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Fu J, Zong X, Jin M, Min J, Wang F, Wang Y. Mechanisms and regulation of defensins in host defense. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2023; 8:300. [PMID: 37574471 PMCID: PMC10423725 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-023-01553-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Revised: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023] Open
Abstract
As a family of cationic host defense peptides, defensins are mainly synthesized by Paneth cells, neutrophils, and epithelial cells, contributing to host defense. Their biological functions in innate immunity, as well as their structure and activity relationships, along with their mechanisms of action and therapeutic potential, have been of great interest in recent years. To highlight the key research into the role of defensins in human and animal health, we first describe their research history, structural features, evolution, and antimicrobial mechanisms. Next, we cover the role of defensins in immune homeostasis, chemotaxis, mucosal barrier function, gut microbiota regulation, intestinal development and regulation of cell death. Further, we discuss their clinical relevance and therapeutic potential in various diseases, including infectious disease, inflammatory bowel disease, diabetes and obesity, chronic inflammatory lung disease, periodontitis and cancer. Finally, we summarize the current knowledge regarding the nutrient-dependent regulation of defensins, including fatty acids, amino acids, microelements, plant extracts, and probiotics, while considering the clinical application of such regulation. Together, the review summarizes the various biological functions, mechanism of actions and potential clinical significance of defensins, along with the challenges in developing defensins-based therapy, thus providing crucial insights into their biology and potential clinical utility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Fu
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Animal Nutrition, Ministry of Education, College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition and Feed Science in Eastern China, Ministry of Agriculture, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Xin Zong
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Animal Nutrition, Ministry of Education, College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition and Feed Science in Eastern China, Ministry of Agriculture, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Mingliang Jin
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Animal Nutrition, Ministry of Education, College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition and Feed Science in Eastern China, Ministry of Agriculture, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Junxia Min
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Fudi Wang
- The Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Public Health, State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Basic Medical Sciences, School of Public Health, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, China.
| | - Yizhen Wang
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Animal Nutrition, Ministry of Education, College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.
- Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition and Feed Science in Eastern China, Ministry of Agriculture, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China.
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2
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Hazlett LD, Xu S, Somayajulu M, McClellan SA. Host-microbe interactions in cornea. Ocul Surf 2023; 28:413-423. [PMID: 34619389 PMCID: PMC8977393 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtos.2021.09.008] [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: 08/20/2021] [Revised: 09/23/2021] [Accepted: 09/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Corneal infections result through interaction between microbes and host innate immune receptors. Damage to the cornea occurs as a result of microbial virulence factors and is often exacerbated by lack of a controlled host immune response; the latter contributing to bystander damage to corneal structure. Understanding mechanisms involved in host microbial interactions is critical to development of novel therapeutic targets, ultimate control of microbial pathogenesis, and restoration of tissue homeostasis. Studies on these interactions continue to provide exciting findings directly related to this ultimate goal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda D Hazlett
- Department of Ophthalmology, Visual and Anatomical Sciences, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, 48201, USA.
| | - Shunbin Xu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Visual and Anatomical Sciences, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, 48201, USA
| | - Mallika Somayajulu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Visual and Anatomical Sciences, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, 48201, USA
| | - Sharon A McClellan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Visual and Anatomical Sciences, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, 48201, USA
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3
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Silveira ELVD, Rai U, Bonezi V, Zárate-Bladés CR, Claser C. CCR6 expression reduces mouse survival upon malarial challenge with Plasmodium berghei NK65 strain. Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz 2022; 117:e210287. [PMID: 35730803 PMCID: PMC9208320 DOI: 10.1590/0074-02760210287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND It has been demonstrated that proteins expressed by liver-stage Plasmodium parasites can inhibit the translocation of transcription factors to the nucleus of different cells. This process would hinder the expression of immune genes, such as the CCL20 chemokine. OBJECTIVE Since CCR6 is the only cognate receptor for CCL20, we investigated the importance of this chemokine-receptor axis against rodent malaria. METHODS CCR6-deficient (KO) and wild-type (WT) C57BL/6 mice were challenged with Plasmodium berghei (Pb) NK65 sporozoites or infected red blood cells (iRBCs). Liver parasitic cDNA, parasitemia and serum cytokine concentrations were respectively evaluated through reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), staining thin-blood smears with Giemsa solution, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). FINDINGS Although the sporozoite challenges yielded similar liver parasitic cDNA and parasitemia, KO mice presented a prolonged survival than WT mice. After iRBC challenges, KO mice kept displaying higher survival rates as well as a decreased IL-12 p70 concentration in the serum than WT mice. CONCLUSION Our data suggest that malaria triggered by PbNK65 liver- or blood-stage forms elicit a pro-inflammatory environment that culminates with a decreased survival of infected C57BL/6 mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eduardo Lani Volpe da Silveira
- New York University School of Medicine, Department of Pathology, Michael Heidelberg Division of Immunology, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Urvashi Rai
- New York University School of Medicine, Department of Pathology, Michael Heidelberg Division of Immunology, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Vivian Bonezi
- Universidade de São Paulo, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Departamento de Análises Clínicas e Toxicológicas, Laboratório de Imunologia de Células B, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - Carlos Rodrigo Zárate-Bladés
- Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Departamento de Microbiologia, Imunologia e Parasitologia, Laboratório de Imunorregulação, Florianópolis, SC, Brasil
| | - Carla Claser
- Universidade de São Paulo, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Departamento de Parasitologia, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
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4
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Escobar‐Salom M, Torrens G, Jordana‐Lluch E, Oliver A, Juan C. Mammals' humoral immune proteins and peptides targeting the bacterial envelope: from natural protection to therapeutic applications against multidrug‐resistant
Gram
‐negatives. Biol Rev Camb Philos Soc 2022; 97:1005-1037. [PMID: 35043558 PMCID: PMC9304279 DOI: 10.1111/brv.12830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2021] [Revised: 12/12/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Mammalian innate immunity employs several humoral ‘weapons’ that target the bacterial envelope. The threats posed by the multidrug‐resistant ‘ESKAPE’ Gram‐negative pathogens (Klebsiella pneumoniae, Acinetobacter baumannii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Enterobacter spp.) are forcing researchers to explore new therapeutic options, including the use of these immune elements. Here we review bacterial envelope‐targeting (peptidoglycan and/or membrane‐targeting) proteins/peptides of the mammalian immune system that are most likely to have therapeutic applications. Firstly we discuss their general features and protective activity against ESKAPE Gram‐negatives in the host. We then gather, integrate, and discuss recent research on experimental therapeutics harnessing their bactericidal power, based on their exogenous administration and also on the discovery of bacterial and/or host targets that improve the performance of this endogenous immunity, as a novel therapeutic concept. We identify weak points and knowledge gaps in current research in this field and suggest areas for future work to obtain successful envelope‐targeting therapeutic options to tackle the challenge of antimicrobial resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Escobar‐Salom
- Department of Microbiology University Hospital Son Espases‐Health Research Institute of the Balearic Islands (IdISBa) Carretera de Valldemossa 79 Palma Balearic Islands 07010 Spain
| | - Gabriel Torrens
- Department of Microbiology University Hospital Son Espases‐Health Research Institute of the Balearic Islands (IdISBa) Carretera de Valldemossa 79 Palma Balearic Islands 07010 Spain
| | - Elena Jordana‐Lluch
- Department of Microbiology University Hospital Son Espases‐Health Research Institute of the Balearic Islands (IdISBa) Carretera de Valldemossa 79 Palma Balearic Islands 07010 Spain
| | - Antonio Oliver
- Department of Microbiology University Hospital Son Espases‐Health Research Institute of the Balearic Islands (IdISBa) Carretera de Valldemossa 79 Palma Balearic Islands 07010 Spain
| | - Carlos Juan
- Department of Microbiology University Hospital Son Espases‐Health Research Institute of the Balearic Islands (IdISBa) Carretera de Valldemossa 79 Palma Balearic Islands 07010 Spain
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5
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Jadi PK, Sharma P, Bhogapurapu B, Roy S. Alternative Therapeutic Interventions: Antimicrobial Peptides and Small Molecules to Treat Microbial Keratitis. Front Chem 2021; 9:694998. [PMID: 34458234 PMCID: PMC8386189 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2021.694998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 07/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Microbial keratitis is a leading cause of blindness worldwide and results in unilateral vision loss in an estimated 2 million people per year. Bacteria and fungus are two main etiological agents that cause corneal ulcers. Although antibiotics and antifungals are commonly used to treat corneal infections, a clear trend with increasing resistance to these antimicrobials is emerging at rapid pace. Extensive research has been carried out to determine alternative therapeutic interventions, and antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are increasingly recognized for their clinical potential in treating infections. Small molecules targeted against virulence factors of the pathogens and natural compounds are also explored to meet the challenges and growing demand for therapeutic agents. Here we review the potential of AMPs, small molecules, and natural compounds as alternative therapeutic interventions for the treatment of corneal infections to combat antimicrobial resistance. Additionally, we have also discussed about the different formats of drug delivery systems for optimal administration of drugs to treat microbial keratitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Praveen Kumar Jadi
- Prof, Brien Holden Eye Research Centre, LV Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, India
| | - Prerana Sharma
- Prof, Brien Holden Eye Research Centre, LV Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, India
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Hyderabad, Hyderabad, India
| | - Bharathi Bhogapurapu
- Prof, Brien Holden Eye Research Centre, LV Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, India
| | - Sanhita Roy
- Prof, Brien Holden Eye Research Centre, LV Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, India
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6
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Almaraz-De-Santiago J, Solis-Torres N, Quintana-Belmares R, Rodríguez-Carlos A, Rivas-Santiago B, Huerta-García J, Mercado-Reyes M, Enciso-Moreno JA, Villagomez-Castro J, González-Curiel I, Osornio-Vargas Á, Rivas-Santiago CE. Long-term exposure to particulate matter from air pollution alters airway β-defensin-3 and -4 and cathelicidin host defense peptides production in a murine model. Peptides 2021; 142:170581. [PMID: 34052349 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2021.170581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2020] [Revised: 05/19/2021] [Accepted: 05/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Epidemiological studies have associated long-term exposure to environmental air pollution particulate matter (PM) with the development of diverse health problems. They include infectious respiratory diseases related to the deregulation of some innate immune response mechanisms, such as the host defense peptides' expression. Herein, we evaluated in BALB/c mice the effect of long-standing exposure (60 days) to urban-PM from the south of Mexico City, with aerodynamic diameters below 2.5 μm (PM2.5) and 10 μm (PM10) on the lung's gene expression and production of three host defense peptides (HDPs); murine beta-defensin-3, -4 (mBD-3, mBD-4) and cathelin-related antimicrobial peptide (CRAMP). We also evaluated mRNA levels of Il1b and Il10, two cytokines related to the expression of host defense peptides. Exposure to PM2.5 and PM10 differentially induced lung inflammation, being PM2.5, which caused higher inflammation levels, probably associated with a differential deposition on the airways, that facilitate the interaction with alveolar macrophages. Inflammation levels were associated with an early upregulation of the three HDPs assessed and an increment in Il1b mRNA levels. Interestingly, after 28 days of exposure, Il10 mRNA upregulation was observed and was associated with the downregulation of HDPs and Il1b mRNA levels. The upregulation of Il10 mRNA and suppression of HDPs might facilitate microbial colonization and the development of diseases associated with long-term exposure to PM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jovany Almaraz-De-Santiago
- Department of Biology, Division of Natural and Exact Sciences, University of Guanajuato, Guanajuato, Mexico
| | - Nancy Solis-Torres
- Master's Program in Biological Sciences, Biological Sciences School, University Autonomous of Zacatecas, Zacatecas, Mexico
| | - Raúl Quintana-Belmares
- Subdirección de Investigación Básic, Instituto Nacional de Cancerología, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Adrián Rodríguez-Carlos
- Medical Research Unit-Zacatecas, Mexican Institute for Social Security-IMSS, Zacatecas, Mexico
| | - Bruno Rivas-Santiago
- Medical Research Unit-Zacatecas, Mexican Institute for Social Security-IMSS, Zacatecas, Mexico
| | - Josefina Huerta-García
- Laboratory of Molecular and Environmental Biology, Biological Sciences School, University Autonomous of Zacatecas, Zacatecas, Mexico
| | - Marisa Mercado-Reyes
- Laboratory of Conservation Biology, Biological Sciences School, University Autonomous of Zacatecas, Zacatecas, Mexico
| | - Jose A Enciso-Moreno
- Medical Research Unit-Zacatecas, Mexican Institute for Social Security-IMSS, Zacatecas, Mexico
| | - Julio Villagomez-Castro
- Department of Biology, Division of Natural and Exact Sciences, University of Guanajuato, Guanajuato, Mexico
| | - Irma González-Curiel
- Post-graduate Program in Sciences and Chemical Technology, Chemistry Sciences School, University Autonomous of Zacatecas, Zacatecas, Mexico
| | | | - César E Rivas-Santiago
- CONACYT-Academic Unit of Chemical Sciences, University Autonomous of Zacatecas, Zacatecas, Mexico.
