CD30 plays a role in T-dependent immune response and T cell proliferation

CD30 is a member of the tumor necrosis factor receptor (TNFR) superfamily and expressed in both normal and malignant lymphoid cells. However, the role of CD30 in lymphopoiesis is not known. In this study, we showed CD30 was expressed both in T and B cells, but its deficiency in mice had no effect on T- and B-cell development. In fact, CD30 deficiency attenuated B-cell response to T-cell-dependent antigens. The impaired B cell response in CD30-deficient mice is caused by the reduction of activation-induced cytidine deaminase (AID) expression. Moreover, CD30-deficient mice exhibited decreased TCR-mediated T cell proliferation and slightly impaired TCR signaling. High-throughput RNA sequencing analysis revealed that CD30 deficiency led to a decrease of FOXO-autophagy axis in T cells upon TCR stimulation. Thus, CD30 positively regulates T-cell-dependent immune response and T cell proliferation.

Differential molecular programs of cutaneous anaplastic large cell lymphoma and CD30-positive transformed mycosis fungoides

Background

Discriminating between cutaneous anaplastic large cell lymphoma (cALCL) and CD30-positive transformed mycosis fungoides (CD30+ TMF) is challenging, particularly when they arise in the context of pre-existing mycosis fungoides. The development of molecular diagnostic tools was hampered by the rarity of both diseases and the limited understanding of their pathogenesis.

Methods

In this study, we established a cohort comprising 25 cALCL cases and 25 CD30+ TMF cases, with transcriptomic data obtained from 31 samples. We compared the clinicopathological information and investigated the gene expression profiling between these two entities. Furthermore, we developed an immunohistochemistry (IHC) algorithm to differentiate these two entities clinically.

Results

Our investigation revealed distinct clinicopathological features and unique gene expression programs associated with cALCL and CD30+ TMF. cALCL and CD30+ TMF displayed marked differences in gene expression patterns. Notably, CD30+ TMF demonstrated enrichment of T cell receptor signaling pathways and an exhausted T cell phenotype, accompanied by infiltration of B cells, dendritic cells, and neurons. In contrast, cALCL cells expressed high levels of HLA class II genes, polarized towards a Th17 phenotype, and exhibited neutrophil infiltration. An IHC algorithm with BATF3 and TCF7 staining emerged as potential diagnostic markers for identifying these two entities.

Conclusions

Our findings provide valuable insights into the differential molecular signatures associated with cALCL and CD30+ TMF, which contribute to their distinct clinicopathological behaviors. An appropriate IHC algorithm could be used as a potential diagnostic tool.

CD30 Regulation of IL-13-STAT6 Pathway in Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma

BACKGROUND

Breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) is a rare, usually indolent CD30+ T-cell lymphoma with tumor cells, often surrounded by eosinophils, expressing IL-13 and pSTAT6.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to understand the unique tumor pathology and growth regulation of BIA-ALCL, leading to potential targeted therapies.

METHODS

We silenced CD30 and analyzed its effect on IL-13 signaling and tumor cell viability. IL-13 signaling receptors of BIA-ALCL cell lines were evaluated by flow cytometry and pSTAT6 detected by immunohistochemistry. CD30 was deleted by CRISPR/Cas9 editing. Effects of CD30 deletion on transcription of IL-13 and IL-4, and phosphorylation of STAT6 were determined by real-time polymerase chain reaction and western blotting. The effect of CD30 deletion on p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) phosphorylation was determined. Suppression of IL-13 transcription by a p38 MAPK inhibitor was tested. Tumor cell viability following CD30 deletion and treatment with a pSTAT6 inhibitor were measured in cytotoxicity assays.

RESULTS

BIA-ALCL lines TLBR1 and TLBR2 displayed signaling receptors IL-4Rα, IL-13Rα1 and downstream pSTAT6. Deletion of CD30 by CRISPR/Cas9 editing significantly decreased transcription of IL-13, less so Th2 cytokine IL-4, and phosphorylation of STAT6. Mechanistically, we found CD30 expression is required for p38 MAPK phosphorylation and activation, and IL-13-STAT6 signaling was reduced by an inhibitor of p38 MAPK in BIA-ALCL tumor cells. Tumor cell viability was decreased by silencing of CD30, and a specific inhibitor of STAT6, indicating STAT6 inhibition is cytotoxic to BIA-ALCL tumor cells.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggest reagents targeting the IL-13 pathway, pSTAT6 and p38 MAPK, may become useful for treating BIA-ALCL patients.

Angioimmunoblastic T-Cell Lymphoma with Exuberant CD30-Positive Follicular Dendritic Cell Proliferation in a SARS-CoV-2 Patient: The Role of Mutational Analysis to Exclude an Associated Follicular Dendritic Cell Sarcoma

Follicular dendritic cell (FDC) proliferation in angioimmunoblastic T-cell lymphoma (AITL) is still not well defined, challenging the accurate differential diagnosis between the AITL with expanded follicular dendritic cell meshwork and the combined AITL and follicular dendritic cell sarcoma (FDCS). Herein, we reported the case of a 58-year-old male with coexisting SARS-CoV-2 infection and AITL with an exuberant CD30-positive FDC proliferation, in which genetic analysis identified mutations of genes commonly involved in AITL but not in FDC sarcoma (i.e., RHOA, TET2, DNMT3A, and IDH2), thus supporting the reactive nature of the CD30-positive FDC expansion.

The Expressions of CD30 and CD123 of Mastocytosis in Taiwan

Mastocytosis is a rare disease with a low incidence in Asia-Pacific populations. CD30 and CD123 may have potential prognostic and therapeutic value, but the results are inconsistent. Because racial disparities may exist, we aim to evaluate the expressions of CD30 and CD123 in a series of mastocytosis cases in Taiwan. Twelve patients with systemic and 7 with cutaneous forms of mastocytosis were studied. The expressions of CD30 and CD123 were correlated with the clinical features of the patients. Eighty-three percent (10/12) of patients with systemic mastocytosis (SM) had an associated hematological neoplasm. Four of the SM patients had both "B" and "C" findings, and they had a median survival time of 0.9 months. CD30 expression was positive in 50% (6/12) of SM cases and 100% (6/6) of cutaneous mastocytosis cases. CD123 was expressed focally or weakly in only 2 SM-associated hematological neoplasm cases. The distribution of mastocytosis subtypes and the expression of CD30 and CD123 in Taiwan differed from those reported in North America and Europe. However, mastocytosis, especially indolent forms, is easily overlooked as its heterogeneous and nonspecific clinical manifestations. A high index of suspicion and improved diagnostic methods can be helpful.

A Poorly Differentiated Non-keratinizing Sinonasal Squamous Cell Carcinoma with a Novel ETV6-TNFRSF8 Fusion Gene

Squamous cell carcinoma of the sinonasal tract is relatively rare and morphologically and genetically heterogeneous. We report the case of an adult male with a left sphenoid sinus mass. A biopsy revealed an undifferentiated carcinoma composed of sheets of epithelioid cells lacking keratinization and glandular formation. The tumor was associated with a prominent lymphoplasmacytic inflammatory infiltrate. Immunohistochemical staining demonstrated diffuse expression of pankeratin and p63; it was negative for p16. In addition, EBER was also negative. Morphologically the findings raised the possibility of non-keratinizing squamous cell carcinoma. RNA sequencing was undertaken to exclude the possibility of NUT carcinoma; interestingly, this revealed a novel ETV6-TNFRSF8 fusion transcript, which was independently confirmed by fluorescence in situ hybridization. The current case is illustrative because it broadens our understanding of the molecular pathogenesis of non-keratinizing squamous cell carcinoma and adds to the diversity of ETV6-rearranged malignancies.

