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Liu Y, Wang F, Cheng B, Zhou G. Melatonin improves salivary gland damage and hypofunction in pSS by inhibiting IL-6/STAT3 signaling through its receptor-dependent manner. Mol Immunol 2024; 169:10-27. [PMID: 38460474 DOI: 10.1016/j.molimm.2024.02.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2023] [Revised: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/11/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Primary Sjogren's syndrome (pSS) is an autoimmune disease of the exocrine glands with no specific or efficient treatments. Melatonin, a natural hormone, is revealed to show multiple biological functions, both receptor-dependent and independent effects, including anti-apoptotic, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activities. However, the potential mechanism by which melatonin protects salivary glands (SGs) of pSS from damage needs to be clarified. The purpose of current study was to explore the role and receptor-related mechanisms of melatonin in pSS-induced glandular damage. METHODS AND RESULTS NOD/Ltj mice were used to spontaneously mimic pSS-induced glandular hypofunction in vivo and primary human salivary gland epithelial (HSGE) cells were stimulated by interferon-γ (IFN-γ) to mimic pSS-induced inflammation in SGs cells in vitro. Melatonin-treated mice exhibited a significant reduction in SG injury of NOD/Ltj mice, which was accompanied by an increase in salivary flow rate, a decrease in inflammatory infiltration within the gland, and a suppression of oxidative stress indicators as well as cell apoptosis. Notably, both melatonin membrane receptors and nuclear receptors played an important role in the anti-apoptotic effects of melatonin on the SGs of NOD/Ltj mice. Furthermore, melatonin blocked the IL-6/STAT3 pathway through receptor-dependent manners in IFN-γ-stimulated HSGE cells. However, it was evident that the anti-oxidative and anti-apoptotic properties of melatonin on IFN-γ-stimulated HSGE cells were diminished by IL-6 treatment. CONCLUSION Melatonin had the potential to mitigate inflammation, oxidative stress, and apoptosis in SGs of pSS by inhibiting the IL-6/STAT3 pathway through receptor-dependent mechanisms. This intervention effectively prevented glandular damage and preserved functional integrity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Liu
- The State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Stomatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, China
| | - Fang Wang
- The State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Stomatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, China; Department of Oral Medicine, School and Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, China
| | - Bo Cheng
- Department of Stomatology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, China.
| | - Gang Zhou
- The State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Stomatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, China; Department of Oral Medicine, School and Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, China.
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Li M, Li M, Qiao L, Wu C, Xu D, Zhao Y, Zeng X. Role of JAK-STAT signaling pathway in pathogenesis and treatment of primary Sjögren's syndrome. Chin Med J (Engl) 2023; 136:2297-2306. [PMID: 37185152 PMCID: PMC10538906 DOI: 10.1097/cm9.0000000000002539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
ABSTRACT Primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS) is a systemic autoimmune disease with high prevalence and possible poor prognosis. Though the pathogenesis of pSS has not been fully elucidated, B cell hyperactivity is considered as one of the fundamental abnormalities in pSS patients. It has long been identified that Janus kinases-signal transducer and activator of transcription (JAK-STAT) signaling pathway contributes to rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus. Recently, increasing numbers of studies have provided evidence that JAK-STAT pathway also has an important role in the pathogenesis of pSS via direct or indirect activation of B cells. Signal transducer and activator of transcription 1 (STAT1), STAT3, and STAT5 activated by various cytokines and ribonucleic acid contribute to pSS development, respectively or synergically. These results reveal the potential application of Janus kinase inhibitors for treatment of pSS, which may fundamentally improve the quality of life and prognosis of patients with pSS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mucong Li
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College; National Clinical Research Center for Dermatologic and Immunologic Diseases (NCRC-DID), Ministry of Science & Technology; State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital (PUMCH); Key Laboratory of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Ministry of Education, Beijing 100730, China
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Gupta S, Yamada E, Nakamura H, Perez P, Pranzatelli TJ, Dominick K, Jang SI, Abed M, Martin D, Burbelo P, Zheng C, French B, Alevizos I, Khavandgar Z, Beach M, Pelayo E, Walitt B, Hasni S, Kaplan MJ, Tandon M, Teresa Magone M, Kleiner DE, Chiorini JA, Baer AN, Warner BM. Inhibition of JAK-STAT pathway corrects salivary gland inflammation and interferon driven immune activation in Sjögren's Disease. medRxiv 2023:2023.08.16.23294130. [PMID: 37662351 PMCID: PMC10473773 DOI: 10.1101/2023.08.16.23294130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/05/2023]
