Mac-1 Expression Research Articles

TLE1 Null Mice Have Altered Myeloid and B-Cell Differentiation As Well As Impaired Regulation of Inflammation

AbstractAbstract 1197TLE1 belongs to the Groucho/TLE family of co-repressors that act as master regulators during development affecting segmentation, neurogenesis, myogenesis, and multiple cell fate decisions. TLE1 modulate several major signaling pathways including Wnt and Notch, and specifically interacts with multiple transcription factors involved in hematopoiesis such TCF/LEF, HES1, RUNX1/AML. TLE1 has also been implicated in Crohn's disease via its interaction with NOD2, a regulator of NFkB. Our laboratory identified TLE1 as a likely AML tumor suppressor gene, commonly deleted in subgroups of AML, and others have shown its role as a tumor suppressor gene in myeloid and other hematopoietic malignancies. To better understand the role of TLE1 in hematopoiesis and leukemogenesis we created a line of Tle1 null mice.Tle1 null mice are born normally, but become progressively growth retarded by 3 days of life, with only 50% survival by 4 weeks as compared to heterozygous and wild type littermates. Abnormalities are observed in several organs systems including the hematopoietic system. We characterized the hematopoietic system in Tle1 knock out mice between two and 12 weeks of age. The bone marrow cellularity in the Tle1 knock out mice is comparable to the wild type mice at all time points examined. However, frequency of granulocyte macrophage progenitors in bone marrow mononuclear cells is significantly higher in the Tle1 knockout bone marrow compared to heterozygous and wild type mice. The proportion and number of myeloid cells as evidenced by Gr1, Mac1 expression are significantly higher in the bone marrow, spleen and blood of these knockout mice. There were significantly lower B-cells (B220+cells) in the Tle1 knockout mice compared to heterozygous and wild type.In colony forming assays there was a trend towards higher number of CFU-GM (7.66 vs 5), p=0.07) and CFU-M (27.16 vs 12.5, p=0.05) colonies from Tle1 null bone marrow as compared to wild type bone marrow. The spleens from four week and 17 months old Tle1 knockout mice had higher frequency of Gr1-negative, Mac1-positive and F4/80 positive macrophages. We also observed a significantly higher production of the inflammatory cytokines IL6 and TNFafrom peritoneal macrophages harvested from Tle1 null mice as compared to those from wild type mice in response to TLR ligand stimulation. To investigate the potential mechanism of this inhibitory effect of TLE1 on inflammation we demonstrated that TLE1 expression is able to block the nuclear translocation of NFkB in THP1 cells in response to LPS-K12 (p<0.05).In summary this work demonstrates that the lack of Tle1 expression biases hematopoiesis towards myeloid differentiation, a finding of potential relevance given the inactivation of TLE1 seen in subsets of myeloid malignancies. We further show that inactivation of Tle1 leads to an increase in macrophages primed to release increased inflammatory cytokines. This is notable given the recent observation that TLE1 may modulate the effects of NOD2 in the pathogenesis of Crohn's disease. These Tle1 null mice will allow the investigation of the potential role of TLE1 as a modulator of a variety of other inflammatory diseases. [Display omitted] [Display omitted] [Display omitted] Disclosures:No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.