A Nested Asymmetric PCR Melting Curve Assay for One-Step Genotyping of Nondeletional α-Thalassemia Mutations

A rapid DNA-based assay is essential for clinical diagnosis and mass screening in thalassemia-prevention programs. Because of high homology and guanine-cytosine-rich and complex second structure of α-globin genes, it is rather difficult to develop a feasible and simple method for α-thalassemia genotyping. In this study, a strategy of nested asymmetric PCR melting curve analysis was designed to tackle these factors and ensure sensitivity and accuracy. Herein, a novel one-step assay for genotyping of nondeletional α-thalassemia mutations, including hemoglobin (Hb) Westmead (HBA2: c.369C>G), Hb Quong Sze (HBA2: c.377T>C), Hb Constant Spring (HBA2: c.427T>C), CD30 (HBA2: c.91-93delGAG), and CD31 (HBA2: c.95G>A) in a single closed tube, was established and evaluated. All five mutations were accurately determined with the concordance rate of 100% in a blind analysis of 255 genotype-known samples and 1250 clinical samples. In conclusion, this assay is useful for rapid and reliable genotyping of nondeletional α-thalassemia mutations in clinical practice. Especially, the strategy may have the potential to be a versatile scheme for rapid genotyping of other gene mutations because of its high throughput, sufficient stability, low cost, and simple operation.

Genome-wide association analysis of 350 000 Caucasians from the UK Biobank identifies novel loci for asthma, hay fever and eczema

Even though heritability estimates suggest that the risk of asthma, hay fever and eczema is largely due to genetic factors, previous studies have not explained a large part of the genetics behind these diseases. In this genome-wide association study, we include 346 545 Caucasians from the UK Biobank to identify novel loci for asthma, hay fever and eczema and replicate novel loci in three independent cohorts. We further investigate if associated lead single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) have a significantly larger effect for one disease compared to the other diseases, to highlight possible disease-specific effects. We identified 141 loci, of which 41 are novel, to be associated (P ≤ 3 × 10⁻⁸) with asthma, hay fever or eczema, analyzed separately or as disease phenotypes that includes the presence of different combinations of these diseases. The largest number of loci was associated with the combined phenotype (asthma/hay fever/eczema). However, as many as 20 loci had a significantly larger effect on hay fever/eczema only compared to their effects on asthma, while 26 loci exhibited larger effects on asthma compared with their effects on hay fever/eczema. At four of the novel loci, TNFRSF8, MYRF, TSPAN8, and BHMG1, the lead SNPs were in Linkage Disequilibrium (LD) (>0.8) with potentially casual missense variants. Our study shows that a large amount of the genetic contribution is shared between the diseases. Nonetheless, a number of SNPs have a significantly larger effect on one of the phenotypes, suggesting that part of the genetic contribution is more phenotype specific.

Traumatic Ulcerative Granuloma with Stromal Eosinophilia: CD30 analysis and clonality for T cell receptor gene re-arrangement

INTRODUCTION

Traumatic Ulcerative Granuloma with Stromal Eosinophilia (TUGSE) is a rare oral ulcerated lesion of uncertain etiology, showing eosinophil-rich granulation tissue, with occasional large atypical CD30 positive mononuclear cells. It had been suggested that it may represent an oral counterpart of cutaneous lymphomatoid papulosis, with a potential to evolve into CD30 + T cell lymphoma OBJECTIVES: To compare TUGSE and non-specific oral ulcers (NSU) clinically, histopathologically and by clonality analysis for T-cell receptor re-arrangement, aiming to determine whether TGUSE with atypical cells is a lymphomatous premalignant condition, and whether therapeutic approach should be radical or conservative.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Retrospective archival analysis included 17 TUGSE and 8 NSU cases. Histopathological parameters included mean eosinophil number per high power field (HPF), presence of infiltration of deep soft tissues and presence of atypical cells. Immuno-morphometry comprised of the mean number of CD30+ atypical cells per HPF. T-cell receptor (TCR) gene rearrangement by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was performed in all cases showing atypical cells. Clinical and follow up data were retrieved from files.

RESULTS

TUGSE showed a significantly higher mean eosinophil number/HPF in comparison to NSU (7.0 + 4.2 cells and 2.3 + 1.72, respectively; p < 0.001). Atypical cells were found in 9 (53%) cases of TUGSE and in only 1 (11%) case of NSU. CD30+ atypical cells were found in 7 (41%) cases of TUGSE and only in 1 (11%) case of NSU. Mean number of CD30+ cells/HPF was 0.23 + 0.19 (range 0 - 0.54 cells/HPF) for TUGSE. In the only NSU case with CD30+ cells, their density was 0.52/HPF. All lesions with atypical cells were polyclonal for TCR. All cases were self-limiting, with no recurrences, after 3-9 years (mean 4.6 years) follow up.

CONCLUSIONS

Analysis found no support to the suggestion that TUGSE with atypical cells represents the oral counterpart of lymphomatoid papulosis or predisposes the lesions for a hematolymphoid malignancy. Suggestions for radical therapeutic approach and long-term follow-up are probably unjustified, with no recurrences or malignancy recorded following conservative treatment alone for a period of up to 9 years of follow-up. Staining for CD30 and PCR for TCR gene rearrangement should be reserved only for rare cases with abundant large atypical cells and/or unusual clinical behavior.

Peritransplant Soluble CD30 as a Risk Factor for Slow Kidney Allograft Function, Early Acute Rejection, Worse Long-Term Allograft Function, and Patients' Survival

BACKGROUND

We aimed to determine whether serum soluble CD30 (sCD30) could identify recipients at high risk for unfavorable early and late kidney transplant outcomes.

METHODS

Serum sCD30 was measured on the day of kidney transplantation and on the 4th day posttransplant. We assessed the value of these measurements in predicting delayed graft function, slow graft function (SGF), acute rejection (AR), pyelonephritis, decline of allograft function after 6 months, and graft and patient survival during 5 years of follow-up in 45 recipients.

RESULTS

We found the association between low pretransplant serum levels of sCD30 and SGF. The absence of significant decrease of sCD30 on the 4th day posttransplant was characteristic for SGF, early AR (the 8th day-6 months), late AR (>6 months), and early pyelonephritis (the 8th day-2 months). Lower pretransplant and posttransplant sCD30 predicted worse allograft function at 6 months and 2 years, respectively. Higher pretransplant sCD30 was associated with higher frequency of early AR, and worse patients' survival, but only in the recipients of deceased-donor graft. Pretransplant sCD30 also allowed to differentiate patients with early pyelonephritis and early AR.

CONCLUSIONS

Peritransplant sCD30 is useful in identifying patients at risk for unfavorable early and late transplant outcomes.

Anaplastic large cell lymphoma: pathology, genetics, and clinical aspects

Anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL) was first described in 1985 as a large-cell neoplasm with anaplastic morphology immunostained by the Ki-1 antibody, which recognizes CD30. In 1994, the nucleophosmin (NPM)-anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) fusion receptor tyrosine kinase was identified in a subset of patients, leading to subdivision of this disease into ALK-positive and -negative ALCL in the present World Health Organization classification. Due to variations in morphology and immunophenotype, which may sometimes be atypical for lymphoma, many differential diagnoses should be considered, including solid cancers, lymphomas, and reactive processes. CD30 and ALK are key molecules involved in the pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment of ALCL. In addition, signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3)-mediated mechanisms are relevant in both types of ALCL, and fusion/mutated receptor tyrosine kinases other than ALK have been reported in ALK-negative ALCL. ALK-positive ALCL has a better prognosis than ALK-negative ALCL or other peripheral T-cell lymphomas. Patients with ALK-positive ALCL are usually treated with anthracycline-based regimens, such as combination cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, and prednisolone (CHOP) or CHOEP (CHOP plus etoposide), which provide a favorable prognosis, except in patients with multiple International Prognostic Index factors. For targeted therapies, an anti-CD30 monoclonal antibody linked to a synthetic antimitotic agent (brentuximab vedotin) and ALK inhibitors (crizotinib, alectinib, and ceritinib) are being used in clinical settings.