Abstract
Objectives Inflammatory cytokines that signal through the JAK- STAT pathway, especially interferons (IFNs), are implicated in Sjögren's Disease (SjD). Although inhibition of JAKs is effective in other autoimmune diseases, a systematic investigation of IFN-JAK-STAT signaling and effect of JAK inhibitor (JAKi) therapy in SjD-affected human tissues has not been reported. Methods Human minor salivary glands (MSGs) and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were investigated using bulk or single cell (sc) RNA sequencing (RNAseq), immunofluorescence microscopy (IF), and flow cytometry. Ex vivo culture assays on PBMCs and primary salivary gland epithelial cell (pSGEC) lines were performed to model changes in target tissues before and after JAKi. Results RNAseq and IF showed activated JAK-STAT pathway in SjD MSGs. Elevated IFN-stimulated gene (ISGs) expression associated with clinical variables (e.g., focus scores, anti-SSA positivity). scRNAseq of MSGs exhibited cell-type specific upregulation of JAK-STAT and ISGs; PBMCs showed similar trends, including markedly upregulated ISGs in monocytes. Ex vivo studies showed elevated basal pSTAT levels in SjD MSGs and PBMCs that were corrected with JAKi. SjD-derived pSGECs exhibited higher basal ISG expressions and exaggerated responses to IFNβ, which were normalized by JAKi without cytotoxicity. Conclusions SjD patients' tissues exhibit increased expression of ISGs and activation of the JAK-STAT pathway in a cell type-dependent manner. JAKi normalizes this aberrant signaling at the tissue level and in PBMCs, suggesting a putative viable therapy for SjD, targeting both glandular and extraglandular symptoms. Predicated on these data, a Phase Ib/IIa randomized controlled trial to treat SjD with tofacitinib was initiated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarthak Gupta
- Lupus Clinical Trials Unit, National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda MD, USA
| | - Eiko Yamada
- Salivary Disorder Unit, National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Hiroyuki Nakamura
- Adeno-Associated Virus Biology Section, National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Paola Perez
- Salivary Disorder Unit, National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Thomas J.F. Pranzatelli
- Adeno-Associated Virus Biology Section, National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Kalie Dominick
- Salivary Disorder Unit, National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Shyh-Ing Jang
- Salivary Disorder Unit, National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Mehdi Abed
- Salivary Disorder Unit, National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Daniel Martin
- Genomics and Computational Biology Core, National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Peter Burbelo
- Genomics and Computational Biology Core, National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Changyu Zheng
- Genomics and Computational Biology Core, National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Ben French
- Adeno-Associated Virus Biology Section, National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Ilias Alevizos
- Salivary Disorder Unit, National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Zohreh Khavandgar
- Salivary Disorder Unit, National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
- NIDCR Sjögren’s Disease Clinic, National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Margaret Beach
- NIDCR Sjögren’s Disease Clinic, National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Eileen Pelayo
- NIDCR Sjögren’s Disease Clinic, National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Brian Walitt
- NIDCR Sjögren’s Disease Clinic, National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Sarfaraz Hasni
- Lupus Clinical Trials Unit, National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda MD, USA
| | - Mariana J. Kaplan
- Lupus Clinical Trials Unit, National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda MD, USA
- Systemic Autoimmunity Branch, National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda MD, USA
| | - Mayank Tandon
- Salivary Disorder Unit, National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - M. Teresa Magone
- Consult Services Section, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda MD, USA
| | - David E. Kleiner
- Laboratory of Pathology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda MD, USA
| | - John A. Chiorini
- Adeno-Associated Virus Biology Section, National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Alan N. Baer
- NIDCR Sjögren’s Disease Clinic, National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Blake M. Warner
- Salivary Disorder Unit, National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
- NIDCR Sjögren’s Disease Clinic, National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