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7
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Tanno H, Kanno E, Sato S, Asao Y, Shimono M, Kurosaka S, Oikawa Y, Ishi S, Shoji M, Sato K, Kasamatsu J, Miyasaka T, Yamamoto H, Ishii K, Imai Y, Tachi M, Kawakami K. Contribution of Invariant Natural Killer T Cells to the Clearance of Pseudomonas aeruginosa from Skin Wounds. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:3931. [PMID: 33920301 PMCID: PMC8070359 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22083931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2021] [Revised: 04/05/2021] [Accepted: 04/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic infections are considered one of the most severe problems in skin wounds, and bacteria are present in over 90% of chronic wounds. Pseudomonas aeruginosa is frequently isolated from chronic wounds and is thought to be a cause of delayed wound healing. Invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells, unique lymphocytes with a potent regulatory ability in various inflammatory responses, accelerate the wound healing process. In the present study, we investigated the contribution of iNKT cells in the host defense against P. aeruginosa inoculation at the wound sites. We analyzed the re-epithelialization, bacterial load, accumulation of leukocytes, and production of cytokines and antimicrobial peptides. In iNKT cell-deficient (Jα18KO) mice, re-epithelialization was significantly decreased, and the number of live colonies was significantly increased, when compared with those in wild-type (WT) mice on day 7. IL-17A, and IL-22 production was significantly lower in Jα18KO mice than in WT mice on day 5. Furthermore, the administration of α-galactosylceramide (α-GalCer), a specific activator of iNKT cells, led to enhanced host protection, as shown by reduced bacterial load, and to increased production of IL-22, IL-23, and S100A9 compared that of with WT mice. These results suggest that iNKT cells promote P. aeruginosa clearance during skin wound healing.
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Grants
- a Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research (B) (19H03918), The Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology of Japan
- a Grant-in-Aid for Challenging Exploratory Research (17K19710) The Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology of Japan
- a Grant-in-Aid for Young Scientists (17K17393) the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology of Japan
- a Grant-in-Aid for Young Scientists (19K19494) The Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology of Japan
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiromasa Tanno
- Department of Science of Nursing Practice, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-1 Seiryo-cho, Aoba-ku, Sendai 980-8575, Japan; (E.K.); (S.S.); (Y.A.); (M.S.)
| | - Emi Kanno
- Department of Science of Nursing Practice, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-1 Seiryo-cho, Aoba-ku, Sendai 980-8575, Japan; (E.K.); (S.S.); (Y.A.); (M.S.)
| | - Suzuna Sato
- Department of Science of Nursing Practice, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-1 Seiryo-cho, Aoba-ku, Sendai 980-8575, Japan; (E.K.); (S.S.); (Y.A.); (M.S.)
| | - Yu Asao
- Department of Science of Nursing Practice, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-1 Seiryo-cho, Aoba-ku, Sendai 980-8575, Japan; (E.K.); (S.S.); (Y.A.); (M.S.)
| | - Mizuki Shimono
- Department of Science of Nursing Practice, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-1 Seiryo-cho, Aoba-ku, Sendai 980-8575, Japan; (E.K.); (S.S.); (Y.A.); (M.S.)
| | - Shiho Kurosaka
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-1 Seiryo-cho, Aoba-ku, Sendai 980-8575, Japan; (S.K.); (S.I.); (M.S.); (Y.I.); (M.T.)
| | - Yukari Oikawa
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Mycology and Immunology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-1 Seiryo-cho, Aoba-ku, Sendai 980-8575, Japan; (Y.O.); (K.I.); (K.K.)
| | - Shinyo Ishi
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-1 Seiryo-cho, Aoba-ku, Sendai 980-8575, Japan; (S.K.); (S.I.); (M.S.); (Y.I.); (M.T.)
| | - Miki Shoji
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-1 Seiryo-cho, Aoba-ku, Sendai 980-8575, Japan; (S.K.); (S.I.); (M.S.); (Y.I.); (M.T.)
| | - Ko Sato
- Department of Intelligent Network for Infection Control, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-1 Seiryo-cho, Aoba-ku, Sendai 980-8575, Japan; (K.S.); (J.K.)
| | - Jun Kasamatsu
- Department of Intelligent Network for Infection Control, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-1 Seiryo-cho, Aoba-ku, Sendai 980-8575, Japan; (K.S.); (J.K.)
| | - Tomomitsu Miyasaka
- Division of Pathophysiology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tohoku Medical and Pharmaceutical University, Sendai 981-8558, Japan;
| | - Hideki Yamamoto
- Graduate School of Health Sciences, Niigata University, 2-746 Asahimachi-dori, Chuo-ku, Niigata 951-8518, Japan;
| | - Keiko Ishii
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Mycology and Immunology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-1 Seiryo-cho, Aoba-ku, Sendai 980-8575, Japan; (Y.O.); (K.I.); (K.K.)
| | - Yoshimichi Imai
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-1 Seiryo-cho, Aoba-ku, Sendai 980-8575, Japan; (S.K.); (S.I.); (M.S.); (Y.I.); (M.T.)
| | - Masahiro Tachi
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-1 Seiryo-cho, Aoba-ku, Sendai 980-8575, Japan; (S.K.); (S.I.); (M.S.); (Y.I.); (M.T.)
| | - Kazuyoshi Kawakami
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Mycology and Immunology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-1 Seiryo-cho, Aoba-ku, Sendai 980-8575, Japan; (Y.O.); (K.I.); (K.K.)
- Department of Intelligent Network for Infection Control, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-1 Seiryo-cho, Aoba-ku, Sendai 980-8575, Japan; (K.S.); (J.K.)
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8
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Eshac Y, Redfern RL, Aakalu VK. The Role of Endogenous Antimicrobial Peptides in Modulating Innate Immunity of the Ocular Surface in Dry Eye Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:E721. [PMID: 33450870 PMCID: PMC7828360 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22020721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2020] [Revised: 01/05/2021] [Accepted: 01/07/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The ocular surface has the challenging responsibility of maintaining a clear moist refractive surface while protecting the eye from exogenous pathogens and the environment. Homeostasis of the ocular surface, including its innate immune components, is altered in ocular surface disease states. In this review, we focus on antimicrobial peptides and the role they play in the immune response of the ocular surface during healthy states and dry eye diseases. Antimicrobial peptides are of special interest to the study of the ocular surface because of their various roles that include microbial threat neutralization, wound healing, and immune modulation. This review explores current literature on antimicrobial peptides in ocular surface diseases and discusses their therapeutic potential in ocular surface diseases and dry eye.
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Affiliation(s)
- Youssof Eshac
- Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria University, Alexandria 21131, Egypt;
| | - Rachel L. Redfern
- The Ocular Surface Institute, College of Optometry, University of Houston, Houston, TX 77204, USA;
| | - Vinay Kumar Aakalu
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
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9
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Carion TW, Ebrahim AS, Alluri S, Ebrahim T, Parker T, Burns J, Sosne G, Berger EA. Antimicrobial Effects of Thymosin Beta-4 and Ciprofloxacin Adjunctive Therapy in Pseudomonas aeruginosa Induced Keratitis. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E6840. [PMID: 32961846 PMCID: PMC7555736 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21186840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2020] [Revised: 09/10/2020] [Accepted: 09/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Prior work has indicated that thymosin beta 4 (Tβ4) administered with ciprofloxacin markedly improves disease outcome for Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PA)-induced keratitis. As a result, the goal of the current study was to elucidate mechanisms by which Tβ4 mitigates the corneal response; specifically, regarding its bactericidal influence and potential synergy with ciprofloxacin. An in vitro approach was carried out using minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) assays to assess bactericidal activity against PA. In addition, antimicrobial peptide (AMP) production was evaluated at the mRNA levels using human corneal epithelial cells in response to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) challenge. The results of the MIC assays did not show direct bactericidal activity with Tβ4 alone, although ciprofloxacin exhibited significant killing at concentrations far lower than clinically dosed. Tβ4, however, displayed an indirect effect on bacterial killing, as shown by an upregulation of AMPs and related molecules. The cumulative data from this study indicate an indirect bactericidal role of Tβ4, as well as a synergistic relationship with ciprofloxacin. Furthermore, ciprofloxacin alone was found to influence cellular functions that otherwise have yet to be reported. These results highlight a mechanism of intracellular communication for Tβ4 and further strengthen its development as an adjunct therapy with antibiotics for corneal infections.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Elizabeth A. Berger
- Department of Ophthalmology, Visual & Anatomical Sciences, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI 48201, USA; (T.W.C.); (A.S.E.); (S.A.); (T.E.); (T.P.); (J.B.); (G.S.)