The European Medicines Agency Review of Brentuximab Vedotin (Adcetris) for the Treatment of Adult Patients With Relapsed or Refractory CD30+ Hodgkin Lymphoma or Systemic Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma: Summary of the Scientific Assessment of the Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use

BACKGROUND

On October 25, 2012, a conditional marketing authorization valid throughout the European Union (EU) was issued for brentuximab vedotin for the treatment of adult patients with relapsed or refractory CD30+ Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) and for the treatment of adult patients with relapsed or refractory systemic anaplastic large cell lymphoma (sALCL). For HL, the indication is restricted to treatment after autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) or after at least two previous therapies when ASCT or multiagent chemotherapy is not a treatment option.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Brentuximab vedotin is an antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) composed of a CD30-directed monoclonal antibody (recombinant chimeric IgG1) that is covalently linked to the antimicrotubule agent monomethyl auristatin E (MMAE). Binding of the ADC to CD30 on the cell surface initiates internalization of the MMAE-CD30 complex, followed by proteolytic cleavage that releases MMAE. The recommended dose is 1.8 mg/kg administered as an intravenous infusion over 30 minutes every 3 weeks.

RESULTS

Brentuximab vedotin as a single agent was evaluated in two single-arm studies. Study SG035-003 included 102 patients with relapsed or refractory HL. An objective response was observed in 76 patients (75%), with complete remission in 34 (33%). Study SG035-004 included 58 patients with relapsed or refractory sALCL. An objective response was observed in 50 patients (86%), with complete remission in 34 (59%). The most frequently observed toxicities were peripheral sensory neuropathy, fatigue, nausea, diarrhea, neutropenia, vomiting, pyrexia, and upper respiratory tract infection.

CONCLUSION

The present report summarizes the scientific review of the application leading to approval in the EU. The detailed scientific assessment report and product information, including the summary of the product characteristics, are available on the European Medicines Agency website (http://www.ema.europa.eu).

IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE

Brentuximab vedotin was approved in the European Union for the treatment of adult patients with relapsed or refractory CD30+ Hodgkin lymphoma or systemic anaplastic large cell lymphoma. For Hodgkin lymphoma, brentuximab vedotin should only be used after autologous stem cell transplantation or following at least two prior therapies when transplantation or multiagent chemotherapy is not a treatment option. In two studies involving 160 patients, partial or complete responses were observed in the majority of patients. Although there was no information on the survival of patients treated in the studies at the time of approval, the responses were considered a clinically relevant benefit.

Sortase Enzyme-Mediated Generation of Site-Specifically Conjugated Antibody Drug Conjugates with High In Vitro and In Vivo Potency

Antibody drug conjugates (ADCs) have recently been proven to be highly potent anti-tumor drugs, typically exceeding the efficacy of conventional monoclonal antibodies (mAbs). ADCs are currently produced by chemical conjugation of a small-molecule toxin to the mAb through lysine or cysteine side chains. This leads to heterogeneous mixtures of ADCs in which variable numbers of drugs are conjugated to individual antibodies and in which the site of conjugation cannot be defined. Consequently, there is currently significant interest in further development of drug conjugation technologies, with a particular focus on site-specific payload conjugation. Here, we present an enzymatic conjugation platform based on the S. aureus sortase A-mediated transpeptidation reaction, allowing the efficient generation of ADCs with toxins conjugated to pre-defined sites at pre-defined drug-to-antibody ratios. For this, two modifications were introduced: first, immunoglobulin heavy (IgH) and light (IgL) chains were modified at their C-termini by addition of the sortase A recognition motif LPETG, and second, the small molecule tubulin polymerization inhibitors monomethylauristatin E (MMAE) and maytansine were modified by addition of a pentaglycine peptide, thus making them suitable substrates for sortase A-mediated transpeptidation. We demonstrate efficient generation and characterization of the anti-CD30 ADC Ac10-vcPAB-MMAE, an enzymatically conjugated counterpart of brentuximab vedotin (Adcetris), as well as several anti-HER-2 ADCs including trastuzumab-maytansine, the counterpart of trastuzumab emtansine (Kadcyla). ADCs generated in this manner were found to display in vitro cell killing activities indistinguishable from the classic conjugates. Further, when tested in vivo in a HER-2-overexpressing ovarian cancer xenograft mouse model, enzymatically generated trastuzumab-maytansine was found to lead to complete regression of established tumors, similar to Kadcyla.

Identification of novel genes associated with renal tertiary lymphoid organ formation in aging mice

A hallmark of aging-related organ deterioration is a dysregulated immune response characterized by pathologic leukocyte infiltration of affected tissues. Mechanisms and genes involved are as yet unknown. To identify genes associated with aging-related renal infiltration, we analyzed kidneys from aged mice (≥20 strains) for infiltrating leukocytes followed by Haplotype Association Mapping (HAM) analysis. Immunohistochemistry revealed CD45⁺ cell clusters (predominantly T and B cells) in perivascular areas coinciding with PNAd⁺ high endothelial venules and podoplanin⁺ lymph vessels indicative of tertiary lymphoid organs. Cumulative cluster size increased with age (analyzed at 6, 12 and 20 months). Based on the presence or absence of clusters in male and female mice at 20 months, HAM analysis revealed significant associations with loci on Chr1, Chr2, Chr8 and Chr14 in male mice, and with loci on Chr4, Chr7, Chr13 and Chr14 in female mice. Wisp2 (Chr2) showed the strongest association (P = 5.00×10⁻¹³⁷) in male mice; Ctnnbip1 (P = 6.42×10⁻²⁶⁷) and Tnfrsf8 (P = 5.42×10⁻²⁴⁵) (both on Chr4) showed the strongest association in female mice. Both Wisp2 and Ctnnbip1 are part of the Wnt-signaling pathway and the encoded proteins were expressed within the tertiary lymphoid organs. In conclusion, this study revealed differential lymphocytic infiltration and tertiary lymphoid organ formation in aged mouse kidneys across different inbred mouse strains. HAM analysis identified candidate genes involved in the Wnt-signaling pathway that may be causally linked to tertiary lymphoid organ formation.

Soluble CD26 and CD30 levels in patients with common variable immunodeficiency

BACKGROUND

Common variable immunodeficiency (CVID) is a heterogeneous group of disorders characterized by decreased serum immunoglobulin levels and increased susceptibility to recurrent bacterial infections. There is increasing evidence that the type 1 helper T cell (T(H)1)/T(H)2 cell balance is shifted towards a T(H) 1-type immune response in patients with CVID. This study was performed to measure levels of soluble CD26 (sCD26) and CD30 (sCD30) as plausible markers of a dysregulated immune response in a group of patients with CVID.

METHODS

Twenty-five patients with CVID and 20 age- and sex-matched controls were enrolled in this study. A sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was used to measure serum sCD26 and sCD30 levels.

RESULTS

The mean (SD) serum sCD26 level was significantly higher in patients with CVID than in controls (88.47 [59.82] ng/mL vs 28.31 [25.61] ng/mL, P = .001). Serum sCD30 levels were also significantly higher in patients with CVID than in controls (196.37 [169.71] ng/mL vs 30.72 [12.98] ng/mL, P < .001). Analysis of serum sCD30 levels in association with different clinical variables indicated that patients with splenomegaly and malignancy had significantly higher levels than patients without these disorders. However, serum sCD30 levels did not differ with bronchiectasis or autoimmunity.

