in the male group. In conclusion, the response of NK cells among men and women of post-menopausal ages with CHC differs. Our research may lead to more studies on the different nature of female and male immune systems in the context of HCV infection and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agata Zientarska
- Chair and Department of Infectious Diseases, Hepatology and Acquired Immunodeficiencies, Karol Marcinkowski University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Justyna Mikuła-Pietrasik
- Department of Pathophysiology of Ageing and Civilization Diseases, Karol Marcinkowski University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Mariusz Kaczmarek
- Chair of Clinical Immunology, Karol Marcinkowski University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
- Department of Cancer Immunology, Karol Marcinkowski University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
- Department of Diagnostics and Cancer Immunology, Greater Poland Cancer Centre, Poznan, Poland
| | - Aleksandra Witkowska
- Chair and Department of Infectious Diseases, Hepatology and Acquired Immunodeficiencies, Karol Marcinkowski University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Błażej Rozpłochowski
- Chair and Department of Infectious Diseases, Hepatology and Acquired Immunodeficiencies, Karol Marcinkowski University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Arleta Kowala-Piaskowska
- Chair and Department of Infectious Diseases, Hepatology and Acquired Immunodeficiencies, Karol Marcinkowski University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Krzysztof Książek
- Department of Pathophysiology of Ageing and Civilization Diseases, Karol Marcinkowski University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Jan Żeromski
- Chair of Clinical Immunology, Karol Marcinkowski University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Iwona Mozer-Lisewska
- Chair and Department of Infectious Diseases, Hepatology and Acquired Immunodeficiencies, Karol Marcinkowski University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
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Vollmers S, Lobermeyer A, Körner C. The New Kid on the Block: HLA-C, a Key Regulator of Natural Killer Cells in Viral Immunity. Cells 2021; 10:cells10113108. [PMID: 34831331 PMCID: PMC8620871 DOI: 10.3390/cells10113108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2021] [Revised: 11/04/2021] [Accepted: 11/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
The human leukocyte antigen system (HLA) is a cluster of highly polymorphic genes essential for the proper function of the immune system, and it has been associated with a wide range of diseases. HLA class I molecules present intracellular host- and pathogen-derived peptides to effector cells of the immune system, inducing immune tolerance in healthy conditions or triggering effective immune responses in pathological situations. HLA-C is the most recently evolved HLA class I molecule, only present in humans and great apes. Differentiating from its older siblings, HLA-A and HLA-B, HLA-C exhibits distinctive features in its expression and interaction partners. HLA-C serves as a natural ligand for multiple members of the killer-cell immunoglobulin-like receptor (KIR) family, which are predominately expressed by natural killer (NK) cells. NK cells are crucial for the early control of viral infections and accumulating evidence indicates that interactions between HLA-C and its respective KIR receptors determine the outcome and progression of viral infections. In this review, we focus on the unique role of HLA-C in regulating NK cell functions and its consequences in the setting of viral infections.
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9
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Jafarzadeh A, Naseri A, Shojaie L, Nemati M, Jafarzadeh S, Bannazadeh Baghi H, Hamblin MR, Akhlagh SA, Mirzaei H. MicroRNA-155 and antiviral immune responses. Int Immunopharmacol 2021; 101:108188. [PMID: 34626873 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2021.108188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2021] [Revised: 09/19/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The microRNA, miR-155 regulates both adaptive and innate immune responses. In viral infections, miR-155 can affect both innate immunity (interferon response, natural killer cell activity, and macrophage polarization) and adaptive immunity (including generation of anti-viral antibodies, CD8+ cytotoxic T lymphocytes, Th17, Th2, Th1, Tfh and Treg cells). In many viral infections, the proper and timely regulation of miR-155 expression is critical for the induction of an effective anti-virus immune response and viral clearance without any harmful immunopathologic consequences. MiR-155 may also exert pro-viral effects, mainly through the inhibition of the anti-viral interferon response. Thus, dysregulated expression of miR-155 can result in virus persistence and disruption of the normal response to viral infections. This review provides a thorough discussion of the role of miR-155 in immune responses and immunopathologic reactions during viral infections, and highlights its potential as a therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdollah Jafarzadeh
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran; Immunology of Infectious Diseases Research Center, Research Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran.
| | - Alma Naseri
- Department of Immunology, Islamic Azadi university of Zahedan, Zahedan, Iran
| | - Layla Shojaie
- Research Center for Liver Diseases, Keck School of Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los angeles, CA, USA
| | - Maryam Nemati
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran; Department of Hematology and Laboratory Sciences, School of Para-Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Sara Jafarzadeh
- Student Research Committee, School of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Hossein Bannazadeh Baghi
- Department of Virology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran; Infectious and Tropical Diseases Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Michael R Hamblin
- Laser Research Centre, Faculty of Health Science, University of Johannesburg, Doornfontein 2028, South Africa
| | | | - Hamed Mirzaei
- Research Center for Biochemistry and Nutrition in Metabolic Diseases, Institute for Basic Sciences, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran; Student Research Committee, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran.
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10
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Shmeleva EV, Colucci F. Maternal natural killer cells at the intersection between reproduction and mucosal immunity. Mucosal Immunol 2021; 14:991-1005. [PMID: 33903735 PMCID: PMC8071844 DOI: 10.1038/s41385-020-00374-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2020] [Revised: 11/24/2020] [Accepted: 12/02/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Many maternal immune cells populate the decidua, which is the mucosal lining of the uterus transformed during pregnancy. Here, abundant natural killer (NK) cells and macrophages help the uterine vasculature adapt to fetal demands for gas and nutrients, thereby supporting fetal growth. Fetal trophoblast cells budding off the forming placenta and invading deep into maternal tissues come into contact with these and other immune cells. Besides their homeostatic functions, decidual NK cells can respond to pathogens during infection, but in doing so, they may become conflicted between destroying the invader and sustaining fetoplacental growth. We review how maternal NK cells balance their double duty both in the local microenvironment of the uterus and systemically, during toxoplasmosis, influenza, cytomegalovirus, malaria and other infections that threat pregnancy. We also discuss recent developments in the understanding of NK-cell responses to SARS-Cov-2 infection and the possible dangers of COVID-19 during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evgeniya V Shmeleva
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, University of Cambridge, National Institute for Health Research Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, Cambridge, CB2 0SW, UK
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Francesco Colucci
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, University of Cambridge, National Institute for Health Research Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, Cambridge, CB2 0SW, UK.