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10
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Shelley JR, Davidson DJ, Dorin JR. The Dichotomous Responses Driven by β-Defensins. Front Immunol 2020; 11:1176. [PMID: 32595643 PMCID: PMC7304343 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.01176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2020] [Accepted: 05/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Defensins are short, rapidly evolving, cationic antimicrobial host defence peptides with a repertoire of functions, still incompletely realised, that extends beyond direct microbial killing. They are released or secreted at epithelial surfaces, and in some cases, from immune cells in response to infection and inflammation. Defensins have been described as endogenous alarmins, alerting the body to danger and responding to inflammatory signals by promoting both local innate and adaptive systemic immune responses. However, there is now increasing evidence that they exert variable control on the response to danger; creating a dichotomous response that can suppress inflammation in some circumstances but exacerbate the response to danger and damage in others and, at higher levels, lead to a cytotoxic effect. Focussing in this review on human β-defensins, we discuss the evidence for their functions as proinflammatory, immune activators amplifying the response to infection or damage signals and/or as mediators of resolution of damage, contributing to a return to homeostasis. Finally, we consider their involvement in the development of autoimmune diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer R Shelley
- Centre for Inflammation Research, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh BioQuarter, Edinburgh, Scotland
| | - Donald J Davidson
- Centre for Inflammation Research, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh BioQuarter, Edinburgh, Scotland
| | - Julia R Dorin
- Centre for Inflammation Research, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh BioQuarter, Edinburgh, Scotland
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11
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Fleiszig SMJ, Kroken AR, Nieto V, Grosser MR, Wan SJ, Metruccio MME, Evans DJ. Contact lens-related corneal infection: Intrinsic resistance and its compromise. Prog Retin Eye Res 2019; 76:100804. [PMID: 31756497 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2019.100804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2019] [Revised: 11/05/2019] [Accepted: 11/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Contact lenses represent a widely utilized form of vision correction with more than 140 million wearers worldwide. Although generally well-tolerated, contact lenses can cause corneal infection (microbial keratitis), with an approximate annualized incidence ranging from ~2 to ~20 cases per 10,000 wearers, and sometimes resulting in permanent vision loss. Research suggests that the pathogenesis of contact lens-associated microbial keratitis is complex and multifactorial, likely requiring multiple conspiring factors that compromise the intrinsic resistance of a healthy cornea to infection. Here, we outline our perspective of the mechanisms by which contact lens wear sometimes renders the cornea susceptible to infection, focusing primarily on our own research efforts during the past three decades. This has included studies of host factors underlying the constitutive barrier function of the healthy cornea, its response to bacterial challenge when intrinsic resistance is not compromised, pathogen virulence mechanisms, and the effects of contact lens wear that alter the outcome of host-microbe interactions. For almost all of this work, we have utilized the bacterium Pseudomonas aeruginosa because it is the leading cause of lens-related microbial keratitis. While not yet common among corneal isolates, clinical isolates of P. aeruginosa have emerged that are resistant to virtually all currently available antibiotics, leading the United States CDC (Centers for Disease Control) to add P. aeruginosa to its list of most serious threats. Compounding this concern, the development of advanced contact lenses for biosensing and augmented reality, together with the escalating incidence of myopia, could portent an epidemic of vision-threatening corneal infections in the future. Thankfully, technological advances in genomics, proteomics, metabolomics and imaging combined with emerging models of contact lens-associated P. aeruginosa infection hold promise for solving the problem - and possibly life-threatening infections impacting other tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suzanne M J Fleiszig
- School of Optometry, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA; Graduate Group in Vision Science, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA; Graduate Groups in Microbiology and Infectious Diseases & Immunity, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA.
| | - Abby R Kroken
- School of Optometry, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Vincent Nieto
- School of Optometry, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | | | - Stephanie J Wan
- Graduate Group in Vision Science, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | | | - David J Evans
- School of Optometry, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA; College of Pharmacy, Touro University California, Vallejo, CA, USA
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12
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Casal D, Iria I, Ramalho JS, Alves S, Mota-Silva E, Mascarenhas-Lemos L, Pontinha C, Guadalupe-Cabral M, Ferreira-Silva J, Ferraz-Oliveira M, Vassilenko V, Goyri-O'Neill J, Pais D, Videira PA. BD-2 and BD-3 increase skin flap survival in a model of ischemia and Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection. Sci Rep 2019; 9:7854. [PMID: 31133641 PMCID: PMC6536547 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-44153-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2017] [Accepted: 05/09/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The main aim of this work was to study the usefulness of human β-defensins 2 (BD-2) and 3 (BD-3), which are part of the innate immune system, in the treatment of infected ischemic skin flaps. We investigated the effect of transducing rat ischemic skin flaps with lentiviral vectors encoding human BD-2, BD-3, or both BD-2 and BD-3, to increase flap survival in the context of a P. aeruginosa infection associated with a foreign body. The secondary endpoints assessed were: bacterial counts, and biofilm formation on the surface of the foreign body. A local ischemic environment was created by producing arterialized venous flaps in the left epigastric region of rats. Flaps were intentionally infected by placing underneath them two catheters with 105 CFU of P. aeruginosa before the surgical wounds were hermetically closed. Flap biopsies were performed 3 and 7 days post-operatively, and the specimens submitted to immunohistochemical analysis for BD-2 and BD-3, as well as to bacterial quantification. Subsequently, the catheter segments were analyzed with scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Flaps transduced with BD-2 and BD-3 showed expression of these defensins and presented increased flap survival. Rats transduced with BD-3 presented a net reduction in the number of P. aeruginosa on the surface of the foreign body and lesser biofilm formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diogo Casal
- Anatomy Department, NOVA Medical School, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal.
- Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Department and Burn Unit, Centro Hospitalar de Lisboa Central - Hospital de São José, Lisbon, Portugal.
- UCIBIO, Departamento de Ciências da Vida, Faculdade de Ciências e Tecnologia, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Lisbon, Caparica, Portugal.
- CEDOC, NOVA Medical School, Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal.
| | - Inês Iria
- UCIBIO, Departamento de Ciências da Vida, Faculdade de Ciências e Tecnologia, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Lisbon, Caparica, Portugal
- CEDOC, NOVA Medical School, Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
- Molecular Microbiology and Biotechnology Unit, iMed, ULisboa, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
- INESC MN - Microsystems and Nanotechnologies, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - José S Ramalho
- CEDOC, NOVA Medical School, Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Sara Alves
- Pathology Department, Centro Hospitalar de Lisboa Central - Hospital de São José, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Eduarda Mota-Silva
- LIBPhys, Physics Department, Faculdade de Ciências e Tecnologias, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Lisbon, Caparica, Portugal
| | - Luís Mascarenhas-Lemos
- Anatomy Department, NOVA Medical School, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
- Pathology Department, Centro Hospitalar de Lisboa Central - Hospital de São José, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Carlos Pontinha
- Anatomy Department, NOVA Medical School, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
- Pathology Department, Centro Hospitalar de Lisboa Central - Hospital de São José, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Maria Guadalupe-Cabral
- CEDOC, NOVA Medical School, Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - José Ferreira-Silva
- Pathology Department, Centro Hospitalar de Lisboa Central - Hospital de São José, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Mário Ferraz-Oliveira
- Pathology Department, Centro Hospitalar de Lisboa Central - Hospital de São José, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Valentina Vassilenko
- LIBPhys, Physics Department, Faculdade de Ciências e Tecnologias, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Lisbon, Caparica, Portugal
| | - João Goyri-O'Neill
- Anatomy Department, NOVA Medical School, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Diogo Pais
- Anatomy Department, NOVA Medical School, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Paula A Videira
- UCIBIO, Departamento de Ciências da Vida, Faculdade de Ciências e Tecnologia, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Lisbon, Caparica, Portugal.
- CEDOC, NOVA Medical School, Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal.
- CDG & Allies- Professional and Patient Association International Network (PPAIN), Lisbon, Caparica, Portugal.
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13
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Chen Y, Gong Q, Song M, Lai J, Sun J, Liu Y. Identification and characterization of three novel antimicrobial peptides from Acipenser dabryanus. FISH & SHELLFISH IMMUNOLOGY 2019; 88:207-216. [PMID: 30807859 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsi.2019.02.050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2018] [Revised: 02/18/2019] [Accepted: 02/22/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) play essential roles in the innate immune system to protect against a wide variety of pathogens in aquatic environments. In this study, three very important AMPs, cathelicidin, hepcidin and defensin, were identified in the critically endangered Acipenser dabryanus. The full-length cDNA sequences of these three AMPs were identified from transcriptome sequencing and the rapid amplification of cDNA ends (RACE) technique. Phylogenetic analysis showed that cathelicidin formed a clade with the other members of the cathelicidin family, and similar results were obtained for hepcidin. The A. dabryanus β-defensin belonged to the fish class 2 β-defensins. A tissue distribution study showed that the three AMP transcripts could be detected constitutively in various tissues. The highest expression levels of cathelicidin and hepcidin were found in the liver, while defensin was primarily expressed in the skin. Bacterial challenge in vivo revealed significant changes in the gene expression of the three AMPs at both mucosal sites and systemic sites. Striking upregulation of cathelicidin and hepcidin was observed in the skin at 12 h post-challenge, with increases of more than 7000-fold and 1000-fold, respectively, compared to the control, and the expression of defensin mRNA was remarkably elevated in the hindgut (by 230-fold at 6 h post-challenge). Moreover, according to the expression profiles of the AMPs post-challenge, we found that the mucosal immune response occurred earlier than the systemic immune response following bacterial infection. Our results suggest that these three novel AMPs may play important roles in the innate immune system of A. dabryanus to protect against invading pathogens, especially during the mucosal immune response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yeyu Chen
- The Fishery Institute of the Sichuan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Chengdu, 611730, China
| | - Quan Gong
- The Fishery Institute of the Sichuan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Chengdu, 611730, China
| | - Mingjiang Song
- The Fishery Institute of the Sichuan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Chengdu, 611730, China
| | - Jiansheng Lai
- The Fishery Institute of the Sichuan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Chengdu, 611730, China
| | - Jiahua Sun
- The Fishery Institute of the Sichuan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Chengdu, 611730, China
| | - Ya Liu
- The Fishery Institute of the Sichuan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Chengdu, 611730, China.
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14
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Torrens G, Barceló IM, Pérez-Gallego M, Escobar-Salom M, Tur-Gracia S, Munar-Bestard M, González-Nicolau MDM, Cabrera-Venegas YJ, Rigo-Rumbos EN, Cabot G, López-Causapé C, Rojo-Molinero E, Oliver A, Juan C. Profiling the susceptibility of Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains from acute and chronic infections to cell-wall-targeting immune proteins. Sci Rep 2019; 9:3575. [PMID: 30837659 PMCID: PMC6401076 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-40440-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2018] [Accepted: 02/06/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
In the current scenario of high antibiotic resistance, the search for therapeutic options against Pseudomonas aeruginosa must be approached from different perspectives: cell-wall biology as source of bacterial weak points and our immune system as source of weapons. Our recent study suggests that once the permeability barrier has been overcome, the activity of our cell-wall-targeting immune proteins is notably enhanced, more in mutants with impaired peptidoglycan recycling. The present work aims at analyzing the activity of these proteins [lysozyme and Peptidoglycan-Recognition-Proteins (PGLYRPs)], alone or with a permeabilizer (subinhibitory colistin) in clinical strains, along with other features related to the cell-wall. We compared the most relevant and complementary scenarios: acute (bacteremia) and chronic infections [early/late isolates from lungs of cystic fibrosis (CF) patients]. Although a low activity of lysozyme/PGLYRPs per se (except punctual highly susceptible strains) was found, the colistin addition significantly increased their activity regardless of the strains’ colistin resistance levels. Our results show increased susceptibility in late CF isolates, suggesting that CF adaptation renders P. aeruginosa more vulnerable to proteins targeting the cell-wall. Thus, our work suggests that attacking some P. aeruginosa cell-wall biology-related elements to increase the activity of our innate weapons could be a promising therapeutic strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel Torrens
- Servicio de Microbiología and Unidad de Investigación, Hospital Universitari Son Espases-Institut de Investigació Sanitària de Balears (IdISBa), Palma, Spain
| | - Isabel M Barceló
- Servicio de Microbiología and Unidad de Investigación, Hospital Universitari Son Espases-Institut de Investigació Sanitària de Balears (IdISBa), Palma, Spain
| | - Marcelo Pérez-Gallego
- Servicio de Microbiología and Unidad de Investigación, Hospital Universitari Son Espases-Institut de Investigació Sanitària de Balears (IdISBa), Palma, Spain
| | - Maria Escobar-Salom
- Servicio de Microbiología and Unidad de Investigación, Hospital Universitari Son Espases-Institut de Investigació Sanitària de Balears (IdISBa), Palma, Spain
| | - Sara Tur-Gracia
- Servicio de Microbiología and Unidad de Investigación, Hospital Universitari Son Espases-Institut de Investigació Sanitària de Balears (IdISBa), Palma, Spain
| | - Marta Munar-Bestard
- Servicio de Microbiología and Unidad de Investigación, Hospital Universitari Son Espases-Institut de Investigació Sanitària de Balears (IdISBa), Palma, Spain
| | - María Del Mar González-Nicolau
- Servicio de Microbiología and Unidad de Investigación, Hospital Universitari Son Espases-Institut de Investigació Sanitària de Balears (IdISBa), Palma, Spain
| | - Yoandy José Cabrera-Venegas
- Servicio de Microbiología and Unidad de Investigación, Hospital Universitari Son Espases-Institut de Investigació Sanitària de Balears (IdISBa), Palma, Spain
| | - Estefany Nayarith Rigo-Rumbos
- Servicio de Microbiología and Unidad de Investigación, Hospital Universitari Son Espases-Institut de Investigació Sanitària de Balears (IdISBa), Palma, Spain
| | - Gabriel Cabot
- Servicio de Microbiología and Unidad de Investigación, Hospital Universitari Son Espases-Institut de Investigació Sanitària de Balears (IdISBa), Palma, Spain
| | - Carla López-Causapé
- Servicio de Microbiología and Unidad de Investigación, Hospital Universitari Son Espases-Institut de Investigació Sanitària de Balears (IdISBa), Palma, Spain
| | - Estrella Rojo-Molinero
- Servicio de Microbiología and Unidad de Investigación, Hospital Universitari Son Espases-Institut de Investigació Sanitària de Balears (IdISBa), Palma, Spain
| | - Antonio Oliver
- Servicio de Microbiología and Unidad de Investigación, Hospital Universitari Son Espases-Institut de Investigació Sanitària de Balears (IdISBa), Palma, Spain
| | - Carlos Juan
- Servicio de Microbiología and Unidad de Investigación, Hospital Universitari Son Espases-Institut de Investigació Sanitària de Balears (IdISBa), Palma, Spain.