CXCR4 Invalidation Limits the MLL-ENL Induced Leucemogenesis in Vivo

AbstractAbstract 4089The receptor CXCR4 and its ligand SDF-1 play major physiological roles especially on hematopoietic stem cells homing and retention. Many studies have implicated CXCR4 in the invasion by tumor cells of organs that produce SDF-1. In acute myeloid leukemia, the physiological role of CXCR4 is not fully understood. We used retrovirus to express MLL-ENL oncogene in CXCR4+/+ and CXCR4−/− hematopoietic primitive cells (Lin- isolated from fetal liver) and showed that CXCR4 is dispensable for generation of immortalized colonies in vitro. To determine CXCR4 function in vivo, CXCR4+/+ and CXCR4−/− transformed cells were transplanted into lethally irradiated mice. Whatever their phenotype, the recipient developed a myelo-monocytique leukemia characterized by their expression of Gr-1 and Mac-1. As expected, all recipients of MLL-ENL transduced CXCR4+/+ cells were moribund within 35 to 80 days post transplant (median survival time: 50 days). Strikingly, recipients of MLL-ENL transduced CXCR4−/− cells showed significantly increased lifespan, with a median survival time of 90 days. The cellularity of the peripheral blood of recipients of MLL-ENL transduced cells displayed considerable increases over time although this increase was much lower in CXCR4−/− than in CXCR4+/+ chimera. Bone marrow of MLL-ENL transduced CXCR4−/− chimera had moderately decreased numbers of mononuclear cells. There were important numbers of leukemic CD45.2+/Gr1+/Mac1+/c-kit+ cells in spleen from MLL-ENL CXCR4+/+ chimera which suggested that CXCR4 is important for leukemic progenitors cells retention in the bone marrow and especially in the spleen. The homing capacity of transduced CXCR4+/+ cells is comparable to the CXCR4−/− cells. Finally, more DNA damages were found in the BM cells of MLL-ENL CXCR4−/− chimera. All these results were confirmed by treating of MLL-ENL CXCR4+/+ chimera with CXCR4 inhibitor (TN140).These results demonstrated that in absence of CXCR4, the cells transduced by oncogene MLL-ENL are capable of generating leukemia in the recipients. However, mice transplanted with MLL-ENL transduced CXCR4−/− FL cells developed acute myeloid leukemia with reduced aggressiveness and organ infiltration, which is associated with induced differentiation and DNA instability. These results indicated that the MLL-ENL progenitors are dependent on CXCR4 for their maintenance in the BM and spleen suggesting that CXCR4 inhibitors might have potential therapeutic applications. Disclosures:No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.

Long-term amphetamine treatment exacerbates inflammatory lung reaction while decreases airway hyper-responsiveness after allergic stimulus in rats

Asthma is an allergic lung disease can be modulated by drugs that modify the activity of central nervous system (CNS) such as amphetamine (AMPH). AMPH is a highly abused drug that exerts potent effects on behavior and immunity. In this study we investigated the mechanism involved in the effects of long-term AMPH treatment on the increased magnitude of allergic lung response. We evaluated mast cells degranulation, cytokines release, airways responsiveness and, expression of adhesion molecules. Male Wistar rats were treated with AMPH or vehicle (PBS) for 21days and sensitized with ovalbumin (OVA) one week after the first injection of vehicle or AMPH. Fourteen days after the sensitization, the rats were challenged with an OVA aerosol, and 24h later their parameters were analyzed. In allergic rats, the treatment with AMPH exacerbated the lung cell recruitment due increased expression of ICAM-1, PECAM-1 and Mac-1 in granulocytes and macrophages recovered from bronchoalveolar lavage. Elevated levels of IL-4, but decreased levels of IL-10 were also found in samples of lung explants after AMPH treatment. Conversely, the ex-vivo tracheal hyper-responsiveness to methacholine (MCh) was reduced by AMPH treatment, whereas the force contraction of tracheal segments due to in vitro antigen challenge remained unaltered.Our findings suggest that lung inflammation and airway hyper-responsiveness due to OVA challenge are under the distinct control of AMPH during long-term treatment. Our data strongly indicate that AMPH positively modulates allergic lung inflammation via the increase of ICAM-1, PECAM-1, Mac-1 and IL-4. AMPH also abrogates the release of the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10.

Streptococcal M1 Protein Triggers Farnesyltransferase-Dependent Formation of CXC Chemokines in Alveolar Macrophages and Neutrophil Infiltration of the Lungs

The M1 serotype of Streptococcus pyogenes plays an important role in streptococcal toxic shock syndrome. Simvastatin, a 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase inhibitor, has been shown to inhibit streptococcal M1 protein-induced acute lung damage, although downstream mechanisms remain elusive. Protein isoprenylation, such as farnesylation and geranylgeranylation, has been suggested to regulate anti-inflammatory effects exerted by statins. Here, we examined the effect of a farnesyltransferase inhibitor (FTI-277) on M1 protein-triggered lung inflammation. Male C57BL/6 mice were treated with FTI-277 prior to M1 protein challenge. Bronchoalveolar fluid and lung tissue were harvested for quantification of neutrophil recruitment, edema, and CXC chemokine formation. Flow cytometry was used to determine Mac-1 expression on neutrophils. The gene expression of CXC chemokines was determined in alveolar macrophages by using quantitative reverse transcription (RT)-PCR. We found that the administration of FTI-277 markedly decreased M1 protein-induced accumulation of neutrophils, edema formation, and tissue damage in the lung. Notably, inhibition of farnesyltransferase abolished M1 protein-evoked production of CXC chemokines in the lung and gene expression of CXC chemokines in alveolar macrophages. Moreover, FTI-277 completely inhibited chemokine-induced neutrophil migration in vitro. However, farnesyltransferase inhibition had no effect on M1 protein-induced expression of Mac-1 on neutrophils. Our findings suggest that farnesyltransferase is a potent regulator of CXC chemokine formation in alveolar macrophages and that inhibition of farnesyltransferase not only reduces neutrophil recruitment but also attenuates acute lung injury provoked by streptococcal M1 protein. We conclude that farnesyltransferase activity is a potential target in order to attenuate acute lung damage in streptococcal infections.