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
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11
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Rios DA, Casciato PC, Caldirola MS, Gaillard MI, Giadans C, Ameigeiras B, De Matteo EN, Preciado MV, Valva P. Chronic Hepatitis C Pathogenesis: Immune Response in the Liver Microenvironment and Peripheral Compartment. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2021; 11:712105. [PMID: 34414132 PMCID: PMC8369367 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2021.712105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2021] [Accepted: 07/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic hepatitis C (CHC) pathogenic mechanisms as well as the participation of the immune response in the generation of liver damage are still a topic of interest. Here, we evaluated immune cell populations and cytokines in the liver and peripheral blood (PB) to elucidate their role in CHC pathogenesis. B, CTL, Th, Treg, Th1, Th17, and NK cell localization and frequency were evaluated on liver biopsies by immunohistochemistry, while frequency, differentiation, and functional status on PB were evaluated by flow cytometry. TNF-α, IL-23, IFN-γ, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, IL-17A, IL-21, IL-10, and TGF-β expression levels were quantified in fresh liver biopsy by RT-qPCR and in plasma by CBA/ELISA. Liver CTL and Th1 at the lobular area inversely correlated with viral load (r = −0.469, p =0.003 and r = −0.384, p = 0.040). Treg correlated with CTL and Th1 at the lobular area (r = 0.784, p < 0.0001; r = 0.436, p = 0.013). Th17 correlated with hepatic IL-8 (r = 0.52, p < 0.05), and both were higher in advanced fibrosis cases (Th17 p = 0.0312, IL-8 p = 0.009). Hepatic cytokines were higher in severe hepatitis cases (IL-1β p = 0.026, IL-23 p = 0.031, IL-8 p = 0.002, TGF-β, p= 0.037). Peripheral NK (p = 0.008) and NK dim (p = 0.018) were diminished, while NK bright (p = 0.025) was elevated in patients vs. donors. Naïve Th (p = 0.011) and CTL (p = 0.0007) were decreased, while activated Th (p = 0.0007) and CTL (p = 0.0003) were increased. IFN-γ production and degranulation activity in NK and CTL were normal. Peripheral cytokines showed an altered profile vs. donors, particularly elevated IL-6 (p = 0.008) and TGF-β (p = 0.041). Total hepatic CTLs favored damage. Treg could not prevent fibrogenesis triggered by Th17 and IL-8. Peripheral T-lymphocyte differentiation stage shift, elevated cytokine levels and NK-cell count decrease would contribute to global disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Alejandra Rios
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Multidisciplinary Institute for Investigation in Pediatric Pathologies (IMIPP), CONICET-GCBA, Pathology Division, Ricardo Gutiérrez Children's Hospital, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | | | - María Soledad Caldirola
- Immunology Unit, Multidisciplinary Institute for Investigation in Pediatric Pathologies (IMIPP), CONICET-GCBA, Ricardo Gutiérrez Children's Hospital, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - María Isabel Gaillard
- Immunology Unit, Multidisciplinary Institute for Investigation in Pediatric Pathologies (IMIPP), CONICET-GCBA, Ricardo Gutiérrez Children's Hospital, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Cecilia Giadans
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Multidisciplinary Institute for Investigation in Pediatric Pathologies (IMIPP), CONICET-GCBA, Pathology Division, Ricardo Gutiérrez Children's Hospital, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | | | - Elena Noemí De Matteo
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Multidisciplinary Institute for Investigation in Pediatric Pathologies (IMIPP), CONICET-GCBA, Pathology Division, Ricardo Gutiérrez Children's Hospital, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - María Victoria Preciado
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Multidisciplinary Institute for Investigation in Pediatric Pathologies (IMIPP), CONICET-GCBA, Pathology Division, Ricardo Gutiérrez Children's Hospital, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Pamela Valva
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Multidisciplinary Institute for Investigation in Pediatric Pathologies (IMIPP), CONICET-GCBA, Pathology Division, Ricardo Gutiérrez Children's Hospital, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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12
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Shen C, Ge Z, Dong C, Wang C, Shao J, Cai W, Huang P, Fan H, Li J, Zhang Y, Yue M. Genetic Variants in KIR/HLA-C Genes Are Associated With the Susceptibility to HCV Infection in a High-Risk Chinese Population. Front Immunol 2021; 12:632353. [PMID: 34220799 PMCID: PMC8253047 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.632353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2020] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background KIR/HLA-C signaling pathway influences the innate immune response which is the first defense to hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. The aim of this study was to determine the association between the genetic polymorphisms of KIR/HLA-C genes and the outcomes of HCV infection in a high-risk Chinese population. Methods In this case-control study, four single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of KIR/HLA-C genes (KIR2DS4/KIR2DS1/KIR2DL1 rs35440472, HLA-C rs2308557, HLA-C rs1130838, and HLA-C rs2524094) were genotyped by TaqMan assay among drug users and hemodialysis (HD) patients including 1,378 uninfected control cases, 307 subjects with spontaneous viral clearance, and 217 patients with persistent HCV infection. Bioinformatics analysis was used to functionally annotate the SNPs. Results After logistic regression analysis, the rs35440472-A and rs1130838-A alleles were found to be associated with a significantly elevated risk of HCV infection (OR = 1.562, 95% CI: 1.229–1.987, P < 0.001; OR = 2.134, 95% CI: 1.180–3.858, P = 0.012, respectively), which remained significant after Bonferroni correction (0.05/4). The combined effect of their risk alleles and risk genotypes (rs35440472-AA and rs1130838-AA) were linked to the increased risk of HCV infection in a locus-dosage manner (all Ptrend < 0.001). Based on the SNPinfo web server, rs35440472 was predicted to be a transcription factor binding site (TFBS) while rs1130838 was predicted to have a splicing (ESE or ESS) function. Conclusion KIR2DS4/KIR2DS1/KIR2DL1 rs35440472-A and HLA-C rs1130838-A variants are associated with increased susceptibility to HCV infection in a high-risk Chinese population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Shen
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Zhijun Ge
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, The Affiliated Yixing Hospital of Jiangsu University, Yixing, China
| | - Chen Dong
- Department of Epidemiology and Statistics, School of Public Health, Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Chunhui Wang
- Institute of Epidemiology and Microbiology, Eastern Theater Command Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Nanjing, China.,Department of Epidemiology, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jianguo Shao
- Department of Digestive Medicine, Third Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Weihua Cai
- Department of General Surgery, Third Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Peng Huang
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.,Department of Epidemiology, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Haozhi Fan
- Department of Information, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jun Li
- Department of Infectious Diseases, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yun Zhang
- Institute of Epidemiology and Microbiology, Eastern Theater Command Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Nanjing, China.,Department of Epidemiology, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Ming Yue
- Department of Infectious Diseases, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
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13
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Medhioub M, Bouzaidi K, Bachali A, Khsiba A, Hamzaoui L, Azouz MM. The risk of subclinical carotid atherosclerosis in patients with chronic hepatitis C. LA TUNISIE MEDICALE 2021; 99:449-455. [PMID: 35244930 PMCID: PMC8734473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The role of hepatitis C virus in the pathogenesis of atherosclerotic disease has been suggested by several studies. AIM To assess the association between subclinical carotid atherosclerosis and chronic hepatitis C. METHODS 40 patients infected with chronic hepatitis C and 40 control cases were evaluated by anthropometric and metabolic measurements. The risk of subclinical atherosclerosis was assessed by ultrasound measurement of carotid intima-media thickness. A high cardiovascular risk atherosclerosis was defined by carotid intima-media thickness > 75th percentile. RESULTS The carotid intima-media thickness and the prevalence of high cardiovascular risk atherosclerosis were significantly higher in the group infected with hepatitis C compared to the control group (0.68 VS 0.60, p=0.02) and (82.5% vs. 40%; 0.001) respectively. In multivariate studies, activity ≥ A2 and age> 40 years were the independent factors associated with the carotid intima-media thickness and hepatitis C was the only independent factor associated with high cardiovascular risk atherosclerosis (OR=4.81 CI at 95%: 1.6-14.42). CONCLUSIONS In our study, chronic hepatitis C was associated with a high risk of carotid atherosclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Asma Bachali
- 3- Biochemistry laboratory
Mohamed Taher Maamouri Hospital, Nabeul -Tunisia. / Université de Tunis el Manar, faculté de médecine de Tunis,
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14
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Romanelli RG, Vitiello G, Gitto S, Giudizi MG, Biagiotti R, Carraresi A, Vizzutti F, Laffi G, Almerigogna F. Characterization of lymphocyte subsets in ascitic fluid and peripheral blood of decompensated cirrhotic patients with chronic hepatitis C and alcoholic liver disease: A pivotal study. Int J Immunopathol Pharmacol 2021; 34:2058738420929587. [PMID: 32524881 PMCID: PMC7290250 DOI: 10.1177/2058738420929587] [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] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus and alcoholic liver disease are major causes of chronic liver diseases worldwide. Little is known about differences between chronic hepatitis C and alcoholic liver disease in terms of lymphocytes’ sub-population. Aim of the present study was to compare the sub-populations of lymphocytes in both ascitic compartment and peripheral blood in patients with decompensated liver cirrhosis due to chronic hepatitis C and alcoholic liver disease. Patients with decompensated liver cirrhosis due to hepatitis C virus or alcoholic liver disease evaluated from April 2014 to October 2016 were enrolled. Whole blood and ascitic fluid samples were stained with monoclonal antibodies specific for human TCRɑβ, TCRɣδ, CD3, CD4, CD8, CD19, CCR6, CD16, CD56, CD25, HLA-DR, Vɑ24. Sixteen patients with decompensated liver cirrhosis were recruited (9 with hepatitis C virus and 7 with alcoholic liver disease). In ascitic fluid, the percentage of both CD3+CD56− and CD3+CD56+iNKT cells resulted higher in hepatitis C virus patients than in alcoholic liver disease patients (1.82 ± 0.35% vs 0.70 ± 0.42% (p < 0.001) and 1.42 ± 0.35% vs 0.50 ± 0.30% (p < 0.001), respectively). Conversely, in peripheral blood samples, both CD3+CD56− and CD3+CD56+iNKT cells resulted significantly higher in alcoholic liver disease than in hepatitis C virus patients (4.70 ± 2.69% vs 1.50 ± 1.21% (p < 0.01) and 3.10 ± 1.76% vs 1.00 ± 0.70% (p < 0.01), respectively). Both elevation of iNKT cells in ascitic fluid and reduction in peripheral blood registered in hepatitis C virus but not in alcoholic liver disease patients might be considered indirect signals of tissutal translocation. In conclusion, we described relevant differences between the two groups. Alcoholic liver disease patients displayed lower number of CD3+CD4+ cells and a higher percentage of CD3−CD16+, Vα24+CD3+CD56− and Vα24+CD3+CD56+iNKT cells in ascitic fluid than hepatitis C virus positive subjects. Further studies might analyze the role of immune cells in the vulnerability toward infections and detect potential targets for new treatments especially for alcoholic liver disease patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Giulio Romanelli
- Internal Medicine and Liver Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Gianfranco Vitiello
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Stefano Gitto
- Internal Medicine and Liver Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Maria Grazia Giudizi
- Immunoallergology Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Roberta Biagiotti