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Gandolfo S, Ciccia F. JAK/STAT Pathway Targeting in Primary Sjögren Syndrome. Rheumatol Immunol Res 2022; 3:95-102. [PMID: 36788973 DOI: 10.2478/rir-2022-0017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2022] [Accepted: 06/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS) is an autoimmune systemic disease mainly affecting exocrine glands and resulting in disabling symptoms, as dry eye and dry mouth. Mechanisms underlying pSS pathogenesis are intricate, involving multiplanar and, at the same time, interlinked levels, e.g., genetic predisposition, epigenetic modifications and the dysregulation of both immune system and glandular-resident cellular pathways, mainly salivary gland epithelial cells. Unravelling the biological and molecular complexity of pSS is still a great challenge but much progress has been made in recent years in basic and translational research field, allowing the identification of potential novel targets for therapy development. Despite such promising novelties, however, none therapy has been specifically approved for pSS treatment until now. In recent years, growing evidence has supported the modulation of Janus kinases (JAK) - signal transducers and activators of transcription (STAT) pathways as treatment strategy immune mediated diseases. JAK-STAT pathway plays a crucial role in autoimmunity and systemic inflammation, being involved in signal pathways of many cytokines. This review aims to report the state-of-the-art about the role of JAK-STAT pathway in pSS, with particular focus on available research and clinical data regarding the use of JAK inhibitors in pSS.
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Couette N, Jarjour W, Brammer JE, Simon Meara A. Pathogenesis and Treatment of T-Large Granular Lymphocytic Leukemia (T-LGLL) in the Setting of Rheumatic Disease. Front Oncol 2022; 12:854499. [PMID: 35747794 PMCID: PMC9209697 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.854499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
A complex relationship exists between rheumatic diseases and cancer. This delicate balance between chronic inflammation and malignant cell transformation in hematologic neoplasms has been observed, but is not well defined. Large Granular Lymphocyte (LGL) leukemia is at the intersection of a clonal lymphoproliferative disease, chronic inflammation, and autoimmunity. The association between rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and the spectrum of Felty’s Syndrome is well-known. Other rheumatic disorders have been reported including systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), Sjogren’s Syndrome (SS), vasculitis, Behcet’s Disease (BD) and systemic sclerosis. The association between T-LGLL and rheumatic disease pathogenesis has been hypothesized, but has not yet been fully understood. Components of a shared pathogenesis includes chronic antigen stimulation, JAK-STAT pathway activation and overlap of various cytokines. We will summarize current knowledge on the molecular understanding between T-LGLL and rheumatic disease. There are many potential areas of research to help meet this need and lead to development of targeted therapeutic options.
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Witas R, Shen Y, Nguyen CQ. Bone marrow-derived macrophages from a murine model of Sjögren's syndrome demonstrate an aberrant, inflammatory response to apoptotic cells. Sci Rep 2022; 12:8593. [PMID: 35597820 PMCID: PMC9124194 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-12608-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2022] [Accepted: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Sjögren's syndrome (SjS) is a female-dominated autoimmune disease involving lymphocytic infiltration of the exocrine glands. We have previously demonstrated cleavage of the TAM (Tyro3, Axl, Mer) receptor Mer is enhanced in SjS, leading to defective efferocytosis. Mer also plays a role in modulating phagocyte inflammatory response to apoptotic cells. Here we investigated the SjS macrophage response to apoptotic cells (AC). Bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMDMs) from SjS-susceptible (SjSs) C57BL/6.NOD-Aec1Aec2 mice and C57BL/6 (B6) controls were treated with either AC or CpG-oligodeoxynucleotides. RNA was collected from macrophages and bulk sequencing was performed to analyze transcripts. Cytokine expression was confirmed by Bio-plex. RT-qPCR was used to determine toll-like receptor (TLR) 7 and 9 involvement in BMDM inflammatory response to apoptotic cells. SjSS BMDMs exhibited a distinct transcriptional profile involving upregulation of a broad array of inflammatory genes that were not elevated in B6 BMDMs by AC. Inhibition of TLR 7 and 9 was found to limit the inflammatory response of SjSS BMDMs to ACs. ACs elicit an inflammatory reaction in SjSS BMDMs distinct from that observed in B6 BMDMs. This discovery of aberrant macrophage behavior in SjS in conjunction with previously described efferocytosis defects suggests an expanded role for macrophages in SjS, where uncleared dead cells stimulate an inflammatory response through macrophage TLRs recruiting lymphocytes, participating in co-stimulation and establishing an environment conducive to autoimmunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard Witas
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, PO Box 110880, Gainesville, FL, 32611-0880, USA.,Department of Oral Biology, College of Dentistry, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Yiran Shen
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, PO Box 110880, Gainesville, FL, 32611-0880, USA
| | - Cuong Q Nguyen
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, PO Box 110880, Gainesville, FL, 32611-0880, USA. .,Department of Oral Biology, College of Dentistry, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA. .,Center of Orphaned Autoimmune Diseases, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA.