59. Long-term amphetamine treatment increases inflammatory lung reaction and reduces upper airway reactivity after allergic lung inflammation in rats

The purpose of this study was to investigate the repercussions of long-term AMPH treatment on the magnitude of allergic lung inflammation. Male Wistar rats were treated with AMPH or vehicle (PBS) during 21 days and sensitized with ovalbumin (OVA) one week after the first injection of vehicle or AMPH. Fourteen days after the sensitization, the rats were challenged with OVA by aerosol and, 24 h later the parameters were analyzed. In rats treated with AMPH, the OVA challenge exacerbated the increased cell recruitment into the lung and the cellular expression of ICAM-1, PECAM-1 and Mac-1 of cells recovered in bronchoalveolar lavage. Similarly, elevated levels of IL-4 but decreased levels of IL-10 were also found in samples of lung explants from allergic rats after AMPH treatment. Conversely, the ex-vivo tracheal reactivity to methacholine (MCh) was reduced by AMPH treatment, whereas the force contraction of tracheal segments due to in vitro antigen challenge did not alter. Our findings suggest that lung inflammation and upper airway reactivity due to OVA-challenge are under distinct control of AMPH long-term treatment. Our data strongly indicate that AMPH modulates positively the allergic lung inflammation by mechanisms involving the increase of ICAM-1, PECAM-1, Mac-1 and IL-4 and abrogates the release of anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10.

The volatile anesthetic sevoflurane inhibits activation of neutrophil granulocytes during simulated extracorporeal circulation

Extracorporeal circulation (ECC) is an essential tool for the execution of cardiac operations. However, ECC is also associated with undesirable side effects. These include the induction of a systemic inflammatory response associated with leukocyte activation and cytokine release as well as potentially life-threatening complications. The volatile anesthetic sevoflurane has been reported to exert anti-ischemic and anti-inflammatory effects. We therefore investigated whether sevoflurane modulates the ECC-triggered inflammatory response.Heparinized human blood was circulated for 90min in a normothermic (37°C) ex vivo ECC circuit. An air–oxygen mixture was administered via an oxygenator in controls (n=5). Sevoflurane (2vol.%) was added to the gas mixture in a second group (n=5). At baseline and after 30, 60 and 90min of ECC, blood samples were taken. In each sample whole blood counts were determined. Expression of the activation-indicating Mac-1 receptor on granulocytes and monocytes as well as leukocyte–platelet aggregate formation was measured in flow cytometry. Levels of the granulocyte activation marker PMN-elastase and of the cytokines IL-1β, IL-8 and TNF-α were analyzed using ELISA.ECC induced significant increases in Mac-1 expression on granulocytes (p<0.001) and PMN-elastase release (p<0.001). Sevoflurane decreased granulocyte Mac-1 expression during ECC (p<0.05) and inhibited the ECC-induced PMN-elastase release (p<0.05). Sevoflurane had no effect on whole blood cell counts, leukocyte–platelet aggregate formation and cytokine release during ECC.Sevoflurane inhibits granulocyte activation during ex vivo ECC and therefore has the potential to decrease the ECC-triggered inflammatory response. This promising finding warrants further investigation under clinical conditions.