- Immunoallergology Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Alessia Carraresi
- Immunoallergology Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Francesco Vizzutti
- Internal Medicine and Liver Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Giacomo Laffi
- Internal Medicine and Liver Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Fabio Almerigogna
- Immunoallergology Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
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15
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Qi M, Yang M, Xu L, Ma C, Huang P, Sun J, Shi J, Hu Y. Complete genome analysis identifies recombinant events and positive selection sites of hepatitis C virus from mainland China during 2010-2019. Virus Res 2021; 296:198354. [PMID: 33639223 DOI: 10.1016/j.virusres.2021.198354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2021] [Revised: 02/21/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Identification of new recombinant HCV strains and positive selection sites are crucially important for the formulation of virus intervention measures. However, little is known about the recombinant variant information and positive selection sites of circulating HCV strains in mainland China. In this study, we systematically identified recombinant variants and positive selection sites of HCV in mainland China during the 2010-2019. Phylogenetic analysis results indicated that HCV-6 was one of the dominant genotypes in mainland China during 2010-2019, whereas genotypes 7 and 8 were not detected. Recombinant analysis based on 102 full-length genome sequences of Chinese epidemic strains of HCV identified four intra-genotypic recombinants (strains WYHCV286, GB28, GZ2983, and HCV156) and one inter-genotypic recombinant (strain HH075). Specifically, two breakpoints in the 5' UTR of two recombinants, the strains HH075 and WYHCV286, are rather unusual and has not been described before. Further, selection pressure analyses revealed five positive selective sites, which were located in the core, E2, and NS5B protein. Notably, positive selective sites in NS5B and core protein may be partially responsible for the drug resistance and immune evasion. To the best of our knowledge, this study firstly reported five specific intertypic and intratypic recombinants of Chinese epidemic strains of HCV, which highlight their significance for anti-HCV treatment and vaccine development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengdi Qi
- Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan, China; Yunnan Provincial Key Laboratory of Vector-borne Diseases Control and Research, Institute of Medical Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Mengmei Yang
- Yunnan Provincial Key Laboratory of Vector-borne Diseases Control and Research, Institute of Medical Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Liangzi Xu
- Yunnan Provincial Key Laboratory of Vector-borne Diseases Control and Research, Institute of Medical Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Chunli Ma
- Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan, China; Yunnan Provincial Key Laboratory of Vector-borne Diseases Control and Research, Institute of Medical Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Pu Huang
- Yunnan Provincial Key Laboratory of Vector-borne Diseases Control and Research, Institute of Medical Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Jing Sun
- Yunnan Provincial Key Laboratory of Vector-borne Diseases Control and Research, Institute of Medical Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Jiandong Shi
- Yunnan Provincial Key Laboratory of Vector-borne Diseases Control and Research, Institute of Medical Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Kunming, Yunnan, China.
| | - Yunzhang Hu
- Yunnan Provincial Key Laboratory of Vector-borne Diseases Control and Research, Institute of Medical Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Kunming, Yunnan, China.
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16
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Al-Ani M, Elemam NM, Hundt JE, Maghazachi AA. Drugs for Multiple Sclerosis Activate Natural Killer Cells: Do They Protect Against COVID-19 Infection? Infect Drug Resist 2020; 13:3243-3254. [PMID: 33061471 PMCID: PMC7519863 DOI: 10.2147/idr.s269797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2020] [Accepted: 09/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
COVID-19 infection caused by the newly discovered coronavirus severe acute respiratory distress syndrome virus-19 (SARS-CoV-2) has become a pandemic issue across the globe. There are currently many investigations taking place to look for specific, safe and potent anti-viral agents. Upon transmission and entry into the human body, SARS-CoV-2 triggers multiple immune players to be involved in the fight against the viral infection. Amongst these immune cells are NK cells that possess robust antiviral activity, and which do not require prior sensitization. However, NK cell count and activity were found to be impaired in COVID-19 patients and hence, could become a potential therapeutic target for COVID-19. Several drugs, including glatiramer acetate (GA), vitamin D3, dimethyl fumarate (DMF), monomethyl fumarate (MMF), natalizumab, ocrelizumab, and IFN-β, among others have been previously described to increase the biological activities of NK cells especially their cytolytic potential as reported by upregulation of CD107a, and the release of perforin and granzymes. In this review, we propose that such drugs could potentially restore NK cell activity allowing individuals to be more protective against COVID-19 infection and its complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mena Al-Ani
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine and the Immuno-Oncology Group, Sharjah Institute for Medical Research, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates
| | - Noha Mousaad Elemam
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine and the Immuno-Oncology Group, Sharjah Institute for Medical Research, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates
| | | | - Azzam A Maghazachi
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine and the Immuno-Oncology Group, Sharjah Institute for Medical Research, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates
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17
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Rosen HR, Golden-Mason L. Control of HCV Infection by Natural Killer Cells and Macrophages. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Med 2020; 10:a037101. [PMID: 31871225 PMCID: PMC7447067 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a037101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Host defense against invading pathogens within the liver is dominated by innate immunity. Natural killer (NK) cells have been implicated at all stages of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, from providing innate protection to contributing to treatment-induced clearance. Decreased NK cell levels, altered NK cell subset distribution, activation marker expression, and functional polarization toward a cytolytic phenotype are hallmarks of chronic HCV infection. Interferon α (IFN-α) is a potent activator of NK cells; therefore, it is not surprising that NK cell activation has been identified as a key factor associated with sustained virological response (SVR) to IFN-α-based therapies. Understanding the role of NK cells, macrophages, and other innate immune cells post-SVR remains paramount for prevention of disease pathogenesis and progression. Novel strategies to treat liver disease may be aimed at targeting these cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hugo R Rosen
- Department of Medicine, University of Southern California (USC), Los Angeles, California 90033, USA
- USC Research Center for Liver Diseases, Los Angeles, California 90033, USA
| | - Lucy Golden-Mason
- Department of Medicine, University of Southern California (USC), Los Angeles, California 90033, USA
- USC Research Center for Liver Diseases, Los Angeles, California 90033, USA
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18
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Vidal-Castiñeira JR, López-Vázquez A, Diaz-Bulnes P, Díaz-Coto S, Márquez-Kisinousky L, Martínez-Borra J, Navascues CA, Sanz-Cameno P, de la Vega J, Astudillo A, Rodríguez M, López-Larrea C. Genetic contribution of endoplasmic reticulum aminopeptidase 1 polymorphisms to liver fibrosis progression in patients with HCV infection. J Mol Med (Berl) 2020; 98:1245-1254. [PMID: 32647953 DOI: 10.1007/s00109-020-01948-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2020] [Revised: 06/24/2020] [Accepted: 06/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The endoplasmic reticulum aminopeptidase ERAP1 regulates innate and adaptive immune responses, trimming peptides and loading onto HLA class I molecules. Coding single nucleotide polymorphisms within ERAP1 are associated with autoimmune diseases, viral infections, and cancer development. Our purpose was to analyze the influence of ERAP1 variants on fibrogenesis in hepatitis C virus (HCV)-infected patients. A range of ERAP1 polymorphisms were genotyped in 722 unrelated Caucasian patients diagnosed with chronic HCV from two Spanish cohorts. Patients were classified according to their fibrosis stage. Paraffin-embedded tissue microarrays were constructed to assess ERAP1 expression (HCV = 38; alcoholic = 20) by immunohistochemistry. A statistical algorithm was applied to derive a fibrogenesis prediction model. The ERAP1 variants rs30187/T (K528, pc < 0.001) and rs27044/G (Q730, pc < 0.001) were related with severe fibrosis. These results were validated in the two independent cohorts. Furthermore, patients with the rs30187/T allele had stronger ERAP1 protein expression than those with the rs30187/C (p < 0.05). The statistical model showed that patients with rs30187 C/T and T/T genotypes took 15.58 years (median) to develop advanced fibrosis, but this value was 32.08 years in patients carrying C/C genotype (p < 0.005). ERAP1 variants may influence the clinical course of fibrogenesis in HCV-infected patients. These polymorphisms could be exploited as constitutive new markers of fibrosis evolution. The results highlight the possibility of using modulators of ERAP1 to generate a protective immune response against chronic HCV infection. KEY MESSAGES: What is known Several ERAP1 polymorphisms are associated with autoimmune diseases and cancer. ERAP1 trims peptides to HLA class I presentation. What is new here ERAP1 polymorphisms are associated with fibrogenesis. The ERAP1 polymorphisms genotype could help us in clinical management of patients. Potential translational impact The use of modulators of ERAP1 could generate a protective response depending on SNPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jose Ramón Vidal-Castiñeira
- Translational Immunology Laboratory, Health Research Institute of the Principality of Asturias (ISPA), Hospital Universitario Central de Asturias, Oviedo, Spain
| | - Antonio López-Vázquez
- Translational Immunology Laboratory, Health Research Institute of the Principality of Asturias (ISPA), Hospital Universitario Central de Asturias, Oviedo, Spain.,Immunology Service, Hospital Universitario Central de Asturias, Av. de Roma s/n, 33011, Oviedo, Spain
| | - Paula Diaz-Bulnes
- Translational Immunology Laboratory, Health Research Institute of the Principality of Asturias (ISPA), Hospital Universitario Central de Asturias, Oviedo, Spain
| | | | - Leonardo Márquez-Kisinousky
- Translational Immunology Laboratory, Health Research Institute of the Principality of Asturias (ISPA), Hospital Universitario Central de Asturias, Oviedo, Spain
| | - Jesús Martínez-Borra
- Translational Immunology Laboratory, Health Research Institute of the Principality of Asturias (ISPA), Hospital Universitario Central de Asturias, Oviedo, Spain.,Immunology Service, Hospital Universitario Central de Asturias, Av. de Roma s/n, 33011, Oviedo, Spain
| | - Carmen A Navascues
- Gastroenterology Service, Hospital Universitario Central de Asturias, Oviedo, Spain
| | - Paloma Sanz-Cameno
- Liver Unit, Gastroenterology Service, Hospital Universitario de La Princesa, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Princesa (IIS-IP), Universidad Autónoma de Madrid and CIBERehd, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Juan de la Vega
- Gastroenterology Service, Hospital San Agustín, Avilés, Spain
| | - Aurora Astudillo
- Pathology Service, Hospital Universitario Central de Asturias, Oviedo, Spain
| | - Manuel Rodríguez
- Gastroenterology Service, Hospital Universitario Central de Asturias, Oviedo, Spain
| | - Carlos López-Larrea
- Translational Immunology Laboratory, Health Research Institute of the Principality of Asturias (ISPA), Hospital Universitario Central de Asturias, Oviedo, Spain. .,Immunology Service, Hospital Universitario Central de Asturias, Av. de Roma s/n, 33011, Oviedo, Spain.