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Zeng P, Liu W, Zhang S, Du S, Fan Y, Zhao L, Wang A. Integrated Network Pharmacology and Mice Model to Investigate Qing Zao Fang for Treating Sjögren's Syndrome. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med 2022; 2022:3690016. [PMID: 35341135 DOI: 10.1155/2022/3690016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Revised: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Sjögren's syndrome (SS) is an autoimmune disease, and its conventional treatment has exhibited limited therapeutic efficacy. Qing Zao Fang (QZF), a traditional Chinese medicine formula, is used in the treatment of Sjögren's syndrome, but its chemical composition is complex, and its pharmacological mechanism is not clear. Therefore, this study aims to explore the potential mechanism of QZF in the treatment of Sjögren's syndrome based on network pharmacology and SS mouse model. The main active components and predicted targets of QZF were analyzed by network pharmacology. The SS mouse model was constructed and divided into 6 groups: control, SS, SS + hydroxychloroquine (HCQ)-treated, SS + low-dose QZF-treated, SS + medium-dose QZF-treated, and SS + high-dose QZF-treated group. Immunohistochemical, ELISA, and qRT-PCR assays were performed to detect the expressions of targets associated with SS. TUNEL staining was used to detect apoptosis. Cumulatively, 230 active compounds and 1883 targets of QZF were identified. There were 227 common targets for QZF and SS. The effective active ingredients were stigmasterol, neocryptotanshinone II, neotanshinone C, miltionone I, and beta-pinene. It mainly acts on biological processes such as inflammatory response, chemokine metabolic process, and immune response as well as pathways such as FoxO signaling pathway, Yersinia infection, HIF-1 signaling pathway, and TNF signaling pathway. In SS mice, levels of AKT1, HIF-1α, TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-17A were increased, while decreased after QZF treatment. In contrast, IL-10 levels were decreased in SS mice and increased in QZF-treated mice. In addition, QZF reduced apoptosis in the submandibular gland tissue compared to SS mice. It can be concluded that the QZF in treatment of SS is the result of the combined action of multiple components, multiple targets, and multiple pathways. This study improves the understanding of the link between QZF and SS on molecular mechanisms.
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Kim J, Kim YS, Park SH. Metformin as a Treatment Strategy for Sjögren's Syndrome. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22137231. [PMID: 34281285 PMCID: PMC8269365 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22137231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2021] [Revised: 06/25/2021] [Accepted: 06/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Sjögren’s syndrome (SS), a chronic inflammatory disease involving the salivary and lacrimal glands, presents symptoms of sicca as well as systemic manifestations such as fatigue and musculoskeletal pain. Only a few treatments have been successful in management of SS; thus treatment of the disease is challenging. Metformin is the first-line agent for type 2 diabetes and has anti-inflammatory potential. Its immunomodulatory capacity is exerted via activation of 5’ adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK). Metformin inhibits mitochondrial respiratory chain complex I which leads to change in adenosine mono-phosphate (AMP) to adenosine tri-phosphate (ATP) ratio. This results in AMPK activation and causes inhibition of mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR). mTOR plays an important role in T cell differentiation and mTOR deficient T cells differentiate into regulatory T cells. In this manner, metformin enhances immunoregulatory response in an individual. mTOR is responsible for B cell proliferation and germinal center (GC) differentiation. Thus, reduction of B cell differentiation into antibody-producing plasma cells occurs via downregulation of mTOR. Due to the lack of suggested treatment for SS, metformin has been considered as a treatment strategy and is expected to ameliorate salivary gland function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joa Kim
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Chosun University Hospital, Gwangju 61453, Korea; (J.K.); (Y.-S.K.)