CONCLUSIONS

The presence of increased serum levels of sCD26 and sCD30 in patients with CVID suggests that CVID patients have a polarized immune response towards a T(H)1-like phenotype, whereas the association between high levels of these markers and disease severity suggests that the soluble form could be used as a prognostic tool in CVID.

Moderate exercise increases the metabolism and immune function of lymphocytes in rats

Exercise modulates both glucose and glutamine metabolism which influences lymphocyte function. We investigated the influence of chronic moderate exercise on glucose and glutamine metabolism in lymphocytes, the associated influence on proliferation, and cytokine and immunoglobulin production. Male Wistar rats (8 weeks old) were placed in an exercise training group (N = 15, 1 h day(-1) at 60 % VO₂max, 5 days week(-1)) for 8 weeks of exercise, or a sedentary control group. Twenty-four hours following the final training session, lymphocytes were separated, and the incorporation of [U-14C]-glucose, [U-14C]-glutamine, and [2-14C]-thymidine from the supernatant was measured. The activity of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase, hexokinase, and glutaminase was measured. Lymphocytes were stimulated with ConA and LPS and incubated with the Mycobacterium bovis bacille Calmette-Guerin (BCG) vaccine and plasma IgG and IgE were measured. Glutamine metabolism increased in both T and B lymphocytes in the trained group. In the trained group, proliferative capacity increased T lymphocytes under ConA stimulation, and increased B lymphocytes with LPS. There was a significant increase in IL-2 production and decrease in IL-4 in the trained group compared with sedentary controls. IL-2R and TNFR increased in trained rats while IL-4R decreased and were more pronounced in T lymphocytes compared with B lymphocytes. In both lymphocyte subsets, exercise training significantly increased the expression of CD54+ and CD30+ cell markers. Exercise training increased plasma IgG compared with the sedentary group. In conclusion, moderate exercise training improves immune function and metabolism in T and B lymphocytes, reflecting an increased ability to respond to immune challenges.

CD30+ lymphoproliferative disorders of the skin: still an open question

CD30+ lymphoproliferative disorders of the skin represent a well-defined spectrum of primary cutaneous T-cell lymphomas. They include lymphomatoid papulosis and cutaneous anaplastic large-cell lymphoma which are characterized by the common expression of the CD30 antigen, but different clinical, histological and molecular features. Recent progress in the pathobiology and identification of therapeutic targets has contributed to our current understanding of this peculiar group of cutaneous lymphoproliferative disorders. The characteristic features of this group of cutaneous lymphoproliferative disorders are reviewed with particular emphasis to their diagnosis and treatment strategies.

Distinct motifs in the intracellular domain of human CD30 differentially activate canonical and alternative transcription factor NF-κB signaling

The TNF-receptor superfamily member CD30 is expressed on normal and malignant lymphocytes, including anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL) cells. CD30 transmits multiple effects, including activation of NF-κB signaling, cell proliferation, growth arrest and apoptosis. How CD30 generates these pleiotropic effects is currently unknown. Herein we describe ALCL cells expressing truncated forms of the CD30 intracellular domain that allowed us to identify the key regions responsible for transmitting its biological effects in lymphocytes. The first region (CD30_519–537) activated both the alternative and canonical NF-κB pathways as detected by p100 and IκBα degradation, IKKβ-dependent transcription of both IκBα and the cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor p21^WAF1/CIP1 and induction of cell cycle arrest. In contrast, the second region of CD30 (CD30_538–595) induced some aspects of canonical NF-κB activation, including transcription of IκBα, but failed to activate the alternative NF-κB pathway or drive p21^WAF1/CIP1-mediated cell-cycle arrest. Direct comparison of canonical NF-κB activation by the two motifs revealed 4-fold greater p65 nuclear translocation following CD30_519–537 engagement. These data reveal that independent regions of the CD30 cytoplasmic tail regulate the magnitude and type of NF-κB activation and additionally identify a short motif necessary for CD30-driven growth arrest signals in ALCL cells.

Human antibodies targeting CD30(+) lymphomas

Hodgkin- and Non-Hodgkin lymphomas are tumors of the lymphatic system, whose common therapy is chemotherapy and radiation. Immunotherapies with monoclonal antibodies are a promising strategy for treatment of malignant lymphomas and may overcome strong side effects and partial failure of and high relapse rates after common treatment. The antigen CD30 is overexpressed in Hodgkin lymphomas and some Non-Hodgkin lymphomas like anaplastic large cell lymphomas and adult T-cell lymphomas, which makes it a suitable target for antibody-based therapies. We isolated four new CD30-specific antibodies from a human naïve antibody gene library by phage display. These recombinant antibodies were produced as scFv in Escherichia coli and as bivalent immunoglobuline-like scFv-Fc antibodies in mammalian cells. They bound with high specificity to both recombinant antigen CD30 and to CD30(+) lymphoma cells. Flow cytometry and confocal laser scanning microscopy were used to show intracellular uptake by receptor-mediated endocytosis into CD30(+) lymphoma cell line Karpas299. The antibody clone SH313-B5 inhibited the proliferation of CD30(+) Karpas299 cells in a dose-dependent and effector independent manner with an IC(50) of 100 nM. Therefore, the antibody SH313-B5 is a promising candidate for further development towards treatment of CD30(+) tumors.

Cutaneous anaplastic large-cell lymphoma should be evaluated for systemic involvement regardless of ALK-1 status: case reports and review of literature

Anaplastic large-cell lymphoma (ALCL) is a lymphoma that expresses CD30. Cutaneous ALCL presents either as primary cutaneous disease or as secondary skin involvement due to the systemic disease. Herein, we describe two patients who presented to dermatology for evaluation of skin lesions diagnosed by non-dermatologists as a cutaneous abscess and lupus erythematosus, respectively. Upon investigation by a team of medical dermatologists and dermatopathologists, systemic ALCL with secondary skin involvement was discovered in both patients. The majority of cases of systemic ALCL with cutaneous involvement express anaplastic lymphoma kinase-1 (ALK-1), and are associated with a more favorable prognosis than ALK-1-negative cases. However, cutaneous ALCL regardless of ALK-1 status may be secondary to systemic lymphoma. This article stresses the importance of dermatologists being aware of the diagnosis of systemic lymphoma based on cutaneous findings, and being aggressive in initiating appropriate diagnostic testing. Primary cutaneous ALCL and systemic ALCL are reviewed.

[Cellular markers based on DNA damage and repair (BER, MMR), expression of MLHI, MSH2, FasR, and cell death of lymphocytes as predictive parameters for clinical response to chemotherapy of melanoma]

Melanoma is a highly aggressive neoplastic disease attributed to transformed melanocytes. The efficacy of regimens of cytotoxic chemotherapy for advanced stage patients does not exceed 20%. Search for lymphocyte markers of patients' sensitivity to chemotherapy provides a rational basis for development of cytotoxic chemotherapy. Using blood lymphocytes we evaluated efficacy of BER and MMR, expression of MLH1, MSH2 and FasR, and cell death in melanoma patients relative to clinical response to chemotherapy. We found that LDCI-chemotherapy (lomustine, dacarbazine, cisplatin and interferon gamma), induced AP sites and DNA ss-breaks which repaired trough BER pathway. However, neither initial DNA damage nor the rate of their repair correlated with clinical response. This result prompts us to think that this type of damage is not crucial in cytotoxic effect of LDCI-regimen of chemotherapy. DNA ds-breakes appeared downstream ss-breakes were attributed to repair of 06-methylguanine by MMR mechanism in PHA-stimulated lymphocytes. The number of ds-breakes appeared by 48 correlated with positive clinical response of patients to chemotherapy. The same link was observed between clinical response and the number of dead lymphocytes. However, there was no correlation between clinical response and expression of MLHI + MSH2 and FasR. These results imply possible contribution of crosslink repair through NER pathway to formation of DNA ds-breaks as well as to cytotoxicity of LDCl-therapy. The observed link between high level of secondary ds-breaks and positive response to chemotherapy indicates the potential of these instruments to serve as prognostic end point in clinical trials.