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19
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Surlin P, Gheorghe DN, Popescu DM, Martu AM, Solomon S, Roman A, Lazar L, Stratul SI, Rusu D, Foia L, Boldeanu MV, Boldeanu L, Danilescu M, Rogoveanu I. Interleukin-1α and -1β assessment in the gingival crevicular fluid of periodontal patients with chronic hepatitis C. Exp Ther Med 2020; 20:2381-2386. [PMID: 32765719 PMCID: PMC7401928 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2020.8906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2020] [Accepted: 05/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The study assessed whether the increased production of interleukin-1α (IL-1α) and interleukin-1β (IL-1β), as a result of chronic hepatic inflammation, could be the expression of the negative impact on periodontal disease. The study included chronic periodontitis patients who were systemically healthy, chronic periodontitis patients suffering from chronic hepatitis C, as well as control patients, being systemically and periodontally healthy. After periodontal examination and the assessment of certain periodontal parameters, gingival crevicular fluid was collected from all participating patients. By using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay method, a quantitative assessment of IL-1α and IL-1β levels was possible. The immunologic results were correlated to the clinical periodontal data. The gingival fluid levels of cytokines were higher for periodontitis patients with chronic hepatitis C than for the systemically healthy periodontitis patients (1.8-fold higher for IL-1α and 2.1-fold higher for IL-1β). In addition, the gingival fluid cytokine levels were significantly higher for the periodontal patients (with/without chronic hepatitis C) than for the control group. Positive correlations were found between gingival fluid IL-1α and IL-1β levels and certain clinical periodontal parameters or the age of the viral hepatitis C diagnosis, in periodontitis patients with chronic hepatitis C. The chronic hepatic inflammation may have an important additional negative impact on the periodontal status, as both inflammatory reactions seem to be promoted by common pro-inflammatory cytokines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Petra Surlin
- Department of Periodontology, Faculty of Dental Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania
| | - Dorin Nicolae Gheorghe
- Department of Periodontology, Faculty of Dental Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania
| | - Dora Maria Popescu
- Department of Periodontology, Faculty of Dental Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania
| | - Alexandra Maria Martu
- Department of Periodontology, Faculty of Dental Medicine, 'Grigore T. Popa' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iasi, Romania
| | - Sorina Solomon
- Department of Periodontology, Faculty of Dental Medicine, 'Grigore T. Popa' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iasi, Romania
| | - Alexandra Roman
- Department of Periodontology, Faculty of Dental Medicine, 'Iuliu Hatieganu' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400000 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Luminita Lazar
- Department of Periodontology, Faculty of Dental Medicine, 'George Emil Palade' University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Science and Technology, 540139 Targu-Mures, Romania
| | - Stefan Ioan Stratul
- Department of Periodontology, Faculty of Dental Medicine, 'Victor Babes' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300230 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Darian Rusu
- Department of Periodontology, Faculty of Dental Medicine, 'Victor Babes' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300230 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Liliana Foia
- Department of Biochemistry, 'Grigore T. Popa' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iasi, Romania
| | - Mihail Virgil Boldeanu
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania
| | - Lidia Boldeanu
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania
| | - Monica Danilescu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania
| | - Ion Rogoveanu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania
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Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy despite immune recovery in a HIV/HCV co-infected patient. J Neurovirol 2020; 26:607-610. [PMID: 32458280 DOI: 10.1007/s13365-020-00848-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2019] [Revised: 03/16/2020] [Accepted: 04/23/2020] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
In HIV patients, HCV co-infection has been associated with an increased risk of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML). Furthermore, PML has also been described in patients with cirrhosis, whether related to HCV infection or not. We describe here the case of a HIV/HCV co-infected patient with cirrhosis who developed PML despite HIV suppression and CD4 cell count above 250/mm3 for 2 years. Immunological studies performed at onset of PML and before HCV therapy showed a decrease in naïve CD4 cells (CD45RA+CCR7+CD27+ CD4+ T cells - 23% cells, i.e. 75/mm3) and NK lymphopenia with abnormal and activated NK cells (CD3- CD16+ and/or CD56+) (5% lymphocytes, i.e. 58/mm3, CD69 91%, NKp30 26%). This impaired immunity, possibly related to HIV infection, or HCV infection or cirrhosis, or a combination thereof, could have led to the development of PML.
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21
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Njiomegnie GF, Read SA, Fewings N, George J, McKay F, Ahlenstiel G. Immunomodulation of the Natural Killer Cell Phenotype and Response during HCV Infection. J Clin Med 2020; 9:jcm9041030. [PMID: 32268490 PMCID: PMC7230811 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9041030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2020] [Accepted: 03/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection develops into chronic hepatitis in over two-thirds of acute infections. While current treatments with direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) achieve HCV eradication in >95% of cases, no vaccine is available and re-infection can readily occur. Natural killer (NK) cells represent a key cellular component of the innate immune system, participating in early defence against infectious diseases, viruses, and cancers. When acute infection becomes chronic, however, NK cell function is altered. This has been well studied in the context of HCV, where changes in frequency and distribution of NK cell populations have been reported. While activating receptors are downregulated on NK cells in both acute and chronic infection, NK cell inhibiting receptors are upregulated in chronic HCV infection, leading to altered NK cell responsiveness. Furthermore, chronic activation of NK cells following HCV infection contributes to liver inflammation and disease progression through enhanced cytotoxicity. Consequently, the NK immune response is a double-edged sword that is a significant component of the innate immune antiviral response, but persistent activation can drive tissue damage during chronic infection. This review will summarise the role of NK cells in HCV infection, and the changes that occur during HCV therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaitan Fabrice Njiomegnie
- Blacktown Clinical School and Research Centre, Western Sydney University, Blacktown 2148, NSW, Australia (S.A.R.)
- Storr Liver Centre, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, University of Sydney, Westmead 2145, NSW, Australia
| | - Scott A. Read
- Blacktown Clinical School and Research Centre, Western Sydney University, Blacktown 2148, NSW, Australia (S.A.R.)
- Storr Liver Centre, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, University of Sydney, Westmead 2145, NSW, Australia
- Blacktown Hospital, Blacktown 2148, NSW, Australia
| | - Nicole Fewings
- Centre for Immunology and Allergy Research, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Westmead 2145, NSW, Australia
- Westmead Clinical School, University of Sydney, Westmead 2145, NSW, Australia
| | - Jacob George
- Blacktown Clinical School and Research Centre, Western Sydney University, Blacktown 2148, NSW, Australia (S.A.R.)