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15
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Kim D, McAlees JW, Bischoff LJ, Kaur D, Houshel LK, Gray J, Hargis J, Davis X, Dudas PL, Deshmukh H, Lewkowich IP. Combined administration of anti-IL-13 and anti-IL-17A at individually sub-therapeutic doses limits asthma-like symptoms in a mouse model of Th2/Th17 high asthma. Clin Exp Allergy 2018; 49:317-330. [PMID: 30353972 DOI: 10.1111/cea.13301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2018] [Revised: 09/17/2018] [Accepted: 10/08/2018] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent studies have demonstrated that Th2 responses have the ability to antagonize Th17 responses. In mouse models of allergic asthma, blockade of Th2-effector cytokines results in elaboration of Th17 responses and associated increases in pulmonary neutrophilia. While these can be controlled by simultaneous blockade of Th17-associated effector cytokines, clinical trials of anti-IL-17/IL-17RA blocking therapies have demonstrated increased of risk of bacterial and fungal infections. Identification of minimally effective doses of cytokine-blocking therapies with the goal of reducing the potential emergence of infection-related complications is a translationally relevant goal. OBJECTIVE In the current report, we examine whether combined blockade of IL-13 and IL-17A, at individually sub-therapeutic levels, can limit the development of allergic asthma while sparing expression of IL-17A-associated anti-microbial effectors. METHODS House dust mite was given intratracheally to A/J mice. Anti-IL-13 and anti-IL-17A antibodies were administered individually, or concomitantly at sub-therapeutic doses. Airway hyper-reactivity, lung inflammation, magnitude of Th2- and Th17-associated cytokine production and expression of IL-13- and IL-17A-induced genes in the lungs was assessed. RESULTS Initial dosing studies identified sub-therapeutic levels of IL-13 and IL-17A blocking mAbs that have a limited effect on asthma parameters and do not impair responses to microbial products or infection. Subsequent studies demonstrated that combined sub-therapeutic dosing with IL-13 and IL-17A blocking mAbs resulted in significant improvement in airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR) and expression of IL-13-induced gene expression. Importantly, these doses neither exacerbated nor inhibited production of Th17-associated cytokines, or IL-17A-associated gene expression. CONCLUSION This study suggests that combining blockade of individual Th2 and Th17 effector cytokines, even at individually sub-therapeutic levels, may be sufficient to limit disease development while preserving important anti-microbial pathways. Such a strategy may therefore have reduced potential for adverse events associated with blockade of these pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dasom Kim
- Division of Immunobiology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Jaclyn W McAlees
- Division of Immunobiology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Lindsay J Bischoff
- Division of Immunobiology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Davinder Kaur
- Division of Immunobiology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Lauren K Houshel
- Division of Immunobiology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Jerilyn Gray
- Division of Pulmonary Biology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Julie Hargis
- Division of Immunobiology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Xenia Davis
- Division of Immunobiology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Paul L Dudas
- Janssen Research & Development, LLC, Spring House, Pennsylvania
| | - Hitesh Deshmukh
- Division of Pulmonary Biology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio.,Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Ian P Lewkowich
- Division of Immunobiology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio.,Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio
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16
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Wu Y, Li D, Wang Y, Liu X, Zhang Y, Qu W, Chen K, Francisco NM, Feng L, Huang X, Wu M. Beta-Defensin 2 and 3 Promote Bacterial Clearance of Pseudomonas aeruginosa by Inhibiting Macrophage Autophagy through Downregulation of Early Growth Response Gene-1 and c-FOS. Front Immunol 2018; 9:211. [PMID: 29487594 PMCID: PMC5816924 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.00211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2017] [Accepted: 01/24/2018] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Beta-defensins 2 and 3 (BD2 and BD3) are inducible peptides present at the sites of infection, and they are well characterized for their antimicrobial activities and immune-regulatory functions. However, no study has thoroughly investigated their immunomodulatory effects on macrophage-mediated immune responses against Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PA). Here, we use THP-1 and RAW264.7 cell lines and demonstrate that BD2 and BD3 suppressed macrophage autophagy but enhanced the engulfment of PA and Zymosan bioparticles as well as the formation of phagolysosomes, using immunofluorescence staining and confocal microscopy. Plate count assay showed that macrophage-mediated phagocytosis and intracellular killing of PA were promoted by BD2 and BD3. Furthermore, microarray and real-time PCR showed that the expression of two genes, early growth response gene-1 (EGR1) and c-FOS, was attenuated by BD2 and BD3. Western blot revealed that BD2 and BD3 inhibited the expression and nuclear translocation of EGR1 and c-FOS. Knockdown of EGR1 and c-FOS by siRNA transfection suppressed macrophage autophagy before and after PA infection; while overexpression of these two transcription factors enhanced autophagy but reversed the role of BD2 and BD3 on macrophage-mediated PA eradication. Together, these results demonstrate a novel immune defense activity of BD2 and BD3, which promotes clearance of PA by inhibiting macrophage autophagy through downregulation of EGR1 and c-FOS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongjian Wu
- Program of Pathobiology and Immunology, Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Gastroenterology, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Dandan Li
- Program of Pathobiology and Immunology, Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Tropical Diseases Control, Sun Yat-sen University, Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yi Wang
- Program of Pathobiology and Immunology, Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Tropical Diseases Control, Sun Yat-sen University, Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xi Liu
- Program of Pathobiology and Immunology, Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuanqing Zhang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wenting Qu
- Program of Pathobiology and Immunology, Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Tropical Diseases Control, Sun Yat-sen University, Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, China
| | - Kang Chen
- Division of Clinical Laboratory, Zhongshan Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Zhongshan, China
| | - Ngiambudulu M Francisco
- Program of Pathobiology and Immunology, Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Tropical Diseases Control, Sun Yat-sen University, Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lianqiang Feng
- Program of Pathobiology and Immunology, Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Tropical Diseases Control, Sun Yat-sen University, Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xi Huang
- Program of Pathobiology and Immunology, Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Gastroenterology, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Tropical Diseases Control, Sun Yat-sen University, Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, China
| | - Minhao Wu
- Program of Pathobiology and Immunology, Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Tropical Diseases Control, Sun Yat-sen University, Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, China
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17
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Mohammed I, Said DG, Dua HS. Human antimicrobial peptides in ocular surface defense. Prog Retin Eye Res 2017; 61:1-22. [DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2017.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2016] [Revised: 03/22/2017] [Accepted: 03/27/2017] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
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18
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Ekanayaka SA, McClellan SA, Barrett RP, Kharotia S, Hazlett LD. Glycyrrhizin Reduces HMGB1 and Bacterial Load in Pseudomonas aeruginosa Keratitis. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2017; 57:5799-5809. [PMID: 27792814 PMCID: PMC5089214 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.16-20103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose High mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) contributes to poor disease outcome in Pseudomonas aeruginosa keratitis. This study tests the prophylactic effect of treatment with HMGB1 inhibitors, glycyrrhizin (GLY) and its derivative, carbenoxolone (CBX), for Pseudomonas keratitis. Methods We treated C57BL/6 (B6) mice subconjunctivally with GLY or CBX, infected with a noncytotoxic clinical isolate (KEI 1025) or a cytotoxic strain (ATCC 19660) of P. aeruginosa, and injected intraperitoneally with either agent. Clinical score, photography with a slit lamp, real-time RT-PCR, ELISA, myeloperoxidase (MPO) assay, bacterial plate count, histopathology, and absorbance assays were used to assess treatment efficacy and bacteriostatic activity. Results After KEI 1025 infection, GLY treatment reduced HMGB1 (mRNA and protein levels) and improved disease outcome with significant reduction in mRNA levels of IL-1β, TLR4, CXCL2, and IL-12; protein expression (IL-1β, CXCL2); neutrophil infiltrate; and bacterial load. Treatment with GLY enhanced antimicrobial proteins, including CRAMP and mBD2, but not mBD3. Glycyrrhizin also reduced clinical scores and improved disease outcome in corneas infected with strain 19660. However, neither HMGB1 mRNA or protein levels were reduced, but rather, CXCL2 expression (mRNA and protein), neutrophil infiltrate, and bacterial load were reduced statistically. Treatment with GLY initiated 6 hours after infection reduced plate count; GLY also was bacteriostatic for KEI 1025 and ATCC 19660. Conclusions Glycyrrhizin reduces HMGB1 and is protective against P. aeruginosa-induced keratitis with a clinical isolate that is noncytotoxic. It was similar, but less effective when used after infection with a cytotoxic strain, which did not reduce HMGB1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandamali A Ekanayaka
- Department of Anatomy & Cell Biology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, United States
| | - Sharon A McClellan
- Department of Anatomy & Cell Biology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, United States
| | - Ronald P Barrett
- Department of Anatomy & Cell Biology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, United States
| | - Shikhil Kharotia
- Department of Anatomy & Cell Biology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, United States
| | - Linda D Hazlett
- Department of Anatomy & Cell Biology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, United States
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19
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Bashir H, Seykora JT, Lee V. Invisible Shield: Review of the Corneal Epithelium as a Barrier to UV Radiation, Pathogens, and Other Environmental Stimuli. J Ophthalmic Vis Res 2017; 12:305-311. [PMID: 28791065 PMCID: PMC5525501 DOI: 10.4103/jovr.jovr_114_17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The ocular surface is comprised of the cornea and conjunctiva, which are structures that not only protect the eye but also enable vision. The corneal epithelium is the most superficial layer of the cornea, and therefore first line of defense against external assaults. Damage to this highly specialized structure could lead to vision loss, making it an important structure to investigate and understand. Here, we conducted a search of the current literature on the mechanisms the corneal epithelium has adapted against three frequent insults: UV-radiation, pathogens, and environmental assaults. This review systematically examines the corneal epithelium's response to each assault in order to maintain its role as an invisible shield. The goal of this review is to provide insight into some of the critical functions the corneal epithelium performs that may be valuable to current regenerative studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hasan Bashir
- Department of Ophthalmology, Scheie Eye Institute, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, USA
| | - John T Seykora
- Department of Dermatology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, USA
| | - Vivian Lee
- Department of Ophthalmology, Scheie Eye Institute, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, USA.,Department of Dermatology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, USA
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20
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Methods for In Vivo/Ex Vivo Analysis of Antimicrobial Peptides in Bacterial Keratitis: siRNA Knockdown, Colony Counts, Myeloperoxidase, Immunostaining, and RT-PCR Assays. Methods Mol Biol 2016. [PMID: 28013522 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-6737-7_30] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register]
Abstract
Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are essential components of the innate immune response. They have direct killing ability as well as immunomodulatory functions. Here, we describe techniques to identify specific AMPs involved in the protection against microbial keratitis, a vision threatening infection of the cornea of the eye which is the most serious complication of contact lens wear. Specifically we detail the use of siRNA technology to temporarily knockdown AMP expression at the murine ocular surface in vivo and then describe ex vivo assays to determine the level of bacteria, relative number of neutrophils, and levels of cytokines, chemokines, and AMPs in infected corneas.