A method for the generation of ectromelia virus (ECTV) recombinants: in vivo analysis of ECTV vCD30 deletion mutants

BACKGROUND

Ectromelia virus (ECTV) is the causative agent of mousepox, a lethal disease of mice with similarities to human smallpox. Mousepox progression involves replication at the initial site of infection, usually the skin, followed by a rapid spread to the secondary replicative organs, spleen and liver, and finally a dissemination to the skin, where the typical rash associated with this and other orthopoxviral induced diseases appears. Case fatality rate is genetically determined and reaches up to 100% in susceptible mice strains. Like other poxviruses, ECTV encodes a number of proteins with immunomodulatory potential, whose role in mousepox progression remains largely undescribed. Amongst these is a secreted homologue of the cellular tumour necrosis factor receptor superfamily member CD30 which has been proposed to modulate a Th1 immune response in vivo.

METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS

To evaluate the contribution of viral CD30 (vCD30) to virus pathogenesis in the infected host, we have adapted a novel transient dominant method for the selection of recombinant ECTVs. Using this method, we have generated an ECTV vCD30 deletion mutant, its corresponding revertant control virus as well as a virus encoding the extracellular domain of murine CD30. These viruses contain no exogenous marker DNA sequences in their genomes, as opposed to other ECTVs reported up to date.

CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE

We show that the vCD30 is expressed as a secreted disulfide linked trimer and that the absence of vCD30 does not impair mousepox induced fatality in vivo. Replacement of vCD30 by a secreted version of mouse CD30 caused limited attenuation of ECTV. The recombinant viruses generated may be of use in the study of the role of the cellular CD30-CD30L interaction in the development of the immune response. The method developed might be useful for the construction of ECTV mutants for the study of additional genes.

The neoplastically transformed (CD30hi) Marek's disease lymphoma cell phenotype most closely resembles T-regulatory cells

INTRODUCTION

Marek's disease (MD), a herpesvirus-induced lymphoma of chickens is a unique natural model of CD30-overexpressing (CD30hi) lymphoma. We have previously proposed that the CD30hi neoplastically transformed CD4+ T cells in MD lymphomas have a phenotype antagonistic to cell mediated immunity. Here were test the hypothesis that the CD30hi neoplastically transformed MD lymphoma cells have a phenotype more closely resembling T-helper (Th)-2 or regulatory T (T-reg) cells.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We separated ex vivo-derived CD30hi, from the CD30lo/- (non-transformed), MD lymphoma cells and then quantified the relative amounts of mRNA and proteins for cytokines and other genes that define CD4+ Th-1, Th-2 or T-reg phenotypes.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

Gene Ontology-based modeling of our data shows that the CD30hi MD lymphoma cells having a phenotype more similar to T-reg. Sequences that could be bound by the MD virus putative oncoprotein Meq in each of these genes' promoters suggests that the MD herpesvirus may play a direct role in maintaining this T-reg-like phenotype.

A leukemic change as an initial manifestation of the common variant type of ALK-positive anaplastic large cell lymphoma in a patient with lung adenocarcinoma

We report an 81-year-old man who had leukemic presentation of ALK-positive anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL) as an initial manifestation. He had been well after chemotherapy and irradiation for the advanced lung adenocarcinoma, but suddenly suffered from severe lactic acidosis and hypotension. The peripheral blood smear and bone marrow aspiration revealed the infiltration of atypical large cells with horseshoe-shaped or lobulated nuclei. The detection of CD30 expression and the t (2;5) (p23;q35) translocation in these cells was confirmatory of a diagnosis of common variant ALK-positive ALCL in a leukemic phase. He deteriorated rapidly and died before administration of the chemotherapy. An adequate, prompt diagnosis is necessary for this rare disease status in oncologic emergency to improve the disease management.

Quantitative PCR detection of NPM/ALK fusion gene and CD30 gene expression in patients with anaplastic large cell lymphoma--residual disease monitoring and a correlation with the disease status

Anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL) represents a heterogeneous group of malignant lymphoproliferative diseases with a consistent expression of the cytokine receptor CD30. ALCL is frequently associated with a NPM/ALK fusion gene which is found in up to 75% of pediatric ALCLs. Real-time quantitative RT-PCR (RQ-RT-PCR) of NPM/ALK and CD30 gene expression was employed to analyze minimal residual disease (MRD) in 10 patients with NPM/ALK positive ALCL in 79 follow-up bone marrow (BM) and/or peripheral blood (PB) samples. In all BM samples from relapses and/or closely before a relapse, BM samples revealed NPM/ALK and CD30 positivity in at least one of the iliac BM trephines. Five out of nine relapses were preceded or were accompanied by minimally half log increased NPM/ALK levels in the BM. We found that RQ-RT-PCR of the CD30 expression is not suitable for MRD detection--only two relapses were accompanied by an increase of the CD30 level above a level which was detected in BM/PB samples from healthy individuals. RQ-RT-PCR of NPM/ALK expression is a promising and rapid approach for monitoring MRD.

The expression of CD30 in anaplastic large cell lymphoma is regulated by nucleophosmin-anaplastic lymphoma kinase-mediated JunB level in a cell type-specific manner

Chromosomal translocation t(2;5) and the resulting fusion protein nucleophosmin-anaplastic lymphoma kinase (NPM-ALK) are detected in 50% to 70% of anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL), which is a T/null cell non-Hodgkin's lymphoma showing anaplastic morphology with cell surface expression of CD30. Because aberrant CD30 expression was also observed in the T-cell lymphoma derived from lineage-specific NPM-ALK transgenic mice, we tested the hypothesis that there might be a functional relationship between the two neoplastic-related proteins: NPM-ALK and CD30. In this study, we used the RNA interference method to modulate NPM-ALK protein expression in ALCL-derived, t(2;5)-positive Karpas 299 cells. We observed decreased CD30 expression when NPM-ALK was repressed. Further analysis suggested that JunB functioned as the mediator of NPM-ALK-derived CD30 transcriptional regulation. The NPM-ALK-repressed cells, which had low CD30 expression, were characterized with lower cell proliferation compared with cells in the control group, suggesting that altered CD30 expression may correlate to NPM-ALK-mediated tumor cell growth inhibition. Combination of NPM-ALK repression and CD30 ligand leads to significantly increased tumor cell growth inhibition compared with one method alone, suggesting its potential application for ALCL-specific cancer treatment.

Detection of clonal rearrangement of T-cell receptor genes in the diagnosis of primary cutaneous CD30+lymphoproliferative disorders

BACKGROUND

Detection of clonality has been reported to be a helpful tool in the diagnosis of cutaneous lymphomas. Monoclonal rearrangement of T-cell receptor genes (TCR) was reported in fresh frozen tissue of lymphomatoid papulosis (LyP) and primary cutaneous anaplastic large-cell lymphoma (ALCL), but the diagnostic value of T-cell clonality in formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded biopsies has so far not been assessed.

METHODS

Detection of clonal rearrangement of TCRgamma genes by highly sensitive polymerase chain reaction-based automated high-resolution fragment analysis (AHRFA) in archival LyP (n = 18) and ALCL (n = 17) tissue.

RESULTS

Detection of clonality differed significantly among the histologic forms of LyP as well as between LyP and ALCL with clonality found in none of the 10 biopsies of LyP type A and B, in 4/8 (50%) of the LyP type C specimens, and in 11/17 (65%) of ALCL cases.

CONCLUSIONS

T-cell clonality can only be found in a minority (four of 18; 22%) of archival LyP specimens, even when employing a highly sensitive detection method and is thus of limited diagnostic value. Final diagnosis of LyP has to be based mainly on clinical, histologic, and immunohistochemical findings rather than on results of clonality studies.