| | - Yun-Sung Kim
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Chosun University Hospital, Gwangju 61453, Korea; (J.K.); (Y.-S.K.)
| | - Sung-Hwan Park
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 06591, Korea
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +82-22-258-6011
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Barrera MJ, Aguilera S, Castro I, Matus S, Carvajal P, Molina C, González S, Jara D, Hermoso M, González MJ. Tofacitinib counteracts IL-6 overexpression induced by deficient autophagy: implications in Sjögren's syndrome. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2021; 60:1951-1962. [PMID: 33216905 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/keaa670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2020] [Revised: 09/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Altered homeostasis of salivary gland (SG) epithelial cells in Sjögren's syndrome (SS) could be the initiating factor that leads to inflammation, secretory dysfunction and autoimmunity. Autophagy is an important homeostatic mechanism, whose deficiency is associated with inflammation and accumulation of Janus kinase (JAK)-signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) components. We aimed to evaluate whether autophagy is altered in labial SG (LSG) epithelial cells from primary SS (pSS) patients and whether this contributes to inflammation through the JAK-STAT pathway. Furthermore, we investigated the anti-inflammatory effect of the JAK inhibitor tofacitinib in autophagy-deficient (ATG5 knockdown) three-dimensional (3D)-acini. METHODS We analysed LSG biopsies from 12 pSS patients with low focus score and 10 controls. ATG5-deficient 3D-acini were generated and incubated with IL-6 in the presence or absence of tofacitinib. Autophagy markers, pro-inflammatory cytokine expression, and JAK-STAT pathway activation were evaluated by PCR or western blot, along with correlation analyses between the evaluated markers and clinical parameters. RESULTS LSG from pSS patients showed increased p62 and decreased ATG5 expression, correlating negatively with increased activation of JAK-STAT pathway components (pSTAT1 and pSTAT3). Increased expression of STAT1 and IL-6 correlated with EULAR Sjögren's syndrome disease activity index and the presence of anti-Ro antibodies. ATG5-deficient 3D-acini reproduced the findings observed in LSG from pSS patients, showing increased expression of pro-inflammatory markers such as IL-6, which was reversed by tofacitinib. CONCLUSION Decreased expression of ATG5 in LSG epithelial cells from pSS patients possibly contributes to increased inflammation associated with JAK-STAT pathway activation, as evidenced in ATG5-deficient 3D-acini. Interestingly, these results suggest that tofacitinib could be used as an anti-inflammatory agent in pSS patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Isabel Castro
- Departamento de Tecnología Médica, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Soledad Matus
- Fundación Ciencia & Vida, Santiago, Chile.,Facultad de Medicina y Ciencia, Universidad San Sebastián, Santiago, Chile.,Biomedical Neuroscience Institute, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Patricia Carvajal
- Programa de Biología Celular y Molecular, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Claudio Molina
- Facultad de Odontología, Universidad San Sebastián, Santiago, Chile
| | - Sergio González
- Escuela de Odontología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Mayor, Santiago, Chile
| | - Daniela Jara
- Programa de Biología Celular y Molecular, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Marcela Hermoso
- Programa de Inmunología, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - María-Julieta González
- Programa de Biología Celular y Molecular, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
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Sisto M, Ribatti D, Lisi S. SMADS-Mediate Molecular Mechanisms in Sjögren's Syndrome. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:3203. [PMID: 33801157 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22063203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2021] [Revised: 03/17/2021] [Accepted: 03/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
There is considerable interest in delineating the molecular mechanisms of action of transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), considered as central player in a plethora of human conditions, including cancer, fibrosis and autoimmune disease. TGF-β elicits its biological effects through membrane bound serine/threonine kinase receptors which transmit their signals via downstream signalling molecules, SMADs, which regulate the transcription of target genes in collaboration with various co-activators and co-repressors. Until now, therapeutic strategy for primary Sjögren’s syndrome (pSS) has been focused on inflammation, but, recently, the involvement of TGF-β/SMADs signalling has been demonstrated in pSS salivary glands (SGs) as mediator of the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) activation. Although EMT seems to cause pSS SG fibrosis, TGF-β family members have ambiguous effects on the function of pSS SGs. Based on these premises, this review highlights recent advances in unravelling the molecular basis for the multi-faceted functions of TGF-β in pSS that are dictated by orchestrations of SMADs, and describe TGF-β/SMADs value as both disease markers and/or therapeutic target for pSS.