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Abstract
INTRODUCTION Ocular infections remain an important cause of blindness worldwide and represent a challenging public health concern. In this regard, microbial keratitis due to fungal, bacterial, or viral infection can result in significant vision loss secondary to corneal scarring or surface irregularity. Left untreated corneal perforation and endophthalmitis can result, leading to loss of the eye. Rigorously studied animal models of disease pathogenesis have provided novel information that suggests new modes of treatment that may be efficacious clinically and emerging clinical data is supportive of some of these discoveries. AREAS COVERED This review focuses on advances in our understanding of disease pathogenesis in animal models and clinical studies and how these relate to improved clinical treatment. We also discuss a novel approach to treatment of microbial keratitis due to infection with these bacterial pathogens using PACK-CXL and recommend increased basic and clinical studies to address and refine the efficacy of this procedure. EXPERT COMMENTARY Because resistance to antibiotics has developed over time to these bacterial pathogens, caution must be exercised in treatment. Attractive novel modes of treatment that hold new promise for further investigation include lipid based therapy, as well as use of small molecules that bind deleterious specific host responsive molecules and use of microRNA based therapies.
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Zhou HY, Zhong W, Zhang H, Bi MM, Wang S, Zhang WS. Potential role of nuclear receptor ligand all-trans retinoic acids in the treatment of fungal keratitis. Int J Ophthalmol 2015; 8:826-32. [PMID: 26309886 DOI: 10.3980/j.issn.2222-395.2015.04.32] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2013] [Accepted: 02/04/2015] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Fungal keratitis (FK) is a worldwide visual impairment disease. This infectious fungus initiates the primary innate immune response and, later the adaptive immune response. The inflammatory process is related to a variety of immune cells, including macrophages, helper T cells, neutrophils, dendritic cells, and Treg cells, and is associated with proinflammatory, chemotactic and regulatory cytokines. All-trans retinoic acids (ATRA) have diverse immunomodulatory actions in a number of inflammatory and autoimmune conditions. These retinoids regulate the transcriptional levels of target genes through the activation of nuclear receptors. Retinoic acid receptor α (RAR α), retinoic acid receptor γ (RAR γ), and retinoid X receptor α (RXR α) are expressed in the cornea and immune cells. This paper summarizes new findings regarding ATRA in immune and inflammatory diseases and analyzes the perspective application of ATRA in FK.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong-Yan Zhou
- Department of Ophthalmology, China-Japan Union Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun 130033, Jilin Province, China
| | - Wei Zhong
- Department of Ophthalmology, China-Japan Union Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun 130033, Jilin Province, China
| | - Hong Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, China-Japan Union Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun 130033, Jilin Province, China
| | - Miao-Miao Bi
- Department of Ophthalmology, China-Japan Union Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun 130033, Jilin Province, China
| | - Shuang Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, China-Japan Union Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun 130033, Jilin Province, China
| | - Wen-Song Zhang
- Department of Glaucoma, the Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130041, Jilin Province, China
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Brandt CR. Peptide therapeutics for treating ocular surface infections. J Ocul Pharmacol Ther 2014; 30:691-9. [PMID: 25250986 DOI: 10.1089/jop.2014.0089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Microbial pathogens-bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites-are significant causes of blindness, particularly in developing countries. For bacterial and some viral infections a number of antimicrobial drugs are available for therapy but there are fewer available for use in treating fungal and parasitic keratitis. There are also problems with current antimicrobials, such as limited efficacy and the presence of drug-resistant microbes. Thus, there is a need to develop additional drugs. Nature has given us an example of 1 potential source of new antimicrobials: antimicrobial peptides and proteins that are either present in bodily fluids and tissues constitutively or are induced upon infection. Given the nature of peptides, topical applications are the most likely use to be successful and this is ideal for treating keratitis. Such peptides would also be active against drug-resistant pathogens and might act synergistically if used in combination therapy. Hundreds of peptides with antimicrobial properties have been isolated or synthesized but only a handful have been tested against ocular pathogens and even fewer have been tested in animal models. This review summarizes the currently available information on the use of peptides to treat keratitis, outlines some of the problems that have been identified, and discusses future studies that will be needed. Most of the peptides that have been tested have shown activity at concentrations that do not warrant further development, but 1 or 2 have promising activity raising the possibility that peptides can be developed to treat keratitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Curtis R Brandt
- Departments of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences and Medical Microbiology and Immunology, McPherson Eye Research Institute, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health , Madison, Wisconsin
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Shen Z, Fang L, Zhao L, Lei H. β-defensin 2 ameliorates lung injury caused by Pseudomonas infection and regulates proinflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines in rat. Int J Mol Sci 2014; 15:13372-87. [PMID: 25079443 PMCID: PMC4159799 DOI: 10.3390/ijms150813372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2014] [Revised: 06/13/2014] [Accepted: 06/17/2014] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
An important member of the defensin family, β-defensin 2, is believed to play an important role in defense against foreign pathogens. In the present study, we constructed lentiviral vectors to express and knockdown β-defensin 2 in rat lungs. The results showed that the infection of β-defensin 2 overexpression lentivirus and β-defensin 2 shRNA effectively increased and suppressed the expression of β-defensin 2 in rat lung, respectively. The overexpression of β-defensin 2 mediated by the lentiviral vector protected lung from infection of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, but shRNA targeting β-defensin 2 aggregated the damage of lung. In addition, we also found that β-defensin 2 overexpression increased basal expression of anti-inflammatory cytokine such as IL-4, IL-10 and IL-13 and decreased levels of proinflammatory cytokines which include IL-1α, IL-1β, IL-5, IL-6, IL-8, IL-18, and TNF-α. Moreover, in the process of cytokine regulation, NF-κB pathway may be involved. Taken together, these data suggest that β-defensin 2 has protective effects against infection of Pseudomonas aeruginosa in rat and plays a role in inflammatory regulation by adjusting cytokine levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenwei Shen
- Department of Emergency Internal Medicine, Shanghai East Hospital, Shanghai 200120, China.
| | - Lu Fang
- Department of Nephrology, Shanghai East Hospital, Shanghai 200120, China.
| | - Liming Zhao
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Shanghai Changzheng Hospital, Shanghai 200003, China.
| | - Han Lei
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Shanghai East Hospital, Shanghai 200120, China.
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Depressed production of beta-defensins from mouse splenic dendritic cells following thermal injury and its influence on susceptibility to infection. J Anesth 2014; 29:78-86. [DOI: 10.1007/s00540-014-1882-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2013] [Accepted: 06/21/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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Hua X, Yuan X, Tang X, Li Z, Pflugfelder SC, Li DQ. Human corneal epithelial cells produce antimicrobial peptides LL-37 and β-defensins in response to heat-killed Candida albicans. Ophthalmic Res 2014; 51:179-86. [PMID: 24662332 DOI: 10.1159/000357977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2013] [Accepted: 12/13/2013] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
AIMS To explore the innate response of human corneal epithelial cells (HCECs) exposed to fungus by producing antimicrobial peptides LL-37 and β-defensins. METHODS Primary HCECs were treated with heat-killed Candida albicans (HKCA) at different doses (10(3)-10(6) cells/ml) for 2-48 h. The cells were subjected to total RNA extraction, reverse transcription and quantitative real-time PCR for mRNA expression. Cells treated for 48 h were used for immunofluorescent staining and ELISA. RESULTS Human LL-37 and β-defensins (hBDs) 1-4 were detected in normal HCECs. The mRNA expression of LL-37, hBD2, and hBD3 was dose-dependently induced by HKCA with their peak levels at 4 h. HKCA (10(6) cells/ml) stimulated the mRNA of LL-37, hBD2, and hBD3 4.33 ± 1.81, 3.75 ± 1.31, and 4.91 ± 1.09 fold, respectively, in HCECs. The stimulated production of LL-37, hBD2, and hBD3 by HKCA was confirmed at protein levels by immunofluorescent staining and ELISA. The protein production of LL-37, hBD2, and hBD3 significantly increased to 109.1 ± 18.2 pg/ml, 4.33 ± 1.67 ng/ml, and 296.9 ± 81.8 pg/ml, respectively, in culture medium of HCECs exposed to HKCA (10(6) cells/ml) compared to untreated HCECs. CONCLUSIONS HCECs produce antimicrobial peptides, LL-37, hBD2 and hBD3, in response to stimulation of HKCA, which suggests a novel innate immune mechanism of the ocular surface in defense against fungal invasion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xia Hua
- Tianjin Eye Hospital, Clinical College of Ophthalmology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
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Therapeutic potential of the antimicrobial peptide OH-CATH30 for antibiotic-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa keratitis. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2014; 58:3144-50. [PMID: 24637683 DOI: 10.1128/aac.00095-14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The therapeutic potential of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) has been evaluated in many infectious diseases. However, the topical application of AMPs for ocular bacterial infection has not been well investigated. The AMP OH-CATH30, which was identified in the king cobra, exhibits potent antimicrobial activity. In this study, we investigated the therapeutic potential of OH-CATH30 for Pseudomonas aeruginosa keratitis. Ten isolates of P. aeruginosa from individuals with keratitis were susceptible to OH-CATH30 but not to cefoperazone, ciprofloxacin, gentamicin, and levofloxacin. The microdilution checkerboard assay showed that OH-CATH30 exhibited synergistic activity with ciprofloxacin and levofloxacin against antibiotic-resistant P. aeruginosa. Meanwhile, P. aeruginosa did not develop resistance to OH-CATH30, even after exposure at 0.5× the MIC for up to 25 subcultures. Furthermore, treatment with OH-CATH30, alone or in combination with levofloxacin, significantly improved the clinical outcomes of rabbit keratitis induced by antibiotic-resistant P. aeruginosa. Taken together, our data indicate that the topical application of OH-CATH30 is efficacious against drug-resistant P. aeruginosa keratitis. In addition, our study highlights the potential application of AMPs in treating ocular bacterial infections.