The pattern of CD15, CD30 and Bcl-2 expression in diffuse large B-cell lymphoma

Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is a heterogenous entity. The pattern of CD15, CD30 and Bcl-2 expression is not well documented, especially in local population. We investigated 67 consecutive cases of DLBCL by immunohistochemistry on paraffin-embedded tissue. The male to female ratio was 1.2:1 with median age of 55 years, and more common nodal than extranodal in presentation. Only 3 of 67 cases expressed CD15. In addition, three cases showed weak membrane staining for CD30. Only one of these three cases was noted to have co-expression of CD15 and with occasional tumour cells showing weak CD30 expression. Bcl-2 protein was expressed in 43 of 67 (64%), more frequently in nodal than in extranodal tumours. In conclusion, CD15 and CD30 expressions are infrequent in DLBCL, and co-expression is rare. Bcl-2 protein expression is common in DLBCL.

Unexpected features of acute T lymphoblastic lymphomas in Notch1IC transgenic rats

Dysregulated Notch signaling accounts for the majority of acute T lymphoblastic leukemia/lymphoma (T-ALL) cases in humans. Here, we characterize lymphomas from Notch1IC transgenic rats, which develop T-ALL shortly after weaning, and show that they display a number of previously undocumented features. Starting from monoclonal thymic tumors, the CD4(+)CD8alphaalpha(+) lymphoma cells infiltrate the bone marrow and then spread to secondary lymphoid and non-lymphoid organs. However, major hallmarks of T-ALL cells in other murine models and human patients, such as constitutive NF-kappaB activity and increased levels of anti-apoptotic proteins, are remarkably absent in Notch1IC lymphomas. In contrast, CD30, a classic marker of Hodgkin lymphomas, is overexpressed in these tumors. Intriguingly, enforced Notch1 signaling up-regulates expression of Notch3, which has also been implicated in the pathogenesis of T-ALL. By blocking endogenous Notch signaling, we could demonstrate that Notch1IC is sufficient to induce sustained preTCR expression in transgenic thymocytes but not for their progression to the double-positive stage. This suggests that other Notch activities may also contribute to the phenotype of the transgenic rats. In summary, we anticipate this new animal model will help to further elucidate the role of Notch1 in the pathogenesis of T-ALL.

A spectroscopic analysis of the interaction between the human regulatory proteins RACK1 and Ki-1/57

Ki-1/57 is a 57-kDa cytoplasmic and nuclear protein associated with protein kinase activity and is hyper-phosphorylated on Ser/Thr residues upon cellular activation. In previous studies we identified the receptor of activated kinase-1 (RACK1), a signaling adaptor protein that binds activated PKC, as a protein that interacts with Ki-1/57. Here we demonstrate that the far-UV circular dichroism spectrum of the WD repeat-containing RACK1 protein shows an unusual positive ellipticity at 229 nm, which in other proteins of the WD family has been attributed to surface tryptophans that are quenchable by N-bromosuccinimide (NBS). As well as NBS, in vitro binding of 6xHis-Ki-1/57(122-413) and 6xHis-Ki-1/57(264-413) can also quench the positive ellipticity of the RACK1 spectrum. We generated a model of RACK1 by homology modeling using a G protein beta subunit as template. Our model suggests the family-typical seven-bladed beta-propeller, with an aromatic cluster around the central tunnel that contains four Trp residues (17, 83, 150, 170), which are likely involved in the interaction with Ki-1/57.

Targeting cellular FLICE-like inhibitory protein as a novel approach to the treatment of Hodgkin's lymphoma

Hodgkin's lymphoma is one of the most common lymphoid cancers, particularly among young adults. Although there have been dramatic improvements in the treatment of Hodgkin's lymphoma, leading to high cure rates in some groups, current combination chemotherapy regimes are associated with significant secondary complications in long-term survivors. Furthermore, although a proportion of patients with Hodgkin's lymphoma will be cured, there still remains a significant rate of relapse and also a smaller proportion of poor responders who will go on to die of their disease. Therefore, developments in the treatment of Hodgkin's lymphoma must be directed at improving cure rates and reducing the burden of secondary complications. In recent years, the underlying pathogenesis of Hodgkin's lymphoma has become better understood. In particular, it is emerging that a key pathogenic event in Hodgkin's lymphoma is protection from Fas-induced cell death. Recent studies by the authors' group, and others, have demonstrated that this is, in part, due to the expression by Hodgkin/Reed-Sternberg cells of the cellular Fas-associated death domain-like IL-1 converting enzyme (FLICE)-like inhibitory protein molecule, a potent inhibitor of Fas-induced death. In this review, the role of cellular FLICE-like inhibitory protein in the pathogenesis of Hodgkin's lymphoma will be explored and also the possibility of targeting this molecule in order to provide an alternative and potentially safe approach to the treatment of Hodgkin's lymphoma will be investigated.

Prognostic Values of Soluble CD30 and CD30 Gene Polymorphisms in Heart Transplantation

Pretransplant soluble CD30 (sCD30) is a predictor of kidney graft outcome. Its status as a predictor of heart transplant (HT) outcome has not been established. We have studied this question by assessing sCD30 levels and the number of (CCAT)n repeats of the microsatellite in the CD30 promoter region, which is able alone to repress gene transcription, in the sera of 83 HT patients and 77 of their donors. sCD30 was non-significantly increased in the patients, whereas there were no differences in the CD30 microsatellite allele frequencies. A negative correlation between the number of (CCAT)n and sCD30 levels was evident in the donors. Patients with pretransplant sCD30<or=30 U/ml displayed a significantly better survival. In conclusion, sCD30 levels are predictive of HT outcome.

Immunoexpression of the CD30 ligand/CD30 and IL-6/IL-6R signals in thyroid autoimmune diseases

To elucidate the role of Th2 cytokines in autoimmune thyroid diseases, we have studied by immunohistochemistry the expression of two Th2 ligand/receptor systems (CD30-L/CD30 and IL-6/IL-6R) in goitrous Graves' disease (GD) and Hashimoto's thyroiditis (HT). A total number of 50 nodular goiters (NG), including 10 GD showing a lymphoid aggregate grade I, 30 HT 8 of which had a lymphoid aggregate of grade I, 12 of grade II and 10 grade III, and 10 colloid goiters have been evaluated. In addition, 5 normal thyroids were included in the study as controls. Reactivity of ligand and cognate receptor of both CD30-L/CD30 and IL-6/IL-6R pathways was observed in a greater proportion of GD, compared to HT (P<0.005). In HT, the expression of CD30-L/CD30 system was detected more frequently than IL-6/IL-6R (P<0.05) and showed an inverse correlation with the grade of lymphoid aggregate, whereas IL-6/IL-6R correlated positively with lymphocyte infiltration (P<0.05). Based on our results concerning a dominance of Th2 cytokines in GD, we postulate that CD30-L/CD30 and IL-6/IL-6R systems could play a major role in the pathogenesis of GD. However, the expression of CD30L/CD30 and IL-6/IL-6R in HT suggests that Th2 mechanisms are involved also in tissue damage of HT. The two systems could contribute to drive the autoimmune response skewing toward a Th2 phenotype and this appears to be correlated with the lymphoid aggregate grade.