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Pringle S, Wang X, Bootsma H, Spijkervet FKL, Vissink A, Kroese FGM. Small-molecule inhibitors and the salivary gland epithelium in Sjögren's syndrome. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2019; 28:605-616. [PMID: 31203680 DOI: 10.1080/13543784.2019.1631796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The salivary gland (SG) in primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS) is characterized by its lack of function (hyposalivation) and lymphocytic invasion. Small-molecule inhibitors (SMIs) are a new class of drugs, whose diminutive size permits diffusion into cells. SMIs targeting components of the immune system are eagerly being trialed for their potential therapeutic utility in pSS. Neglected until now, however, is a discussion of the potential effects of SMIs on the SG epithelium. AREAS COVERED We begin by reminding the reader of the SG epithelial compartment, its complicity in inflammatory milieu formation in pSS, and categories of SMIs which merit attention. We discuss each SMI category, including pre-clinical data concerning pSS and likely consequences of their application on the SG epithelium. EXPERT OPINION Recovery of saliva production in pSS requires restoring the function of the SG epithelium, not solely on inflammation resolution. Many SMIs, for example, those blocking JAK-STAT signaling, interfere with critical epithelial cell pathways, most notably EGF signaling. If the effect of SMIs on SG epithelium is ignored, recovery of SG function will be challenging. We predict that NFκB signaling blockade will impart the least SG epithelium damage whilst reducing inflammation and facilitating recovery from hyposalivation in pSS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Pringle
- a Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology , University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen , Groningen , The Netherlands
| | - Xiaoyan Wang
- a Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology , University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen , Groningen , The Netherlands
| | - Hendrika Bootsma
- a Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology , University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen , Groningen , The Netherlands
| | - Fred K L Spijkervet
- b Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery , University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen , Groningen , The Netherlands
| | - Arjan Vissink
- b Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery , University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen , Groningen , The Netherlands
| | - Frans G M Kroese
- a Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology , University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen , Groningen , The Netherlands
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Kim JW, Kim SM, Park JS, Hwang SH, Choi J, Jung KA, Ryu JG, Lee SY, Kwok SK, Cho ML, Park SH. Metformin improves salivary gland inflammation and hypofunction in murine Sjögren's syndrome. Arthritis Res Ther 2019; 21:136. [PMID: 31164166 PMCID: PMC6549273 DOI: 10.1186/s13075-019-1904-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2018] [Accepted: 04/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Activated T and B cells participate in the development and progression of Sjögren’s syndrome (SS). Metformin, a first-line anti-diabetic drug, exerts anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects by activating AMPK. We investigated the therapeutic effect of metformin in non-obese diabetic (NOD)/ShiLtJ mice, an animal model of SS. Methods Metformin or vehicle was administered orally to the mice for 9 weeks. The salivary flow rate was measured at 11, 13, 15, 17, and 20 weeks. Histological analysis of the salivary glands from vehicle- and metformin-treated mice was conducted. CD4+ T and B cell differentiation in the peripheral blood and/or spleen was determined by flow cytometry. Serum total IgG, IgG1, and IgG2a levels were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results Metformin reduced salivary gland inflammation and restored the salivary flow rate. Moreover, metformin reduced the interleukin (IL)-6, tumor necrosis factor-α, IL-17 mRNA, and protein levels in the salivary glands. Metformin reduced the Th17 and Th1 cell populations and increased the regulatory T cell population in the peripheral blood and spleen and modulated the balance between Tfh and follicular regulatory T cells. In addition, metformin reduced B cell differentiation into germinal center B cells, decreased the serum immunoglobulin G level, and maintained the balance between IL-10- and IL-17-producing B cells. Conclusion Metformin suppresses effector T cells, induces regulatory T cells, and regulates B cell differentiation in an animal model of SS. In addition, metformin ameliorates salivary gland inflammation and hypofunction, suggesting that it has potential for the treatment of SS. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s13075-019-1904-0) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji-Won Kim