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Yang K, Wu M, Li M, Li D, Peng A, Nie X, Sun M, Wang J, Wu Y, Deng Q, Zhu M, Chen K, Yuan J, Huang X. miR-155 Suppresses Bacterial Clearance in Pseudomonas aeruginosa–Induced Keratitis by Targeting Rheb. J Infect Dis 2014; 210:89-98. [DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiu002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Kun Yang
- Department of Immunology, Institute of Human Virology, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Diseases Control, Ministry of Education
| | - Minhao Wu
- Department of Immunology, Institute of Human Virology, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Diseases Control, Ministry of Education
| | - Meiyu Li
- Department of Immunology, Institute of Human Virology, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Diseases Control, Ministry of Education
| | - Dandan Li
- Department of Immunology, Institute of Human Virology, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Diseases Control, Ministry of Education
| | - Anping Peng
- Department of Immunology, Institute of Human Virology, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Diseases Control, Ministry of Education
| | - Xinxin Nie
- Department of Immunology, Institute of Human Virology, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Diseases Control, Ministry of Education
| | - Mingxia Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jinli Wang
- Department of Immunology, Institute of Human Virology, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Diseases Control, Ministry of Education
| | - Yongjian Wu
- Department of Immunology, Institute of Human Virology, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Diseases Control, Ministry of Education
| | - Qiuchan Deng
- Department of Immunology, Institute of Human Virology, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Diseases Control, Ministry of Education
| | - Min Zhu
- Department of Immunology, Institute of Human Virology, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Diseases Control, Ministry of Education
| | - Kang Chen
- Department of Immunology, Institute of Human Virology, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Diseases Control, Ministry of Education
| | - Jin Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xi Huang
- Department of Immunology, Institute of Human Virology, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Diseases Control, Ministry of Education
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
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McDermott AM. Antimicrobial compounds in tears. Exp Eye Res 2013; 117:53-61. [PMID: 23880529 PMCID: PMC3844110 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2013.07.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 173] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2013] [Revised: 07/11/2013] [Accepted: 07/13/2013] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
The tear film coats the cornea and conjunctiva and serves several important functions. It provides lubrication, prevents drying of the ocular surface epithelia, helps provide a smooth surface for refracting light, supplies oxygen and is an important component of the innate defense system of the eye providing protection against a range of potential pathogens. This review describes both classic antimicrobial compounds found in tears such as lysozyme and some more recently identified such as members of the cationic antimicrobial peptide family and surfactant protein-D as well as potential new candidate molecules that may contribute to antimicrobial protection. As is readily evident from the literature review herein, tears, like all mucosal fluids, contain a plethora of molecules with known antimicrobial effects. That all of these are active in vivo is debatable as many are present in low concentrations, may be influenced by other tear components such as the ionic environment, and antimicrobial action may be only one of several activities ascribed to the molecule. However, there are many studies showing synergistic/additive interactions between several of the tear antimicrobials and it is highly likely that cooperativity between molecules is the primary way tears are able to afford significant antimicrobial protection to the ocular surface in vivo. In addition to effects on pathogen growth and survival some tear components prevent epithelial cell invasion and promote the epithelial expression of innate defense molecules. Given the protective role of tears a number of scenarios can be envisaged that may affect the amount and/or activity of tear antimicrobials and hence compromise tear immunity. Two such situations, dry eye disease and contact lens wear, are discussed here.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alison M McDermott
- University of Houston, College of Optometry, 4901 Calhoun Road, 505 J Davis Armistead Bldg, Houston, TX 77204-2020, USA.
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Chen Y, Zhao H, Zhang X, Luo H, Xue X, Li Z, Yao B. Identification, expression and bioactivity of Paramisgurnus dabryanus β-defensin that might be involved in immune defense against bacterial infection. FISH & SHELLFISH IMMUNOLOGY 2013; 35:399-406. [PMID: 23688963 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsi.2013.04.049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2013] [Revised: 04/01/2013] [Accepted: 04/29/2013] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
β-defensins are a large family of multi-disulfide-bonded peptides with broad-spectrum antimicrobial activities that contribute to innate host defense in many organisms, but little information is available about β-defensins produced by freshwater fish lacking scales. We therefore cloned and identified a β-defensin gene from Chinese loach (Paramisgurnus dabryanus) by designing degenerate primers and using thermal asymmetric interlaced PCR. This gene is the first defensin gene ever identified in a non-scaled freshwater fish. Annotation of the protein domain architecture showed that the putative Chinese loach β-defensin contains the signature motif of six conserved cysteines within the mature peptide, an aspect similar to β-defensins of other marine fish. We also used quantitative real-time PCR to investigate the expression pattern of the Chinese loach β-defensin gene, mRNA of which could be observed in various tissues. After challenge with the pathogenic bacterium Aeromonas hydrophila, β-defensin expression was induced in the eye, gill, skin, and spleen of the adult loach. The bioactivity of the recombinant P. dabryanus β-defensin was examined against pathogenic bacteria, and the results suggest that this class 2 β-defensin has potential applications for treatment of bacterial infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yeyu Chen
- Key Laboratory for Feed Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, Feed Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, No. 12 Zhongguancun South Street, Beijing 100081, PR China
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Berger EA, McClellan SA, Vistisen KS, Hazlett LD. HIF-1α is essential for effective PMN bacterial killing, antimicrobial peptide production and apoptosis in Pseudomonas aeruginosa keratitis. PLoS Pathog 2013; 9:e1003457. [PMID: 23874197 PMCID: PMC3715414 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1003457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2013] [Accepted: 05/08/2013] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)-1α, is a transcription factor that controls energy metabolism and angiogenesis under hypoxic conditions, and a potent regulator of innate immunity. The studies described herein examined the role of HIF-1α in disease resolution in BALB/c (resistant, cornea heals) mice after ocular infection with Pseudomonas (P.) aeruginosa. Furthermore, the current studies focused on the neutrophil (PMN), the predominant cell infiltrate in keratitis. Using both siRNA and an antagonist (17-DMAG), the role of HIF-1α was assessed in P. aeruginosa-infected BALB/c mice. Clinical score and slit lamp photography indicated HIF-1α inhibition exacerbated disease and corneal destruction. Real time RT-PCR, immunohistochemistry, ELISA, Greiss and MPO assays, bacterial load, intracellular killing, phagocytosis and apoptosis assays further tested the regulatory role of HIF-1α. Despite increased pro-inflammatory cytokine expression and increased MPO levels after knocking down HIF-1α expression, in vivo studies revealed a decrease in NO production and higher bacterial load. In vitro studies using PMN provided evidence that although inhibition of HIF-1α did not affect phagocytosis, both bacterial killing and apoptosis were significantly affected, as was production of antimicrobial peptides. Overall, data provide evidence that inhibition of HIF-1α converts a normally resistant disease response to susceptible (corneal thinning and perforation) after induction of bacterial keratitis. Although this inhibition does not appear to affect PMN transmigration or phagocytosis, both in vivo and in vitro approaches indicate that the transcriptional factor is essential for effective bacterial killing, apoptosis and antimicrobial peptide production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth A. Berger
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Sharon A. McClellan
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Kerry S. Vistisen
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Linda D. Hazlett
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, United States of America
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Pearlman E, Sun Y, Roy S, Karmakar M, Hise AG, Szczotka-Flynn L, Ghannoum M, Chinnery HR, McMenamin PG, Rietsch A. Host defense at the ocular surface. Int Rev Immunol 2013; 32:4-18. [PMID: 23360155 DOI: 10.3109/08830185.2012.749400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Microbial infections of the cornea frequently cause painful, blinding and debilitating disease that is often difficult to treat and may require corneal transplantation. In addition, sterile corneal infiltrates that are associated with contact lens wear cause pain, visual impairment and photophobia. In this article, we review the role of Toll-Like Receptors (TLR) in bacterial keratitis and sterile corneal infiltrates, and describe the role of MD-2 regulation in LPS responsiveness by corneal epithelial cells. We conclude that both live bacteria and bacterial products activate Toll-Like Receptors in the cornea, which leads to chemokine production and neutrophil recruitment to the corneal stroma. While neutrophils are essential for bacterial killing, they also cause tissue damage that results in loss of corneal clarity. These disparate outcomes, therefore, represent a spectrum of disease severity based on this pathway, and further indicate that targeting the TLR pathway is a feasible approach to treating inflammation caused by live bacteria and microbial products. Further, as the P. aeruginosa type III secretion system (T3SS) also plays a critical role in disease pathogenesis by inducing neutrophil apoptosis and facilitating bacterial growth in the cornea, T3SS exotoxins are additional targets for therapy for P. aeruginosa keratitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Pearlman
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA.
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Abstract
Microbial keratitis is a sight-threatening complication associated with contact lenses. The introduction of silicone hydrogel lens materials with increased oxygen transmission to the ocular surface has not significantly altered the incidence of microbial keratitis. These data suggest that alternate, or additional, predisposing factors involving lens wear must be addressed to reduce or eliminate these infections. The contact lens can provide a surface for microbial growth in situ and can also influence ocular surface homeostasis through effects on the tear fluid and corneal epithelium. Thus, it is intuitive that future contact lens materials could make a significant contribution to preventing microbial keratitis. Design of the "right" material to prevent microbial keratitis requires understanding the effects of current materials on bacterial virulence in the cornea and on ocular surface innate defenses. Current knowledge in each of these areas will be presented with a discussion of future directions needed to understand the influence of lens material on the pathogenesis of microbial keratitis.
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Protective role of murine β-defensins 3 and 4 and cathelin-related antimicrobial peptide in Fusarium solani keratitis. Infect Immun 2013; 81:2669-77. [PMID: 23670560 DOI: 10.1128/iai.00179-13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), such as β-defensins and cathelicidins, are essential components of innate and adaptive immunity owing to their extensive multifunctional activities. However, their role in fungal infection in vivo remains elusive. In this study, we investigated the protective effect of murine β-defensin 3 (mBD3), mBD4, and the cathelicidin cathelin-related antimicrobial peptide (CRAMP) in a murine model of Fusarium solani keratitis. C57BL/6 mice showed significant corneal disease 1 and 3 days after infection, which was accompanied by enhanced expression of β-defensins and CRAMP. Disease severity was significantly improved 7 days after infection, at which time AMP expression was returning to baseline. Mice deficient in mBD3 (genetic knockout), mBD4 (short interfering RNA knockdown), or CRAMP (genetic knockout) exhibited enhanced disease severity and progression, increased neutrophil recruitment, and delayed pathogen elimination compared to controls. Taken together, these data suggest a vital role for AMPs in defense against F. solani keratitis, a potentially blinding corneal disease.
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Redfern RL, Patel N, Hanlon S, Farley W, Gondo M, Pflugfelder SC, McDermott AM. Toll-like receptor expression and activation in mice with experimental dry eye. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2013; 54:1554-63. [PMID: 23372055 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.12-10739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate the expression and/or function of toll-like receptors (TLRs) and antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) in dry eye inflammation. METHODS Experimental dry eye (EDE) was induced in C57BL/6 mice and TLR mRNA and protein expression were determined at the ocular surface and lacrimal gland. TLR agonist cocktail was applied to the ocular surface in untreated (UT), corneal scratched, and EDE mice. The corneal expression of cathelin-related antimicrobial peptide (CRAMP; human LL-37 orthologue), and mouse beta defensin (mBD)-3 and -4 (human BD-2 orthologue) was compared. LL-37, hBD-2, TLR4, 5, and TLR9 mRNA expression was examined in patients with dysfunctional tear syndrome (DTS) via conjunctival impression cytology. Murine central corneal thickness (CCT) and inflammatory cell recruitment into the stroma was determined by in vivo imaging. RESULTS EDE upregulated TLR2-4 and 9 mRNA expression in the palpebral conjunctiva and with the exception of TLR4, a similar expression, occurred in the corneal epithelium. TLR2 and 5 were upregulated in lacrimal gland and overall, there was a corresponding change in TLR protein. EDE decreased CRAMP mRNA and protein. hBD-2 and TLR9 expression were modulated in DTS subjects. Topical TLR agonist increased inflammatory cells recruitment and CCT in mice with a cornea scratch. In EDE, TLR agonist treatment downregulated corneal mBD-4 protein caused corneal epithelial loss, and stromal ulceration resulting in decreased CCT. CONCLUSIONS DTS modulates the expression of TLR and CRAMP and topical application of TLR agonists in EDE mice resulted in corneal epithelial loss and thinning. These results suggest that TLRs are involved in DTS inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel L Redfern
- College of Optometry, University of Houston, 505 J. Davis Armistead Building, 4901Calhoun Road, Houston, TX 77204-2020, USA.