Distinct Macrophage Subpopulations Characterize Acute Infection and Chronic Inflammatory Lung Disease

Although great progress has been made in delineating lung dendritic cell and lymphocyte subpopulations, similar advances in lung macrophages (MΦs) have been hampered by their intrinsic autofluorescence, cell plasticity, and the complexities of monocyte-MΦ compartmentalization. Using spectral scanning, we define alveolar MΦ autofluorescence characteristics, which has allowed us to develop an alternative flow cytometry method. Using this methodology, we show that mouse lung MΦs form distinct subpopulations during acute inflammation after challenge with LPS or influenza virus, and in chronic inflammatory lung disease consequent to SHIP-1 deletion. These subpopulations are distinguished by differential Mac-1 and CD11c integrin expression rather than classical M1 or M2 markers, and display differential gene signatures ex vivo. Whereas the resolution of acute inflammation is characterized by restoration to a homogenous population of CD11c(high)Mac-1(neg/low) MΦs reflective of lung homeostasis, chronic inflammatory lung disease associated with SHIP-1 deficiency is accompanied by an additional subpopulation of CD11c(high)Mac-1(pos) MΦs that tracks with lung disease in susceptible genetic background SHIP-1(-/-) animals and disease induction in chimeric mice. These findings may help better understand the roles of MΦ subpopulations in lung homeostasis and disease.

Combined Blockade of ADP Receptors and PI3-Kinase p110β Fully Prevents Platelet and Leukocyte Activation during Hypothermic Extracorporeal Circulation

Extracorporeal circulation (ECC) and hypothermia are used to maintain stable circulatory parameters and improve the ischemia tolerance of patients in cardiac surgery. However, ECC and hypothermia induce activation mechanisms in platelets and leukocytes, which are mediated by the platelet agonist ADP and the phosphoinositide-3-kinase (PI3K) p110β. Under clinical conditions these processes are associated with life-threatening complications including thromboembolism and inflammation. This study analyzes effects of ADP receptor P2Y12 and P2Y1 blockade and PI3K p110β inhibition on platelets and granulocytes during hypothermic ECC. Human blood was treated with the P2Y12 antagonist 2-MeSAMP, the P2Y1 antagonist MRS2179, the PI3K p110β inhibitor TGX-221, combinations thereof, or PBS and propylene glycol (controls). Under static in vitro conditions a concentration-dependent effect regarding the inhibition of ADP-induced platelet activation was found using 2-MeSAMP or TGX-221. Further inhibition of ADP-mediated effects was achieved with MRS2179. Next, blood was circulated in an ex vivo ECC model at 28°C for 30 minutes and various platelet and granulocyte markers were investigated using flow cytometry, ELISA and platelet count analysis. GPIIb/IIIa activation induced by hypothermic ECC was inhibited using TGX-221 alone or in combination with P2Y blockers (p<0.05), while no effect of hypothermic ECC or antiplatelet agents on GPIIb/IIIa and GPIbα expression and von Willebrand factor binding was observed. Sole P2Y and PI3K blockade or a combination thereof inhibited P-selectin expression on platelets and platelet-derived microparticles during hypothermic ECC (p<0.05). P2Y blockade alone or combined with TGX-221 prevented ECC-induced platelet-granulocyte aggregate formation (p<0.05). Platelet adhesion to the ECC surface, platelet loss and Mac-1 expression on granulocytes were inhibited by combined P2Y and PI3K blockade (p<0.05). Combined blockade of P2Y12, P2Y1 and PI3K p110β completely inhibits hypothermic ECC-induced activation processes. This novel finding warrants further studies and the development of suitable pharmacological agents to decrease ECC- and hypothermia-associated complications in clinical applications.

Splitomicin inhibits fMLP-induced superoxide anion production in human neutrophils by activate cAMP/PKA signaling inhibition of ERK pathway

Splitomicin, is a cell-permeable lactone derived from naphthol and known to be a potent selective inhibitor of Sir2 (silent information regulator 2). Previous studies have demonstrated that naphtholic compounds possess an inhibitory effect on neutrophils. Here, we present our investigation on the inhibitory effects of splitomicin in human neutrophils. The primary goal of our study was to locate a possible candidate on inflammatory reactions and to hopefully develop a novel anti-inflammatory therapy. Neutrophils were prepared following standard procedures. Neutrophils induced by either fMLP (1μM) or PMA (100nM) were observed using a flow cytometer and the intracellular production of superoxide anions was investigated at different splitomicin concentrations. The cytosolic Ca++ influx concentration was measured using a fluorescence spectrophotometer, and Mac-1 expression was detected with a flow cytometer. The MAP kinases were measured using western blotting. Our results showed that splitomicin inhibited superoxide anion production by fMLP (1μM) and NaF (20mM) in a concentration-dependent manner (37.5–450μM). Splitomicin (300 and 450μM) also suppressed fMLP-induced intracellular calcium ion mobilization and extracellular-signal regulated kinase (ERK) phosphorylation. Moreover, splitomicin could inhibit fMLP-induced Mac-1 expression and increase cAMP levels in human neutrophils. Our data demonstrated that splitomicin exhibits a noticeable inhibitory effect on superoxide anion production in human neutrophils. This negative effect was well-correlated with increased cAMP levels via PKA activity and the subsequent inhibition of ERK (p42/p44) phosphorylation to decrease superoxide anion production.