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea.,Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Catholic University of Daegu School of Medicine, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung-Min Kim
- Rheumatism Research Center, Catholic Research Institute of Medical Science, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin-Sil Park
- Rheumatism Research Center, Catholic Research Institute of Medical Science, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Sun-Hee Hwang
- Rheumatism Research Center, Catholic Research Institute of Medical Science, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - JeongWon Choi
- Rheumatism Research Center, Catholic Research Institute of Medical Science, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyung-Ah Jung
- Rheumatism Research Center, Catholic Research Institute of Medical Science, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jun-Geol Ryu
- Rheumatism Research Center, Catholic Research Institute of Medical Science, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Seon-Yeong Lee
- Rheumatism Research Center, Catholic Research Institute of Medical Science, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung-Ki Kwok
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Mi-La Cho
- Rheumatism Research Center, Catholic Research Institute of Medical Science, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
| | - Sung-Hwan Park
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
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Witas R, Peck AB, Ambrus JL, Nguyen CQ. Sjogren's Syndrome and TAM Receptors: A Possible Contribution to Disease Onset. J Immunol Res 2019; 2019:4813795. [PMID: 31214622 DOI: 10.1155/2019/4813795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2019] [Revised: 04/17/2019] [Accepted: 04/28/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Sjogren's syndrome (SS) is a chronic, progressive autoimmune disease featuring both organ-specific and systemic manifestations, the most frequent being dry mouth and dry eyes resulting from lymphocytic infiltration into the salivary and lacrimal glands. Like the related autoimmune disease systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), SS patients and mouse models display accumulation of apoptotic cells and a Type I interferon (IFN) signature. Receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) of the Tyro3, Axl, and Mer (TAM) family are present on the surface of macrophages and dendritic cells and participate in phagocytosis of apoptotic cells (efferocytosis) and inhibition of Type I IFN signaling. This review examines the relationship between TAM receptor dysfunction and SS and explores the potential contributions of TAM defects on macrophages to SS development.
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Juczynska K, Wozniacka A, Waszczykowska E, Danilewicz M, Wagrowska-Danilewicz M, Wieczfinska J, Pawliczak R, Zebrowska A. Expression of the JAK/STAT Signaling Pathway in Bullous Pemphigoid and Dermatitis Herpetiformis. Mediators Inflamm 2017; 2017:6716419. [PMID: 29203970 DOI: 10.1155/2017/6716419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2017] [Revised: 08/22/2017] [Accepted: 09/07/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
A family of eleven proteins comprises the Janus kinases (JAK) and signal transducers and activators of transcription (STAT) signaling pathway, which enables transduction of signal from cytokine receptor to the nucleus and activation of transcription of target genes. Irregular functioning of the cascade may contribute to pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases; however, there are no reports concerning autoimmune bullous diseases yet to be published. The aim of this study was to evaluate the expression of proteins constituting the JAK/STAT signaling pathway in skin lesions and perilesional area in dermatitis herpetiformis (DH) and bullous pemphigoid (BP), as well as in the control group. Skin biopsies were collected from 21 DH patients, from 20 BP patients, and from 10 healthy volunteers. The localization and expression of selected STAT and JAK proteins were examined by immunohistochemistry and immunoblotting. We found significantly higher expression of JAK/STAT proteins in skin lesions in patients with BP and DH, in comparison to perilesional skin and the control group, which may be related to proinflammatory cytokine network and induction of inflammatory infiltrate in tissues. Our findings suggest that differences in the JAK and STAT expression may be related to distinct cytokines activating them and mediating neutrophilic and/or eosinophilic infiltrate.