Transactivation of the ICAM-1 gene by CD30 in Hodgkin's lymphoma

The ICAM-1/LFA-1 complex mediates cell-cell interaction. ICAM-1 is overexpressed in Hodgkin/Reed-Sternberg (H/RS) cells, and serum levels of its soluble form are higher in Hodgkin's lymphoma (HL) patients than in controls. There are no data, however, regarding the regulation of expression of ICAM-1 in H/RS cells. CD30 was identified in H/RS cells of HL and has attracted much interest as a molecular marker of HL. To analyze ICAM-1 expression in H/RS cells, we examined the expression of ICAM-1, LFA-1, CD30 and CD30L in HL-derived cell lines. All cell lines expressed ICAM-1 and CD30, but not LFA-1 or CD30L. CD30 induced ICAM-1 expression. Analysis of the ICAM-1 promoter showed the importance of NF-kappaB binding site for CD30-induced ICAM-1 gene expression. Coexpression of IkappaB, IKK, NIK and TRAF dominant-negative constructs with CD30 inhibited CD30-induced activation of ICAM-1 promoter, suggesting that CD30 induces ICAM-1 via NF-kappaB signalling. The ICAM-1 promoter was activated by the C-terminal region of CD30, which activated NF-kappaB signalling. A decoy CD30 lacking the cytoplasmic region inhibited ICAM-1 promoter activity in HL cell lines. Thus, in H/RS cells, ligand-independent activation of CD30 signalling activates NF-kappaB and this leads to constitutive ICAM-1 expression, suggesting a link between 2 well known phenotypic characteristics of HL, CD30 and ICAM-1 overexpression.

Evidence for the interaction of the regulatory protein Ki-1/57 with p53 and its interacting proteins

Ki-1/57 is a cytoplasmic and nuclear phospho-protein of 57 kDa and interacts with the adaptor protein RACK1, the transcription factor MEF2C, and the chromatin remodeling factor CHD3, suggesting that it might be involved in the regulation of transcription. Here, we describe yeast two-hybrid studies that identified a total of 11 proteins interacting with Ki-1/57, all of which interact or are functionally associated with p53 or other members of the p53 family of proteins. We further found that Ki-1/57 is able to interact with p53 itself in the yeast two-hybrid system when the interaction was tested directly. This interaction could be confirmed by pull down assays with purified proteins in vitro and by reciprocal co-immunoprecipitation assays from the human Hodgkin analogous lymphoma cell line L540. Furthermore, we found that the phosphorylation of p53 by PKC abolishes its interaction with Ki-1/57 in vitro.

Polymorphism of the CD30 promoter microsatellite repressive element is associated with development of primary cutaneous lymphoproliferative disorders

Lymphomatoid papulosis is a preneoplastic cutaneous lymphoproliferative disorder characterized by overexpression of CD30, a member of the tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily. CD30 signaling is known to have an effect on the growth and survival of lymphoid cells. Therefore, we hypothesized that the development of lymphomatoid papulosis and progression to an associated neoplasm such as cutaneous and systemic anaplastic large cell lymphoma may reflect an underlying genetic defect. In this study, we determined that two allelic forms of the CD30 promoter microsatellite repressive element, designated 30M377 and 30M362, are associated with the development of lymphomatoid papulosis and CD30+ lymphomas in lymphomatoid papulosis patients, respectively. These findings suggest that allele-specific differences in the control of CD30 transcription may determine the pathogenesis of the spectrum of CD30+ cutaneous lymphoproliferative disorders.

Haplotype analysis of tumour necrosis factor receptor genes in 1p36: no evidence for association with systemic lupus erythematosus

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a systemic autoimmune disease with partially understood aetiology. The 1p36 region has been previously linked with SLE and harbours tumour necrosis factor receptor (TNFR) genes. Functional and genetic data implicate their gene products in SLE and other autoimmune diseases. In all, single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) across TNFRSF14 (HVEM), and 43 SNPs across the TNFRSF8 (CD30) and TNFRSF1B (CD120B) locus were investigated for linkage disequilibrium (LD) and haplotype analysis in European-Caucasians. Strong LD was observed across HVEM and CD120B, and little LD and recombination across CD30. We also examined the association of SNPs and haplotypes in HVEM, CD30 and CD120B with SLE in European-Caucasians. There was no evidence of association for these genes in 456 European-Caucasian families with SLE from UK. Haplotype tagging SNPs are made known across areas of strong LD, which will facilitate analysis for susceptibility in other diseases.

Stimulation of CD30 in anaplastic large cell lymphoma leads to production of nuclear factor-kappaB p52, which is associated with hyperphosphorylated Bcl-3

Anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL) and Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) express CD30 at high levels, but stimulation of this molecule has been reported to induce contradictory effects. To elucidate the molecular mechanism of CD30-mediated apoptosis of ALCL, we compared the gene expression profiles of t(2;5)(p23;q35)-positive ALCL with those of HL altered by CD30 agonistic stimulation. The results showed that BCL3, the high-level expression of which in ALCL was previously reported, was further upregulated in response to CD30 stimulation, along with several pro-apoptotic genes. Bcl-3 protein was present as an intermediate phospho-form in the resting-state ALCL, becoming hyperphosphorylated (Bcl-3P) upon stimulation. We next found that the stimulation promoted de novo synthesis of the nuclear factor (NF)-kappaB2/p100 precursor as well as processing to p52, and a series of immunoprecipitation and western blotting analyses consistently showed association of Bcl-3P with p52 in CD30-stimulated ALCL. An electrophoretic mobility shift assay revealed the induction of kappaB binding activity of the p52 homodimer, and nuclear colocalization of Bcl-3 and p52 was demonstrated in anaplastic lymphoma kinase-positive ALCL tumor tissues by immunohistochemistry. As Bcl-3 can act as an anti-repressor or transactivator or both, we propose that the (p52)2/Bcl-3P ternary complex, which is specifically induced in CD30-stimulated ALCL, can modulate expression of apoptosis-related genes regulated by NF-kappaB, thereby accounting for CD30-mediated apoptosis of ALCL.

Hodgkin's lymphoma cells are efficiently engrafted and tumor marker CD30 is expressed with constitutive nuclear factor-kappaB activity in unconditioned NOD/SCID/gammac(null) mice

As there are very few reproducible animal models without conditioning available for the study of human B-cell-type Hodgkin's lymphoma (HL), we investigated the ability of HL cells to induce tumors using novel NOD/SCID/gammac(null) (NOG) mice. Four human Epstein-Barr virus-negative cell lines (KM-H2 and L428 originated from B cells, L540 and HDLM2 originated from T cells) were inoculated either subcutaneously in the postauricular region or intravenously in the tail of unmanipulated NOG mice. All cell lines successfully engrafted and produced tumors with infiltration of cells in various organs of all mice. Tumor cells had classical histomorphology as well as expression patterns of the tumor marker CD30, which is a cell surface antigen expressed on HL. Tumor progression in mice inoculated with B-cell-type, but not T-cell-type, HL cells correlated with an elevation in serum human interleukin-6 levels. Tumor cells from the mice also retained strong nuclear factor (NF)-kappaB DNA binding activity, and the induced NF-kappaB components were indistinguishable from those cultured in vitro. The reproducible growth behavior and preservation of characteristic features of both B-cell-type and T-cell-type HL in the mice suggest that this new xenotransplant model can provide a unique opportunity to understand and investigate the mechanism of pathogenesis and malignant cell growth, and to develop novel anticancer therapies.

JunB Induced by Constitutive CD30–Extracellular Signal-Regulated Kinase 1/2 Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase Signaling Activates the CD30 Promoter in Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma and Reed-Sternberg Cells of Hodgkin Lymphoma

High expression of CD30 and JunB is characteristic of tumor cells in anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL) and Hodgkin lymphoma (HL). Possible interactions of CD30 and JunB were examined in this study. We found that the CD30 promoter in tumor cells of both nucleophosmin (NPM)-anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK)-positive and NPM-ALK-negative ALCL and HL is regulated by a constitutively active CD30-extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) 1/2 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK). Phosphorylation of ERK1/2 MAPK was confirmed in nuclei of tumor cells in both ALCL and HL. CD30-ERK1/2 MAPK signals induce JunB expression, which maintains high activity of the CD30 promoter. JunB induction seems to be largely independent of nuclear factor kappaB in ALCL and HL. These results show a common mechanism of CD30 overexpression in ALCL and HL, although the outcome of CD30 signaling differs between NPM-ALK-positive ALCL and NPM-ALK-negative ALCL, cutaneous ALCL, and HL as we recently reported.