The p110δ subunit of PI3K regulates bone marrow-derived eosinophil trafficking and airway eosinophilia in allergen-challenged mice

Trafficking and recruitment of eosinophils during allergic airway inflammation is mediated by the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) family of signaling molecules. The role played by the p110δ subunit of PI3K (PI3K p110δ) in regulating eosinophil trafficking and recruitment was investigated using a selective pharmacological inhibitor (IC87114). Treatment with the PI3K p110δ inhibitor significantly reduced murine bone marrow-derived eosinophil (BM-Eos) adhesion to VCAM-1 as well as ICAM-1 and inhibited activation-induced changes in cell morphology associated with reduced Mac-1 expression and aberrant cell surface localization/distribution of Mac-1 and α4. Infused BM-Eos demonstrated significantly decreased rolling and adhesion in inflamed cremaster muscle microvessels of mice treated with IC87114 compared with vehicle-treated mice. Furthermore, inhibition of PI3K p110δ significantly attenuated eotaxin-1-induced BM-Eos migration and prevented eotaxin-1-induced changes in the cytoskeleton and cell morphology. Knockdown of PI3K p110δ with siRNA in BM-Eos resulted in reduced rolling, adhesion, and migration, as well as inhibition of activation-induced changes in cell morphology, validating its role in regulating trafficking and migration. Finally, in a mouse model of cockroach antigen-induced allergic airway inflammation, oral administration of the PI3K p110δ inhibitor significantly inhibited airway eosinophil recruitment, resulting in attenuation of airway hyperresponsiveness in response to methacholine, reduced mucus secretion, and expression of proinflammatory molecules (found in inflammatory zone-1 and intelectin-1). Overall, these findings indicate the important role played by PI3K p110δ in mediating BM-Eos trafficking and migration by regulating adhesion molecule expression and localization/distribution as well as promoting changes in cell morphology that favor recruitment during inflammation.

Rho-Kinase Signaling Regulates Pulmonary Infiltration of Neutrophils in Abdominal Sepsis Via Attenuation of CXC Chemokine Formation and Mac-1 Expression on Neutrophils

Excessive neutrophil infiltration is a major component in septic lung injury, although the signaling mechanisms behind pulmonary recruitment of neutrophils in polymicrobial sepsis remain elusive. Herein, we hypothesized that Rho-kinase activity may play a significant role in pulmonary neutrophil recruitment and tissue damage in abdominal sepsis. Male C57BL/6 mice were treated with the Rho-kinase inhibitor Y-27632 (0.5 or 5 mg/kg) before cecal ligation and puncture (CLP). Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and lung tissue were harvested for analysis of neutrophil infiltration, as well as edema and CXC chemokine formation. Blood was collected for analysis of Mac-1 on neutrophils and CD40L on platelets as well as soluble CD40L and matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9) in plasma. Cecal ligation and puncture triggered significant pulmonary damage characterized by neutrophil infiltration, increased levels of CXC chemokines, and edema formation in the lung. Furthermore, CLP upregulated Mac-1 expression on neutrophils, decreased CD40L on platelets, and increased soluble CD40L and MMP-9 in the circulation. Interestingly, inhibition of Rho-kinase dose-dependently decreased CLP-induced neutrophil expression of Mac-1, formation of CXC chemokines and edema, as well as neutrophil infiltration and tissue damage in the lung. Moreover, Rho-kinase inhibition significantly reduced sepsis-provoked gene expression of CXC chemokines in alveolar macrophages. In contrast, Rho-kinase inhibition had no effect on platelet shedding of CD40L or plasma levels of MMP-9 in septic mice. In conclusion, these data demonstrate that the Rho-kinase signaling pathway plays a key role in regulating pulmonary infiltration of neutrophils and tissue injury via regulation of CXC chemokine production in the lung and Mac-1 expression on neutrophils in abdominal sepsis.

What’s New in Shock, March 2012?

What’s New in Shock, March 2012?