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Pertovaara M, Silvennoinen O, Isomäki P. Cytokine-induced STAT1 activation is increased in patients with primary Sjögren's syndrome. Clin Immunol 2016; 165:60-7. [PMID: 26995659 DOI: 10.1016/j.clim.2016.03.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2015] [Revised: 02/19/2016] [Accepted: 03/13/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Limited data are available regarding the intracellular responses to different cytokines in primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS). We studied the signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) activation profile in response to cytokine stimulations in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from pSS patients by multicolor flow cytometry. The expression of the suppressors of cytokine signaling (SOCS), and interferon (IFN)-γ target genes in PBMCs was studied using quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). The induction of STAT1 phosphorylation in response to stimulation with IFN-α, IFN-γ or interleukin (IL)-6 was significantly increased in B cells and monocytes from pSS patients. Accordingly, the STAT1-mediated gene responses were significantly enhanced in PBMCs from pSS patients. Finally, the expression of SOCS1 and SOCS3 mRNA was increased in pSS patients. The results indicate increased sensitivity of immune cells from pSS patients to STAT1-activating signals, and may partly explain the IFN signature observed in pSS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marja Pertovaara
- Department of Internal Medicine, Centre for Rheumatic Diseases, Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland; School of Medicine, University of Tampere, Tampere, Finland.
| | - Olli Silvennoinen
- School of Medicine, University of Tampere, Tampere, Finland; Department of Internal Medicine, Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland
| | - Pia Isomäki
- Department of Internal Medicine, Centre for Rheumatic Diseases, Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland; School of Medicine, University of Tampere, Tampere, Finland
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Khan D, Ansar Ahmed S. Regulation of IL-17 in autoimmune diseases by transcriptional factors and microRNAs. Front Genet 2015; 6:236. [PMID: 26236331 PMCID: PMC4500956 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2015.00236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2015] [Accepted: 06/22/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
In recent years, IL-17A (IL-17), a pro-inflammatory cytokine, has received intense attention of researchers and clinicians alike with documented effects in inflammation and autoimmune diseases. IL-17 mobilizes, recruits and activates different cells to increase inflammation. Although protective in infections, overproduction of IL-17 promotes inflammation in autoimmune diseases such as multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, among others. Regulating IL-17 levels or action by using IL-17-blocking antibodies or IL-17R antagonist has shown to attenuate experimental autoimmune diseases. It is now known that in addition to IL-17-specific transcription factor, RORγt, several other transcription factors and select microRNAs (miRNA) regulate IL-17. Given that miRNAs are dysregulated in autoimmune diseases, a better understanding of transcriptional factors and miRNA regulation of IL-17 expression and function will be essential for devising potential new therapies. In this review, we will overview IL-17 induction and function in relation to autoimmune diseases. In addition, current findings on transcriptional regulation of IL-17 induction and plausible interplay between IL-17 and miRNA in autoimmune diseases are highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deena Khan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University Blacksburg, VA, USA
| | - S Ansar Ahmed
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University Blacksburg, VA, USA
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Leung KH, Liu LJ, Lin S, Lu L, Zhong HJ, Susanti D, Rao W, Wang M, Che WI, Chan DS, Leung CH, Chan PW, Ma DL. Discovery of a small-molecule inhibitor of STAT3 by ligand-based pharmacophore screening. Methods 2015; 71:38-43. [PMID: 25160651 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymeth.2014.07.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2014] [Revised: 07/19/2014] [Accepted: 07/21/2014] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
STAT3 modulates the transcription of a wide variety of regulatory genes involved in cell proliferation, differentiation, migration, apoptosis, and other critical cellular functions. Constitutive activation of STAT3 has been detected in a wide spectrum of human malignancies. A pharmacophore model constructed from a training set of STAT3 inhibitors binding to the SH2 domain was used to screen an in-house database of compounds, from which azepine 1 emerged as a top candidate. Compound 1 inhibited STAT3 DNA-binding activity in vitro and attenuated STAT3-directed transcription in cellulo with comparable potency to the well-known STAT3 inhibitor S3I-201. A fluorescence polarization assay revealed that compound 1 targeted the SH2 domain of STAT3. Furthermore, compound 1 inhibited STAT3 phosphorylation in cells without affecting the total expression of STAT3. This study also validates the use of pharmacophore modeling to identify inhibitors of protein-protein interactions.
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