- Storr Liver Centre, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, University of Sydney, Westmead 2145, NSW, Australia
- Westmead Clinical School, University of Sydney, Westmead 2145, NSW, Australia
- Westmead Hospital, Westmead 2145, NSW, Australia
| | - Fiona McKay
- Centre for Immunology and Allergy Research, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Westmead 2145, NSW, Australia
- Westmead Clinical School, University of Sydney, Westmead 2145, NSW, Australia
| | - Golo Ahlenstiel
- Blacktown Clinical School and Research Centre, Western Sydney University, Blacktown 2148, NSW, Australia (S.A.R.)
- Storr Liver Centre, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, University of Sydney, Westmead 2145, NSW, Australia
- Blacktown Hospital, Blacktown 2148, NSW, Australia
- Westmead Clinical School, University of Sydney, Westmead 2145, NSW, Australia
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +61-2-9851-6073
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Perpiñán E, Pérez-Del-Pulgar S, Londoño MC, Mariño Z, Bartres C, González P, García-López M, Pose E, Lens S, Maini MK, Forns X, Koutsoudakis G. Cirrhosis Hampers Early and Rapid Normalization of Natural Killer Cell Phenotype and Function in Hepatitis C Patients Undergoing Interferon-Free Therapy. Front Immunol 2020; 11:129. [PMID: 32161581 PMCID: PMC7052355 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.00129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2019] [Accepted: 01/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection impairs natural killer (NK) cell phenotype and function. Whether restoration of NK cells occurs after successful interferon (IFN)-free therapies remains a controversial issue. Aim: To analyze how HCV-related liver cirrhosis impacts changes in NK cells prior and post-IFN-free therapies. Methods: NK cell analysis by multicolor flow cytometry was performed in HCV-infected patients with (n = 17) and without (n = 14) cirrhosis at baseline, week 4 during therapy, and weeks 12 and 48 after the end of therapy (FU12 and FU48, respectively). Non-HCV cirrhotic patients (n = 12) and healthy individuals (n = 12) served as controls. Results: At baseline, HCV cirrhotic patients presented an altered distribution of NK subsets (CD56dim and CD56bright) with higher expression of NKp46, HLA-DR, NKp30, KIR2DL2/L3, NKG2A, and CD85j receptors compared to healthy controls. All frequencies normalized by FU48, except for CD85j+ cells. Likewise, substantial alterations were detected in NK cell function assessed by (i) signal transducer and activator of transcription 1 (STAT1) and phosphorylated levels of STAT1 and STAT4, (ii) degranulation (CD107a), (iii) cytotoxicity [tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL)], and (iv) cytokine production [IFN-γ and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α)]. Of note, NK cell function at FU48 remained partially impaired. In contrast, non-cirrhotics showed normal baseline frequencies of HLA-DR-, NKG2A-, and CD85j-expressing NK cells. Importantly, altered baseline frequencies of NK cell subsets and NKp46+ CD56dim cells, as well as NK cell function, were rapidly and completely restored. Conclusions: NK cell phenotype alterations persist after HCV eradication in cirrhotic patients, while their function is only partially restored, compromising immune restoration and immunosurveillance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Perpiñán
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, IDIBAPS, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Sofía Pérez-Del-Pulgar
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, IDIBAPS, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas, Barcelona, Spain
| | - María-Carlota Londoño
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, IDIBAPS, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Zoe Mariño
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, IDIBAPS, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Concepción Bartres
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, IDIBAPS, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Patricia González
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, IDIBAPS, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Mireia García-López
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, IDIBAPS, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Elisa Pose
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, IDIBAPS, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Sabela Lens
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, IDIBAPS, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Mala K. Maini
- Division of Infection and Immunity, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Xavier Forns
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, IDIBAPS, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas, Barcelona, Spain
| | - George Koutsoudakis
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, IDIBAPS, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas, Barcelona, Spain
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23
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Duncan JD, Urbanowicz RA, Tarr AW, Ball JK. Hepatitis C Virus Vaccine: Challenges and Prospects. Vaccines (Basel) 2020; 8:vaccines8010090. [PMID: 32079254 PMCID: PMC7157504 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines8010090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2019] [Revised: 01/25/2020] [Accepted: 02/04/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The hepatitis C virus (HCV) causes both acute and chronic infection and continues to be a global problem despite advances in antiviral therapeutics. Current treatments fail to prevent reinfection and remain expensive, limiting their use to developed countries, and the asymptomatic nature of acute infection can result in individuals not receiving treatment and unknowingly spreading HCV. A prophylactic vaccine is therefore needed to control this virus. Thirty years since the discovery of HCV, there have been major gains in understanding the molecular biology and elucidating the immunological mechanisms that underpin spontaneous viral clearance, aiding rational vaccine design. This review discusses the challenges facing HCV vaccine design and the most recent and promising candidates being investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua D. Duncan
- School of Life Sciences, The University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK; (R.A.U.); (A.W.T.); (J.K.B.)
- NIHR Nottingham BRC, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust and the University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK
- Nottingham Digestive Diseases Centre, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK
- Correspondence:
| | - Richard A. Urbanowicz
- School of Life Sciences, The University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK; (R.A.U.); (A.W.T.); (J.K.B.)
- NIHR Nottingham BRC, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust and the University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK
- Nottingham Digestive Diseases Centre, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK
| | - Alexander W. Tarr
- School of Life Sciences, The University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK; (R.A.U.); (A.W.T.); (J.K.B.)
- NIHR Nottingham BRC, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust and the University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK
- Nottingham Digestive Diseases Centre, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK
| | - Jonathan K. Ball
- School of Life Sciences, The University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK; (R.A.U.); (A.W.T.); (J.K.B.)
- NIHR Nottingham BRC, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust and the University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK
- Nottingham Digestive Diseases Centre, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK
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Rabaan AA, Al-Ahmed SH, Bazzi AM, Alfouzan WA, Alsuliman SA, Aldrazi FA, Haque S. Overview of hepatitis C infection, molecular biology, and new treatment. J Infect Public Health 2019; 13:773-783. [PMID: 31870632 DOI: 10.1016/j.jiph.2019.11.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2018] [Revised: 07/08/2019] [Accepted: 11/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The World Health Organization estimates that 71 million people worldwide have chronic hepatitis C viral infection. A major challenge is overall lack of public awareness of hepatitis C, particularly among infected people of their infection status. Chronic hepatitis C infection is associated with advanced liver disease, is the main cause of hepatocellular carcinoma and causes many extra-hepatic manifestations. The existence of seven viral genotypes complicates targeting of treatment. Recent years have seen the approval of many direct acting antivirals targeted at hepatitis C virus non-structural proteins. These have revolutionized therapy as they allow achievement of extremely high sustained virologic responses. Of great significance is the development of pan-genotypic drug combinations, including the NS3/4A-NS5A inhibitor combinations sofosbuvir-velpatasvir and glecaprevir-pibrentasvir. However, resistance-associated mutations can result in failure of these treatments in a small number of patients. This, combined with the high costs of treatment, highlights the importance of continued research into effective anti-hepatitis C therapies, for example aimed at viral entry. Recent developments include identification of the potential of low-cost anti-histamines for repurposing as inhibitors of hepatitis C viral entry. In this review we focus on molecular biology of hepatitis C virus, and the new developments in hepatitis C treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali A Rabaan
- Molecular Diagnostic Laboratory, Johns Hopkins Aramco Healthcare, Dhahran, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Shamsah H Al-Ahmed
- Specialty Paediatric Medicine, Qatif Central Hospital, Qatif, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ali M Bazzi
- Microbiology Laboratory, Johns Hopkins Aramco Healthcare, Dhahran, Saudi Arabia
| | - Wadha A Alfouzan
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Kuwait University, Safat 13110, Kuwait; Faculty of Medicine, Kuwait University, Dasma 35153, Kuwait
| | - Shahab A Alsuliman
- Internal Medicine and Infectious Disease Department, Dammam Medical Complex, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Fatimah A Aldrazi
- Infection Control Department, Dammam Medical Complex, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Shafiul Haque
- Research and Scientific Studies Unit, College of Nursing & Allied Health Sciences, Jazan University, Saudi Arabia
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25
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Piñeiro Fernández J, Luddy KA, Harmon C, O'Farrelly C. Hepatic Tumor Microenvironments and Effects on NK Cell Phenotype and Function. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:E4131. [PMID: 31450598 PMCID: PMC6747260 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20174131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2019] [Revised: 08/16/2019] [Accepted: 08/20/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The liver is a complex organ with critical physiological functions including metabolism, glucose storage, and drug detoxification. Its unique immune profile with large numbers of cytotoxic CD8+ T cells and significant innate lymphoid population, including natural killer cells, γ δ T cells, MAIT cells, and iNKTcells, suggests an important anti-tumor surveillance role. Despite significant immune surveillance in the liver, in particular large NK cell populations, hepatic cell carcinoma (HCC) is a relatively common outcome of chronic liver infection or inflammation. The liver is also the second most common site of metastatic disease. This discordance suggests immune suppression by the environments of primary and secondary liver cancers. Classic tumor microenvironments (TME) are poorly perfused, leading to accumulation of tumor cell metabolites, diminished O2, and decreased nutrient levels, all of which impact immune cell phenotype and function. Here, we focus on changes in the liver microenvironment associated with tumor presence and how they affect NK function and phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kimberly A Luddy
- School of Biochemistry and Immunology, Trinity College Dublin, D02 PN40 Dublin, Ireland.