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Narayanan S, Redfern RL, Miller WL, Nichols KK, McDermott AM. Dry eye disease and microbial keratitis: is there a connection? Ocul Surf 2013; 11:75-92. [PMID: 23583043 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtos.2012.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2012] [Revised: 12/14/2012] [Accepted: 12/16/2012] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Dry eye is a common ocular surface disease of multifactorial etiology characterized by elevated tear osmolality and inflammation leading to a disrupted ocular surface. The latter is a risk factor for ocular surface infection, yet overt infection is not commonly seen clinically in the typical dry eye patient. This suggests that important innate mechanisms operate to protect the dry eye from invading pathogens. This article reviews the current literature on epidemiology of ocular surface infection in dry eye patients and laboratory-based studies on innate immune mechanisms operating at the ocular surface and their alterations in human dry eye and animal models. The review highlights current understanding of innate immunity in dry eye and identifies gaps in our knowledge to help direct future studies to further unravel the complexities of dry eye disease and its sequelae.
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Affiliation(s)
- Srihari Narayanan
- University of the Incarnate Word, Rosenberg School of Optometry, San Antonio, TX, USA
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Alexander DB, Iigo M, Yamauchi K, Suzui M, Tsuda H. Lactoferrin: an alternative view of its role in human biological fluids. Biochem Cell Biol 2012; 90:279-306. [PMID: 22553915 DOI: 10.1139/o2012-013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Lactoferrin is a major component of biologically important mucosal fluids and of the specific granules of neutrophils. Understanding its biological function is essential for understanding neutrophil- and mucosal-mediated immunity. In this review, we reevaluate the in vivo functions of human lactoferrin (hLF) emphasizing in vivo studies and in vitro studies performed in biologically relevant fluids. We discuss the evidence in the literature that supports (or does not support) proposed roles for hLF in mucosal immunity and in neutrophil function. We argue that the current literature supports a microbiostatic role, but not a microbicidal role, for hLF in vivo. The literature also supports a role for hLF in inhibiting colonization and infection of epithelial surfaces by microorganisms and in protecting tissues from neutrophil-mediated damage. Using this information, we briefly discuss hLF in the context of the complex biological fluids in which it is found.
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Affiliation(s)
- David B Alexander
- Laboratory of Nanotoxicology Project, Nagoya City University, 3-1 Tanabedohri, Mizuho-ku, Nagoya 467-8603, Japan.
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Tam C, LeDue J, Mun JJ, Herzmark P, Robey EA, Evans DJ, Fleiszig SMJ. 3D quantitative imaging of unprocessed live tissue reveals epithelial defense against bacterial adhesion and subsequent traversal requires MyD88. PLoS One 2011; 6:e24008. [PMID: 21901151 PMCID: PMC3162028 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0024008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2010] [Accepted: 08/03/2011] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
While a plethora of in vivo models exist for studying infectious disease and its resolution, few enable factors involved in the maintenance of health to be studied in situ. This is due in part to a paucity of tools for studying subtleties of bacterial-host interactions at a cellular level within live organs or tissues, requiring investigators to rely on overt outcomes (e.g. pathology) in their research. Here, a suite of imaging technologies were combined to enable 3D and temporal subcellular localization and quantification of bacterial distribution within the murine cornea without the need for tissue processing or dissection. These methods were then used to demonstrate the importance of MyD88, a central adaptor protein for Toll-Like Receptor (TLR) mediated signaling, in protecting a multilayered epithelium against both adhesion and traversal by the opportunistic bacterial pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa ex vivo and in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Connie Tam
- School of Optometry, University of California, Berkeley, California, United States of America
| | - Jeffrey LeDue
- School of Optometry, University of California, Berkeley, California, United States of America
| | - James J. Mun
- Program in Vision Science, University of California, Berkeley, California, United States of America
| | - Paul Herzmark
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, California, United States of America
| | - Ellen A. Robey
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, California, United States of America
| | - David J. Evans
- School of Optometry, University of California, Berkeley, California, United States of America
- College of Pharmacy, Touro University California, Vallejo, California, United States of America
| | - Suzanne M. J. Fleiszig
- School of Optometry, University of California, Berkeley, California, United States of America
- Program in Vision Science, University of California, Berkeley, California, United States of America
- Programs in Infectious Diseases and Immunity and Microbiology, University of California, Berkeley, California, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Jiang X, McClellan SA, Barrett RP, Berger EA, Zhang Y, Hazlett LD. VIP and growth factors in the infected cornea. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2011; 52:6154-61. [PMID: 21666233 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.10-6943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) is an anti-inflammatory neuropeptide that downregulates proinflammatory cytokines and promotes healing in a susceptible model of P. aeruginosa keratitis. Growth factors also play a role in corneal healing and restoration of tissue homeostasis after wounding. However, whether VIP treatment modulates growth factors to promote healing in the infected cornea remains untested and is the purpose of this study. METHODS C57BL/6 (B6) mice were injected with VIP and mRNA and protein levels, and immunostaining for EGF, FGF, HGF, and VEGF-A were done. Exogenous treatment with a mixture of the growth factors also was tested and levels of cytokines, defensins, and bacterial counts were determined. RESULTS Real-time RT-PCR, immunostaining, and ELISA data demonstrated that treatment with VIP enhanced levels of EGF, FGF, and HGF during disease, and that VEGF-A, and associated angiogenic molecules also were increased by VIP. Moreover, immunohistochemical studies confirmed that both epithelial and stromal cells participated in growth factor production. Most notably, treatment with a mixture of EGF, FGF, and HGF after disease onset, prevented corneal perforation when compared with controls. This outcome was associated with downregulation of proinflammatory cytokines such as macrophage inflammatory protein-2 (MIP-2), upregulation of anti-inflammatory cytokines such as TGF-β, and antimicrobials β-defensins 2 and 3, as well as decreased plate counts at 1 day postinfection (p.i.) (P = 0.0001). CONCLUSIONS Collectively, the data provide evidence that VIP treatment modulates growth factors, angiogenic molecules, and defensins in the infected cornea and that this in turn promotes healing and restoration of tissue homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyu Jiang
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan 48201, USA
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O'Hara SP, Splinter PL, Trussoni CE, Gajdos GB, Lineswala PN, LaRusso NF. Cholangiocyte N-Ras protein mediates lipopolysaccharide-induced interleukin 6 secretion and proliferation. J Biol Chem 2011; 286:30352-30360. [PMID: 21757746 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m111.269464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Cholangiocytes, the epithelial cells lining the bile ducts in the liver, are periodically exposed to potentially injurious microbes and/or microbial products. As a result, cholangiocytes actively participate in microbe-associated, hepatic proinflammatory responses. We previously showed that infection of cultured human cholangiocytes with the protozoan parasite, Cryptosporidium parvum, or treatment with gram-negative bacteria-derived LPS, activates NFκB in a myeloid differentiation 88 (MyD88)-dependent manner. Here, we describe a novel signaling pathway initiated by Toll-like receptors (TLRs) involving the small GTPase, Ras, that mediates cholangiocyte proinflammatory cytokine production and induction of cholangiocyte proliferation. Using cultured human cholangiocytes and a Ras activation assay, we found that agonists of plasma membrane TLRs (TLR 1, 2, 4, 5, and 6) rapidly (<10 min) activated N-Ras, but not other p21 Ras isoforms, resulting in the rapid (<15 min) phosphorylation of the downstream Ras effector, ERK1/2. RNA interference-induced depletion of TRAF6, a downstream effector of MyD88 and known activator of MAPK signaling, had no effect on N-Ras activation. Following N-Ras activation the proinflammatory cytokine, IL6, is rapidly secreted. Using a luciferase reporter, we demonstrated that LPS treatment induced IL6 promoter-driven luciferase which was suppressed using MEK/ERK pharmacologic inhibitors (PD98059 or U0126) and RNAi-induced depletion of N-Ras. Finally, we showed that LPS increased cholangiocyte proliferation (1.5-fold), which was inhibited by depletion of N-Ras; TLR agonist-induced proliferation was also inhibited following pretreatment with an IL6 receptor-blocking antibody. Together, our results support a novel signaling axis involving microbial activation of N-Ras likely involved in the cholangiocyte pathogen-induced proinflammatory response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven P O'Hara
- Center for Digestive Diseases, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota 55905.
| | - Patrick L Splinter
- Center for Digestive Diseases, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota 55905
| | - Christy E Trussoni
- Center for Digestive Diseases, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota 55905
| | - Gabriella B Gajdos
- Center for Digestive Diseases, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota 55905
| | - Pooja N Lineswala
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455
| | - Nicholas F LaRusso
- Center for Digestive Diseases, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota 55905
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Kolar SS, McDermott AM. Role of host-defence peptides in eye diseases. Cell Mol Life Sci 2011; 68:2201-13. [PMID: 21584809 PMCID: PMC3637883 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-011-0713-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2011] [Revised: 04/26/2011] [Accepted: 04/26/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
The eye and its associated tissues including the lacrimal system and lids have evolved several defence mechanisms to prevent microbial invasion. Included among this armory are several host-defence peptides. These multifunctional molecules are being studied not only for their endogenous antimicrobial properties but also for their potential therapeutic effects. Here the current knowledge of host-defence peptide expression in the eye will be summarised. The role of these peptides in eye disease will be discussed with the primary focus being on infectious keratitis, inflammatory conditions including dry eye and wound healing. Finally the potential of using host-defence peptides and their mimetics/derivatives for the treatment and prevention of eye diseases is addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Satya S. Kolar
- College of Optometry, University of Houston, 4901 Calhoun Road, 505 J Davis Armistead Bldg, Houston, TX 77204-2020 USA
| | - Alison M. McDermott
- College of Optometry, University of Houston, 4901 Calhoun Road, 505 J Davis Armistead Bldg, Houston, TX 77204-2020 USA
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TREM-1 amplifies corneal inflammation after Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection by modulating Toll-like receptor signaling and Th1/Th2-type immune responses. Infect Immun 2011; 79:2709-16. [PMID: 21555403 DOI: 10.1128/iai.00144-11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
As a novel family of cell surface receptors, triggering receptors expressed on myeloid cells (TREMs) play an important role in inflammatory responses. However, the role of TREMs in the ocular immune system remains unknown. In this study, we examined the expression and function of TREM-1 in Pseudomonas aeruginosa keratitis, one of the most common sight-threatening ocular diseases. TREM-1 was significantly increased in human corneas after P. aeruginosa infection. Consistent with TREM-1 expression at the human ocular surface, TREM-1 levels (mRNA and protein) were also elevated in the infected corneas of C57BL/6 (B6) mice at 1, 3, and 5 days postinfection. To determine whether TREM-1 dictates the outcome of P. aeruginosa keratitis in susceptible mice, TREM-1 signaling in B6 mice was blocked with a soluble mTREM-1/Fc fusion protein. The results indicated that blockade of TREM-1 reduced the severity of corneal disease, polymorphonuclear neutrophil infiltration, Th1/proinflammatory cytokine expression and Toll-like receptor (TLR) activation but enhanced the production of Th2 cytokines, murine β-defensin 2 (mBD2), single Ig interleukin-1R-related molecule (SIGIRR), and ST2. Furthermore, we also used agonistic anti-mTREM-1 antibody to activate TREM-1 signaling in B6 mice and found that TREM-1 activation resulted in worsened disease and earlier corneal perforation in infected B6 mouse corneas and elevated production of proinflammatory cytokines and TLR signaling molecules but reduced expression of mBD2, SIGIRR, and ST2. To the best of our knowledge, this study provides the first evidence that TREM-1 functions as an inflammatory amplifier in P. aeruginosa keratitis by modulating TLR signaling and Th1/Th2 responses.