Rho-kinase regulates adhesive and mechanical mechanisms of pulmonary recruitment of neutrophils in abdominal sepsis

We hypothesized that Rho-kinase signaling plays a role in mechanical and adhesive mechanisms of neutrophil accumulation in lung. Male C57BL/6 mice were treated with the Rho-kinase inhibitor Y-27632 prior to cecal ligation and puncture (CLP). Lung levels of myeloperoxidase (MPO) and histological tissue damage were determined 6h and 24h after CLP. Expression of Mac-1 and F-actin formation in neutrophils were quantified by using flow cytometry 6h after CLP. Mac-1 expression and F-actin formation were also determined in isolated neutrophils up to 3h after stimulation with CXCL2. Labeled and activated neutrophils co-incubated with Y-27632, an anti-Mac-1 antibody and cytochalasin B were adoptively transferred to CLP mice. Y-27632 reduced the CLP-induced pulmonary injury and MPO activity as well as Mac-1 on neutrophils. Neutrophil F-actin formation peaked at 6h and returned to baseline levels 24h after CLP induction. Rho-kinase inhibition decreased CLP-provoked F-actin formation in neutrophils. CXCL2 rapidly increased Mac-1 expression and F-actin formation in neutrophils. Co-incubation with Y-27632 abolished CXCL2-induced Mac-1 up-regulation and formation of F-actin in neutrophils. Notably, co-incubation with cytochalasin B inhibited formation of F-actin but did not reduce Mac-1 expression on activated neutrophils. Adoptive transfer experiments revealed that co-incubation of neutrophils with the anti-Mac-1 antibody or cytochalasin B significantly decreased pulmonary accumulation of neutrophils in septic mice. Our data show that targeting Rho-kinase effectively reduces neutrophil recruitment and tissue damage in abdominal sepsis. Moreover, these findings demonstrate that Rho-kinase-dependent neutrophil accumulation in septic lung injury is regulated by both adhesive and mechanical mechanisms.

Metalloproteinases regulate CD40L shedding from platelets and pulmonary recruitment of neutrophils in abdominal sepsis

Platelets promote sepsis-induced activation of neutrophils via secretion of CD40L. However, the mechanism regulating the release of platelet-derived CD40L is not known. We hypothesized that matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) might regulate shedding of platelet-expressed CD40L and neutrophil activation in sepsis. Wild-type C57BL/6 mice were subjected to cecal ligation and puncture (CLP). Animals were pretreated with a broad-range MMP inhibitor, GM6001, prior to CLP induction. Edema formation, CXC chemokine and myeloperoxidase (MPO) levels and bronchoalveolar neutrophils in the lung as well as plasma levels of CD40L were quantified. Flow cytometry was used to determine expression of Mac-1 on neutrophils and CD40L on platelets. Intravital fluorescence microscopy was used to analyze leukocyte-endothelial cell interactions in the pulmonary microcirculation. The MMP inhibitor reduced sepsis-induced release of CD40L and maintained normal levels of CD40L on platelets. Inhibition of MMP decreased CLP-induced neutrophil expression of Mac-1, formation of CXC chemokines and edema as well as neutrophil infiltration in the lung. Intravital fluorescence microscopy revealed that the MMP inhibitor attenuated leukocyte adhesion in venules whereas capillary trapping of leukocytes was not affected by MMP inhibition. We describe a novel role of metalloproteinases in regulating platelet-dependent activation and infiltration of neutrophils in septic lung injury which might be related to controlling CD40L shedding from platelets. We conclude that targeting metalloproteinases may be a useful strategy for limiting acute lung injury in abdominal sepsis.

Prasugrel inhibits platelet-leukocyte interaction and reduces inflammatory markers in a model of endotoxic shock in the mouse