- Department of Cancer Physiology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL 33626, USA.
| | - Cathal Harmon
- Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Institutes of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02138, USA
| | - Cliona O'Farrelly
- School of Biochemistry and Immunology, Trinity College Dublin, D02 PN40 Dublin, Ireland.
- School of Medicine, Trinity College Dublin, D02 PN40 Dublin, Ireland.
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26
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Jiang HJ, Wang XX, Luo BF, Cong X, Jin Q, Qin H, Zhang HY, Kong XS, Wei L, Feng B. Direct antiviral agents upregulate natural killer cell potential activity in chronic hepatitis C patients. Clin Exp Med 2019; 19:299-308. [PMID: 31218578 DOI: 10.1007/s10238-019-00564-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2018] [Accepted: 06/12/2019] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Direct antiviral agents (DAAs) can eliminate hepatitis C virus rapidly and make chronic hepatitis C (CHC) curable. The changes in the innate immune system during treatment with DAAs are still in dispute. To investigate how the functions of natural killer (NK) cells change during and after treatment with DAAs in each NK cell subset. Thirteen CHC patients were treated with sofosbuvir/ledipasvir, and the expression levels of NKp46 and NKG2A were tested via flow cytometry at baseline, at 2, 4, 8 and 12 weeks during the therapy and 12 and 24 weeks after the end of treatment; expression levels were compared between CHC patients and 13 healthy controls. A redirected killing assay was used to detect the cytotoxicity of NK cells. After coculturing NK cells with JFH-Huh7 cells for 72 h, HCV RNA was tested to analyze the inhibition ability of NK cells. All patients achieved sustained virologic response. The expression of the activating receptor NKp46 was decreased first at week 8 during therapy with DAAs and then increased and normalized to levels in healthy controls after treatment with DAAs. The expression of the inhibitory receptor NKG2A was decreased during and after treatment with DAAs. Each NK cell subset has a similar changing trend during and after treatment with DAAs, although some differences can be found earlier and later. The ratio of NKp46 and NKG2A was upregulated after treatment with DAAs. CD56bright NK cells have less amplitude in the frequency ratio changes after treatment with DAAs. The coculture results showed that both the specific lysis and the inhibition of HCV replication were significantly upregulated after treatment with DAAs. DAA treatments can affect patients' NK cell function. After DAA treatments, the expression of functional markers is downregulated, but the potential activity of NK cells is upregulated. The function of NK cells is normalized to levels in healthy controls. CD56bright NK cells play an important role in this process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han-Ji Jiang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Hepatitis C and Immunotherapy for Liver Diseases, Peking University Hepatology Institute, Peking University People's Hospital, No. 11 Xizhimen South Street, Beijing, 100044, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiao-Xiao Wang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Hepatitis C and Immunotherapy for Liver Diseases, Peking University Hepatology Institute, Peking University People's Hospital, No. 11 Xizhimen South Street, Beijing, 100044, People's Republic of China
| | - Bi-Fen Luo
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Hepatitis C and Immunotherapy for Liver Diseases, Peking University Hepatology Institute, Peking University People's Hospital, No. 11 Xizhimen South Street, Beijing, 100044, People's Republic of China
| | - Xu Cong
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Hepatitis C and Immunotherapy for Liver Diseases, Peking University Hepatology Institute, Peking University People's Hospital, No. 11 Xizhimen South Street, Beijing, 100044, People's Republic of China
| | - Qian Jin
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Hepatitis C and Immunotherapy for Liver Diseases, Peking University Hepatology Institute, Peking University People's Hospital, No. 11 Xizhimen South Street, Beijing, 100044, People's Republic of China
| | - Hong Qin
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Hepatitis C and Immunotherapy for Liver Diseases, Peking University Hepatology Institute, Peking University People's Hospital, No. 11 Xizhimen South Street, Beijing, 100044, People's Republic of China
| | - Hai-Ying Zhang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Hepatitis C and Immunotherapy for Liver Diseases, Peking University Hepatology Institute, Peking University People's Hospital, No. 11 Xizhimen South Street, Beijing, 100044, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiang-Sha Kong
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Hepatitis C and Immunotherapy for Liver Diseases, Peking University Hepatology Institute, Peking University People's Hospital, No. 11 Xizhimen South Street, Beijing, 100044, People's Republic of China
| | - Lai Wei
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Hepatitis C and Immunotherapy for Liver Diseases, Peking University Hepatology Institute, Peking University People's Hospital, No. 11 Xizhimen South Street, Beijing, 100044, People's Republic of China
| | - Bo Feng
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Hepatitis C and Immunotherapy for Liver Diseases, Peking University Hepatology Institute, Peking University People's Hospital, No. 11 Xizhimen South Street, Beijing, 100044, People's Republic of China.
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27
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Juengpanich S, Shi L, Iranmanesh Y, Chen J, Cheng Z, Khoo AKJ, Pan L, Wang Y, Cai X. The role of natural killer cells in hepatocellular carcinoma development and treatment: A narrative review. Transl Oncol 2019; 12:1092-1107. [PMID: 31176993 PMCID: PMC6558093 DOI: 10.1016/j.tranon.2019.04.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2019] [Revised: 04/11/2019] [Accepted: 04/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
A major obstacle for treatment of HCC is the inadequate efficacy and limitation of the available therapeutic options. Despite the recent advances in developing novel treatment options, HCC still remains one of the major causes of cancer morbidity and mortality around the world. Achieving effective treatment and eradication of HCC is a challenging task, however recent studies have shown that targeting Natural Killer cells, as major regulators of immune system, can help with the complete treatment of HCC, restoration of normal liver function and subsequently higher survival rate of HCC patients. Studies have shown that decrease in the frequency of NK cells, their dysfunction due to several factors such as dysregulation of receptors and their ligands, and imbalance of different types of inhibitory and stimulating microRNA expression is associated with higher rate of HCC progression and development, and poor survival outcome. Here in our review, we mainly focused on the importance of NK cells in HCC development and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarun Juengpanich
- Department of General Surgery, Sir Run-Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310016, Zhejiang, Province, China; School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China.
| | - Liang Shi
- Department of General Surgery, Sir Run-Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310016, Zhejiang, Province, China.
| | | | - Jiang Chen
- Department of General Surgery, Sir Run-Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310016, Zhejiang, Province, China; Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA.
| | - Zhenzhe Cheng
- School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China.
| | - Aaron Kah-Jin Khoo
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, 4027, Australia.
| | - Long Pan
- Department of General Surgery, Sir Run-Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310016, Zhejiang, Province, China; School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China.
| | - Yifan Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Sir Run-Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310016, Zhejiang, Province, China.
| | - Xiujun Cai
- Department of General Surgery, Sir Run-Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310016, Zhejiang, Province, China.
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NKG2A is a NK cell exhaustion checkpoint for HCV persistence. Nat Commun 2019; 10:1507. [PMID: 30944315 PMCID: PMC6447531 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-019-09212-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2018] [Accepted: 02/18/2019] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Exhaustion of cytotoxic effector natural killer (NK) and CD8+ T cells have important functions in the establishment of persistent viral infections, but how exhaustion is induced during chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection remains poorly defined. Here we show, using the humanized C/OTg mice permissive for persistent HCV infection, that NK and CD8+ T cells become sequentially exhausted shortly after their transient hepatic infiltration and activation in acute HCV infection. HCV infection upregulates Qa-1 expression in hepatocytes, which ligates NKG2A to induce NK cell exhaustion. Antibodies targeting NKG2A or Qa-1 prevents NK exhaustion and promotes NK-dependent HCV clearance. Moreover, reactivated NK cells provide sufficient IFN-γ that helps rejuvenate polyclonal HCV CD8+ T cell response and clearance of HCV. Our data thus show that NKG2A serves as a critical checkpoint for HCV-induced NK exhaustion, and that NKG2A blockade sequentially boosts interdependent NK and CD8+ T cell functions to prevent persistent HCV infection. Immune cells may become less responsive, or ‘exhausted’, upon chronic viral infection, but the underlying mechanism and crosstalk are still unclear. Here the authors show that, upon chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, natural killer cell exhaustion is induced by NKG2A signalling to instruct downstream exhaustion of CD8+ T cells and HCV persistence.