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Phattarataratip E, Olson B, Broffitt B, Qian F, Brogden KA, Drake DR, Levy SM, Banas JA. Streptococcus mutans strains recovered from caries-active or caries-free individuals differ in sensitivity to host antimicrobial peptides. Mol Oral Microbiol 2011; 26:187-99. [PMID: 21545696 DOI: 10.1111/j.2041-1014.2011.00607.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are among the repertoire of host innate immune defenses. In the oral cavity, several AMPs are present in saliva and have antimicrobial activities against oral bacteria, including Streptococcus mutans, a primary etiological agent of dental caries. In this study, we hypothesized that unique S. mutans strains, as determined by DNA fingerprinting from sixty 13-year-old subjects with or without experience of caries, would have different susceptibilities to α-defensins-1-3 (HNP-1-3), β-defensins-2-3 (HBD-2-3) and LL-37. The salivary levels of these peptides in subjects were also measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. We found that S. mutans strains from children with active caries showed greater resistance to salivary HNP-1-2, HBD-2-3 and LL-37 at varying concentrations than those from caries-free subjects. In addition, combinations of these peptides increased their antimicrobial activity against S. mutans either additively or synergistically. The salivary levels of these peptides were highly variable among subjects with no correlation to host caries experience. However, the levels of a number of these peptides in saliva appeared to be positively correlated within an individual. Our findings suggest that the relative ability of S. mutans to resist host salivary AMPs may be considered a potential virulence factor for this species such that S. mutans strains that are more resistant to these peptides may have an ecological advantage to preferentially colonize within dental plaque and increase the risk of dental caries.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Phattarataratip
- Dows Institute for Dental Research, College of Dentistry, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
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Redfern RL, Reins RY, McDermott AM. Toll-like receptor activation modulates antimicrobial peptide expression by ocular surface cells. Exp Eye Res 2010; 92:209-20. [PMID: 21195713 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2010.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2010] [Revised: 11/19/2010] [Accepted: 12/06/2010] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
The ability of the ocular surface to respond to pathogens is in part attributed to toll-like receptors (TLRs) that recognize conserved motifs on various microbes. This study examines TLR expression on various ocular surface cells, if TLR agonists can modulate the expression of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), human beta defensins (hBD) and cathelicidin (hCAP-18/LL-37) which maybe functionally active against Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PA) and if TLR agonists or AMPs can modulate TLR mRNA expression. TLR1-10 mRNA expression was examined in corneal epithelial, corneal stromal cells and conjunctival epithelial cells by RT-PCR. To confirm protein expression flow cytometry or immunostaining was performed for selected TLRs on some cell cultures. Ocular surface cells were cultured with a range of TLR agonists and then hBD-1, 2, 3, or hCAP-18 mRNA and protein expression was determined by RT-PCR and immunoblotting. In some experiments, cells were cultured with a cocktail of agonists for TLR3, 5 and 6/2 and the antimicrobial activity of the culture media was tested against PA. TLR mRNA expression was also examined in primary human corneal epithelial cells (HCEC) treated with either 3 μg/ml of hBD-2, 5 μg/ml of LL-37 or TLR4, 5 and 9 agonists. Overall, the ocular surface cells expressed mRNA for most of the TLRs but some differences were found. TLR2 was not detected in corneal fibroblasts, TLR4 was not detected in primary cultured or freshly isolated HCEC, TLR5 was not detected in conjunctival epithelial cells (IOBA-NHC) and corneal fibroblasts, TLR7 was not detected in freshly isolated HCEC and TLR10 was not detected in HCEC and IOBA-NHC. TLR8 mRNA was not expressed by any of the samples tested. Immunostaining of cadaver corneas revealed TLR5 and 9 expression throughout the cornea while TLR3 was significantly expressed only in the epithelium. Flow cytometry and immunostaining revealed cultured fibroblasts expressed TLR9 but had no significant TLR3 expression. hBD-2 expression was upregulated by TLR1/2, 3, 4, 5 and 6/2 agonists depending on the cell type, whereas only the TLR3 agonist upregulated the expression of hCAP-18 in primary HCEC. The combination of TLR3, 5 and 6/2 agonists in primary HCEC, upregulated hBD-2 and hCAP-18 mRNA and peptide expression and secretion into the culture media, which significantly killed PA. This antimicrobial activity was primarily attributed to LL-37. TLR agonists did not modulate TLR expression itself, however, LL-37 or hBD-2 downregulated TLR5, 7 and/or 9 mRNA depending on the cell type. TLRs are expressed on the ocular surface and TLR agonists trigger the production of LL-37 and hBD-2, with LL-37 being particularly important for protecting the ocular surface against PA infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel L Redfern
- University of Houston, College of Optometry, 505 J. Davis Armistead Building, 4901 Calhoun Road, Houston, TX 77204-2020, USA
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Wu MH, Zhang P, Huang X. Toll-like receptors in innate immunity and infectious diseases. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2010; 4:385-93. [PMID: 21136206 DOI: 10.1007/s11684-010-0600-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2010] [Accepted: 11/03/2010] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The protective ability of host defense system is largely dependent on germ-line encoded pattern-recognition receptors (PRRs). These PRRs respond to a variety of exogenous pathogens or endogenous danger signals, by recognizing some highly conserved structures such as pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) and danger/damage associated molecular patterns (DAMPs). The most studied PRRs are Toll-like receptors (TLRs). Activation of TLRs triggers production of inflammatory cytokines and type I interferons (IFNs) via myeloid differentiation primary response gene 88 (MyD88)-dependent or -independent signaling respectively, thereby modulating innate and adaptive immunity, as well as inflammatory responses. This review introduces the classification, structure, and specific ligands of TLRs, and focuses on their signal pathways and biological activities, as well as clinical relevance. These studies of TLRs in the innate immune system have implications for the prevention and treatment of a variety of infectious diseases, including tuberculosis (TB), microbial keratitis, and hepatitis B and C.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min-Hao Wu
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Diseases Control (Sun Yat-sen University), Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, 510080, China
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Role of defensins in corneal epithelial barrier function against Pseudomonas aeruginosa traversal. Infect Immun 2010; 79:595-605. [PMID: 21115716 DOI: 10.1128/iai.00854-10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Studies have shown that epithelium-expressed antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), e.g., β-defensins, play a role in clearing bacteria from mouse corneas already infected with Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Less is known about the role of AMPs in allowing the cornea to resist infection when healthy. We previously reported that contact lens exposure, a major cause of P. aeruginosa keratitis, can inhibit the upregulation of human β-defensin 2 (hBD-2) by corneal epithelial cells in response to P. aeruginosa antigens in vitro. Here, we studied the role of AMPs in maintaining the corneal epithelial barrier to P. aeruginosa penetration using both in vitro (human) and in vivo (mouse) experiments. Results showed that preexposing human corneal epithelial multilayers to bacterial antigens in a culture supernatant (known to upregulate AMP expression) reduced epithelial susceptibility to P. aeruginosa traversal up to 6-fold (P < 0.001). Accordingly, small interfering RNA (siRNA) knockdown of any one of four AMPs expressed by human epithelia promoted P. aeruginosa traversal by more than 3-fold (P < 0.001). The combination knockdown of AMPs further enhanced susceptibility to bacterial traversal by ∼8-fold (P < 0.001). In vivo experiments showed that the loss of murine β-defensin 3 (mBD-3), a murine ortholog of hBD-2, enhanced corneal susceptibility to P. aeruginosa. The uninjured ocular surface of mBD-3(-/-) mice showed a reduced capacity to clear P. aeruginosa, and their corneal epithelia were more susceptible to bacterial colonization, even when inoculated ex vivo to exclude tear fluid effects. Together, these in vitro and in vivo data show functional roles for AMPs in normal corneal epithelial cell barrier function against P. aeruginosa.
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47
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Current World Literature. Curr Opin Allergy Clin Immunol 2010; 10:511-4. [DOI: 10.1097/aci.0b013e32833f1ba6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Schwalfenberg GK. A review of the critical role of vitamin D in the functioning of the immune system and the clinical implications of vitamin D deficiency. Mol Nutr Food Res 2010; 55:96-108. [PMID: 20824663 DOI: 10.1002/mnfr.201000174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 237] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2010] [Revised: 07/07/2010] [Accepted: 07/09/2010] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
This review looks at the critical role of vitamin D in improving barrier function, production of antimicrobial peptides including cathelicidin and some defensins, and immune modulation. The function of vitamin D in the innate immune system and in the epithelial cells of the oral cavity, lung, gastrointestinal system, genito-urinary system, skin and surface of the eye is discussed. Clinical conditions are reviewed where vitamin D may play a role in the prevention of infections or where it may be used as primary or adjuvant treatment for viral, bacterial and fungal infections. Several conditions such as tuberculosis, psoriasis, eczema, Crohn's disease, chest infections, wound infections, influenza, urinary tract infections, eye infections and wound healing may benefit from adequate circulating 25(OH)D as substrate. Clinical diseases are presented in which optimization of 25(OH)D levels may benefit or cause harm according to present day knowledge. The safety of using larger doses of vitamin D in various clinical settings is discussed.
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Hazlett L, Wu M. Defensins in innate immunity. Cell Tissue Res 2010; 343:175-88. [PMID: 20730446 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-010-1022-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 170] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2010] [Accepted: 07/13/2010] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The innate immune system is the first line of defense against many common microorganisms, which can initiate adaptive immune responses to provide increased protection against subsequent re-infection by the same pathogen. As a major family of antimicrobial peptides, defensins are widely expressed in a variety of epithelial cells and sometimes in leukocytes, playing an important role in the innate immune system due to their antimicrobial, chemotactic and regulatory activities. This review introduces their structure, classification, distribution, synthesis, and focuses on their biological activities and mechanisms, as well as clinical relevance. These studies of defensins in the innate immune system have implications for the prevention and treatment of a variety of infectious diseases, including bacterial ocular disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda Hazlett
- Anatomy/Cell Biology, Wayne State University, 540 E. Canfield Ave, Detroit, MI 48201, USA.
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50
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Kumar A, Gao N, Standiford TJ, Gallo RL, Yu FSX. Topical flagellin protects the injured corneas from Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection. Microbes Infect 2010; 12:978-89. [PMID: 20601077 DOI: 10.1016/j.micinf.2010.06.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2010] [Revised: 06/15/2010] [Accepted: 06/17/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Among bacterial pathogens, Pseudomonas (P.) aeruginosa infection is the most sight threatening. The corneal innate immune responses are key mediators of the host's defense to P. aeruginosa. Using a mouse model of Pseudomonas keratitis, we evaluated the protective effects of topical application of flagellin, a ligand for Toll-Like receptor 5 (TLR5), on the development of Pseudomonas keratitis and elucidated the underlying mechanisms. Topical application of purified flagellin 6 and 24 h prior to P. aeruginosa inoculation on injured mouse corneas significantly attenuated clinical symptoms of P. aeruginosa keratitis, decreased bacterial burden, and suppressed infection induced inflammation in the B6 mouse cornea. Topical application of flagellin on wounded cornea induced PMN infiltration and markedly upregulated cathelicidin-related antimicrobial peptide (CRAMP) expression. In PMN depleted mice, flagellin promoted bacterial clearance in the cornea compared to that of the PBS treated mice, but was unable to prevent corneal perforation and systemic bacterial dissemination and sepses. Deletion of CRAMP increased corneal susceptibility to P. aeruginosa and abolished flagellin-induced protection in B6 mice. Our findings illustrate the profound protective effect of flagellin on the cornea innate defense, a response that can be exploited for prophylactic purposes to prevent contact lens associated Pseudomonas keratitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashok Kumar
- Departments of Ophthalmology and Anatomy & Cell Biology, Kresge Eye Institute, Wayne State University School of Medicine, 4717 St. Antoine, Detroit, MI 48201, USA
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