Prasugrel, through its active metabolite, reduces atherothrombosis and its clinical manifestations by inhibiting platelet activation and aggregation. Platelets also contribute to inflammation through interaction with different classes of leukocytes. We investigated whether the inhibitory effect of prasugrel on platelets also counteract inflammatory responses. The effect of prasugrel active metabolite, R-138727, was investigated on platelet P-selectin expression, platelet adhesion to polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMN) and monocytes (MN) and Mac-1 expression in PMN and MN, in vitro, in human cells. The ex vivo effect of prasugrel administration on P-selectin, thromboxane (TXB)2 formation, platelet-PMN conjugates and Mac-1 expression in PMN triggered by PAR-4 agonist peptide was examined in whole blood from healthy mice as well as from mice in which an acute inflammatory reaction was induced by treatment with endotoxin. The effect of prasugrel on inflammatory markers in endotoxin-treated animals was also tested in vivo. R-138727 inhibited agonist-stimulated expression of platelet P-selectin, platelet-PMN and platelet-MN adhesion and platelet-dependent Mac-1 expression in leukocytes. Addition of aspirin did not modify the inhibitory effect elicited by R-138727. Treatment of mice with prasugrel resulted in a profound inhibition of platelet P-selectin expression, TXB2 production, platelet-PMN adhesion and Mac-1 expression in PMN induced by ex vivo stimulation with PAR-4 agonist peptide of whole blood from healthy or endotoxin-treated mice. Measurement of markers revealed that prasugrel reduced TXB2 and tumour necrosis factor-α synthesis and increased nitric oxide metabolites in endotoxin-treated mice in vivo. In conclusion, prasugrel reduces platelet interactions with PMN and MN. Through these effects prasugrel may curb platelet-mediated inflammatory responses.

Streptococcal M1 Protein-Provoked CXC Chemokine Formation, Neutrophil Recruitment and Lung Damage Are Regulated by Rho-Kinase Signaling

Streptococcal toxic shock syndrome is frequently caused by Streptococcus pyogenes of the M1 serotype. The aim of this study was to determine the role of Ras-homologous (Rho)-kinase signaling in M1 protein-provoked lung damage. Male C57BL/6 mice received the Rho-kinase-specific inhibitor Y-27632 before administration of M1 protein. Edema, neutrophil accumulation and CXC chemokines were quantified in the lung 4 h after M1 protein challenge. Flow cytometry was used to determine Mac-1 expression. Quantitative RT-PCR was used to determine gene expression of CXC chemokine mRNA in alveolar macrophages. M1 protein increased neutrophil accumulation, edema and CXC chemokine formation in the lung as well as enhanced Mac-1 expression on neutrophils. Inhibition of Rho-kinase signaling significantly reduced M1 protein-provoked neutrophil accumulation and edema formation in the lung. M1 protein-triggered pulmonary production of CXC chemokine and gene expression of CXC chemokines in alveolar macrophages was decreased by Y-27632. Moreover, Rho-kinase inhibition attenuated M1 protein-induced Mac-1 expression on neutrophils. We conclude that Rho-kinase-dependent neutrophil infiltration controls pulmonary tissue damage in response to streptococcal M1 protein and that Rho-kinase signaling regulates M1 protein-induced lung recruitment of neutrophils via the formation of CXC chemokines and Mac-1 expression.

Postprandial cell inflammatory response to a standardised fatty meal in subjects at different degree of cardiovascular risk

A fatty meal may represent a challenge of in vivo acute inflammatory reaction. We evaluated the acute effects of a standardised fatty meal administration on leukocytes and platelets and on their interactions on 61 subjects at different degree of cardiovascular risk, without any clinical event. Before and 2 hours after a fatty meal, blood cells were counted and markers of leukocyte (intracellular myeloperoxidase [MPO] and Mac-1) and platelet (P-selectin and microparticles) activation and mixed platelet-leukocyte conjugates measured by flow-cytometry. After the fatty meal, both white blood cell and platelet count significantly increased, more markedly in subjects with lower cardiovascular risk score. Mac-1 expression too increased (from 32.2 ± 27.2% to 45.6 ± 29.0%, p=0.0016), while MPO decreased (from 83.1 ± 16.3% to 64.5 ± 23.1%, p<0.0001). A trend for increased platelet activation and interaction with leukocytes was also observed. Women were more markedly susceptible to fatty meal challenge, as compared to men, while age did not seem to affect any cell response to fatty meal. Waist-to-hip ratio and body mass index influenced polymorphonuclear cells (PMN) degranulation and platelet count increase, respectively. Cellular responses to the fatty meal, in particular PMN degranulation, were attenuated in subjects at higher degree of cardiovascular risk, who showed a basal mild inflammatory activation status. In conclusion, a fatty meal consumption may represent a model of acute inflammatory response and appears to be modulated by different demographic and cardiovascular risk degree. This model could be applied to study the effect of food-derived antioxidants or nutritional supplements, but its relevance remains to be demonstrated.