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29
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Sung PS, Jang JW. Natural Killer Cell Dysfunction in Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Pathogenesis and Clinical Implications. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19113648. [PMID: 30463262 PMCID: PMC6274919 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19113648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2018] [Revised: 11/16/2018] [Accepted: 11/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is currently the third leading cause of malignancy-related mortalities worldwide. Natural killer (NK) cells are involved in the critical role of first line immunological defense against cancer development. Defects in NK cell functions are recognized as important mechanisms for immune evasion of tumor cells. NK cell function appears to be attenuated in HCC, and many previous reports suggested that NK cells play a critical role in controlling HCC, suggesting that boosting the activity of dysfunctional NK cells can enhance tumor cell killing. However, the detailed mechanisms of NK cell dysfunction in tumor microenvironment of HCC remain largely unknown. A better understanding of the mechanisms of NK cell dysfunction in HCC will help in the NK cell-mediated eradication of cancer cells and prolong patient survival. In this review, we describe the various mechanisms underlying human NK cell dysfunction in HCC. Further, we summarize current advances in the approaches to enhance endogenous NK cell function and in adoptive NK cell therapies, to cure this difficult-to-treat cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pil Soo Sung
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 06591, Korea.
- The Catholic Liver Research Center, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 06591, Korea.
| | - Jeong Won Jang
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 06591, Korea.
- The Catholic Liver Research Center, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 06591, Korea.
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Cicchese JM, Evans S, Hult C, Joslyn LR, Wessler T, Millar JA, Marino S, Cilfone NA, Mattila JT, Linderman JJ, Kirschner DE. Dynamic balance of pro- and anti-inflammatory signals controls disease and limits pathology. Immunol Rev 2018; 285:147-167. [PMID: 30129209 PMCID: PMC6292442 DOI: 10.1111/imr.12671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 145] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Immune responses to pathogens are complex and not well understood in many diseases, and this is especially true for infections by persistent pathogens. One mechanism that allows for long-term control of infection while also preventing an over-zealous inflammatory response from causing extensive tissue damage is for the immune system to balance pro- and anti-inflammatory cells and signals. This balance is dynamic and the immune system responds to cues from both host and pathogen, maintaining a steady state across multiple scales through continuous feedback. Identifying the signals, cells, cytokines, and other immune response factors that mediate this balance over time has been difficult using traditional research strategies. Computational modeling studies based on data from traditional systems can identify how this balance contributes to immunity. Here we provide evidence from both experimental and mathematical/computational studies to support the concept of a dynamic balance operating during persistent and other infection scenarios. We focus mainly on tuberculosis, currently the leading cause of death due to infectious disease in the world, and also provide evidence for other infections. A better understanding of the dynamically balanced immune response can help shape treatment strategies that utilize both drugs and host-directed therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph M. Cicchese
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Stephanie Evans
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Caitlin Hult
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Louis R. Joslyn
- Department of Computational Medicine and Bioinformatics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Timothy Wessler
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Jess A. Millar
- Department of Computational Medicine and Bioinformatics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Simeone Marino
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Nicholas A. Cilfone
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Joshua T. Mattila
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Microbiology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | | | - Denise E. Kirschner
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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31
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Cooper GE, Ostridge K, Khakoo SI, Wilkinson TMA, Staples KJ. Human CD49a + Lung Natural Killer Cell Cytotoxicity in Response to Influenza A Virus. Front Immunol 2018; 9:1671. [PMID: 30079068 PMCID: PMC6062652 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.01671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2018] [Accepted: 07/05/2018] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Influenza A virus (IAV) is a major global public health burden due to its routine evasion of immunization strategies. Natural killer (NK) cells are innate cytotoxic cells with important antiviral activity in the human body, yet the function of these cells in the control of IAV infection is unclear. The aim of this study was to determine the role of lung NK cell cytotoxic responses to IAV. Human lung explants were infected ex vivo with IAV, and lung NK cell activation was analyzed by flow cytometry. Cytotoxic responses of NK cell subsets against IAV-infected macrophages were measured by flow cytometry and ELISA. Despite reports of hypofunctionality in the pulmonary environment, human lung-associated NK cells responded rapidly to ex vivo IAV infection, with upregulation of surface CD107a 24 h post-infection. The lung NK cell phenotype is similar in maturity and differentiation to NK cells of the peripheral blood but a unique CD56brightCD49a+CD103+CD69+ NK cell population was identified in the lung, indicating NK cell residency within this organ. In response to ex vivo IAV infection a greater proportion of resident CD56brightCD49a+ NK cells expressed surface CD107a compared with CD56brightCD49a− NK cells, suggesting a hyperfunctional NK cell population may be present within human lung tissue and could be the result of innate immunological training. Furthermore, NK cells provided significant antiviral, cytotoxic activity following contact with influenza-infected cells, including the production and release of IFN-γ and granzyme-B resulting in macrophage cell death. These results suggest that a resident, trained NK cell population are present in the human lung and may provide early and important control of viral infection. A greater understanding of this resident mucosal population may provide further insight into the role of these cells in controlling viral infection and generating appropriate adaptive immunity to IAV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grace E Cooper
- Clinical and Experimental Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Sir Henry Wellcome Laboratories, Southampton General Hospital, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Kristoffer Ostridge
- Clinical and Experimental Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Sir Henry Wellcome Laboratories, Southampton General Hospital, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom.,Southampton NIHR Respiratory Biomedical Research Unit, Southampton General Hospital, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Salim I Khakoo
- Clinical and Experimental Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Sir Henry Wellcome Laboratories, Southampton General Hospital, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Tom M A Wilkinson
- Clinical and Experimental Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Sir Henry Wellcome Laboratories, Southampton General Hospital, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom.,Southampton NIHR Respiratory Biomedical Research Unit, Southampton General Hospital, Southampton, United Kingdom.,Wessex Investigational Sciences Hub, Faculty of Medicine, Southampton General Hospital, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Karl J Staples
- Clinical and Experimental Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Sir Henry Wellcome Laboratories, Southampton General Hospital, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom.,Wessex Investigational Sciences Hub, Faculty of Medicine, Southampton General Hospital, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
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32
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Model of the adaptive immune response system against HCV infection reveals potential immunomodulatory agents for combination therapy. Sci Rep 2018; 8:8874. [PMID: 29891859 PMCID: PMC5995896 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-27163-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2017] [Accepted: 05/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
A regulated immune system employs multiple cell types, diverse variety of cytokines and interacting signalling networks against infections. Systems biology offers a promising solution to model and simulate such large populations of interacting components of immune systems holistically. This study focuses on the distinct components of the adaptive immune system and analysis, both individually and in association with HCV infection. The effective and failed adaptive immune response models have been developed followed by interventions/perturbations of various treatment strategies to get better assessment of the treatment responses under varying stimuli. Based on the model predictions, the NK cells, T regulatory cells, IL-10, IL-21, IL-12, IL-2 entities are found to be the most critical determinants of treatment response. The proposed potential immunomodulatory therapeutic interventions include IL-21 treatment, blocking of inhibitory receptors on T-cells and exogenous anti-IL-10 antibody treatment. The relative results showed that these interventions have differential effect on the expression levels of cellular and cytokines entities of the immune response. Notably, IL-21 enhances the expression of NK cells, Cytotoxic T lymphocytes and CD4+ T cells and hence restore the host immune potential. The models presented here provide a starting point for cost-effective analysis and more comprehensive modeling of biological phenomenon.