Aberrant NF-kappaB2/p52 expression in Hodgkin/Reed-Sternberg cells and CD30-transformed rat fibroblasts

Overexpression of CD30 and constitutive nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-kappaB) activation are hallmarks of the malignant Hodgkin Reed-Sternberg (H-RS) cells. Previous investigations have demonstrated that both proliferation and survival of H-RS cells require constitutive NF-kappaB activity, which is comprised of the p50 and RelA subunits. We report here enhanced expression of NF-kappaB2/p52 and RelB-containing NF-kappaB DNA-binding activity in Epstein-Barr virus-negative H-RS cells. Kinetic studies revealed that a proteasome inhibitor MG132 induced p100 accumulation with reduced p52 expression in H-RS cells, suggesting proteasome-dependent processing of p100. In addition, treatment with a protein synthesis inhibitor cycloheximide rapidly downregulated inhibitor of NF-kappaB (IkappaB) kinase activity in H-RS cells. We also demonstrate that overexpression of CD30 in rat fibroblasts at levels comparable to those in H-RS cells results in constitutive IkappaB kinase activation, proteasome-dependent p100 processing, and NF-kappaB-dependent cell transformation. Our results thus indicate that CD30 triggers the noncanonical NF-kappaB activation pathway, and suggest that deregulated CD30 signaling contributes to the neoplastic features of H-RS cells.

Mice deficient in OX40 and CD30 signals lack memory antibody responses because of deficient CD4 T cell memory

Recently, we reported that a CD4(+)CD3(-)CD11c(-) accessory cell provided OX40-dependent survival signals to follicular T cells. These accessory cells express both OX40 ligand and CD30 ligand, and the receptors, OX40 and CD30, are both expressed on Th2-primed CD4 T cells. OX40 and CD30 signals share common signaling pathways, suggesting that CD30 signals might substantially compensate in OX40-deficient mice. In this report we have dissected the signaling roles of CD30 alone and in combination with OX40. CD30-deficient mice showed an impaired capacity to sustain follicular germinal center responses, and recall memory Ab responses were substantially reduced. Deficiencies in OX40 and CD30 signals were additive; secondary Ab responses were ablated in double-deficient mice. Although the initial proliferation of OX40/CD30 double-knockout OTII transgenic T cells was comparable to that of their normal counterparts, they failed to survive in vivo, and this was associated with reduced T cell numbers associated with CD4(+)CD3(-) cells in B follicles. Finally, we show that OX40/CD30 double-knockout OTII transgenic T cells fail to survive compared with normal T cells when cocultured with CD4(+)CD3(-) cells in vitro.

Increased expression and activation of CD30 induce apoptosis in human blood eosinophils

Eosinophils are one of the major effector cells in asthma, and controlling the number and survival of eosinophils might attenuate the severity of asthma. This result could be achieved by inducing eosinophil apoptosis. Apoptosis allows the removal of cells without inducing an inflammatory response. Our knowledge of the factors involved in regulating eosinophil apoptosis remains limited. CD30 molecule has been associated with T cell-negative selection and in TCR-mediated apoptosis. In this study we examined the expression and role of CD30 in apoptosis of human blood eosinophils. Percentage of apoptotic eosinophils was determined by annexin V-propidium iodide labeling, and CD30 expression was examined by flow cytometry. Spontaneous apoptosis was induced by serum deprivation, and survival was conferred by incubating cells with 10% FBS and IL-5. CD30 surface expression was up-regulated in eosinophils incubated for 24 h as compared with freshly isolated eosinophils, and both CD30 expression and eosinophil apoptosis increased in a time-dependent manner. We also measured CD30 mRNA expression by quantitative real-time RT-PCR and determined that CD30 transcripts increased in eosinophils undergoing apoptosis only under serum deprivation conditions. The agonistic CD30 Abs, Ber-H8 and HeFi-1, significantly enhanced eosinophil apoptosis. FBS and IL-5 failed to inhibit or suppress the CD30 agonistic-induced apoptosis. These data support the role of CD30 activation in eosinophil apoptosis. This research will help in furthering our understanding of eosinophil apoptosis and therefore might contribute to the development of better therapeutic modalities in the treatment and/or cure of allergic inflammation in bronchial asthma.

Molecular cloning and characterization of chicken tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-superfamily ligands, CD30L and TNF-related apoptosis inducing ligand (TRAIL)

CD30 ligand (CD30L) and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-related apoptosis inducing ligand (TRAIL) are members of the TNF-superfamily that have many important biological activities in cell proliferation and apoptotic death. In this study, both genes in the chicken were cloned and their expression was analyzed. Complementary DNA fragments were obtained from a suppressive subtractive hybridization library with or without lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulation. Chicken CD30L consists of 1,152 base pairs (bp) with an open reading frame (ORF) of 720 bp having 36.4% identity with human CD30L, whereas chicken TRAIL is 1,134 bp long with an ORF of 912 bp having 54.4% identity with human TRAIL. Chicken CD30L was expressed at high levels in the spleen, bursa of Fabricius and in the chicken monocytic leukemia cell line, IN24. Stimulation with LPS in the spleen, bursa of Fabricius and the IN24 cell line did not affect CD30L expression. The gene expression of chicken TRAIL was essentially to the same level in all tissues examined. The time course of expression was not significantly altered by LPS-stimulation in the spleen, thymus and bursa of Fabricius, but reached a maximal level 8 hr after stimulation in the IN24 cell line. The high level expression of both genes in lymphoid organs and IN24 cell line indicates that chicken CD30L and TRAIL may also play an important role in apoptotic signal transduction and the regulation of cell proliferation in the immune system.

[Study on the origin of H/RS cell and their biological behavior in Hodgkin lymphoma by using multiple mark techniques]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the apoptosis-related genes and protein expression patterns in relation to classical Hodgkin lymphomas (CHL) and the origin of H/RS cell.

METHODS

Sixty-two cases of CHL were retrieved from Shanxi Tumor Hospital files. An ABC method was used to detect the expression of bcl-2, CD3, CD20, CD30, CD15 and CD10, a double immunohistochemical method to study the H/RS cells P53 expression, a double immunohistochemical ABC-DNA end labeling technique to detect the apoptosis, a double immunohistochemical ABC- in situ hybridization technique to detect the expression of kappa mRNA and lambda mRNA, and a multiple mark techniques to detect the distribution of background non-neoplastic T and B cells.

RESULT

Of 62 CHL, 14 (22.58%) were p53 positive and 35 (56.45%) bcl-2 positive. Apoptosis was found in the background non-neoplastic cells in all of the cases, but in H/RS cells in only 10 of 62 cases. There was a significant reverse correlation between bcl-2 expression and apoptosis in H/RS cells (P = 0.02). CD30 positive H/RS cells were observed in all cases, whereas CD15 positive in only 41 cases, and CD20 positive in 8 cases. None was positive for CD3, MPO, bcl-6, CD10, kappa RNA and lambda RNA in H/RS cells. The H/RS cells were surrounded by non-neoplastic T cells looked like a rosette and the outer periphery was B cells.

CONCLUSIONS

The H/RS cell of classical Hodgkin lymphoma has a great variety of B lineage markers. The characteristic distributions of T, B and H/RS cells may serve as a reference for the diagnosis. Multiple marker technique is able to highlight the critical cells, and facilitate the study of H/RS cells. Abnormal expression of P53 may not play a major role in CHL. Over expression of bcl-2 may be linked to blockage of apoptosis in CHL.