Platelets selectively enhance lymphocyte adhesion on subendothelial matrix under arterial flow conditions

Platelet adhesion at sites of cardiovascular injury may facilitate leukocyte deposition. We asked if and how platelets enhance lymphocyte adhesion on different subendothelial matrix protein (SEMP)-coated surface at arterial shear stress. Hirudinised whole blood was subjected to an arterial shear rate (500 s(-1)) in a Cone and Plate(let) analyser (CPA) for 5 minutes using plates coated with bovine serum albumin (BSA), collagen, fibrinogen, von Willebrand factor (vWF), or fibronectin. Platelet and lymphocyte adhesion were monitored by CPA and flow cytometry. Exposure of blood to collagen, fibrinogen, and vWF-coated surfaces induced platelet activation. The most marked effect was seen with collagen-coating, which markedly enhanced the adhesion of all lymphocyte subpopulations compared to BSA-coating. Fibrinogen-coating supported both T and NK cell adhesion, while vWF-coated surface only enhanced NK cell deposition. In contrast, fibronectin enhanced neither platelet activation nor lymphocyte adhesion. Moreover, platelets preferentially facilitated adhesion of large CD4(+) and CD8(+) T cells and NK cells, and of small B cells. Enhanced cell adhesion of larger lymphocytes was associated with elevated platelet conjugation and higher lymphocyte expression of PSGL-1, Mac-1, and CD40L. The enhancement of lymphocyte adhesion was totally platelet-dependent, and was abolished in platelet-depleted blood. Moreover, blockade of the platelet adhesion molecules P-selectin, GPIIb/IIIa, and CD40L attenuated platelet-dependent lymphocyte deposition. In conclusion, platelets support lymphocyte adhesion on SEMP-coated surfaces under arterial shear. The enhancement is selective for large T and NK cells and small B cells.

A subset of neutrophils in human systemic inflammation inhibits T cell responses through Mac-1

Suppression of immune responses is necessary to limit damage to host tissue during inflammation, but it can be detrimental in specific immune responses, such as sepsis and antitumor immunity. Recently, immature myeloid cells have been implicated in the suppression of immune responses in mouse models of cancer, infectious disease, bone marrow transplantation, and autoimmune disease. Here, we report the identification of a subset of mature human neutrophils (CD11cbright/CD62Ldim/CD11bbright/CD16bright) as what we believe to be a unique circulating population of myeloid cells, capable of suppressing human T cell proliferation. These cells were observed in humans in vivo during acute systemic inflammation induced by endotoxin challenge or by severe injury. Local release of hydrogen peroxide from the neutrophils into the immunological synapse between the neutrophils and T cells mediated the suppression of T cell proliferation and required neutrophil expression of the integrin Mac-1 (αMβ2). Our data demonstrate that suppression of T cell function can be accomplished by a subset of human neutrophils that can be systemically induced in response to acute inflammation. Identification of the pivotal role of neutrophil Mac-1 and ROS in this process provides a potential target for modulating immune responses in humans.

P38 Mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling regulates streptococcal M1 protein-induced neutrophil activation and lung injury

M1 serotype of Streptococcus pyogenes can cause STSS and acute lung damage. Herein, the purpose was to define the role of p38 MAPK signaling in M1 protein-induced pulmonary injury. Male C57BL/6 mice were treated with specific p38 MAPK inhibitors (SB 239063 and SKF 86002) prior to M1 protein challenge. Edema, neutrophil infiltration, and CXC chemokines were determined in the lung, 4 h after M1 protein administration. Flow cytometry was used to determine Mac-1 expression. Phosphorylation and activity of p38 MAPK were determined by immunoprecipitation and Western blot. IVM was used to analyze leukocyte-endothelium interactions in the pulmonary microcirculation. M1 protein challenge increased phosphorylation and activity of p38 MAPK in the lung, which was inhibited by SB 239063 and SKF 86002. Inhibition of p38 MAPK activity decreased M1 protein-induced infiltration of neutrophils, edema, and CXC chemokine formation in the lung, as well as Mac-1 up-regulation on neutrophils. IVM showed that p38 MAPK inhibition reduced leukocyte rolling and adhesion in the pulmonary microvasculature of M1 protein-treated mice. Our results indicate that p38 MAPK signaling regulates neutrophil infiltration in acute lung injury induced by streptococcal M1 protein. Moreover, p38 MAPK activity controls CXC chemokine formation in the lung, as well as neutrophil expression of Mac-1 and recruitment in the pulmonary microvasculature. In conclusion, these findings suggest that targeting the p38 MAPK signaling pathway may open new opportunities to protect against lung injury in streptococcal infections.