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33
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Pollmann J, Götz JJ, Rupp D, Strauss O, Granzin M, Grünvogel O, Mutz P, Kramer C, Lasitschka F, Lohmann V, Björkström NK, Thimme R, Bartenschlager R, Cerwenka A. Hepatitis C virus-induced natural killer cell proliferation involves monocyte-derived cells and the OX40/OX40L axis. J Hepatol 2018; 68:421-430. [PMID: 29100993 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2017.10.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2017] [Revised: 10/06/2017] [Accepted: 10/23/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Natural killer (NK) cells are found at increased frequencies in patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV). NK cell activation has been shown to correlate with HCV clearance and to predict a favourable treatment response. The aim of our study was to dissect mechanisms leading to NK cell activation and proliferation in response to HCV. METHODS NK cell phenotype, proliferation, and function were assessed after the 6-day co-culture of human peripheral blood mononuclear cells with either HCV replicon-containing HuH6 hepatoblastoma cells or HCV-infected HuH7.5 cells. The results obtained were confirmed by immunohistochemistry of liver biopsies from patients with HCV and from HCV-negative controls. RESULTS In HCV-containing co-cultures, a higher frequency of NK cells upregulated the expression of the high-affinity IL-2 receptor chain CD25, proliferated more rapidly, and produced higher amounts of interferon γ compared with NK cells from control co-cultures. This NK cell activation was dependent on IL-2, cell-cell contact-mediated signals, and HCV replicon-exposed monocytes. The tumour necrosis factor-receptor superfamily member OX40 was induced on the activated CD25± NK cell subset and this induction was abrogated by the depletion of CD14+ monocytes. Moreover, OX40L was upregulated on CD14± monocyte-derived cells co-cultured with HCV-containing cells and also observed in liver biopsies from patients with HCV. Importantly, blocking of the OX40/OX40L interaction abolished both NK cell activation and proliferation. CONCLUSIONS Our results uncover a previously unappreciated cell-cell contact-mediated mechanism of NK cell activation and proliferation in response to HCV, mediated by monocyte-derived cells and the OX40/OX40L axis. These results reveal a novel mode of crosstalk between innate immune cells during viral infection. LAY SUMMARY Using a cell-culture model of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, our study revealed that natural killer (NK) cells become activated and proliferate when they are co-cultured with HCV-containing liver cells. The mechanism of this activation involves crosstalk with other innate immune cells and a cell-cell contact interaction mediated by the cell surface molecules OX40 and OX40L. Our study reveals a novel pathway leading to NK cell proliferation and activation against virus-infected cells that might be of relevance in antiviral immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Pollmann
- Innate Immunity Group, German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Jana-Julia Götz
- Innate Immunity Group, German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Daniel Rupp
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Molecular Virology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Otto Strauss
- Center for Infectious Medicine, Department of Medicine Huddinge, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Markus Granzin
- Miltenyi Biotec Inc. Clinical Research, Gaithersburg, MD, USA
| | - Oliver Grünvogel
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Molecular Virology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Pascal Mutz
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Molecular Virology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Catharina Kramer
- Department of Medicine, University Medical Center, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Felix Lasitschka
- Institute of Pathology, Ruprecht-Karls-University Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Volker Lohmann
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Molecular Virology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Niklas K Björkström
- Center for Infectious Medicine, Department of Medicine Huddinge, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Robert Thimme
- Department of Medicine, University Medical Center, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Ralf Bartenschlager
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Molecular Virology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany; Division of Virus-Associated Carcinogenesis, German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Adelheid Cerwenka
- Innate Immunity Group, German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Germany; Division of Immunbiochemistry, University Heidelberg, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Germany.
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34
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Pollmann J, Rölle A, Hofmann M, Cerwenka A. Hepatitis C Virus and Human Cytomegalovirus-Natural Killer Cell Subsets in Persistent Viral Infections. Front Immunol 2017; 8:566. [PMID: 28567042 PMCID: PMC5434107 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2017.00566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2017] [Accepted: 04/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) and human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) are prominent examples of RNA and DNA viruses, respectively, that establish a persistent infection in their host. HCV affects over 185 million patients worldwide, who are at high risk for developing liver fibrosis, liver cirrhosis, and ultimately hepatocellular carcinoma. Recent breakthroughs in HCV therapy, using direct-acting antivirals have provided the opportunity to monitor natural killer (NK) cells after clearance of a chronic infection. There is now increasing evidence that the individual NK cell repertoire before infection is predictive for the course of disease. HCMV affects the majority of the global population. While being asymptomatic in healthy individuals, HCMV represents a severe clinical challenge in immunocompromised patients. Both viral infections, HCV and HCMV, lead to long-lasting and profound alterations within the entire NK cell compartment. This review article, will discuss the diverse range of changes in the NK cell compartment as well as potential consequences for the course of disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Pollmann
- Research Group Innate Immunity, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Alexander Rölle
- Clinical Cooperation Unit Applied Tumor-Immunity, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Maike Hofmann
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medicine II, University Hospital Freiburg, University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Adelheid Cerwenka
- Research Group Innate Immunity, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany.,Medical Faculty Mannheim, Division of Immunbiochemistry, University Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
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35
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Fernández-Ponce C, Dominguez-Villar M, Muñoz-Miranda JP, Arbulo-Echevarria MM, Litrán R, Aguado E, García-Cozar F. Immune modulation by the hepatitis C virus core protein. J Viral Hepat 2017; 24:350-356. [PMID: 28092420 DOI: 10.1111/jvh.12675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2016] [Accepted: 12/22/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is currently the most important cause of chronic viral hepatitis in the world and one of the most frequent indications for liver transplantation. HCV uses different strategies to evade the innate and adaptive immune response, and this evasion plays a key role in determining viral persistence. Several HCV viral proteins have been described as immune modulators. In this review, we will focus on the effect of HCV nucleocapsid core protein in the function of immune cells and its correlation with the findings observed in HCV chronically infected patients. Effects on immune cell function related to both extracellular and intracellular HCV core localization will be considered. This review provides an updated perspective on the mechanisms involved in HCV evasion related to one single HCV protein, which could become a key tool in the development of new antiviral strategies able to control and/or eradicate HCV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Fernández-Ponce
- Department of Biomedicine, Biotechnology and Public Health (Immunology), University of Cadiz and Institute of Biomedical Research Cádiz (INIBICA), Cadiz, Spain
| | - M Dominguez-Villar
- Department of Biomedicine, Biotechnology and Public Health (Immunology), University of Cadiz and Institute of Biomedical Research Cádiz (INIBICA), Cadiz, Spain.,Department of Neurology, Human Translational Immunology Program, Yale School of Medicine, 300 George St. 353D, New Haven, 06520, CT
| | - J P Muñoz-Miranda
- Department of Biomedicine, Biotechnology and Public Health (Immunology), University of Cadiz and Institute of Biomedical Research Cádiz (INIBICA), Cadiz, Spain
| | - M M Arbulo-Echevarria
- Department of Biomedicine, Biotechnology and Public Health (Immunology), University of Cadiz and Institute of Biomedical Research Cádiz (INIBICA), Cadiz, Spain
| | - R Litrán
- Department of Condensed Matter Physics, University of Cádiz, Puerto Real, Cádiz, Spain
| | - E Aguado
- Department of Biomedicine, Biotechnology and Public Health (Immunology), University of Cadiz and Institute of Biomedical Research Cádiz (INIBICA), Cadiz, Spain
| | - F García-Cozar
- Department of Biomedicine, Biotechnology and Public Health (Immunology), University of Cadiz and Institute of Biomedical Research Cádiz (INIBICA), Cadiz, Spain
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36
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Yang CM, Yoon JC, Park JH, Lee JM. Hepatitis C virus impairs natural killer cell activity via viral serine protease NS3. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0175793. [PMID: 28410411 PMCID: PMC5391949 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0175793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2017] [Accepted: 03/31/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is characterized by a high frequency of chronic cases owing to the impairment of innate and adaptive immune responses. The modulation of natural killer (NK) cell functions by HCV leads to an impaired innate immune response. However, the underling mechanisms and roles of HCV proteins in this immune evasion are controversial, especially in the early phase of HCV infection. To investigate the role of HCV nonstructural proteins especially NS3 in the impairment of NK functions, NK cells were isolated from the PBMCs by negative selection. To assess the direct cytotoxicity and IFN-γ production capability of NK cells, co-cultured with uninfected, HCV-infected, HCV-NS3 DNA-transfected Huh-7.5, or HCV-NS replicon cells. To determine the effect of an NS3 serine protease inhibitor, HCV-infected Huh-7.5 cells were treated with BILN-2061. Then, NK cells were harvested and further co-cultured with K-562 target cells. NK cell functions were analyzed by flow cytometry and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. When co-cultured with HCV-infected Huh-7.5 cells, the natural cytotoxicity and IFN-γ production capability of NK cells were significantly reduced. NK cell functions were inhibited to similar levels upon co-culture with HCV-NS replicon cells, NS3-transfected cells, and HCV-infected Huh-7.5 cells. These reductions were restored by BILN-2061-treatment. Furthermore, BILN-2061-treatment significantly increased degranulation against K-562 target cells and IFN-γ productivity in NK cells. Consistent with these findings, the expression levels of activating NK cell receptors, such as NKp46 and NKp30, were also increased. In HCV-infected cells, the serine protease NS3 may play a role in the abrogation of NK cell functions in the early phase of infection through downregulation of NKp46 and NKp30 receptors on NK cells. Together, these results suggest that NS3 represents a novel drug target for the treatment of HCV infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chang Mo Yang
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Institute for Immunology and Immunological Diseases and Brain Korea 21 PLUS Project for Medical Sciences, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Joo Chun Yoon
- Department of Microbiology and Tissue Injury Defense Research Center, Ewha Womans University School of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeon Han Park
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Institute for Immunology and Immunological Diseases and Brain Korea 21 PLUS Project for Medical Sciences, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae Myun Lee
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Institute for Immunology and Immunological Diseases and Brain Korea 21 PLUS Project for Medical Sciences, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- * E-mail:
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